Is Alexandria Worth Visiting? 7 Reasons To Go

Alexandria is absolutely worth visiting with its incredible 2,300-year history, stunning Mediterranean beaches, and remarkable blend of ancient and modern architecture. You’ll enjoy visa-free access from many countries, savor traditional Mediterranean cuisine, and benefit from pleasant year-round climate. The city’s robust tourism infrastructure offers diverse accommodation options from budget to luxury. Discover why Alexandria‘s unique fusion of cultural heritage and seaside charm continues to captivate travelers worldwide.

Key Points

• Alexandria offers 2,300+ years of history with sites like the Great Library, Pompey’s Pillar, and Qaitbay Citadel built on ancient lighthouse ruins.
• The stunning Mediterranean coastline features 20+ kilometers of public and private beaches with clear waters and soft sands.
• Architectural diversity blends Hellenistic, Roman, Islamic, and contemporary influences, including the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina.
• The Mediterranean climate creates ideal visiting conditions from March to June and September to November.
• Alexandria’s culinary scene features Mediterranean flavors with North African, Greek, and Italian influences, especially in seafood specialties.

Rich Historical Heritage With Ancient Landmarks

When you step foot in Alexandria, you’re walking through over 2,300 years of history that began with Alexander the Great’s ambitious vision in 331 BCE. This coastal gem blends Greek, Roman, Egyptian, and Islamic influences into a cultural tapestry unlike anywhere else in Egypt.

You’ll encounter the site of the Great Library, once the intellectual center of the ancient world, and marvel at Pompey’s Pillar, a monument to Roman might. Don’t miss the Kom al-Shoqafa catacombs, where Greco-Roman funerary practices come alive underground.

The Qaitbay Citadel, built on the ruins of the legendary Lighthouse (one of the Seven Wonders), offers breathtaking Mediterranean views and a glimpse into Islamic military architecture. The fort was constructed around 1480 CE and incorporates parts of the Pharos in its structure. At Kom al Dikka, you’ll find Egypt’s only Roman amphitheater, remarkably preserved through the centuries. Ethiopia is a must-visit destination with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture.

Stunning Mediterranean Coastline and Beaches

Alexandria’s breathtaking Mediterranean coastline stretches for over 20 kilometers, offering visitors a stunning array of beaches to explore beyond the city’s historical attractions.

Alexandria’s magnificent shores invite explorers to discover sandy havens beyond ancient wonders.

You’ll find both public and private options, from the tranquil Al Montazah Beach with its palace complex setting to the popular Maamoura with its golden sands.

The beaches feature clear blue waters perfect for swimming, soft sand for sunbathing, and extensive amenities including restaurants, cafes, and water sports facilities. Many beaches offer ready-made seating areas that make them particularly suitable for family outings and group trips. Alexandria is also home to the famous Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, an ancient Roman necropolis and one of the city’s top attractions.

Whether you’re looking to relax at Cleopatra Beach with its historical significance or enjoy the scenic views at Bianki Beach, there’s something for all.

These coastal gems serve as social hubs for locals and travelers alike, accessible year-round thanks to Alexandria’s pleasant climate and well-developed tourism infrastructure.

Blend of Ancient and Modern Architecture

Walking through Alexandria offers you a spectacular architectural journey spanning thousands of years, where ancient wonders stand alongside contemporary masterpieces. The city’s skyline tells the story of civilizations that have shaped this Mediterranean gem.

• Visit Qāʾit Bey Fort, built in 1477 using stones from the original Pharos Lighthouse.
• Explore the Roman Amphitheatre with its well-preserved tiered seating and semicircular design.
• Marvel at El-Mursi Abul Abbas Mosque’s stunning Islamic architecture and intricate details.
• Discover Pompey’s Pillar, a massive Roman column showcasing ancient engineering.
• Experience the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern reimagining of the ancient Great Library with its striking sun disk design.

You’ll witness how Alexandria seamlessly blends Hellenistic, Roman, Islamic, and contemporary influences, creating an architectural tapestry unlike anywhere else in Egypt. Stroll along the principal thoroughfare once known as the Canopic Way, now called Ṭarīq al-Ḥurriyyah, to see major monuments that have defined the city for centuries. Alexandria offers a unique blend of urban history and modern development that showcases its rich cultural heritage.

Visa-Free Travel for Citizens of 115 Countries

Beyond its architectural marvels, Alexandria’s appeal extends to practical travel considerations that make it accessible for international visitors. If you’re among the citizens of 115 countries enjoying various visa-free arrangements worldwide, you’ll appreciate Egypt’s increasingly traveler-friendly policies. Morocco and Egypt are both popular tourist destinations, each offering unique cultural and historical experiences.

While Egyptian passports only offer visa-free access to 24 countries, Egypt itself welcomes many international travelers through eVisa and visa-on-arrival options. This openness reflects Egypt’s growing focus on tourism as an economic driver. The Egypt Passport Dashboard, which is part of the 2025 Passport Index, provides comprehensive information about global mobility rights for travelers.

When planning your Alexandria adventure, check your country’s specific requirements—many visitors can now apply online through streamlined digital processes rather than visiting embassies.

For those considering longer stays, Egypt’s citizenship by investment program offers another pathway to access this historic Mediterranean gem and its blend of ancient wonders and modern attractions.

Thriving Culinary Scene With Traditional Mediterranean Cuisine

The Mediterranean’s vibrant flavors come alive in Alexandria’s thriving culinary scene, where centuries of cultural exchange have created a distinct gastronomic identity. You’ll discover a delicious blend of North African, Greek, and Italian influences that define Alexandria’s unique food culture.

Fresh seafood dominates menus, with local specialties like samak singari and gambari maklee served along the scenic Corniche. Traditional Egyptian dishes such as Alexandrian liver and sayadeya (seafood rice) showcase the city’s culinary heritage.

Top-rated restaurants like Santorini Greek Restaurant and Sahar El-Laialy offer authentic dining experiences. Fish Market Restaurant delights diners with its combination of hot bread and perfectly prepared fish with rice while offering memorable harbor views.

Innovative fusion creations like Alexandrian cheese fondue blend French techniques with local flavors. Seaside dining options provide perfect Mediterranean views while you enjoy freshly caught fish and shrimp.

Year-Round Pleasant Climate for Visitors

Alexandria’s Mediterranean climate offers visitors a welcoming environment throughout the year, with temperatures rarely dipping below 50°F or exceeding 86°F. This coastal city enjoys cool, breezy winters and warm, clear summers that make outdoor activities possible in any season. Alexandria’s coastal position moderates temperature extremes, making it an accessible environment for travelers accustomed to temperate climates. If you’re planning your visit, spring and autumn provide the most comfortable temperatures for sightseeing among Alexandria’s historical treasures. Summer months are perfect for beach activities along the coast, though the humidity can be intense. The optimal tourism period falls during late March to June and again from late September to November when conditions are clear, warm and dry. January sees the most rainfall, while June remains virtually dry.

Robust Tourism Infrastructure With Diverse Accommodation Options

Visitors to Alexandria can rely on a well-established tourism infrastructure that supports nearly every type of travel experience. The city’s 41 diverse attractions cater to history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and leisure seekers alike. You’ll find accommodations ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious beachfront resorts with Mediterranean views. Taking a day tour from Cairo provides an excellent opportunity to experience Alexandria as part of a comprehensive 3-day Egypt tour.

• Visa-free access for travelers from 115 countries, including the USA and UK
• Record-breaking visitor spending of $941 million in 2024
• Significant archaeological sites like the Roman Amphitheater and Qait Bey Citadel
• The prestigious Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern revival of the ancient library
• Diverse lodging options concentrated near the Corniche and major attractions

This robust infrastructure has fueled Alexandria’s tourism recovery, with tax revenues reaching $86 million in 2024—exceeding pre-pandemic levels and demonstrating the city’s growing appeal. Morocco and Tunisia are two other North African destinations that offer unique cultural experiences for travelers.

The Sum Up

You’ll find Alexandria offers an irresistible blend of ancient wonders and Mediterranean charm. Coincidentally, as you’re exploring the Library of Alexandria or strolling the Corniche, you’re walking the same paths as historical giants like Cleopatra and Alexander the Great. With its year-round pleasant weather, visa-free access for many travelers, and excellent tourism infrastructure, this coastal gem deserves a spot on your Egypt itinerary.