Alexandria holidays

How to reach Alexandria

• Flight time: Flights to Alexandria from London typically take just under 5 hours. Direct flights are available, as are options with a stop in Cairo, which slightly extends travel time.

• Transfer time: From Borg El Arab International Airport, it takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach the city centre by taxi or private transfer.

• Price: A taxi from the airport to the city centre will cost around £10–£15. You can also book a private transfer in advance from about £20. Some hotels offer shuttle services that might be included in your booking.

Weather and best time to visit Alexandria

Alexandria's Mediterranean climate makes it a pleasant destination year-round, with very little rain. Which season best suits you will depend on your preferences for weather and activities.

• April to June is a great time to visit Alexandria, with the weather warm and comfortable. Average temperatures range from 19 to 27°C, ideal for sightseeing and enjoying the beaches.

• July to August is the peak summer season, with temperatures soaring between 30 and 35°C. It's perfect for holidays based around the beach or pool, but the heat can be intense, so you might want to plan indoor activities for the hottest parts of the day.

• September to November offers warm temperatures from 22 to 30°C, making it an excellent time for exploring the city and activities outdoors. The crowds also thin out compared to the summer months.

• December to March brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 14 to 20°C. This period is perfect if you prefer milder weather and fewer tourists.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in the city's tourist areas, hotels, restaurants and by tour guides. A few basic Arabic phrases can be helpful and appreciated by locals.

• Local habits and customs: Egyptian culture is conservative, so dress modestly when away from tourist resorts – especially when visiting rural areas or religious sites – and public displays of affection are frowned upon. Haggling is common in markets and shops.

• Health and safety: Alexandria is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to take standard precautions such as looking after valuables and being cautious at night. Tap water isn’t safe to drink, so stick to bottled water. Be cautious with street food and ensure it is freshly prepared.

• Currency: The Egyptian Pound (EGP) is the local currency, divided into 100 piastres (pt). ATMs are plentiful in tourist areas, and credit cards are widely accepted. It's useful to carry some cash for smaller purchases and tips.

• Getting around: Alexandria has an extensive public transport system, including buses, trams and taxis, but the centre is accessible on foot. Tickets for trams and buses are very cheap. Taxi prices should be agreed before starting a journey, or book with Careem or Uber. For longer distances, consider hiring a car or arranging for a private driver.

• Electricity and plug types: Egypt’s supply is 220V, with either the C or F two-pin plug types. UK travellers will need an adaptor for their devices.

• Time zone: Alexandria operates on Eastern European Time (EET), 2 hours ahead of GMT, and observes Daylight Saving Time.

• Required travel documentation: UK travellers need a visa to enter Egypt. You can obtain one on arrival at the airport for around £25 or apply for an e-visa in advance.

Local dishes in Alexandria

One of the great delights of holidays to Alexandria is indulging in the rich and diverse cuisine that reflects the region’s Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. From hearty meat dishes to delightful sweets, there’s something for every palate. Here’s a guide to what to look out for:

Some typical dishes

• Ful Medames: This popular dish, made from fava beans, garlic, and lemon juice, is typically served with bread and is commonly found at breakfast.

• Koshari: A hearty mix of rice, macaroni, lentils and chickpeas, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. It’s a super cheap meal and true Egyptian comfort food.

• Taameya: Egyptian falafel, made from crushed fava beans, herbs and spices, deep-fried to perfection, often enjoyed in sandwiches with salad and tahini.

Meat dishes

• Kebabs and kofta: Kebabs are grilled skewers of lamb or chicken marinated in aromatic spices; kofta is minced meat, usually lamb or beef, mixed with herbs and spices before being grilled.

• Shawarma: Marinated meat, typically lamb or chicken, slow-cooked on a rotisserie and served in pita bread with tahini, garlic sauce, vegetables and pickles.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Sayadeya: A classic dish in which white fish is cooked with rice, tomatoes, onions and a mix of spices, often served with tahini sauce on the side.

• Gambari: Freshly caught prawns, often grilled or cooked in a spicy tomato sauce.

Sweets and desserts

• Kunafa: Shredded pastry filled with cream or cheese, baked golden brown, and soaked in sweet syrup.

• Baklava: Layers of filo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup.

• Umm Ali: A traditional Egyptian bread pudding made with pastry, cream, nuts and raisins, served warm and richly comforting.

Local drinks

• Karkade: A refreshing tea made from dried hibiscus petals, served hot or cold, with a tart flavour similar to cranberry.

• Sahlab: A warm, thick drink made from milk and flavoured with rose water, often topped with nuts and coconut. It’s perfect for cooler evenings.

• Coffee: Strong and often flavoured with cardamom, Egyptian coffee is a staple, best enjoyed slowly in one of Alexandria's many traditional cafés.

Best things to do in Alexandria

Alexandria, Egypt’s second-largest city and capital for one thousand years, is brimming with historical sites, cultural gems and beautiful coastal views. Here are some of the best things to do on your Alexandria holidays:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Bibliotheca Alexandrina: This is a hub of learning and culture, and the library’s rooftop offers stunning views over the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

• Qaitbay Citadel: This fortress, built on the site of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse, is an excellent spot for panoramic views of the sea and the city, offering particularly good shots of the citadel at sunset.

The best districts

• Corniche: The waterfront promenade is perfect for a leisurely stroll. It offers picturesque views of the Mediterranean and a variety of cafés and restaurants.

• Montaza: This upscale area is known for its palatial gardens and luxurious beach resorts. It’s an excellent place to unwind and soak up the splendour of Alexandria.

Historical monuments

• Pompey's Pillar: An impressive Roman triumphal column, one of the largest of its kind outside Rome, standing tall amidst the ruins of ancient Alexandria.

• Kom El Shoqafa Catacombs: This fascinating underground necropolis blends Roman, Greek and Egyptian architectural styles and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

• Kom Al Dikka: This well-preserved area contains homes, bathhouses and a 2nd-century amphitheatre and offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s ancient entertainment venues.

• Alexandria National Museum: One of the finest museums in Egypt, this stylish villa holds a superb collection of artefacts detailing the city's history, including major displays on the Pharaonic and Greco-Roman periods.

Day trips in the area

• El Alamein: About 1 hour 30 minutes west of Alexandria, this coastal town is famous for its World War II cemeteries and memorials and for helping end the war. Discover our deals on holidays to El Alamein.

• Rosetta: Located to the northeast, Rosetta (Rashid) is known for the discovery of the Rosetta Stone. The town is rich in Ottoman architecture and offers a tranquil escape from Alexandria.

Activities for families in Alexandria

Holidays to Alexandria offer a range of family-friendly activities, making it a great destination for kids.

• Beaches: Alexandria's beaches are ideal for family fun. With its iconic bridge and clear waters, Stanley Beach is a favourite spot.

• Alexandria Aquarium: Located near the Qaitbay Citadel, the aquarium showcases Mediterranean and Red Sea marine life, making it an exciting visit for children.

• Montaza Palace Gardens: The extensive gardens of a former ruler's summer palace are perfect for a family picnic, exploring the lush greenery, or just relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

• Royal Jewellery Museum: Housed in a former palace, this museum displays a stunning collection of royal jewellery and artefacts. It’s both educational and visually captivating for children.

Free things to do in Alexandria

Exploring Alexandria doesn’t have to break the bank. Plenty of free activities allow you to enjoy the city’s beauty and history without spending a lot.

• Abu Al Abbas Al Mursi Mosque: Alexandria's largest mosque is impressive enough from the outside. However, you can also go inside for free, witness its beautiful interior and learn about Islam.

• Historical sites: Visiting the outside areas of landmarks like Pompey's Pillar and the Qaitbay Citadel is free, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history.

Wellness in Alexandria

• Spas and thermal baths: Many luxury hotels in Alexandria, such as the Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano, offer excellent spa facilities, often with sea views. These include a range of treatments, from massages to facials, ensuring a relaxing experience.

• Traditional body care: Experience traditional Egyptian hammam treatments and Turkish baths at local spas. These treatments involve thorough cleansing and exfoliation, often followed by a relaxing massage.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Watersports: The Mediterranean coast offers various water activities such as snorkelling, windsurfing and paddleboarding, with Stanley Beach and Montaza Beach being popular spots.

• Scuba diving: Alexandria is an excellent place for scuba diving enthusiasts. The waters around the city are home to many underwater archeological sites and wrecks, including the remains of ancient Alexandria submerged due to earthquakes.

• Boat trips: Enjoy a cruise out from the Eastern or the Anfushi Harbour for stunning views of the city’s skyline and a different perspective of Alexandria.

• Fishing: The Mediterranean Sea around Alexandria is perfect for fishing. You can join a local fishing tour or simply cast your line from the shore.