We were nearing the end of our journey through Egypt — exhausted, sleep-deprived, and utterly captivated. Getting to Egypt from the United States isn’t exactly a casual hop: a long flight to London, then to Cairo, then navigating the whirlwind of a city that never truly quiets down.
But despite the fatigue, my mom and I were determined to squeeze every drop of culture and history out of our final days. That’s how we ended up deciding, half-delirious from travel and buzzing from Cairo’s soundscape, that we had to visit Alexandria.
After all, this was once the site of the Great Library — a beacon of knowledge in the ancient world. How could we not go?
Getting from Cairo to Alexandria
We booked a tour through a local operator, something I recommend if you’re new to Egypt. The drive from Cairo to Alexandria takes about three hours by car, and having a guide made all the difference.
Ours was warm, insightful, and deeply knowledgeable. We peppered her with questions the entire way, stopping halfway through the desert road for much-needed coffee.
Pro tip: Avoid going it alone if you’re unfamiliar with the region. A guide can help with:
- Knowing the best stops for restrooms and food
- Navigating traffic and avoiding scams
- Translating and managing cultural nuances
Descending into the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa
Our first stop in Alexandria set the tone for the day: a deep dive—literally—into history at the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa. Tucked within a residential neighborhood and easily missed if you’re not with a guide, this site is one of the most fascinating (and underrated) places we visited in all of Egypt.
Dating back to the 2nd century CE, the catacombs are a Roman-era burial site that blends ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman design in striking ways. After descending a long, spiral staircase, we entered an underground world of tombs, carvings, and chambers.
It was humid and a bit slippery in places, but worth every step. The art etched into the walls was unlike anything else we’d seen—images that captured a rare moment in time when cultures overlapped and coexisted in this coastal city.
A few practical tips: wear good shoes with traction, and be prepared for some stairs. It’s quieter and less crowded than other sites, which made it even more impactful for us.
We emerged into the Alexandria sun feeling like we’d just time-traveled. And with the morning still ahead of us, we continued on to the Citadel.
Stop Two: The Citadel of Qaitbay
Our first stop was the Citadel of Qaitbay, a striking 15th-century fortress perched dramatically on the Mediterranean. Built on the ruins of the original Lighthouse of Alexandria, this place practically vibrates with history.
As we climbed the stone stairs and walked along weathered walls, the salty sea wind whipped around us, and we imagined what it must’ve felt like centuries ago when this was a military stronghold.
What to know:
- You will climb a lot of stairs — wear sturdy shoes.
- The views of the Mediterranean are absolutely worth it.
- It’s a living monument; you’re walking where soldiers once stood watch hundreds of years ago.
Vibrant Alexandria: Citadel, Library & Catacombs Tour
Stop Three: The New Library of Alexandria (Bibliotheca Alexandrina)
Next, we visited the Bibliotheca Alexandrina — a modern reimagining of the legendary ancient library. The building itself is a marvel of contemporary architecture, full of light, curves, and silence. Inside, it’s not just a library, but a global hub for research, exhibitions, and cultural preservation.
We toured the exhibits, including:
- A rare maps exhibit, showcasing the cartographic evolution of Egypt and the surrounding world.
- The Sadat Museum, detailing the life and legacy of President Anwar Sadat and his role in brokering peace with Israel through the Camp David Accords.
This temple of learning was a welcome respite from the city’s chaos. For lovers of history, architecture, or books, it’s an unmissable stop.
What to Eat in Alexandria
Of course, no travel day in Egypt is complete without good food, and Alexandria delivered. We ate:
1. Sweet Egyptian Couscous
Not to be confused with the savory North African version, this dish was the surprise star of the day. Served with dried fruits and nuts, it tasted like something between a dessert and a warm comfort food.
2. Koshari
This is Egypt’s beloved street food — a carb-lover’s dream made of lentils, rice, pasta, and crispy onions, all doused in tomato, garlic, and optional hot sauce. We ate ours on the go, but I’d recommend sitting down for this one unless you’ve got iron stomachs and spill-proof hands.
Logistics, Tips, and Real Talk
- Tour guides make the experience easier and richer. They know where the clean bathrooms are, how to sidestep street scams, and how to pivot when plans shift.
- Alexandria is busy. The city is packed, the air quality isn’t great (many locals smoke), and the traffic is constant. If you’re sensitive to smoke or pollution, bring a mask — you may get a look or two, but no one will make an issue of it.
- Expect some tourist fatigue. After days of being approached by aggressive vendors, the charm can wear a bit thin.
Is Alexandria Worth It?
Yes. Without hesitation.
Alexandria feels different than Cairo. It has its own rhythm, its own scent of sea air and ancient stone. For history lovers, the Citadel of Qaitbay and the New Library are essential stops. And for those who just want to say they stood on the ground where so much of our shared human knowledge once lived — this is your moment.
Add Alexandria to your Egypt itinerary. Go with open eyes, some bottled water, and a guide you trust. You won’t regret it.
Want to discover more hidden gems and helpful travel tips? Join our free newsletter for the latest travel secrets and travel articles.
We are reader-supported and may earn a commission on purchases made through links in this article.
Inspire your next adventure with our articles below:
- How to Plan Your Dream African Safari - July 18, 2025
- How to Visit Hawaii Responsibly: 10 Low-Impact Travel Tips - July 17, 2025
- Samaná: The Dominican Republic’s Lush Peninsula Where Silence Is Golden and So Is the Sand - July 17, 2025