The Best Things to Do in Alexandria in One Day

Located along the shimmering waters of the Mediterranean Sea, Alexandria offers a distinct contrast to the desert landscapes of Cairo and Upper Egypt. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, this historic port city was once the intellectual and cultural capital of the ancient Greco-Roman world.

Because it sits just three hours north of Cairo, Alexandria is one of the most popular coastal escapes in the country. If you are planning a short visit, here are the absolute best things to do in Alexandria in one day.

1. Explore the Citadel of Qaitbay

Standing dramatically at the entrance of the eastern harbor, the Citadel of Qaitbay is a 15th-century defensive fortress built on the exact site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

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  The Experience: Walk along the stone ramparts, explore the interior chambers, and take in sweeping views of the Mediterranean coastline.

  
  


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  Historic Significance: The fortress was actually constructed using stone blocks recovered from the ruins of the collapsed ancient lighthouse, blending medieval defense architecture with ancient history.

  
  

2. Visit the Modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina

In antiquity, the Great Library of Alexandria was the ultimate center of human knowledge. Today, the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina stands near the original site as a magnificent architectural tribute to that legacy.

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  The Experience: The building features a massive, angled disc design carved with characters from over 120 world scripts. Inside, you will find vast reading rooms, specialized museums, art galleries, and a planetarium.

  
  


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  Must-See Spot: Visit the Antiquities Museum located beneath the main library floor, which displays underwater artifacts recovered from the sunken royal quarters of Cleopatra off the coast.

  
  

3. Descend into the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa

Tucked beneath a quiet city neighborhood lies one of the largest Greco-Roman burial sites in Egypt. The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa are a multi-level underground necropolis carved deep into solid rock.

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  The Experience: Spiral stairs lead down into central tombs where traditional pharaonic imagery is fused seamlessly with Roman and Greek artistic styles.

  
  


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  Unique Art: Look for relief carvings of Egyptian gods dressed in Roman armor—a rare visual blend found nowhere else in the country.

  
  

4. Walk the Montazah Palace Gardens

To end your day in Alexandria, head east along the coastal corniche to the Montazah Palace grounds.

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  The Experience: Built as a summer residence for the Egyptian royal family in the early 20th century, the estate features lush palm groves, landscaped gardens, historic bridges, and views of the Florentine-style palace.

  
  


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  Coastal Views: It is the perfect spot for an afternoon stroll along the sea breeze before heading back to Cairo.

  
  

Taking time to enjoy the best things to do in Alexandria in one day provides a memorable look at Egypt's Greco-Roman heritage paired with refreshing Mediterranean scenery.