Alexandria is Egypt's second-largest city and a historic port on the Mediterranean coast, a few hours' drive north-west of Cairo. Often called Alex, or the Pearl of the Mediterranean, it has a character quite unlike the capital: more breezy, more relaxed, and shaped by the sea.
Ancient roots and modern life
The city was once home to the legendary Library of Alexandria, and that long intellectual tradition still shapes the place. Its Greco-Roman heritage is visible in the layout and remains of the old city, and visitors who enjoy history will find plenty to read into as they wander. The modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a contemporary library and cultural centre, stands as a nod to that older reputation for learning and gives visitors a chance to see how the city looks to the future.
The seafront
The corniche, the long road that follows the coastline, is the easiest way to feel the city's rhythm. It suits an unhurried walk, a stop to watch the water, or simply an afternoon with a view of the Mediterranean. Many visitors find that the seafront is where Alexandria's charm is most immediate.
What to expect
- A mix of ancient history and everyday coastal life in one city.
- A slower pace than Cairo, with the sea as a constant backdrop.
- A cultural centre in the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, alongside its older sites.
Alexandria suits travellers who want history without losing the feel of a working port city. Plan time for the seafront, leave room for the heritage sites, and allow an unhurried day or two to take it all in.