Alexandria Beach, Alexandria, Egypt – Spending some time sitting by the sea while also being at one of the most famous historical attractions in this city, Qaitbay citadel
Alexandria beach is different; with the breeze that comes with the waves, people always enjoy the idea of sitting, having lunch or dinner, as well as walking by the beach to enjoy the whole theme including both the weather and the water.
If you’re planning a trip to Egypt’s former capital of Alexandria or if you’ve ever been there and wish to visit the beautiful Mediterranean city once again, then here are some recommendations for the best touristic spots overlooking the Alexandrian beach.
Qaitbay Citadel
This famous Citadel overlooks the Mediterranean in the second largest Egyptian city of Alexandria. Built in the 15th century by Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-Din Qa’it Bay to protect Egypt from the Turks, who were considered a threatening force at the time, the Citadel is certainly a sight to behold and must-see attraction to visitors from outside the city.
It was built on the former location of the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, but it was destroyed in the 14th century due to an earthquake.
The Citadel underwent many restorations until the 1950s when it became a Maritime Museum; open for the public where they can enjoy the picturesque view of the Mediterranean. You can also have a delicious meal at the nearby Greek Club that offers another great view of the bay.
Its perfect location provides visitors with the opportunity to enjoy the sea breeze along with the constant sunshine that characterizes Egypt and especially Alexandria.
North Coast
The North Coast of Egypt (called El Sahel by Egyptian natives) is a long stretch of stunning beaches and golden sand along the Egyptian coast overlooking the Mediterranean, including major cities like Alexandria and Marsa Matrouh, along with smaller compounds and resorts usually inhabited in the summer vacation by tourists from inside or outside of Egypt looking to enjoy their time and relax by the beach.
Vacationers can enjoy a long list of activities, from water skiing and parasailing to night life and entertaining parties, depending on the resort you’re staying in.
Alexandria Aquarium
The Alexandria Aquarium was built in 1930 and is near Qaitbay Citadel on Alexandria’s coast. The aquarium includes many exhibits containing species from the Mediterranean and the Red Sea, the Nile and the Amazon. It also includes the Marine Research Institute.
The Library of Alexandria (Bibliotheca Alexandrina)
Inaugurated in 2002 in the city of Alexandria, almost two thousand years after its ancient predecessor was destroyed, the Library of Alexandria was built for the purpose of becoming a center of excellence and cultural exchange in the Mediterranean region, as it holds thousands of books and references, some of them quite rare and well preserved, and is a cultural center where a variety of performances and events take place every single day.
With a Main Library that contains millions of books, the Library of Alexandria also includes a Planetarium that screens various scientific shows every day for children and adults alike.
Not only that, but the institution established over thirteen research centers focused on all fields of knowledge, from science to civilization studies.
Additionally, it hosts numerous exhibitions and museums for art and history lovers from all over the world to enjoy.
Cafés and Restaurants by the Alexandria Beach
From Montaza and Maamoura to Chatby, the Alexandria coast is full of cafés and restaurants where you can eat right by the sea, offering a large variety of Mediterranean cuisine. Take your pick of these amazing eateries and sit back, relax and enjoy a great meal!
Montaza Park and Palace
Once the private palace and gardens of King Farouk and the Royal Family, these lush gardens are now enjoyed by the general public on holidays and weekends throughout the year. Khedive Abbas II built the original Al Salamlik palace in 1892, while King Fouad I, King Farouk’s father, built Al-Haramlek as a large summer home for the Royal Family, combining Turkish and Italian architecture. Visitors can clearly see the letter “F” inscribed on the outer walls of the palace, in reference to King Farouk and his then wife Queen Farida.
Although the palace is currently not open for the public, you can still stroll through the extensive gardens that lead all the way to the Alexandria beach where several beaches and hotels are open to visitors.
Greco-Roman Museum
Originally built in 1895, the Greco-Roman Museum consists of 27 halls with unique displays that were excavated in the city of Alexandria, dating back to the Roman occupation of Egypt and the pharaonic era.
The Museum is famous for its collections from the temple of Serapis, the god which unified Egyptian and Roman gods Osiri, Zeus, Dionysus, Helios, Hades and Asklepios.
Tivoli Dome and Dinner in the Sky
Although it hasn’t opened long ago, Tivoli Dome, located right on the Alexandria beach, has already become a popular hangout among younger crowds in the city. With its many restaurants and its stunning view of the Mediterranean, why wouldn’t you want to spend the day there with your friends?
Another experience that is offered at Tivoli Dome is the Dinner in the Sky. Why eat on the ground when you can float several meters over the crowds and enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the Alexandria beach while tasting your favorite food!
Be sure to try it out, it’s a fun experience for sure.
Cavafy Museum
Constantine Cavafy (1863-1933) was a Greek Alexandrian poet who became famous posthumously. His writings about Alexandria and his life in the city have now been commemorated through the museum dedicated to his memory. The apartment where he resided is at Sharm el-Sheikh Street and has become a major attraction for anyone with literary interests. Cavafy’s poetry captures the extensive history of the city of Alexandria. The museum contains several of his manuscripts and correspondence, as well as a collection of portraits and paintings of him.
Roman Amphitheatre
The famous Roman Amphitheatre is definitely a popular tourist attraction. Built in the 2nd century A.D, it features several statues which were submerged in the Mediterranean and found in modern day by archaeologists.
The large open-air venue used to host events such as gladiator combats and executions in ancient times, but nowadays only concerts are held there during the summer every year.
These events draw in large crowds looking for an entertaining night out at one of the most famous spots in the city.
If you happen to drop by the city of Alexandria soon, make sure to check out the locations and activities we’ve listed above. We guarantee that you won’t be disappointed with our selections.