Tourist and historical sites in Alexandria that you can visit

Introduction: The City That Still Whispers Alexander's Name

Alexandria is not merely a city. It is a long, slow breath of salty Mediterranean air, a collision of white limestone and turquoise sea, and the echo of Alexander the Great's most ambitious dream. Founded in 331 BCE, this coastal giant has spent over two thousand years reinventing itself—from the intellectual capital of the ancient world to a playground for Roman emperors, from a jewel of the Ottoman Empire to Egypt's most romantic and chaotic summer escape. In 2026, Alexandria is experiencing a dynamic renaissance. New archaeological discoveries are rewriting history, historic sites are reopening after ambitious restorations, and a wave of boutique hotels and cultural venues is transforming the city's social scene. Last year, over 1.5 million international visitors explored its corniche, yet Alexandria remains a city where you can lose yourself in ancient catacombs one moment and discover a hidden rooftop bar the next.

This is a guide to the Alexandria that locals protect and travelers dream of. Beyond the postcard views of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the stalwart Citadel of Qaitbay lies a city of underground Roman villas, sunken palaces, vibrant art studios, and seafood shacks that have fed generations. Whether you are a history buff chasing the ghost of Cleopatra, a foodie hunting for the perfect feteer meshaltet, or a traveler seeking the most stunning sunset view on the Mediterranean, Alexandria in 2026 promises a journey as layered as its ruins.

1. The Sunken City: Secrets of Abu Qir Bay

Just east of Alexandria's modern harbor, beneath the choppy surface of Abu Qir Bay, lie the remains of two of the ancient world's most fabled cities: Thonis-Heracleion and Canopus. For centuries, these were merely legends—ports of immense wealth that sank beneath the waves following a series of earthquakes and tidal waves around 1,200 years ago. Today, ongoing underwater excavations are bringing their treasures to light. In a landmark event for 2026, the Alexandria National Museum opened its "Secrets of the Sunken City" exhibition, showcasing 86 rare artifacts recovered from the seabed[reference:0]. Among these are coins bearing the visages of Ptolemaic rulers, towering statues of Egyptian gods, and delicate jewelry that once adorned the elite[reference:1].

For travelers, this is a historic moment. The artifacts, considered among the most important underwater discoveries since the Rosetta Stone, are being displayed in Egypt for the first time. Plans are also advancing for an underwater museum—a project that would allow visitors to view the submerged ruins through semi-submersible vessels or glass tunnels, a feat of engineering that would cement Alexandria as a world leader in immersive heritage tourism[reference:2]. Until then, the exhibit at the Alexandria National Museum offers an unparalleled glimpse into a world lost to the sea, where Greek and Egyptian gods stood side by side in bustling temple complexes.

2. Kom El Shoqafa & Pompey's Pillar: A New Chapter

No visit to Alexandria is complete without descending into the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, often regarded as one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages. This multi-level necropolis, carved into solid rock during the 2nd century CE, is a breathtaking fusion of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artistic styles. You’ll find statues of Anubis wearing a Roman tunic and banqueting halls where grieving families once feasted with their dead. In 2025, this site entered a transformative new chapter. The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities completed a major development project, introducing electronic ticketing, enhanced lighting, improved pathways for visitors with disabilities, and the creation of an open-air museum above ground where newly conserved artifacts are displayed on stone platforms[reference:3].

Just a short walk away stands Pompey's Pillar, a 25-meter-tall Roman triumphal column that is the largest of its kind erected outside Rome. It is the centerpiece of the ancient Serapeum, a site that once housed a magnificent temple and a daughter library of the original Alexandrian collection. The surrounding area has also been revitalized, with the new developments weaving the ruins seamlessly into the fabric of the bustling modern city. Together, these sites offer a more accessible and enriching experience than ever before, allowing visitors to truly walk through the layers of Alexandria's cosmopolitan past[reference:4].

Historic Site	Best Time to Visit	2026 Highlight for Tourists
Kom El Shoqafa Catacombs	Morning (9 AM – 11 AM) to avoid crowds	New open-air museum, upgraded lighting, and wheelchair-accessible pathways
Pompey’s Pillar & Serapeum	Late afternoon for golden hour photography	Restored surroundings with new visitor services and multilingual signage
Alexandria National Museum	Afternoons (1 PM – 4 PM) for a quieter visit	"Secrets of the Sunken City" exhibition featuring 86 rare underwater artifacts

3. The Revived Mosque Square & Qaitbay Citadel

For travelers seeking the soul of Islamic Alexandria, the Mosque Square project is a must-see. Launched in 2023 and nearing completion in 2026, this comprehensive development has revitalized the area surrounding the iconic El-Mursi Abu El-Abbas Mosque. The project has restored prayer areas, expanded gardens, and created beautiful open spaces that balance modernization with heritage preservation[reference:5]. The mosque, with its distinct Andalusian-influenced architecture and towering minarets, is one of the most photogenic in Egypt, especially during the call to prayer.

From Mosque Square, the walk to the Citadel of Qaitbay is a quintessential Alexandrian experience. Built on the exact spot where the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, once stood, the 15th-century fortress is a stunning example of Mamluk military architecture. Recent restoration work has cleaned its limestone walls and improved the surrounding promenade. Climb to the ramparts for a panoramic view of the Eastern Harbor, and imagine the ancient Pharos beacon that once guided ships from this very spot. For a truly magical evening, the citadel now hosts a Sound and Light Show that projects the story of Alexandria onto its walls, narrated through the ages[reference:6].

4. Underground Secrets: The New Roman Villa Discovery

In a story that has captivated archaeologists in May 2026, a rescue excavation in the Muharram Bek district has unearthed an extraordinary archaeological complex. The find includes a circular public bath of the Tholoi type from the late Ptolemaic period and the remains of a Roman residential villa featuring richly decorated mosaic floors. The discovery is significant because it helps bridge a long-standing gap in our understanding of the southeastern sector of ancient Alexandria, an area that remained relatively unexplored[reference:7].

Among the portable artifacts recovered are stunning marble statues of deities such as Bacchus and Asclepius, as well as a headless statue believed to depict Minerva. A collection of coins, lamps, and stamped amphora fragments further reflects the city's vibrant economic life and its extensive trade networks across the Mediterranean[reference:8]. While the site is currently an active excavation, the Egyptian authorities have announced plans to integrate the most important finds into a new public display, possibly within the newly renovated Graeco-Roman Museum. For now, the discovery serves as a powerful reminder that Alexandria's soil is still yielding secrets, and that every construction project could unveil a new chapter of history.

5. Corniche Sunsets & Modern Cultural Hubs

Where do the people of Alexandria go to escape the summer heat? To the corniche, of course. The 15-kilometer waterfront promenade is the city's beating heart, a chaotic and glorious parade of families, couples, and vendors selling everything from sugar-dusted kofta sandwiches to fresh sugarcane juice. In 2026, the corniche vibe is more vibrant than ever, with renovated cafes and ice cream parlors offering front-row seats to the legendary Mediterranean sunset.

For a taste of Alexandria's contemporary creative scene, head to Teatro Eskendria, an artistic cultural hub that has become a viral sensation on TikTok and Instagram. It serves authentic Egyptian dishes in a charming, serene atmosphere blended with art and performances[reference:9]. Another local favorite is Délices Patisserie, an iconic shop since 1922, offering a step back in time with its delectable desserts and charming, vintage atmosphere[reference:10]. In the Kafr Abdo district, places like Clayton Art House offer pottery painting and art workshops, while others host lip-gloss-making classes, reflecting a growing trend among young Alexandrians to create and consume unique, handmade experiences[reference:11].

Modern Alexandria Experience	Location	Vibe & Highlight
Teatro Eskendria	Al Attarin	Artistic dining with live performances and authentic Egyptian fusion cuisine
Clayton Art House	Kafr Abdo	Relaxing pottery painting and mirror art workshops with handmade souvenirs
Stanley Bridge	Stanley Bay	Iconic modern bridge offering stunning sunset views and a popular meeting point
The New Fish Market	El Gomrok	Modern seafood hub with sea-view restaurants, blending heritage with fresh cuisine

6. Where to Stay: New Hotels for 2026

Alexandria's accommodation scene has received a major boost. In 2025, the governorate announced the operation of six new hotels, adding a total of 750 new rooms, primarily in the upscale Montazah and Antonieads districts[reference:12]. This surge includes a mix of international brands and boutique properties, easing the high-season demand and offering more choice for travelers. For those seeking luxury, the Four Seasons San Stefano continues to define elegance with its unparalleled sea views. For a more authentic stay, consider the historic Cecil Hotel or one of the many family-run guesthouses near the citadel.

A unique lodging experience is the "Sun Rise Corniche Sidi Gaber", a new property that has generated significant buzz on social media for its prime location and modern amenities[reference:13]. When planning your stay, it's best to book well in advance, especially during the summer months (June to September) when Egyptians from Cairo flock to the coast. With the new hotels, you now have a wider range of options, from modern high-rises on the corniche to quieter retreats nestled in the royal gardens of Montazah.

7. A Practical Guide to Alexandria in 2026

Navigating Alexandria is an adventure. The city’s primary artery, the Corniche, connects most major sights. While Uber and Careem are widely available and affordable, for a truly local experience, brave the old-school black and yellow taxis—just be sure to agree on a fare before you start. The new Abu Qir infrastructural improvements have made accessing the eastern beaches and archaeological sites smoother. The best months to visit are March to May and September to November, when the weather is pleasant for exploring. Summers are humid and crowded, while winters bring characteristic Mediterranean rain, which Alexandrians love. Be sure to carry a light jacket for cool evenings year-round. Lastly, don't leave without sampling the city's specialty: fresh fish from the newly revamped Fish Market district, where you can pick your catch and have it grilled right on the waterfront[reference:14].

Travel Essential	Recommendation for 2026
Best Travel Months	March–May & September–November (25–30°C, pleasant sea breezes)
Getting Around	Uber/Careem for convenience; heritage tram for a classic Alexandria experience
Must-Try Food	Fresh grilled seabass at the new Fish Market, feteer meshaltet, and Alexandrian liver sandwiches
Don't Miss	Sound and Light Show at Qaitbay Citadel and the "Secrets of the Sunken City" exhibit

Conclusion: The Pearl of the Mediterranean Awaits

Alexandria defies simple definition. It is a city of contrasts: the ancient and the avant-garde, the sacred and the secular, the chaotic buzz of the corniche and the profound silence of its underground catacombs. In 2026, Alexandria is more than a destination; it is a storyteller. From the newly unveiled treasures of the sunken cities to the vibrant, creative energy of its modern art studios, the city invites you to peel back its layers. It is not a place you see in a day. It is a city you must live, experience, and taste. Walk its shores, explore its depths, and discover why, after over two millennia, the city founded by Alexander the Great remains the most captivating and resilient pearl of the Mediterranean.