$10 back on your first eligible booking — in the RatedOtels app only. Get the app Terms
BOOK
Culture and history

3 Days in Alexandria — Culture & History

alexandria egypt history culture ancient-ruins
Length
3 days
Stops
12
3 Days in Alexandria — Culture & History
Destination
Dates
Guests 1 room, 1 adults, 0 children
SEARCH

What this plan covers

This 3-day itinerary is a deep dive into Alexandria's storied past, from its Greco-Roman foundations to its Islamic and modern influences. Perfect for history buffs and cultural explorers eager to discover the unique blend of civilizations that shaped this iconic coastal city.

Culture 4 Sightseeing 6 Activity 1 Food 1

Opening hours, prices and routes can change, so check the details before you set off.

Day 1 4 stops · about 7 hrs
1

Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Culture 2-3 hours

Witness the modern reincarnation of the ancient Library of Alexandria, a beacon of knowledge and culture throughout history.

Good to know

Arrive early to explore the various exhibitions and reading areas without crowds.

2

Roman Amphitheatre (Kom el-Dikka)

Sightseeing 1.5 hours

Step back in time to explore the only Roman amphitheater discovered in Egypt, revealing the city's vibrant Roman past.

Good to know

Combine your visit with the nearby Roman villa for a comprehensive understanding of the site.

3

Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa

Sightseeing 2 hours

Descend into one of the Seven Wonders of the Medieval World, a fascinating blend of ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman funerary art.

Good to know

Wear comfortable shoes for the stairs and be prepared for cooler temperatures underground.

4

Pompey's Pillar & Serapeum Site

Sightseeing 1.5 hours

Marvel at the towering granite column, a testament to Roman engineering, standing amidst the remnants of the ancient Serapeum temple.

Good to know

The site offers excellent photo opportunities, especially during the late afternoon light.

Day 2 4 stops · about 7 hrs
5

Citadel of Qaitbay

Sightseeing 2 hours

Explore the formidable 15th-century fortress, built on the exact site of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, offering panoramic sea views.

Good to know

Allow time to climb to the ramparts for the best views of the Mediterranean and the city.

6

Royal Jewelry Museum

Culture 2 hours

Discover the dazzling collection of jewelry and artifacts belonging to Egypt's royal family, housed in an exquisite former palace.

Good to know

Check for any specific bag or photography restrictions before entering.

7

Montaza Palace Gardens

Sightseeing 2 hours

Stroll through the expansive royal gardens surrounding the historic Montaza Palace, a serene retreat with beautiful architecture and sea views.

Good to know

The palace itself is not open to the public, but the gardens and exterior views are worth exploring.

8

Alexandria Corniche

Activity 1 hour

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the city's iconic waterfront promenade, observing local life and the timeless beauty of the Mediterranean.

Good to know

Best enjoyed in the late afternoon or early evening for cooler temperatures and vibrant atmosphere.

Day 3 4 stops · about 5.5 hrs
9

Alexandria National Museum

Culture 2-3 hours

Gain a comprehensive understanding of Alexandria's rich history, from Pharaonic times through its Greco-Roman, Coptic, and Islamic periods.

Good to know

Start your visit on the upper floors and work your way down to follow the chronological narrative.

10

El-Mursi Abul-Abbas Mosque

Sightseeing 1 hour

Visit one of Alexandria's most significant and architecturally stunning mosques, a prominent landmark of Islamic heritage.

Good to know

Dress modestly and remove shoes before entering; women should cover their heads.

11

Cavafy Museum

Culture 1 hour

Step into the former apartment of Constantine P. Cavafy, the renowned Greek Alexandrian poet, to glimpse his life and the city's cosmopolitan past.

Good to know

This small museum offers a personal and intimate look into a significant literary figure; often requires a small entrance fee.

12

Fish Market (Halaqet al-Samak)

Food 1.5 hours

Immerse yourself in the bustling local culture at Alexandria's vibrant fish market, a sensory experience reflecting the city's strong connection to the sea.

Good to know

Be prepared for a lively, authentic atmosphere; many nearby restaurants can cook your fresh selections.

Where to stay

Hotels in Alexandria

Book direct on our own Alexandria hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.

Things to book

Tours and activities in Alexandria

Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.

Keep planning

More Alexandria itineraries

Other ways to spend a few days in Alexandria, from our own travel research.

Back to the Alexandria guide
Take RatedOtels with you
Cashback on eligible app bookings only, credited after check-out. Terms
$10 back on your 1st app booking
App bookings only · Terms
Get app