Book flights to Alexandria (HBE)

Book your visit to Alexandria

Magnificent, legendary, and one of the true gems of Ancient Egypt, Alexandria is a vibrant and unique summer destination that introduces you to a whole new aspect of travel in Egypt. Once home to the greatest library in the world and one of the Seven wonders of the ancient world, Alexandria is a fascinating blend of old and new, modern and antique.

Food influenced by both the Middle East and the Mediterranean, lively souqs and markets, and tours that will take you on a fabulous journey are all reasons to make Alexandria your next destination with Qatar Airways. 

The lure of this great trading city on the coast is a captivating blend of exotic experiences, luxury accommodation, and the chance to delve deeper into the mysteries of ancient Egypt, and the marvels of the 21st-century city too.

Things to do in Alexandria

One of the most unusual ruins to visit is Cleopatra’s Palace, but you’ll need to strap on a scuba tank to visit this underwater marvel. PADI-approved dive schools will take you through a beginner’s diving course before you head to see the Egyptian queen’s palace.

Alexandria’s Corniche is a sweeping arc of sand set against an azure sea. Along the way, you’ll come across the multi-domed Abu Abbas al-Mursi Mosque, as well as street vendors selling delicious snacks.

For a cooler introduction to some of Alexandria’s history, explore the underground catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, or visit the site of the legendary Pharos lighthouse, now home to the 15th-century Fort Qaitbay.

A stroll around the Kom el-Dikka archaeological park lets you discover Roman amphitheatres and Ptolemaic temples.

Activities in Alexandria

Alexandria is one of the best beach destinations in Egypt, and the top beaches for a family break or a lazy day sunbathing are Mamoura Beach and Montazah Beach.

The Montazah Royal Gardens is a tranquil and lush chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. You’ll find these landscaped green spaces close to Montazah Beach, with cafés, restaurants and swimming pools where you can cool off.

Take a night time stroll over the Stanley Bridge, one of the most iconic sites in the city and a great spot to get some panoramic photos.

The Great Library may be long gone, but you can capture a sense of the grandeur of that once-famous seat of learning with a visit to the Bibliotheca Alexandria, home to hundreds of thousands of books and fascinating museums, including the Antiquities Museum.

Food in Alexandria

Alexandria is renowned for its fresh fish, landed at the port on a daily basis, and cooked using influences from both North African and Mediterranean cuisine.

You’ll find traditional tajines blended with Greek moussaka and Italian dishes with lots of tomato, basil and cheese. Sayadieh is a seafood rice that’s similar to paella, while fish is often served very simply grilled and lightly seasoned with herbs and spices.

Singari fish is cooked with tomatoes, cilantro, cumin and a dash of chilli to give it a kick. Most meals are served with freshly baked unleavened bread.

Or try Alexandrian fondue, a mouthwatering family meal with a secret seven-cheese mix at its heart.

For food on the go, vendors sell falafel, filled pita bread and the city’s own take on ice cream, sorbets and frozen yoghurts.

Shopping in Alexandria

For some artisan boutiques including hand-made furniture, Attarine Market is the place to go. A twisting series of alleyways, it’s much less touristy than other locations.

Close by you’ll find Manshiya Market, also known as the Downtown market, an eclectic mix of spice stores, textiles and jewellery as well as fresh produce.

The city has plenty of air-conditioned malls including the huge City Centre Mall and the Green Plaza Mall, as well as the upmarket San Stefano Mall, home to international designer stores.