Things to Do in Alexandria: History, the Library, Catacombs and Corniche

Alexandria is Egypt’s window on the Mediterranean — a sea-breeze city of Greek and Roman roots, faded grandeur and superb seafood. Founded by Alexander the Great, it once held the ancient world’s greatest library and lighthouse. This guide covers the essential sights and how to enjoy the city’s relaxed coastal mood.

A different side of Egypt

Where Cairo is dense and Upper Egypt is desert, Alexandria is breezy, salty and outward-looking. Its long Corniche curves along the sea, café culture thrives, and the architecture mixes Greco-Roman heritage with crumbling early-twentieth-century elegance. Just a few hours from Cairo, it makes an easy day trip or a refreshing overnight escape.

The ancient wonders — the Pharos lighthouse and the original Great Library — are largely lost, but Alexandria honours that legacy with a remarkable modern monument and a scatter of genuine ancient sites.

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a striking modern library and cultural centre built to revive the spirit of its legendary ancestor. Its tilted disc of a roof, granite walls carved with scripts from around the world, and vast main reading room make it Alexandria’s signature contemporary landmark. Inside you’ll also find museums and galleries, so allow time to explore beyond the books.

Tip: combine the Bibliotheca with a stroll along the eastern harbour just outside — the view back toward the city and the sea is one of Alexandria’s best.

Ancient Alexandria

Several genuine ancient sites survive within the city:

• Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa — an extraordinary multi-level Roman-era underground tomb complex, blending Egyptian, Greek and Roman art.
• Pompey’s Pillar — a towering Roman column standing among the ruins of the ancient Serapeum.
• Roman Amphitheatre (Kom el-Dikka) — well-preserved marble terraces and mosaics from the Roman city.

Site	What it is	Time
Bibliotheca Alexandrina	Modern library and museums	2 hours
Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa	Roman underground tombs	1 hour
Qaitbay Fort	Seaside fortress on the lighthouse site	1 hour
Roman Amphitheatre	Ancient theatre and mosaics	45 min

Qaitbay Fort and the Corniche

At the tip of the eastern harbour stands the Citadel of Qaitbay, a medieval fort built partly from the ruins of the ancient Pharos lighthouse that once stood on the same spot. The breezy ramparts and sea views make it a favourite for sunset.

From there, the Corniche invites a long, easy walk past fishing boats, cafés and grand old buildings. This is the heart of Alexandria’s atmosphere — order fresh fish at a seafront restaurant, watch the waves, and feel how different this corner of Egypt can be.

Planning your visit

Most travellers see Alexandria as a day trip from Cairo by train or car, though staying a night lets you enjoy the Corniche after dark and an unhurried morning at the catacombs. Pair the Bibliotheca with the eastern sites, then end at Qaitbay for sunset.

See our plan your trip page for advice on linking Alexandria with Cairo and the rest of your Egypt itinerary. Come for the history, but stay for the sea air, the seafood and the easy Mediterranean rhythm that makes Alexandria unlike anywhere else in the country.