Alexandria

• A different Egypt entirely

  Come with different expectations than the Nile or Red Sea destinations — Alexandria's identity is Mediterranean and Graeco-Roman, not Pharaonic or desert-resort.

• Getting around

  Taxis and ride-hailing apps cover the city easily; the tram along the corniche is a cheap, scenic option for shorter hops between central sites.

• Dress modestly

  Cover shoulders and knees at religious and heritage sites; beachwear is fine right at the beach but less appropriate walking through downtown.

• A more relaxed, less touristy pace

  Alexandria sees far fewer international tourists than Cairo or the Red Sea coast — expect a more local, less hassle-heavy atmosphere overall.

• Basic Arabic goes a long way

  "Shukran" (thank you) and "min fadlak" (please) are appreciated everywhere, especially with fishermen and market vendors.

• A light jacket for the sea breeze

  The corniche and harbor areas are noticeably breezier and cooler than inland Egypt, even in warmer months — worth a layer you wouldn't otherwise pack for Egypt.

• Comfortable walking shoes

  The corniche is long, and downtown's grid of streets is best explored on foot — good shoes matter more here than a car.

• Swimwear for a beach club day

  If you plan a Montazah beach day, pack accordingly — Alexandria's beaches are a genuine local summer destination in their own right.

• Hydration

  Alexandria's climate is milder than most of Egypt, but summer humidity along the coast still calls for regular water intake.

• Sea safety

  The Mediterranean here can have stronger currents and less lifeguard coverage than resort-town beaches further south — swim within your ability and near other swimmers.

• Common scams

  Around major sites, agree prices before accepting help from unsolicited guides, and be wary of anyone offering 'special deals' at the fish market.

• Fresh seafood is the highlight

  As a working fishing port, Alexandria's seafood restaurants — many near the harbor — serve some of the freshest fish and shellfish in the country, often picked straight from the display.

• Corniche cafés

  Historic cafés along the corniche are worth a stop for tea or coffee with a sea view — several have operated for decades and carry real atmosphere.

• Drinking water

  Stick to bottled water throughout your stay, and be cautious with ice and raw salads if you have a sensitive stomach.

• Visas

  Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival (around $25) or an e-visa in advance — check requirements for your passport before you travel.

• Day trip vs. overnight stay

  Alexandria works well as a long day trip from Cairo, but staying at least one night lets you catch the corniche at sunset and avoid rushing the major sites.

• Emergency numbers

  Police 122, Ambulance 123, Tourist Police 126 — see the full Emergency section below for hospitals and more.

• El Alamein logistics

  The WWII battlefield sites are spread out — a guided day trip from Alexandria is more practical than trying to piece together public transport between the cemeteries and museum.

Currency & payments

The local currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP). Hotels and larger restaurants accept cards, but the fish market, tram and smaller cafés are largely cash — carry enough EGP for daily spending.

Daily budget guidelines

Budget traveller: €20-35/day (budget hotel, local food, tram/taxi). Mid-range: €45-80/day (3-4 star hotel, seafood dinners, guided tours). Luxury: €130+/day (5-star sea-view hotel, private guides, fine dining). Alexandria is generally cheaper than Cairo or the Red Sea coast for equivalent comfort.

Tipping & baksheesh

Tipping ("baksheesh") follows the same pattern as the rest of Egypt: €1-2 for restaurant waiters, small notes for anyone assisting at a site, and €3-5 per day for private guides or drivers. Keep small-denomination EGP notes on you.