Alexandria

Due to its public and private beaches, rich history, and museums, particularly the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, based on restoring the ancientLibrary of Alexandria, Alexandria is a popular summer resort and tourist destination.

Every year, the city hosts the Cross Egypt Challenge, which is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Cross Egypt Challenge, which began in 2011, is an international cross-country motorcycle and scooter rally that takes place on Egypt’s most demanding routes and highways. Alexandria is the annual starting point for the Cross Egypt Challenge, and a large celebration is held the night before the rally begins, when all of the foreign participants have arrived in the city.

Alexandria has a hot desert climate that approaches semi-aridity (BSh), although unlike the rest of Egypt’s northern coast, the city is protected from the desert hinterland by the prevailing north breeze that blows over the Mediterranean.

The wettest locations in Egypt are Rafah and Alexandria; the other wettest places are Rosetta, Baltim, Kafr el-Dawwar, and Mersa Matruh. The Mediterranean Sea influences the city’s climate, lowering temperatures and creating variably wet winters and fairly hot summers that may be highly humid at times.

The coldest months are January and February, with daily maximum temperatures ranging from 12 to 18 °C (54 to 64 °F) and minimum temperatures as low as 5 °C (41 °F).

During the colder months, Alexandria is subjected to intense storms, rain, and sometimes sleet and hail; these phenomena, along with an inadequate drainage system, have resulted in floods throughout the city. With an average daily maximum temperature of 30 °C (86 °F), July and August are the warmest and driest months of the year. The average yearly rainfall is roughly 200 mm (7.9 in), however it has reached 417 mm on rare occasions (16.4 in).

El Nouzha Airport, Alexandria’s primary airport, offers a limited number of domestic flights and reasonably wide service to destinations around the Middle East. However, the sole link to Europe is via Athens. The airport is located 8 kilometers (5 miles) south of the city. A cab ride should take no more than 20 minutes and cost no more than 15 LE.

Borg el Arab Airport is the city’s second airport, which is operated by Emirates from Dubai and (soon) Turkish Airlines from Istanbul. It is rather less conveniently placed 45 kilometers (23 miles) south of Alexandria, requiring a one-hour cab ride (50 LE or less).

There is just one daily bus from Alexandria to Borg el Arab Airport at 2.30 p.m. The bus stop is located near Raml Station, just across from the Sofitel Cecil Alexandria Hotel. A larger bus stop is located 100 meters to the right. Six LE each passenger + 1.5 LE per bag is the price of the ticket. It takes around an hour.

Between 4AM and 7:30PM, Super-Jet and Western Delta offer direct buses from the airport to the New bus station on the outskirts of the city (25-31 LE).

Cairo, on the other hand, has a far wider selection of foreign destinations and is not too far away.

Numerous bus companies provide a bus service into Alexandria at a fairly reasonable price: between 20 and 35 LE. Air-conditioned buses are provided, as is a hostess trolley service. Golden Arrow, West Delta, Super Jet, Pullman, and El Gouna are among the companies. While operating hours vary according to business, there are departures between Cairo and Alexandria almost every hour from early morning to midnight.

While the buses themselves are rather pleasant, the length of your travel from Cairo to Alexandria (or vice versa) is determined on your pick-up/drop-off location. The majority of buses depart from Heliopolis’ Almaza Bus Station, passing via Midan Tahrir and Giza on their way to Alexandria; if you join from Heliopolis, anticipate a 4-5 hour journey rather than the typical 2-3.

There are several bus pick-up/drop-off locations in Alexandria. These are normally located at Gedid station (except in El Gouna, which is served by Sidi Gaber station), which is a little outside of Alexandria, but shouldn’t cost more than a ten-lead taxi journey, maximum fifteen-lead cab fare. Avoid taking a cab with someone who approaches you immediately outside the bus. If necessary, go outside the station and hail a cab there. There is also a bus connecting Gedid to Sidi Gaber, and from Sidi Gaber, the majority of the city is accessible either minibus or tram. The bus price is fifty pence.

The easiest method to go to Alexandria from Cairo is to take a frequent train from Ramses Station. From 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., trains operate at least once every hour, but try to take an express or the Egyptian Railways’ pride and joy, the French-built Turbo, which takes just 2 hours and 10 minutes to complete the route. LE 50/35 one-way 1st/2nd class tickets For fast trains, tickets must be bought prior to boarding; since the Cairo-Alexandria trains are often packed, it is best to book tickets a day or two ahead of time, although in a pinch, same-day tickets may be available just before departure. From Mersa Matruh to Alexandria, there are two daily trains that provide just 2nd and 3rd class service.

All long-distance trains arrive and leave at Misr station, which is a 10-minute walk from the Corniche along Nabi Daniel St. Many long-distance and commuter trains stop at Sidi Gaber station, which is located at the intersection of Abu Qir Street and Mushir Ahmad Ismail Street.

When driving by automobile from Cairo to Alexandria, there are two possibilities. The travel takes around 3 hours using either route, depending on pace and surrounding traffic.

• The Agriculture Road has four lanes in each direction with a speed restriction of 90 km/h for private automobiles. Because this is the primary thoroughfare, it may become a bit congested. Damnhour and Tanta are also accessible.
• The Desert Road has four lanes in each direction with a speed restriction of 100 km/h for private automobiles. This route traverses the desert and is less congested and speedier than the others. Every few kilometers, there are cafeterias.

Visemar Lines used to provide a weekly passenger ferry from Venice to Alexandria through Tartus, Syria, until recently. The boat, however, has been canceled due to the ongoing turmoil in Syria.

You can travel pretty much everywhere in Alexandria by taking the local transport accessible along the Corniche.

The city’s yellow and black cabs are a convenient and inexpensive method to get around Alexandria. However, taxis will almost always refuse to utilize meters (the prices haven’t changed in years), and drivers love to take advantage of non-Alexandrians, so it’s advisable to settle on a fee before getting in. No taxi journey shall cost more than 25LE between any two places in the city. Alternatively, if you are visiting Alexandria for the day, get a cab outside the train station for LE 10-15 per person. Pay roughly LE 50-60 to the driver if you aim to tour 5 locations in 3–4 hours, or LE 80-100 if you plan to see 8-10 destinations in 5–6 hours.

To hail a cab, wave at the driver and announce your destination’s name. If the motorist accepts, they will park as quickly as possible on the side of the road. Some taxis will stop even if they already have a customer to pick you up, but such offers should be declined. Furthermore, always check back after you exit the cab; there is no phone number to contact if you lose anything valuable, and there are almost no possibilities of it being recovered.

Fast Call cabs may be hired by phone at 19559 or 0800-999-9999 (toll free). These are more expensive, but they are often superior than standard black and bright yellow taxis.

Alexandria boasts a rickety, sluggish, but inexpensive tram system that dates from 1860 and looks the part – it’s Africa’s oldest tram system still in operation. The route map is befuddling and constantly changing, but one thing remains constant: the network is divided into the interurban Ramleh Lines (Tram el-Raml), which use blue-and-cream trams and run across the city a few blocks back from the sea towards the eastern suburbs, and the City Lines (Tram el-Madina), which use bright yellow trams and run west and south of central Alex.

They meet at Raml Station (Mahattat el-Raml), which is located in the centre of Alex. The Ramleh Lines, despite their antiquity, are comparatively speedy due to long segments of dedicated and unbroken right-of-way; the City Lines, on the other hand, are regularly stalled in traffic. The flat fee for both lines is 50 piasters (US$0.06), and tickets may be purchased on board. The first (of three) cars on the blue trams are dedicated for women exclusively.

The yellow tram #25, which operates from Raml Station to Ras el-Tin and Fort Qait Bey, is perhaps the most beneficial service for visitors. You may also reach to Raml by taking any blue tram west from Sidr Gabr bus/railway station, although not all trams eastward stop there.

Local bus services have improved greatly in recent years, although they are still a little complicated for individuals who haven’t lived in Alexandria for a long time. Aside from city buses, there are also “mini-buses” that operate on a hop-and-go basis. They are readily identifiable 14-person buses that will stop when you wave and will stop where you need to exit. Because drivers seldom understand English, make sure you know your destination’s Arabic name or that you already know where you’ll be stopping.

The routes are mainly along major thoroughfares, with cars adhering to well-established routes. The itineraries are posted in Arabic on the sides of the truck, but even if you know Arabic, you may not be able to understand them since the drivers sometimes change routes without modifying their signs. If you stay in Alexandria for a while, you could pick up on the natives’ fairly complicated system of hand signals for indicating the intended location. The cost of a travel is usually between LE 0.50 and LE 1.50.

There are six districts in modern Alexandria:

• al-Montaza District: population 1,190,287
• Shark (Eastern Alexandria) District: population 985,786
• Wassat (Central Alexandria) District: population 520,450
• al-Amriya District: population 845,845
• Agamy (Western Alexandria) District: population 386,374
• al-Gomrok District: population 145,558

Metropolitan Alexandria is made up of two cities that are under the Alexandria governorate’s jurisdiction:

• Borg Al-Arab city: population 186,900
• New Borg El Arab city: population 150,000

AbuQir, Maamoura, Montaza, Mandara (Bahary – Qibly), Asafra (Bahary – Qibly), Miami, Sidi Bishr (Bahary – Qibly), Saray, Victoria, Seyouf, Laurent, Tharwat, San Stefano, Gianaclis, Schutz, Zezenia, Glim, Bacchus, Saba Pasha, Fleming, Dahria, Bolkly, Stanley, Rushdy, Mustafa Kamel, Kafr Abdu, Smouha, Nozha, Sidi Gaber, Cleopatra, Sporting, Ibrahimiyya, Camp Caesar, Al Shatby, Hadara (Bahary – Qibly – New), Azarita (Originally Lazarette), Muharram Bek, El Raml Downtown, Koum Al Dikka, Eastern Harbor, Anfoushi, Manshiyya, Attarin, Karmous (a.k.a. Karmouz), Ras El Tin, El Labban, Mina El Basal, Western Harbor, Qabbary, Wardian, El Max, Dekheila, Agami (Al Bitaash (Originally “Beau Tache”) – Al Hanuviel (Originally “Hameaux Ville”), Amreya, King Mariout, Burg al-Arab

Tourist (Backpacker) – 32 $ per day. Estimated cost per 1 day including:meals in cheap restaurant,public transport, cheap hotel.

Tourist (Regular) – 104 $ per day. Estimated cost per 1 day including:mid-range meals and drinks, transportation, hotel.

MARKET / SUPERMARKET

RESTAURANTS

ENTERTAINMENT

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CLOTHES / SHOES

TRANSPORTATION

• Citadel of Qaitbay, Ras el-Tin (yellow tram #25),  +20 3-4809144. 9AM-4PM. The stronghold, which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and the city itself, is one of the city’s emblems and is situated in a lovely position. Built in 1477 AD by Mameluke Sultan Abdul-Nasser Qa’it Bay, it has been demolished and rebuilt thrice since then. Sultan Qaitbay erected this castle on the location of the Pharos Lighthouse in 1480 to safeguard the city from crusaders who used to assault it by water. On the eastern tip of Pharos Island, the Citadel is located at the entrance to the eastern port. It was built on the identical location of Alexandria’s iconic Lighthouse. The lighthouse remained operational until the Arab invasion, during which various calamities happened, and the lighthouse’s design was altered to some amount, although it continued to work. The top of the lighthouse was damaged by an earthquake in the 11th century, and the basement was utilized as a watchtower. On top of the hill, a tiny mosque was constructed. The site was fortified in 1480 A.D. as part of the coastal defensive edifices. Later, a castle-like citadel was constructed as a jail for princes and governmental officials. It now serves as a Maritime Museum.
• Cemetery of Mostafa Kamel. Four graves from the second century BC may be found in the cemetery, all of which are in outstanding condition and elegantly adorned. Mostafa Kamel, one of Egypt’s most famous political figures of the twentieth century, is buried here. He was the one who said, “If I hadn’t been born as an Egyptian, I would prefer to be an Egyptian.”
• Kom el-Shouqafa, Karmouz. The Arabic name Kom el-Shouqafa is derived from the ancient Greek name Lofus Kiramaikos, which means “mound of shards” or “potsherds.” Its ancient Egyptian name was Ra-Qedillies, and it was built on the location of the hamlet and fishing harbor of Rhakotis, Alexandria’s oldest neighborhood that predates Alexander the Great. The catacombs are located in the heavily populated area of Karmouz, which is located to the east of Alexandria. The catacombs were most likely utilized as a single affluent family’s private burial before being transferred to a public cemetery. They are made up of a burial chapel on the main level, a steep spiral staircase, and three subterranean levels for the funerary ceremony and entombment. The catacombs are unusual in both their layout and their décor, which symbolizes a fusion of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman cultures and customs.”
• Pompey’s Pillar, Karmouz. This 25-meter-high granite column, which was built in AD 297 in honor of Emperor Diocletian, is an old monument. Other ruins and sculptures, such as the Serapium oracle, may be found in the limited region where the column sits. Also nearby is “El-Saa3a,” a large retail complex for fabric and furnishings where you can buy a wide variety of textile and clothing. LE 20, LE 15, LE 10 (student).
• Roman Theatre, Kom El-Dikka,  +20 3-3902904. This Roman amphitheater, built in the second century AD, comprises 13 semicircular levels composed of white and gray marble, with marble seats for up to 800 spectators, galleries, and mosaic-flooring portions. This region was formerly known as the Park of Pan, a pleasure garden surrounded by Roman villas and baths during Ptolemaic times.
• Montazah Palace, El Montazah,  +20 3-5477153, +20 3-5473056. Abbas II of Egypt Abbas Hilmi Pasha, Egypt’s last khedive, built it in 1892. The Haramlek, one of the palace structures, currently houses a casino on the first floor and a museum of royal treasures on the upper floors, while the Salamlek has been transformed into a luxury hotel. Parts of the sprawling gardens (nearly 200 acres) are accessible to the public. The park charges an entry fee.
• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Mansheya. Egypt’s military is honored with a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

• El-Mursi Abul-Abbas Mosque, Anfoushi. The mosque was erected in 1775 by Algerians over the grave of Ahmed Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi, a notable thirteenth-century sufi saint. The mosque’s walls are made of artificial stone, and the minaret on the south side rises to a height of 73 meters.
• Attarine Mosque, Attarine. Originally built in 370 as a church dedicated to Saint Athanasius, it was turned into a mosque during the Muslim conquest of Egypt.

• Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Shatby,  +20 3-4839999.Open daily except Tuesday 11AM to 7PM, but opens only at 3PM on Friday and Saturday. On the location of the old Library of Alexandria, a massive contemporary library and research center was built. It also contains a large meeting facility, a planetarium, and exhibits of old books from the collection.
• Corniche. The Corniche is a magnificent 15-kilometer waterfront promenade (wharf/pier/boardwalk) lined with restaurants, markets, and historic sites.

• Alexandria National Museum, Latin quarter,  +20 3-4835519, +20 3-4838035. The History Museum houses over 1800 archaeological artifacts arranged chronologically: the basement is devoted to prehistoric and pharaonic times; the first floor is devoted to the Graeco-Roman period; and the second floor is devoted to the Coptic and Islamic eras, with an emphasis on artifacts discovered during recent underwater excavations.
• Graeco-Roman Museum, Latin quarter,  +20 3-4865820, +20 3-4876434. Closed. A history museum with a sizable collection covering the Ptolemaic and Roman eras, mostly from the third century BC to the third century AD. Since 2008, it has been closed for renovations.
• Museum of Fine Arts, Moharram Bey,  +20 3-3936616. It is adorned with several royal and priceless jewels.
• National Institute For Oceanography & Fisheries, Anfoushi (beside Qait Bey),  +20 3-4801499.Aquarium and museum displays.
• Royal Jewelry Museum, zezenia,  +20 3-5828348. It houses a large number of royal and valuable jewels. Following renovations, it was just reopened to the public.

• Enjoy in the sun at Maa’moura or Montazah beaches. Summertime, the beaches are densely filled with Egyptian visitors, parasols, and plastic chairs, and admission costs LE 5 (2008). At this time of year, the sand and water may include some floating plastic. Certain sites charge LE 20 for additional space.
• Montazah Royal Gardens – Though the gardens are part of the larger royal house known as the Muntazah Palace’s over 350-acre grounds, the Montazah Royal Gardens take up more than half of the land. Montazah Royal Gardens are also located along the coast, providing easy access to the area’s beautiful beaches and mild Mediterranean Sea waters. The Montazah Royal Gardens are rather uncommon among municipal parks and public spaces in that they are meticulously groomed and well-stocked with seats and open-air wading or swimming pools.
• Montazah Water Activities, located in Montazah, offers a variety of water sports, from waterskiing to wakeboarding, as well as banana boat and donut rides.
• Rent a boat and cruise around Ras el-Tin.
• Take a leisurely stroll along the magnificent Corniche beside the Mediterranean Sea.
• Alexandria Stadium or Haras El-Hedood Stadium, Max Street or Lumumba Street (Inform any Al-Istad cab driver and he would know where to take you. Inform the cab driver Istad El Max if there is a Haras El-Hedood match). Attend a soccer match in the Egyptian League. El-Ittihad, El-Olympi, Haras El-Hedood, and Smouha are the Alexandria teams. Seats range in price from 25 LE to 500 LE, depending on the sector. Seating is divided into four sections: VIP, 1st degree, 2nd degree, and 3rd degree. If you’re a foreigner, I suggest sitting in the VIP area to prevent being harassed by die-hard fans. Between 25 and 500 LE.
• Casino Austria of Egypt -B CP W, Only foreigners are permitted to enter Egypt’s Casino Austria. El-Salamlek Palace Casino is another name for it. Blackjack, Roulette, Punto Banco, Slot Machines, and Caribbean Stud Poker are among the games available. The El-Salamlek Palace Hotel in Alexandria is home to Egypt’s Casino Austria.

• Al-Amirate Cinema -B W (Address: Montazah Palace, P. O. Box 258, Alexandria; +20 35-477999), Enjoy the finest films with meals in an elegant and luxurious setting at Al-Amirate Cinema. The Cinema is situated in Alexandria’s El-Salamlek Palace Hotel.
• Royal Alexandria (Address: Fouad Street, Downtown, Alexandria; 012 2275493/4), The same individuals that control the Renaissance cinemas in Cairo also own this movie theater in Alexandria. Three screens are available, each with surround sound and all available choices. Daily midnight performances.

Alexandria’s old town, maybe with the exception of Beirut, has the highest concentration of bookstores and booksellers in the Arab world. A highlight is a lengthy line of sidewalk bookstalls on Nabi Danyal Street, just across from the French Cultural Centre.

• Al Ahram, 10 Horreya St. Telephone: 483-4000.
• Book Center of Alexandria,General Egyptian Book Organization, 49 Saad Zaghloul St. Telephone: 482-2925. English, Arabic, French, and German language books, as well as reasonably priced educational materials.
• Ramada Bazaar Bookshop, Ramada Renaissance Hotel. Telephone: 549-0935. Open daily 9AM to midnight.
• Bibliotheca Alexandrina Bookshop, El Shatby. Open daily 9am to 7pm. The library’s bookstore. This is an excellent resource for general and tourist reading in a variety of languages.
• Diwan, El Shatby. A branch of a well-known Egyptian business has been opened. Complete English and Arabic literature, including fiction and non-fiction. Cafe.
• Alef, Alex-Cairo desert road, Le Marche Mall. A newly established two-story bookstore featuring all types of Arabic/Foreign literature.

• Sporting Club (right in the heart of Alexandria). The Alexandria Sporting Club, founded in 1898 and utilized throughout the British rule, is one of Egypt’s oldest sporting clubs. Today, the golf course occupies 97 feddans, or 97 percent of the entire club area. It is a level course with challenging bunkers that is suitable for both beginners and professionals. Additionally, the club offers four restaurants, the most opulent of which is the Club House Restaurant, and the Happy Land restaurant, which overlooks the children’s playground. Additionally, it provides food for parties.
• Smouha Sporting Club, Smouha. International Hockey Stadium, many swimming pools, a number of soccer fields, and two jogging tracks are just a few of the facilities available. Only members and visitors are permitted.
• Rent diving equipment from Alexandra Dive and explore the historic ruins of East Harbour. However, be prepared for low visibility, a lack of safety standards, and a complete disdain for historical relics.
• Swim at the Country Club or Lagoon Resort, located just across from Carrefour.
• Attend a dance class at the Centre Rezodanse – Egypte (downtown Alexandria, 15 Sezostris Street, in front of Banque du Caire). This cultural center provides lessons in Ballet, Flamenco, Contemporary Dance, and Egyptian Folkloric Dance on a regular basis. Additionally, special courses with guest professors are offered, as are periodic cultural events (exhibitions, book signing, …). Tamarin Centre (next to Concrete Shop on Kafr Abdou Street) has frequent dance and exercise activities (Salsa, Tango, Aerobics, Fitness, Yoga, etc.). Both centers provide a variety of activities for adults and children.

Alexandria is well-known for having some of the country’s greatest seafood restaurants.

If you want to dine affordably in Alexandria, seek out establishments frequented by locals. Bear in mind that, due to Egypt’s low health inspections, you should exercise caution at the majority of these restaurants if your immune system is unfamiliar with Egypt; however, if you want to stay in Egypt for more than two weeks, there should be no issue.

• Gad (Raml Station),  +20 3-4820135. This establishment specializes in fuul (fava bean paste) and falafel. It is a type of Egyptian McDonald’s that may be found across the city and indeed the nation.
• Kushari Bondok, Smouha (beside Fathalla supermarket). The most well-known kushari eatery in Alexandria, providing this traditional Egyptian cuisine of layered macaroni, rice, lentils, and tomato sauce.
• Meto, 273 Gamal Abdel Nasser St,  +20 3-5506667. Pizza and the Arabic word for it, fateer.
• Shabaan Fish Restaurant, Shabaan, Al Mansheyah Al Kubra, Qesm Al Mansheyah, Alexandria,  +20 3-4841629. Seafood 1kg fish for 50-70EGP.
• Mohamed Ahmed, Ramleh station (Opposite the Metropole hotel). Another well-known fuul/flafel joint. This is a must-visit location in Alexandria. The fuul and falafel are superior to anything else in Egypt and are extremely reasonable. Additionally, travelers benefit from the management’s strict adherence to sanitary rules, which means there is no chance of developing traveler’s diarrhea here (unlike many similar establishments). It is not to be missed as a gastronomic and cultural experience.
• Hawda Gondol/Dongol, 3 Haret el-Gaami` (Azarita),  +20 3-4820135.Restaurant specialized on seafood prepared in the Alexandria manner. There is a selection of grilled and fried fish, shrimp, and other seafood dishes, as well as shrimp kofta (deep-fried breaded ground shrimp balls) and traditional Egyptian seafood rice (white rice cooked with browned onions and spices). LE 30.
• Alexandrian ice cream is comparable to soft-serve ice cream, but is regarded as slightly’stretchy.’ It comes in a variety of flavors, and according to locals, this sort of ice cream is created only in Alexandria and Greece. Try it in Bahary, near Qait Bey, near Makram, El-Sheikh Wafik, Azza, and “El Se’eedy.” The ice cream is priced between 1 and 5 LE.
• Corn on the cob (dorra mashwey), accessible from street sellers bordering the Corniche.
• Koshary, Egypt’s national meal, is available at restaurants across the city. A local custom is koshary topped with kibda Iskandarani—Alexandria-style liver with peppers.

Western fast-food brands such as Pizza Hut, McDonald’s, and KFC can all be found at the city’s bigger malls, but there are also more intriguing choices.

• Abo Fares (in front of Carrefour). Delicious Syrian food.
• Abou Shakra, Smouha Green Plaza (and other branches),  +20 3-4261777. Popular Egyptian chain serving traditional Egyptian grills such as shwarma (10 LE) and set dinners consisting of kebab/kofta, fries, and salad (25 LE).
• Elite, 43 Sofia Zaghoul,  +20 3-4863592. Once a popular haunt of Alexandria’s elite, including D.H. Lawrence, Laurence Durrell, and Edith Piaf, the establishment has taken on the appearance of an American road diner, replete with vinyl seats and cracked white plastic tables. The staff remains fluent in French and properly snooty. Consider the plat du jour.
• Hosny, Gamal Abd El-Nasser St (El Mandara),  +20 3-5506655. Middle Eastern food.
• Pastroudis, 39, Al Horriya Road (Raml Station),  +20 3-3929609. 8AM-1AM.Bakery with a dessert and ice cream sideline.
• Tekka Grill (Eastern Port, beside Diving Club). With views of the bay and Fort Qait Bey, this restaurant serves delectable Egyptian cuisine. Consider the shish kebab and wara’ el enab (stuffed vine leaves).
• Balba’ (Sidi Bishr, or downtown in front of City Center Carrefour). Meat and seafood from Egypt In Alexandria and across the nation, there are just two Balbaa sites. The first is in Sidi Bishr, at the junction of Sidi Bishr and Malak Hefny Streets (across from the Montaza District offices and Sidi Bishr urban rail/Microbus station), while the second is on the city’s outskirts in the “Downtown” retail district. Although the one in “Downtown” is more popular, the one in Sidi Bishr is older; both sites, however, are excellent. It is famous for its delectable traditional Egyptian meat and poultry dishes, particularly kofta; they also dabble with Gulf cuisine. It also has a seafood department, and the seafood soup is quite delicious. Approximately 100 L.E per person.

Numerous high-end restaurants are found in Alexandria’s hotels.

• Al-Farida Restaurant, El-Salamlek Palace Hotel,  +20 35-477999. The restaurant is open 24 hours a day and serves meals till 5 a.m. Italian and other cuisines are served in the castle garden, which overlooks the sea.
• Al-Farouk Restaurant, El-Salamlek Palace Hotel,  +20 35-477999. Lunch is served from noon to 4 p.m., while supper is served from 8 p.m. to 1 a. French cuisine served at the former office of King Farouk in the palace.
• Athineos Cafe, 21 Saad Zaghloul Sq (on the Corniche, near the Italian Consulate),  +20 3-4860421. The “Mermaid of Alexandria” is a local tale that Durrell and Cavafy both visit, although it has fallen far from its heyday. The vistas remain breathtaking, and the Greek patterns in the gilded friezes and stenciled paintings provide charm, but the cuisine is almost fully Arabized, despite the Greek titles on the menu: order souvlaki and you’ll get kebab.
• Byblos, 399 El Geish Road (In the San Stefano Four Seasons Hotel),  +20 3 581-8000. 7PM – 1AM. Excellent cuisine and impeccable service. It’s well worth the investment for a high-quality Lebanese dining experience including delectable mezze meals. Vegetarians are properly catered for. Excellent wine list with a small selection of wines by the glass. Excellent position on the third floor with views of the Corniche; will be much better once the beach is completed. Allow at least 250 EGP for each participant. The pièce de résistance: a panoramic vista of the Mediterranean. 250 LE for each person.
• Chez Gaby au Ritrovo, 22 El Horreya St. (Near Rami Station),  +20 3-4874404. 9PM-1AM. Since 1979, this may be the greatest Italian restaurant in town, providing pizza and pasta.
• Dynasty Restaurant, 544 El Geish Avenue (Renaissance Alexandria Hotel), +20 35-483977. The restaurant is open 24 hours a day and serves meals till 5 a.m. The best Chinese restaurant in Alexandria.
• Fish Market, El Gomrok Scout Club,  +20 3 4805114. Excellent food, with great views. The sea bass is excellent. 150 LE for each person.
• Ibn al-Balad, Mustafa Kamel (Located right behind El-Salam Theatre). Restaurant with two levels. On the first level, they serve grilled meats, including their signature Ibn al-Balad fattah. The second story has a seafood restaurant. Without a doubt, this is a meat lover’s utopia. Between 50 to 150 L.E. each person.
• La Veranda, 46 Saad Zaghloul. (Inside Patisserie Delices),  +20 3-4861432. Conveniently situated in the heart of “Old” Alexandria – Downtown Alexandria, between the Metropole and Sofitel hotels. La Veranda is Alexandria’s first true Greek & French restaurant. The quantities are generous and offer a homey vibe. Additionally, it is the only establishment in town that serves Ouzo. A spacious parking area is located just in front of the restaurant. La Veranda replaced Jardin Delices, a prominent spot in Alexandria that was frequented in the 1940s and 1950s by French, English, Italians, and Greeks. The old Alexandria is densely packed with posters. Per person, 100 LE.
• Ole Cafe and Restaurant, Kafr Abdou Street, Roushdy. A fairly priced restaurant that specializes on Spanish food and dessert pastries. Consider the Beef Madrid. Wi-fi is complimentary. 50.- L.E. per person.
• Pool Bar & Grill, 399 El Geish Road (In the San Stefano Four Seasons Hotel),+20 3 581-8000. 11:30AM – 1AM. This seasonal outdoor restaurant is surrounded by beautiful vegetation and offers spectacular views of an infinity-edge pool. After a refreshing swim, unwind with a small dinner at umbrella-shaded tables. Choose from a variety of nutritious snacks, sushi and sashimi, as well as unique drinks. The restaurant is only open during the summer. Seats 76, including six at the bar. Per person, 100 LE.
• Stefano’s, 399 El Geish Road (In the San Stefano Four Seasons Hotel), +20 3 581-8000. 7PM – 1AM. This chic restaurant delivers an array of traditional Southern Italian specialities, including seafood. An intimate atmosphere is created by the open kitchen, elegant décor, and genuine Italian hospitality. Seats 60 people. Risotto and homemade pasta are house specialties. Formal or smart casual attire is acceptable. Possibly Alexandria’s greatest restaurant. Per person, 300 LE.
• San Giovanni Restaurant, 205 El Gueish Ave (San Giovanni Hotel),  +20 3-5467775. The restaurant is open 24 hours a day and serves meals till 5 a.m. Fusion between the West with the East. Stanley beach views, live classical music presented nightly.
• Fresca Café and Gelateria, 399 El Geish Road (In the San Stefano Four Seasons Hotel),  +20 3 581-8000. 11:30AM – 3AM. Fresca’s vibrant, colorful décor creates an informal atmosphere conducive to unwinding, relaxing, and enjoying a simple snack. This café, which overlooks a lively downtown street and the tranquil Mediterranean, caters to all moods. Cakes and ice cream are offered for take-out. Seats 92 inside and 124 outside. Try the ice cream and lasagna here. 150 LE for each person.
• Sushi etc., 399 El Geish Road (In the San Stefano Four Seasons Hotel), +20 3 581-8000. 7PM – 1AM. Sushi etcSoutheast .’s Asian cuisine has vibrant flavors. Sushi etc. is ideal for a light lunch, supper, or snack and has peaceful views of the pool and Mediterranean Sea. Seating capacity is 66 200 LE per person.
• Ottimo, Kafr Abdou 3 (next to Ole restaurant). A charming restaurant with a balcony

Numerous establishments seem to have established shopping hours. Winter hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Monday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Hours fluctuate throughout Ramadan, with many stores shutting on Sunday. Summer hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.

In commercial districts, merchants of a single product or class of items are often grouped along a street; for example, Nabi Danial is well-known for its bookshops and dealers of electrical supplies and electronic equipment.

• International Language Bookstore, 18 Abd el-Hamid el-Dib Street, Tharwat tram station (Ramleh Tram). A modest and nice little bookshop, albeit excruciatingly difficult to locate. It includes a rather excellent range of English-language classics and a nice variety of reference books. Appropriate for children’s literature and beach reading.
• El Maaref Establishment, Saad Zaghloul St. Raml station (Yellow tram or Taxi),   +20 3-4853055.
• Alex Book Centre, Semouha,   +20 3-4294362. A large publisher and distributor of products for English language instruction and school curricula.
• Nabi Daniel booksellers, An Nabi Daniel (street). Along An Nabi Daniel street, retailers queue up to offer books in a variety of languages, including Arabic, English, French, and German. The price is negotiable. Negotiable price.

• Carrefour City Center. Mall has a massive hypermarket, coffee cafes, and movies. To get here, take a cab.
• Mirage Mall. A tiny upscale shopping center located just across from Carrefour. Clothing stores such as Adidas and Timberland factory stores, as well as prominent cafés and restaurants such as Chili’s and Pasadena Roof.
• Deeb Mall, Roushdy. Mall of moderate size featuring movies and a food court.
• Family Mall. Gianaclis Station’s mid-priced retail center.
• Green Plaza (next to Hilton Hotel). A large retail mall containing a variety of stores, restaurants, movies, and a video game and bowling alley.
• Kirosez Mall, Mostafa Kamel. A mid-priced retail center.
• Mina Mall, Ibrahimia. Another mid-priced retail center.
• Maamoura Plaza Mall, Maamoura. Some restaurants.
• San Stefano Grand Plaza Mall, San Stefano (eastern Alexandria, next to Four Seasons Hotel). Perhaps Alexandria’s biggest retail center. Luxury shopping, 10 cinemas, and a vast food court.
• Wataniyya Mall, Sharawy St (Louran). Small shopping mall.
• Zahran Mall, Smouha. Coffee shops and movie theaters.

Visitors to today’s Alexandria sometimes grumble that it’s difficult to locate a nice drinking establishment, despite the fact that the city had a labyrinth of pubs and nightclubs 50 years ago.

• Spitfire Bar, Sa’ad Zaghloul St. Despite its prominent placement on the corner of a square on this bustling street, it’s easy to miss. The structure seems to be abandoned, although it is plainly marked above the doors. From the square, go west down Sa’ad Zaghloul St. for a few blocks until the road opens out in front of you, forming the start of a square. The bar is a few doors down on the right after turning right. For a Stella, LE 11 is required.
• Mermaid Bar, Mahatat el Raml (near Athineos) – A small and pleasant pub with a pleasant view of the sea. Beer is reasonably priced, while hard liquor is more so. The top story features a dance floor that plays Western and Arabic music at night. The pub is frequented by international (mostly American) Arabic language students at Alexandria University’s Teaching Arabic as a Foreign Language (TAFL) Center.
• Sheikh Ali, Adib Bek Ishak Street off Sa’ad Zaghloul. Travelers know it as the Cap d’Or, and it is one of Alexandria’s oldest taverns.
• El Qobesi, 51 Corniche, juice-bar. It is not marked in English, but the abundance of fruit makes it simple to see. Amazing juices from ashta, guava, strawberry, and other fruits and vegetables for 5-8 pounds for a large glass.

Drinkie’s, a famous chain of liquor stores with one shop on the Corniche strip and home to every local drink and Heineken, is home to bars and discos throughout Alexandria and most of Egypt. To buy your own booze, drop by Drinkie’s, a famous chain of liquor stores with one shop on the Corniche strip and home to every local drink and Heineken.

• Le Bar, 399 El Geish Road (In the San Stefano Four Seasons Hotel),  +20 3 581-8000. 5PM – 3AM. Enjoy a custom martini or an exotic drink while relaxing on one of the plush love seats, couches, or recliners.Seats 34.
• Bleu, 399 El Geish Road (In the San Stefano Four Seasons Hotel),  +20 3 581-8000. 4PM–2AM. Cocktails, appetizers, and tapas-style meals are available, as well as shisha (flavoured tobacco). The summer mood of this seasonal outdoor area is enhanced by fresh sea breezes and a fall of water on the terrace (open only in the summer). The terrace has a great view of the Mediterranean’s azure waves and is a great place to watch the sunset. Seating for 37 people at a cost of 100 LE each person.

• Alegria,  +20 3-3822797. Alegria is Alexandria’s newest chic restaurant/lounge. Reservations are required and may only be made by customers on their preferred guest list. On a regular basis, roughly 400 individuals attend. Alegria may be reserved for private parties, birthday celebrations, cocktail receptions, and other small gatherings. This club attracts many of Alexandria’s affluent and famous. 120LE is the minimum fee.
• San Giovanni Club, 205 El Gueish Ave., +20 3-5467775. 10:30PM – 4AM. Live music, well-known singers, Oriental dancers, and world-famous show stars are all on the bill.
• Montreal – Club & Bar. Hotel Azur – Downstairs. Montreal is a nightclub that serves food and beverages and is named after the Canadian city. Drinks range in price from 25 LE to 50 LE. Keep an eye on your statement since they can tack on a few more charges. If they don’t, they’ll seek for “extra” advice.

• 24 Seven Cafe, International Garden(in front of Carrefour). Young residents flock here to show off their newest styles. Excellent meal and shisha.
• Brazilian Coffee Shop, Raml station(Saad Zaghloul Street (in front of the Stock Market)),  +20 34865059. The Brazilian Coffee Shop is the result of a major wave of immigration from the Middle East to Latin America (in the early 20th century). The décor of this coffee shop dates from the 1920s. The coffee is pricey, but it’s delicious. 7.5 LE for a medium latte, and 8 LE for a strong latte.
• Clay Cafe, 156 Omar Lotfy St. (Near Small Sporting Tram station). Wi-Fi is free, however you should purchase at least a token coffee to avoid offending the staff. The majority of the food and drink is Western, although it is fairly priced for a tourist (typically 15-25 LE for food, 5-15 for drinks). Smoothies are really tasty.
• Cafe Trianon, Saad Zaghlul square (by the seashore) (Raml Station),  +20 3-4868539 , +20 3-4835881 , +20 3-4860986, +20 3-4860973. The poshest café in Alexandria, famous for the greatest om ali in Egypt – however LE 14 for a bowl of sweet cornflour pudding is a little pricey. The cuisine is likewise delicious and little more affordable; try the LE 13 moussaka.
• Cafe De La Paix (Sayed Drweesh Restaurant), Mohatet El Raml (Raml Station).
• Club21, Mo’askar Elroumany Street, Roushdy,  +20 3-5232929, +20 2-012-7330196, e-mail: club21.2000@gmail.com. Open from 9AM to 4AM. A pleasant location to visit, with pleasant employees and delectable food and beverages at an average cost of LE 15 for a meal and LE 8 for beverages. Shisha is provided in the establishment’s garden. WIFI is available for free.
• Omar El Khaiam Cafe, Mohatet El Raml (Raml Station).
• New Paris Cafe, Mohatet El Raml (Raml Station).
• Patisserie Delices, 46 Saad Zaghlul Street (Raml Station),  +20 3 486-1432. Delices’ main shop in Alexandria’s Ramleh Station, which opened in 1922, has become a well-known monument for visitors and locals alike who wish to experience the splendor of the Cosmopolitan period. Since 1922, the shop has been operated by the same family! Cassata (ice cream) and Greek Baklava are two of the city’s most famous products (similar to Egyptian Baklawa but dripped with cinnamon and honey)

There’s a Starbucks at San Stefano Grand Plaza and a Costa Coffee near Stanley Bridge, in addition to local choices.

The simple ahwa, which serves coffee, tea, and shisha (water pipe), is an Egyptian tradition, and Alexandria is no exception. Puff on a cigarette, play a game of backgammon or dominoes, and watch the world go by. However, they are predominantly masculine domains, and women are seldom seen in them.

Numerous Alexandria festivities are religious in nature. They have a number of festivals and festivities that demonstrate their fervent faith in the deity they serve. Apart from religious festivals, they also have secular festivities like as public holidays and other occasions to showcase their vibrant culture and customs.

The World Festival in Alexandria is a one-of-a-kind event. This event brings together all localities with the name Alexandria from across the globe. In the middle of October, Alexandria, Egypt, joins them in commemorating this holiday. More than 40 cities throughout the globe are called Alexandria, and they are all participating in this event. Alexandria, Egypt, participates in this occasion by hosting a number of activities throughout the course of the four-day festival.

Since 1979, the Alexandria Film Event has been the most popular festival in Alexandria, attracting a worldwide audience. This is an annual festival organized by the Egyptian Association of Film Writers and Critics that takes place in September. The festival’s goals are to increase filmmakers’ knowledge and comprehension of film culture, as well as to strengthen their bonds. All of the notable figures from the local and worldwide cinema industries have gathered to contribute to this event. During the festival, there is an international film showing where they may mingle and learn from one another. The emphasis is on Mediterranean-style products. International works, on the other hand, are welcome at this fantastic festival.

Despite the fact that crime is seldom serious, stay on the lookout for pickpockets and avoid flashing your belongings or wearing a bum bag/fanny pack. Tourists may be harassed by street children, taxi drivers, and others. After a couple of severe “La!”s, they typically stop. “La shukran!” (no thanks) or “emshi!” (go!) are more options.

Women should cover their shoulders, midriffs, cleavage, and legs since Alexandria is a conservative city. Even yet, particularly if going alone, women should expect to be heckled or harassed on the street. Ignore the offender and act as if you aren’t aware of what is going on. When entering places of worship, cover your head.

• Emergency number: 123
• Police number: 122
• Fire HQ number: 180
• Military Police hotline: 16039 or 19039
• Central Ambulance, Kom El Dekka (opposite Alexandria Station),  +20 3-4922257.
• El Moassa Hospital, El Horreya Rd., El Hadara,  +20 3-4212885, +20 3-4212886, +20 3-4212887,+20 3-4212888.
• El Shatby Hospital, Dr. Hassan Sobhy St., El Shatby, +20 3-4871586.
• Medical Research Institute, El Horreya Rd. (beside Gamal Abdel Nasser Hospital),  +20 3-4215455,+20 3-4212373.
• Bacos Ambulance, Mehatet El Souk St., Bacos,  +20 3-5703454.
• Poison Center Main University Hospital,  +20 3 4862244.