Best things to do in Alexandria

Marvel at the skill of ancient stonemasons at Pompey's Pillar, one of the largest monolith columns ever erected. Constructed in honor of the Emperor Diocletian in 297, this 26 m (88 ft) tall granite column is the largest Roman triumphal arch built outside Roman imperial cities, the tallest free-standing column not composed of drums. Commemorating a victory over a revolt in Alexandria, the Corinthian capped pillar is made of red granite from Aswan on a 20.5 m (67 ft) wide shaft having a diameter of 2.71 m (8.9 ft) at the base. With an estimated 285 tones, this is one of the largest ancient monuments. Explore statues of sphinx around the monument.

Wander the somber halls of Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, a set of underground chambers that house the tombs of ancient Romans, some dating back to the 2nd century. You'll need to descend a long spiral staircase to enter the catacombs featuring a distinct blend of Greek, Roman, and Egyptian styles of architecture and decor, with statues and inscriptions portraying deities from all three cultures.

Absorb the blend of ancient history and modern knowledge at Bibliotheca Alexandrina, an important library and strikingly designed cultural complex. Built in honor of the historically significant 3rd-century BCE library of the same name--whose burning represents an immense loss to contemporary cultural knowledge--the modern institution was inaugurated in 2002 with backing from UNESCO. Designed to resemble a rising sun, the library complex aspires to be a bastion of knowledge and learning like its ancient predecessor. Explore the entire complex, which includes four museums, gallery spaces for permanent and temporary exhibits, and a planetarium.

An impressive example of medieval military architecture, Fort Qaitbey overlooks the city's harbor. Built in the 1480s, the fortress was designed to provide protection from crusaders arriving by sea--today it offers extensive views of the Mediterranean and the city it was built to defend. The fort allegedly stands on the site of the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the now-gone Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Once a place of leisure for residents of Alexandria, Ancient Roman Amphitheater stands as a small but well preserved bit of evidence that an ancient culture once thrived in this area. The only Roman amphitheater in the country, the site features 13 terraces made of white marble, upon which the spectators sat cheering on various ancient events.

The first bridge in Egypt constructed on the sea, Stanley Bridge connects two edges of the Alexandrian Corniche, featuring the coastline on one side and an endless view of the Mediterranean Sea on the other. You can admire the 400 m (1,300 ft) bridge from the beach below, perhaps take a swim underneath, or relax in one of the many cafes around the area.

Corniche is a scenic seaside promenade that stretches for 16 km (10 mi),linking Qaitbay Citadel with the Montaza Palace. Designed by Italian architect Pietro Avoscani, the promenade offers stunning sea views and access to a staggering variety of shops, hotels, restaurants, and cafes. Take a break from walking with a picnic on the beach, or get some snacks and drinks from the street vendors and spend some time observing the locals going about their business.

Learn about the Muhammad Ali Dynasty and the glory of its 150-year rule at Royal Jewelry Museum. Situated in the princess' palace, the museum showcases a priceless collection of exquisite royal jewelry across multiple rooms and levels. Several exhibits display decorative art, such as paintings and sculptures created by national and international artists.

Imagine the tragedy of desert warfare and pay tribute to the dead at El Alamein War Cemetery, a Commonwealth cemetery built near the site of the famous World War II tank battle. Designed by a British architect and unveiled in 1954, the memorial commemorates 11,866 Commonwealth forces members who perished during war. Most of them died in the Western Desert Campaign and in Syria, and have no marked graves. The cemetery particularly focuses on those who died during the Battle of El Alamein. Climb the central stairway leading to a tall elevated stone cross and a terrace for an overview of the area.

Once a royal retreat, Montazah Gardens are now a landscaped public park and forest reserve. The two summer palaces on the grounds display contrasting architectural styles, one influenced by the Moorish traditions, the other with a distinctly Florentine and Turkish look to it. The parkland around the structures features wilder, open spaces of greenery, as well as artfully arranged garden areas. A small cove offers a secluded strip of sand by the sea, with extensive views along the Mediterranean coast.