Ad Egyptum. Looking towards Egypt without being part of it: such has been the vocation of cosmopolitan Alexandria since it was founded in 332 BC by the great conqueror Alexander. His successors were brilliant at developing the city and making it the leading centre of thought in the Hellenistic world. The lighthouse was not the only beacon shining out over the Mediterranean; along with the library, this capital was the capital of the arts, a beacon of light for the world, thanks to the meeting of the scholars, philosophers and theologians of the time. The arrival of the conquering Romans overturned this order, and Egypt became a province of the Empire; Cleopatra lost out by mixing politics and love. The city no longer enjoyed the same glory when Rome supplanted it. The development of Christianity gave Alexandria a historically privileged position, which rival struggles between Christian cities relegated to a subordinate position behind Jerusalem, Rome and Constantinople. The great Alexandria lost its self-assurance once and for all, although it remained the capital of Egypt until the Arab conquest. It then fell asleep, for over a thousand years, and it was next to a provincial town that Bonaparte and Nelson fought their battle at Aboukir. Alexandria was revived in the 19th century, thanks to Mohammed Ali, who developed the city and made it the country's summer capital. The flourishing trade with Europe gave the small Arab town known to Bonaparte the cosmopolitanism that has made it famous to this day. A happy and much-missed time when the city spoke a thousand languages and shone once again. Alexandria and its inhabitants took to the game and imagined themselves supplanting Cairo. Nasser's arrival in power brought everyone back to political and historical reality: the capital was not on the Mediterranean! Since then, local legend has taken revenge by claiming that Nasser - an Alexandrian by birth - had a grudge against the city the day an attempt was made on his life. It's Alexandria's charm to live in the past, and you'll often hear people say, in perfect French with bold "r": "Tout va de mal en pire" ("Everything's going from bad to worse"). The long-gone lighthouse leaves a lingering shadow over the city, which seems never to have recovered from its decline. Since the last years of the 20th century, the town has been fighting back, but not inventing anything. The Bibilotheca Alexandrina, whose allusion to ancient grandeur is well understood, was in its early days an instrument of cultural counter-power in the face of Cairo and its minister; the corniche, which has been upgraded for miles on end, has failed to recreate the atmosphere of the cosmopolitan city. The archaeological digs that "invented" the lighthouse and the necropolis give an idea of the Alexandrians' state of mind. "The city of the dead must not interfere with the city of the living", declared one of the French archaeologists who settled in Alexandria. An assessment of the past? A statement of the present? A wish for the future? We don't really know. To the detractors of modernity, the architects of the city's major projects have given a lesson in realism and modesty: the former governor of the city and the director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the two key figures behind the major projects, are not native Alexandrians. They did, however, know how to flatter the city's vanity, and understood that it could not remain inward-looking, or even worse, facing Egypt, but had to turn towards the universal world. This is how Alexandria joined the Euromed project. Alex, as its inhabitants affectionately call it, has developed, like the rest of Egypt's Mediterranean coastline, by having to deal with the effects of poorly controlled urbanization. The corniche, concreted over as far as the eye can see, and the squalor that reigns in certain quarters will no doubt disappoint those hoping to rediscover the images evoked - and so decried - by Lawrence Durrell in The Alexandria Quartet. However, along the magnificent bay that runs from Qaïtbay Fort to Silsileh Point, a graceful 4 km curve, the Italian and neo-Arabic buildings are still there. They've just aged a little, that's all. Just as the various foreign communities that have always lived in Alexandria have put down roots... Greeks, Italians, Armenians and Jews have not totally deserted the city, but they have kept a low profile. Alexandria, which is no more French-speaking than Cairo, nevertheless cultivates this singularity to a greater extent. While the old Alexandrians fail to maintain the walls of their city, they do maintain its spirit through their own unique attitudes. You should see them sipping their coffee on the elegant terraces of Midan Saad Zaghloul. They look as if they've stepped out of a black-and-white photograph from the 1950s. Oblivious to the hustle and bustle of the street, they gaze out at the unchanging sea, a cigarette in the corner of their lips. Soon, they'll be taking the rickety streetcar, Le Progrès égyptien under their arm, back to their old Ramleh apartment. As for Alexandria's youth, it's the same as in the rest of Egypt. They don't care much for singularity any more, but they're still reluctant to travel: Cairo seems barbaric to them at the same time as it attracts them with its proposed outings. Often, it's professional opportunities that drive these newly-qualified young people to "exile" themselves to the capital, but nothing beats a weekend spent in Agami or in the family apartment next to the Sporting Club... The reverse is true, like a perpetual game of elusive mirrors. Cairoites come to spend the summer in Alexandria, or rather on the north coast, as it has become fashionable to say: the city of Alexandria welcomes the Baladis populations of the Upper Egyptian delta, while the hundred or so kilometers of coastline to the west of the city bring Cairoites together in summer villages.

What to visit Alexandria?

When to go to Alexandria?

When is the best time to visit Alexandria, the sublime Mediterranean city?

The best time to visit Alexandria is in spring, from April to June. The climate is mild, far from the summer heat, with temperatures hovering gently around 20°C. This is also the time when the historic streets are ablaze with color, without the influx of summer crowds.

In September and October, the city breathes again after the heatwave. The mercury remains pleasant and accommodation prices soften. To visit Alexandria during these months is to enjoy its quiet beaches and open terraces, under a gentle breeze.

Winter, from December to February, may surprise you with its cooler and sometimes rainy weather, but it's a godsend for those seeking to avoid the peak tourist seasons. Prices are at their lowest, and historic sites such as the Bibliotheca Alexandrina or the qaitbey Fort are less crowded.

Every season in Alexandria reveals its charms. The Alexandria International Film Festival in September, for example, transforms the city into an effervescent artistic crossroads. In March, Alexandria's national holiday celebrations embody the city's festive soul.

When should you visit Alexandria? It all depends on what you're looking for. For climate, budget or events, each period has its own appeal. Listen to the murmurings of the Mediterranean and choose the moment that will make your heart sing to the rhythm of Alexandria.

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Weather at the moment

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Weather all year round

Alexandria, the Mediterranean pearl, boasts mild weather:

In high season, July-August, the city flourishes under the bright sun, with warm temperatures enhanced by the sea breeze;

Low season? January and February, when the climate becomes milder, almost chilly in the evenings.

Alexandria's climate is typically Mediterranean, mild in winter and hot in summer, so don't forget your woolly jacket for walks by the sea. With temperatures ranging from mild in winter to hot in summer, Alexandria is an invitation to travel all year round.

Jan.
10° / 19°
Feb.
10° / 20°
Mar.
11° / 21°
Apr.
14° / 24°
May
17° / 28°
June
21° / 29°
Jul.
23° / 30°
Aug.
23° / 31°
Sept.
21° / 30°
Oct.
19° / 28°
Nov.
16° / 25°
Dec.
12° / 21°
Budget

Alexandria is a city of captivating charm, accessible to a wide range of travelers' budgets. It's a destination that knows how to be generous with modest wallets, without neglecting luxury enthusiasts. The local currency is the Egyptian pound. Cash dispensers and exchange offices abound, making it easy to obtain local currency. Bring cash with you to small shops, but be aware that payment cards are accepted in more upscale establishments. Tipping is a time-honored custom, and is a great way to make the most of the services you receive. Whether you're looking for economical authenticity or comfortable refinement, Alexandria will meet your expectations.

Procedures

To set sail for Alexandria, you need to comply with certain administrative formalities. For nationals of many countries, a visa is required to enter Egypt and discover Alexandria. You can often obtain this sesame in the form of an electronic visa before your departure or a visa on arrival, but always check the latest information with your country's Egyptian embassy or consulate.

Alexandria, accessible viaCairo international airport, is only a short drive or train ride away. So get ready to immerse yourself in its captivating atmosphere as soon as visa formalities for Alexandria are completed. The city will charm you with its historic sites, such as the famous Bibliotheca Alexandrina, and its Mediterranean waterfront.

For a smooth visit, it's advisable to carry a copy of your travel documents with you, and to pay attention to local guidelines in terms of photography and public behavior. With these preparations in hand, Alexandria is ready to reveal its thousand-year-old secrets.

Health

When planning your getaway to Alexandria, keep in mind that health is as important a chapter as tourist attractions. No specific vaccinations are required for Alexandria, but international standards suggest that yoube up to date with your usualvaccinations. For a worry-free visit, it's a good idea to consult a health professional for personalized advice before you leave.

Tap water is considered potable, but bottled water is preferable to avoid any risk. Make sure you stay hydrated under the Egyptian sun, and take along a first-aid kit, as prevention is better than cure. Prevention against mosquitoes and the risk of dengue fever is important: opt for covering clothing, repellents and household protection. In the event of flu-like symptoms, consult your doctor without aspirin/anti-inflammatories. Beware of venomous animals too (snakes and scorpions), and observe food hygiene to avoid illness, by avoiding high-risk foods.

How to go to Alexandria? Our advice & tips

When it comes to Alexandria tour packages, it's a good idea to choose excursions covering must-sees like the Library of Alexandria, Pompey's Pillar and the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa. Opt for tours that include expert history guides to enrich your experience. Often, these packages also include visits to the city's lesser-known sublime sites, for a more authentic local perspective.

Valuable tip: check whether tours offer early morning or late afternoon departures to avoid crowds, especially when visiting popular sites. Also, check whether transport is air-conditioned, a must in the Egyptian heat. Finally, some organizations offer unique experiences such as dinner cruises on the Mediterranean or cultural workshops. Check online reviews to choose a reliable company that respects schedules and offers good value for money.

Discover our selection of travel agencies for this destination

Travelling alone in Alexandria gives you the opportunity to discover the city at your own pace. For the best experience, plan in advance the sites you wish to visit, such as the famous Library of Alexandria or the Citadel of Qaitbay.

It's a good idea to bring along a reliable map of the city and navigation apps for your smartphone, so you can find your way around and find the best routes. Public transport, such as streetcars and buses, is economical and immerses you in the daily life of Alexandrians, but be prepared for density and noise. For a more comfortable experience, consider renting a bike or scooter, or use the cab or VTC services available in town.

When it comes to safety, keep an eye on your belongings and stay alert, especially in crowded tourist areas. Integrate yourself by respecting local customs, such as conservative dress, and learning a few Arabic phrases to facilitate communication. Above all, always carry emergency numbers and theaddress of your accommodation.

Gettingaround Alexandria is an experience in itself. Historic streetcars offer old-world charm and an economical way to see the city, although they can get crowded. For added flexibility, yellow cabs are ubiquitous and affordable, but be sure to ask for the meter or agree a price before you go. If you're looking to avoid the traffic, horse-drawn carriage rides along the corniche unfold a picturesque, if slower, perspective. For maximum convenience, consider renting a car or using reliable car-sharing apps for hassle-free travel. Don't forget to always have change to pay for public transport, and keep a city map with you for easy navigation.

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Pictures and images Alexandria

Le long de la Corniche. Sylvain GRANDADAM
La citadelle de Qaïtbay. Sylvain GRANDADAM
Le Fort de Quïtbay, en Egypte. Elena BAKHAREVA
Le port d'Alexandrie. Zbruch - iStockphoto

Discover Alexandria

When to travel?

When is the best time to visit Alexandria, the sublime Mediterranean city?

The best time t...
Read more about it

Weather forecast

Alexandria, the Mediterranean pearl, boasts mild weather:

In high season, July-August, the city f...
Read more about it

Budget

Alexandria is a city of captivating charm, accessible to a wide range of travelers' budgets. It's a destinatio...
Read more about it

Formalities

To set sail for Alexandria, you need to comply with certain administrative formalities. For nationals o...
Read more about it

Health

When planning your getaway to Alexandria, keep in mind that health is as important a chapter as tourist attrac...
Read more about it

How to travel by yourself?

Travelling alone in Alexandria gives you the opportunity to discover the city at your own pace. For the best e...
Read more about it

How to get organized?

When it comes to Alexandria tour packages, it's a good idea to choose excursions covering must-sees like the L...
Read more about it

Getting around

Gettingaround Alexandria is an experience in itself. Historic streetcars offer old-world charm and an e...
Read more about it

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