🌊 Alexandria: The Pearl of the Mediterranean

Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, Alexandria was once the intellectual heart of the world. Today, it’s Egypt’s “second capital”—a city where you can walk through Roman catacombs in the morning and enjoy world-class seafood overlooking the sea by sunset.

🏛️ The “Must-See” 2026 List

• The Bibliotheca Alexandrina: A stunning 21st-century tribute to the ancient Great Library. It’s an architectural marvel holding millions of books, museums, and a planetarium.
• Citadel of Qaitbay: This 15th-century fortress stands exactly where the Lighthouse of Alexandria (one of the Seven Wonders) once stood. You can still see ancient lighthouse stones built into the castle walls!
• Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa: A literal “hidden gem.” This multi-level underground burial site is a bizarre and beautiful mix of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman art.
• Montaza Palace & Gardens: 150 acres of lush parks and royal architecture. It’s the perfect place to escape the city noise and walk along the private cove beaches.

🚆 Getting There: The 2026 Rail Experience

The best way to get to Alex from Cairo is by train.

• The Talgo Train: For 2026, the Spanish-built Talgo is the top choice. It’s fast (about 2 hours), air-conditioned, and feels like a European express train.
• The Price: Expect to pay around £18 – £30 GBP (paid in foreign currency at the “Foreigner Office” in Ramses Station).
• The View: Sit on the left side of the train when heading north from Cairo to see the lush green Nile Delta farmland.

🦐 The Alexandria Food Scene

You cannot visit Alex without eating seafood. It’s a local law (not really, but it should be!).

• Fish Market (Corniche): A classic. You pick your fresh catch from the ice display, and they cook it to your liking while you watch the fishing boats in the harbor.
• Greek Club (White & Blue): For the best views of the Citadel. It reflects Alexandria’s cosmopolitan past with a mix of Greek and Egyptian flavors.
• Liver Sandwiches (Kebda): If you’re feeling adventurous, try “Alexandrian Liver” from a street stall—it’s the city’s most famous fast food.

💡 Always Egypt Insider Tip:

The “Yellow” vs “Blue” Trams: Alexandria has one of the oldest tram systems in the world.

• The Blue Trams go East (towards the fancy neighborhoods and Montaza).
• The Yellow Trams go West (towards the old city and the harbor). It’s a slow way to travel, but at just a few pennies per ticket, it’s the most authentic way to see the city’s “faded grandeur” architecture.