As Egypt’s summer destinations continue to increase, some old gems tend to be forgotten in the process. The ancient city of Alexandria was once the it-place to go, however, times have changed. Today, not many people visit the Pearl of the Mediterranean, even though the city still offers great experiences.
If you are someone who have yet to discover this beautiful city, try to give it a chance on one of your (long) weekends after a tiresome week at the office. This day-by-day guide will help you spend the perfect weekend in Alexandria if you’ve never been. You’re welcome.
Thursday
Leave work, pack your bags and drive to Alexandria right away. You can choose from multiple hotels on the Mediterranean that can fit all budgets. If you’re feeling fancy, book a room at the Four Seasons in San Stefano. Rooms there cost around EGP 5000 per night. If this number is above budget, other hotels such as Sheraton Montazah and Windsor Palace offer rooms for about EGP 1500. Once you check-in and get settled, head out to the Greek Club right next to the Qaitbey Citadel. The Greek Club boasts a great restaurant entitled Olive Island. There, you can enjoy a great meal of Greek cuisine. After you’re done, you can enjoy a couple of drinks while overlooking the ancient harbor of Alexandria. Olive Island is a bit pricey, however, you will be rewarded with great food and fancy drinks.
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Friday
Wake up on Friday morning and head to the Montazah Gardens. If you’re fortunate enough to know someone that owns a cabin there, you’re in luck! If not, you can head to Montazah Water Sports Club where you can pay a reasonable fee and enjoy their facilities. You can rent a yacht for around 3000 EGP for the whole day. This cost covers the yacht rental, as well as, using the club’s facilities. You are allowed to use it as you wish and there are some great islands nearby such as Gereisha and Nelson. You can tan, swim and/or enjoy some water sports that the club offers.
After you’re done, you can go enjoy a great seafood meal at the club’s restaurant, Ritsa, with an Instagrammable view. Meal prices are reasonable and the food is superb. You can also get the meal delivered to the yacht. If you’re not a seafood person, there are multiple restaurants in Montazah that you can choose from.
If you still have the energy to go out at night, multiple bars such as The Pint or Il Punto offer great drinks and a lively atmosphere. Il Punto is a bit pricey compared to The Pint, but they both offer an amazing experience.
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Saturday
On Saturday, most of Alexandria’s monuments will be open for visitors. You can head out to the Qaitbey Citadel to visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, which is built on top of the old and burnt down library. If not, you can opt for some of Alexandria’s museums. Tickets for both locations are very cheap for Egyptians and reasonable for foreigners.
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If you’re into diving, check out the city’s underwater museum tour in the old harbor. It is a magnificent experience that you don’t want to miss.
