Egypt’s second largest city after Cairo and the country’s main port was built by a Greek architect between 332-331 BC at the order of Alexander the Great. Immortalizing his name, the city quickly flourished into a prominent cultural, intellectual, political and economical metropolis, the remains of which are still evident to this day.
It was the renowned capital of the Ptolemies and the site of the Pharos Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, as well as the Great Library. It was along Alexandria’s shores that history took a tragic turn at the time of Cleopatra, Julius Caesar, Mark Anthony and Octavian.
After the Muslim conquest of Egypt in the 7th-century, Alexandria was replaced by Cairo as the new capital, but gained renewed importance when Napoleon invaded Egypt. During World War II, Alexandria served as a major Allied post and plans for the pivotal battle of El Alamein were contrived at the Hotel Cecil.
Often called the Pearl of the Mediterranean, Alexandria is located 130 miles north-west of Cairo, linked by two major highways and a railroad line. Its pleasant climate and string of white beaches make it a popular summer getaway for many Cairo residents and visitors from the Middle East. Nightclubs, sidewalk cafés and fine restaurants add to Alexandria’s numerous attractions, such as museums, ancient catacombs and a Roman amphitheater. The opening of the new library, Bibliotheca Alexandrina, ranks at the top of the list of things to see in the city.
Popular excursions from Alexandria include the Great Pyramids at Giza and Cairo attractions, as well as the World War II site of El Alamein. |
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| The ship is scheduled to dock at the Port of Alexandria. Distance to the city center is approximately 1 mile. Taxis are generally available outside the port gate. It is recommended to establish the fare with the driver before leaving the port. |
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| Opportunities abound in the area around Manshiya Square and in the Gold Souq. Good buys include gold and silver jewelry, cotton clothing and a wide variety of Pharaonic souvenir items. In many shops bargaining can get you a better price. Be aware that some vendors are very persistent. Many shops close between 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. The local currency is the Egyptian pound. |
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| Alexandria is known to have the best food in the country. A wide range of both local and international cuisine is available in fine restaurants, deluxe hotels and waterfront cafés. |
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Al Montazah Palace Gardens
While the palace is not open to the public, the surrounding gardens may be visited for a small entrance fee. The palace was once owned by King Farouk; it is still used today for state visits.
Museum of Fine Arts
The museum contains a limited but interesting collection of modern Egyptian art.
Hotel Cecil
This hotel is something of an institution in Alexandria. Its history is one of romance and intrigue. Over the years such illustrious guests as Somerset Maugham, Lawrence Durrell and Winston Churchill have stayed at the hotel. During World War II it was the headquarters of the British Secret Service.
Private arrangements for independent sightseeing may be requested through the Tour Office on board. |
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