One day in Alexandria, Egypt

Even if you only have one day in this legendary city, you still have so much to do.
A lone Egyptian fishermen in a small boat fishing in the...
A lone Egyptian fishermen in a small boat fishing in the... | SOPA Images/GettyImages

Egypt is one of those few mythical travel destinations that's on pretty much everyone's travel list. There are seemingly endless archaeological, historical, and cultural sites to see and experience. It's had not to find Egypt a compelling place to visit, particularly the legendary city of Alexandria.

But not all trips are long ones. Alexandria is the second largest city in Egypt and rests right on the banks of the Mediterranean. Plus, it's in the direct vicinity of some very cool sites. If you've only got one day in Alexandria, you've still got plenty of time to experience a taste of Egypt.

Take in the Graeco-Roman Museum

Satyr Head
Satyr Head | Heritage Images/GettyImages

The history and growth of Alexandria was shaped by the local population as well as the Greeks and the Romans. Their influence runs deep and can be explored at the Graeco-Roman Museum. It contains more than 40,000 objects, some dating back to the Ptolemaic era in the 3rd Century BCE. The museum was closed for renovations for 18 years, but finally reopened in 2023.

Relax on El Mamurah Beach

It's already been mentioned but it bears repeating that Alexandria is right on the Mediterranean. That means great weather, a relaxed lifestyle, and unbelievable beaches. Just because you're in town doesn't mean you have to see the sites. There's nothing wrong with taking time to head down to El Mamurah Beach and relax in the sand or wander the promenade.

Take a day trip

Pyramids of Giza, a popular destination for tourists in Egypt
Pyramids of Giza, a popular destination for tourists in Egypt | Anadolu/GettyImages

There are no shortage of things to see and do in Alexandria. That being said, you also need to consider what you're also in the vicinity of. Some of the greatest archaeological sites are a day trip from Alexandria. That includes Giza Pyramids, the Sphinx, and so much more. You could easily book a day trip and still have time to head down to El Mamurah.

Experience the Serapeum of Alexandria

Like the rest of Egypt, Alexandria is littered with archaeological sites. There are numerous places to take in and learn about. A big one is the Serapeum of Alexandria, an ancient Greek temple built in honor of Serapis in the 3rd Century BCE. The site has been looted quite heavily over the years. Regardless, the scope and importance of the Serapeum cannot be understated.

Wander the Alexandria Bibliotheca

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a major library and cultural...
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a major library and cultural... | SOPA Images/GettyImages

The Great Library of Alexandria was the greatest source of knowledge in the ancient knowledge. Unfortunately, lack of funding and a cultural purge of intellectualism as well as attacks from Julius Caesar and other threats decimated it. In the modern era, there is the Alexandria Bibliotheca, a wonderous library with millions of titles Caesar will hopefully leave alone this time.