How to spend two Days in Alexandria, Egypt: The Perfect Itinerary
Planning to explore Egypt beyond Cairo? A two-day trip to Alexandria, Egypt is one of the best ways to combine Mediterranean charm, fascinating history, and a relaxed escape from the busy streets of the capital.
We traveled from Cairo to Alexandria by car and spent two days discovering ancient ruins, stunning sea views, and cozy cafés. If you’re wondering what to do in Alexandria in 2 days, here’s a complete travel guide and itinerary.
Getting from Cairo to Alexandria
The distance from Cairo to Alexandria is about 220 km (3 hours by car). We drove ourselves, but if you’d rather not handle Egyptian traffic (which is completely understandable), you can:
- Take a GoBus (budget-friendly and comfortable).
- Book a train from Cairo to Alexandria (2.5–3 hours).
- Hire a private driver for more flexibility.
Day 1 in Alexandria – Ancient Landmarks & Seaside Views
Morning: Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa & Pompey’s Pillar
Start your Alexandria itinerary with history: the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages. Nearby is Pompey’s Pillar, a towering Roman column surrounded by sphinx statues.
Late Morning: Bibliotheca Alexandrina
The Library of Alexandria is a modern landmark built to honor the ancient Great Library. Inside, you’ll find exhibitions, museums, and thousands of books in different languages.
Lunch: Fresh Mediterranean Seafood
Alexandria is famous for seafood. Restaurants like Fish Market or Samakmak serve delicious, freshly caught fish with views of the sea.
Afternoon: Citadel of Qaitbay
This impressive fortress was built on the site of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Explore the citadel and enjoy stunning sea views.
Evening: Walk Along the Corniche
End your day with a sunset stroll along the Corniche in Alexandria, the long promenade by the Mediterranean Sea. Don’t forget to try Alexandrian-style ice cream!
Day 2 in Alexandria – Palaces, Museums & Local Culture
Morning: Montazah Palace & Gardens
Begin the day at Montazah Palace Gardens, once a royal retreat. The gardens are peaceful and perfect for a morning walk or picnic.
Midday: National Museum of Alexandria
A small but fascinating museum showcasing Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Islamic treasures.
Lunch: Local Egyptian Street Food
Try falafel sandwiches or Alexandrian-style grilled meats. Eating local is both delicious and budget-friendly.
Afternoon: Roman Amphitheatre & Downtown Alexandria
Visit the Roman Amphitheatre of Alexandria, with marble seating and mosaics. Afterwards, explore downtown’s historic cafés like Café Trianon or Délices, where locals have been gathering for decades.
Evening: Back to Cairo
In the evening, head back to Cairo. If you go by car: be prepared for traffic – Egyptian roads are… lively!
Best Time to Visit Alexandria, Egypt
Spring (March–May): Perfect weather, fewer crowds.
Autumn (September–November): Warm but pleasant.
Summer (June–August): Hot and crowded, but lively with local beachgoers.
Winter (December–February): Cooler, but still mild compared to Europe.
Read here more about the best time to visit Egypt.
Quick Travel Tips for Alexandria
Traffic: Driving in Alexandria can be chaotic; if you’re not confident, take a driver or bus. Even crossing the main streets by foot is an adventure you won’t forget.
Dress Code: Alexandria is more relaxed than Cairo, but modest clothing is still recommended.
Budget Tip: Entrance fees are affordable, but keep small change and cash handy.
Food Tip: Don’t miss Alexandrian ice cream and feteer, a delicious layered pastry.
Final Thoughts: Is 2 Days in Alexandria Worth It?
Absolutely! Whether you’re into ancient history, Mediterranean views, or Egyptian street food, Alexandria is the perfect weekend getaway from Cairo. With this 2-day Alexandria Egypt itinerary, you’ll see the city’s highlights without rushing – and maybe even find yourself planning to return.
