Alexandria City Guide

Food includes local dishes like Koshary and fresh seafood, plus Italian and Greek options. Vegetarian and vegan food is easy to find. Late-night street food is common.

Nightlife is low-key with cafes, shisha lounges, and some hotel bars. Few clubs are available.

Strong coffee culture from traditional cafes to modern specialty shops. Good scene to socialize or work.

Tipping is expected in many services. 5-10% in restaurants, small tips for taxis and guides.

SIM cards are sold at the airport and official Vodafone, Etisalat, and Orange stores. Vodafone has good coverage. Passport is needed.

Cleanliness varies; tourist areas are cleaner than side streets. Waste collection is regular but recycling is limited.

Many late-night pharmacies, minimarts, and street food vendors. Some clinics offer after-hours care.

Supermarkets like Carrefour, Metro Market, and Spinneys carry international products. Fresh markets offer local produce and spices. Shops open roughly 10 AM to 10 PM, with some closing Friday.

Cash is preferred in many places, especially small shops and taxis. Major hotels and big restaurants accept cards.

ATMs from major banks like CIB, Banque Misr, and National Bank of Egypt are common. Foreign cards may incur small fees.

International schools like the American and British Schools teach in English. Local schools teach in Arabic. Early applications are advised.

Small nomad community, few meetups, no dedicated co-living. Cafes with Wi-Fi are common work spots.

Parks like Montazah and Antoniadis offer green space. The waterfront Corniche is a popular walking spot.

Popular routes include the Corniche and Montazah Gardens. Daytime safety is good.

Several gyms and a sports club with various facilities are available.

Tennis courts at sports clubs like Smouha and Alexandria Sporting Club.

Padel courts are growing in popularity, mainly in sports clubs.

Yoga studios offer classes, some with English speakers. Spa and wellness centers are present.

Taekwondo, Karate, boxing gyms exist. BJJ and Muay Thai less common. English-speaking instructors are rare.

No skiing available; Egypt has no ski resorts.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing spots exist, often through clubs.

Surfing is limited due to small Mediterranean waves.

Diving near Eastern Harbour among ancient ruins. Best in spring and autumn. Suitable for all levels.

Private hospitals like Alexandria International Hospital have English-speaking staff. Pharmacies are common and carry OTC meds.

Tap water is not recommended for drinking. Use bottled water.

Playgrounds and family cafes are common. Attractions like the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and Citadel of Qaitbay suit families.

Low acceptance with legal and social challenges. Safe spaces are almost none.

Pet policies vary; some places allow pets. Veterinary care and supplies available, but pet parks are rare.