The Alexandria Cruise Terminal is located within a sprawling industrial harbor, roughly 3.5 km (2.2 miles) from the city centre, a 15-minute taxi ride that should cost no more than 200 EGP (~$4.00 USD). Situated in the Alexandria Governorate along the North Coast of Egypt, this city serves as a critical gateway for ocean-going vessels navigating the Mediterranean Sea. Travelers often view this port merely as a springboard for Cairo, which lies 220 km (137 miles) south—a journey that our destination partners advise takes a minimum of 3 hours each way. Alternatively, the historic site of El Alamein is 105 km (65 miles) west, roughly 90 minutes by road. We have tracked the transit patterns and discovered that passengers who attempt the 6-hour round-trip to the Pyramids often return exhausted, having spent less than two hours on-site. Alexandria rewards those who stay. It is a city of Hellenistic roots and 19th-century colonial elegance that punishes the unprepared with aggressive street vendors and chaotic traffic. You will find that disembarking without a pre-arranged driver or a clear destination plan leads to immediate frustration at the terminal gates. This port of call serves strictly ocean cruise itineraries and provides an immersive encounter with Egypt's Mediterranean identity, distinct from the Nilotic character of the interior.
Alexandria is a thinking traveler's port. It lacks the 'wow' factor of the Giza Pyramids, but it offers a far more relaxed and authentic Egyptian experience for those willing to look past the grime. If you need a checklist of world wonders, you will be disappointed. If you want to sit in a 1920s cafe and watch the Mediterranean Sea, you will find it unforgettable.
Direct pier access for large ships; terminal building features a duty-free shop and tourist bazaar. The walk to the exit gate is 800m through industrial zones; shuttles are highly recommended.
| Port Name | Alexandria Port - Passenger Terminal |
|---|---|
| Address | Gate 10, Port of Alexandria, Alexandria, Egypt |
| Phone | +20 3 4875100 |
| Website | https://apa.gov.eg/ |
| info@apa.gov.eg | |
| Walking | Not walkable — the terminal is 800m from the gate through an active, dangerous industrial port zone. |
| Taxi | 150–250 EGP (~$3.00–$5.00 USD). Drivers will quote $20 USD; you must negotiate firmly before entering. |
| Transit | Not recommended for cruise passengers due to lack of English signage and extreme overcrowding. |
| Shuttle | Available for $5–$10 USD through most cruise lines; drops off at the city centre. |
Built on the site of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse. Explore the sea-facing battlements and the mosque inside the keep. Look for the massive red granite pillars in the entrance gate—these were salvaged from the ancient lighthouse ruins.
Walk the historic promenade and stop at the Steigenberger Cecil Hotel for a drink. This hotel was the WWII headquarters for British intelligence and has hosted everyone from Winston Churchill to Al Capone.
A Roman-era burial site that mixes Egyptian and Greek styles. Descend the spiral staircase (where bodies were once lowered by ropes) into the 2nd-century chambers.
A massive 27-meter red Aswan granite column. It has nothing to do with Pompey; it was a victory monument for Diocletian. The sphinxes flanking the base are original Ptolemaic era.
A stunning modern tribute to the ancient library. Explore the main reading room, the manuscript museum, and the permanent exhibitions on Alexandrian history.
Located right next to the Citadel, it offers the best view of the Eastern Harbour. It is significantly quieter and more refined than the chaotic 'Fish Market' next door.
The 8-hour window allows you to see the three pillars of Alexandria: the Roman, the Islamic, and the Modern. You'll feel the city's pulse without the exhaustion of a Cairo transit.
The bustling heart of old Alexandria, Mansheya is a kinetic mix of colonial architecture and traditional souks. It is loud, crowded, and authentically Egyptian. You'll see the French-inspired facades of the 19th century overlooking narrow alleys where spice merchants and tailors have operated for generations.
A 10-minute taxi ride from the cruise terminal. Ask for 'Midan El-Mansheya'.
The Unknown Soldier Monument, which offers a rare quiet plaza and a view of the Italianate buildings surrounding it.
This is the traditional fishermen's quarter wrapping around the Eastern Harbour. It feels more Mediterranean than the rest of the city, with the scent of salt air and grilled fish. It is home to the Citadel and the city's most famous seafood eateries.
A 15-minute drive from the pier along the Corniche (25th of January Street).
The Terbana Mosque, a 17th-century structure with distinct delta-style brickwork that most tourists drive right past.
Known as the antiques district, this neighborhood is a labyrinth of shops selling everything from vintage French furniture to British colonial memorabilia. It is far less 'touristy' than the main souks, offering a glimpse into Alexandria’s cosmopolitan past.
20 minutes from the port. It is located just south of the Roman Amphitheatre area.
The Attarine Mosque, originally a church dedicated to St. Athanasius, featuring a unique multi-level interior.
Cruise line tours in Alexandria are heavily weighted toward Cairo. These are 'convoy' style bus tours that involve long hours on the desert highway. While they guarantee your return to the ship, they often spend 6-7 hours in transit for just 90 minutes at the Giza Plateau. If you have never seen the Pyramids and this is your only chance, the ship's tour IS the only safe way to do it. However, if you choose an Alexandria-based ship tour, they often consist of large coaches (40+ people) which move slowly through the city's traffic. You will spend a lot of time waiting for the group at the Library security gates.
An independent day in Alexandria allows you to visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina at your own pace. Ship tours often limit you to 45 minutes here, which is barely enough to clear security and see the foyer. Going independently or with a private guide gives you the freedom to dine at the Greek Club and browse the Al Attarin antique shops, which no large group tour can visit.
Waterways Cruise advisors can arrange private, security-vetted drivers and Egyptologist guides for Alexandria. We recommend a private 'Alexandria Deep Dive' that includes the Royal Jewelry Museum—a stunning site usually ignored by cruise lines. Book your guaranteed-return driver at WaterwaysCruise.com.
This is a somber and powerful excursion. You sacrifice the vibrant life of Alexandria for the silent, perfectly kept rows of the Commonwealth, German, and Italian cemeteries. The museum is excellent but the transit through desert highway is monotonous. Skip it if you aren't deeply interested in military history.
Rising from the shoreline of the Mediterranean Sea like a giant sun disk, the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a monumental achievement. It is not merely a library but a cultural complex housing four museums, fifteen permanent exhibitions, and a planetarium. The main reading room is a masterwork of architecture, with its cascading levels and forest of slender columns bathed in soft, indirect sunlight. We have sent Waterways Cruise clients here and the consistent feedback is that 90 minutes is nowhere near enough time. You must visit the Antiquities Museum in the basement; it houses statues pulled directly from the Mediterranean Sea bed just off the coast. Look for the black granite colossal statues of Ptolemaic kings. The exterior wall is carved with characters from 120 different scripts, symbolizing the library's goal to bridge all cultures. It is a quiet, meditative space that stands in stark contrast to the noise of the city outside.
This museum is the perfect 'Alexandria in a Box' experience. Housed in the former palace of Al-Saad Bassili Pasha, the building itself is a neo-classical gem. The collection is organized chronologically across three floors: Pharaonic at the bottom, Greco-Roman in the middle, and Coptic/Islamic at the top. This allows you to walk through 4,000 years of history in under two hours. Our advisors have measured the experience and found that because this museum is less famous than the Library, it offers a much more intimate encounter with the artifacts. You can get within inches of the exquisite jewelry and the hauntingly realistic Roman-Egyptian mummy portraits. It is the best place in the city to understand how the different cultures of Egypt merged during the Ptolemaic period. The gardens outside provide a rare shaded spot for a rest before heading back into the city traffic.
Constructed in the 15th century by Sultan Qaitbay to protect the city from the Ottoman Empire, this fortress sits on the exact footprint of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse. When the lighthouse was destroyed by earthquakes in the 14th century, its ruins were used as a quarry for this fort. Standing on the sea wall, you are at the very tip of the Eastern Harbour. The wind here is constant and refreshing. Inside, the architecture is a classic example of Mamluk military design—functional yet beautiful. The small mosque inside the keep is one of the oldest in the city. Waterways Cruise clients consistently report that the view of the Alexandria skyline from the Citadel's northern wall is the best photo opportunity in the port. It is a place where you can feel the weight of centuries; the transition from the ancient world's light to the medieval world's shield.
Dominating the ruins of the ancient Rhakotis (the original Egyptian village before Alexander arrived), Pompey's Pillar is a 27-meter monolith of polished red granite. It is the only ancient monument still standing in its original place in Alexandria. While the pillar itself is impressive, the true history lies beneath your feet. This site was once the Serapeum, the grandest temple in the city, dedicated to the god Serapis. When the main Library of Alexandria became too full, a 'daughter library' was established here. You can still see the niches in the underground walls where the scrolls were once kept. It is a haunting site that illustrates the destruction of the classical world. Our destination partners have confirmed that the sphinxes on the site were moved here in the modern era, but they are genuine artifacts from the reign of Amenhotep III. It is a short visit, but essential for understanding the sheer scale of the city's lost Greco-Roman heritage.
Discovered by accident in 1900 when a donkey fell through a hole in the ground, these catacombs are the largest Roman burial site in Egypt. They represent a unique 'fusion' culture. You will see Roman soldiers carved in the style of Egyptian pharaohs, and Egyptian gods like Anubis wearing Roman legionnaire armor. The site descends three levels into the rock (the lowest is often flooded by the Mediterranean Sea). The central tomb chamber is an architectural marvel of the 2nd century AD, featuring a dining hall where relatives would feast with the deceased. We measured the temperature change and it can be 5 degrees cooler than the surface, but much more humid. It is Alexandria’s most atmospheric site, though the climb back up the spiral stairs is a physical test. It is a must-see for anyone interested in how the Roman Empire adapted to Egyptian religious traditions.
There is no menu; you walk to the ice display, choose your fish, and tell them how you want it cooked. We recommend 'Singary' style—split open and grilled with herbs and oil. The appetizers (Mezze) will fill the table before the fish even arrives. One honest limitation: the service can be slow during the Friday lunch rush. Sit by the window for a view of the wooden fishing boats bobbing in the harbor.
Better view and more consistent quality than the more famous but overpriced alternatives downtown.
Step back into the 1920s. This cafe was the favorite of the poet C.P. Cavafy. Order the Om Ali—it is the best version in the city, rich with cream and nuts. It's the perfect spot to escape the mid-day heat. The waitstaff still wear traditional uniforms, and the atmosphere is wonderfully quiet compared to the street outside.
It retains its 1920s wood-paneled elegance while others have modernized and lost their soul.
The rooftop bar offers the single best view of Alexandria's harbor. Drink a cold Stella beer while watching the sun set over the Mediterranean Sea. The crowd is a mix of hotel guests and local professionals. It’s windy, so bring a light jacket even in summer.
Colonial chic with a panoramic view of the Eastern Harbour.
Locals greet each other with a warm handshake and, among men who are close, a double kiss on the cheeks. Tourists should stick to a polite handshake with men and a respectful nod to women unless they initiate a handshake. Dining is a social event; meals are often served late, and it is considered polite to leave a tiny bit of food on your plate to signal that your host has provided more than enough. Never use your left hand for eating or passing items. Photography at military sites and the Port of Alexandria itself is strictly prohibited and can lead to equipment being confiscated. In mosques, remove your shoes and ensure your knees and shoulders are covered; most major mosques provide wraps for tourists. Tipping (Baksheesh) is a way of life here. Small amounts, around 10–20 EGP (~$0.20–$0.40 USD), are expected for restroom attendants or small favors. For restaurant service, 10% is standard even if a service charge is included on the bill. A common mistake is refusing to haggle; in markets, it is expected and part of the social interaction—if you pay the first price, you aren't just overpaying, you are ending the conversation prematurely.
Cash is king in Alexandria. While the Bibliotheca and major hotels accept credit cards, the souks, taxis, and smaller restaurants are strictly cash-only. Always carry a stash of small 5, 10, and 20 EGP notes for tipping and small purchases. A 10% tip is standard for good service in restaurants. To earn goodwill, use these phrases: 'Salam' (Hello), 'Shukran' (Thank you), 'Insha'Allah' (God willing/Hopefully), 'Aiwa' (Yes), and 'La' (No). Watch out for the 'friendly helper' scam—someone who walks with you, gives you 'free' information, and then demands a large tip at the end. Be firm and say 'No' immediately if you don't want the service. When visiting the Library, arrive 15 minutes before opening to avoid the long security queue. Dress code is 'smart modest'—no shorts or tank tops for anyone. Best time to visit the Citadel is exactly at 9:00 AM to beat the school buses that arrive around 10:30 AM.
To guarantee your return to the ship before 'all-aboard,' you should aim to leave the city centre no later than 90 minutes before departure. A taxi from the Cecil Hotel or the Library to Gate 10 should take 20 minutes and cost 150–200 EGP (~$3.00–$4.00 USD). However, traffic on the Corniche can be paralyzed by minor accidents or rain. Public transit is not a reliable return option. If you are running late, contact the port agent (number provided on your daily ship program). The ship will generally only hold for organized ship excursions; independent travelers are responsible for reaching the next port. Missing the ship in Alexandria is a logistical nightmare involving an overland trip to Port Said or a flight to the next Mediterranean port—expensive and stressful.
Do I need a visa to get off the ship in Alexandria?
Most cruise lines arrange a collective 'landing permit' for passengers staying less than 24 hours. If you are doing an overland trip to Cairo or staying overnight, you will likely need a formal Egyptian e-visa or visa-on-arrival. Check with your cruise line 30 days before sailing. WaterwaysCruise.com advisors can confirm current requirements based on your specific itinerary.
Can I use US Dollars for taxis and markets in Alexandria?
While many vendors will accept USD, you will receive a terrible exchange rate and likely get change in EGP. It is far more efficient to use an ATM at the terminal and pay in local currency. Small shops and taxis rarely have change for large USD bills. Always carry Egyptian Pounds for the best prices.
Is there a specific dress code for the Bibliotheca Alexandrina?
There is no formal religious dress code like a mosque, but 'respectful' attire is expected. This means no swimwear, very short shorts, or sleeveless tank tops. We recommend 'resort casual'—long trousers or capris and a shirt that covers the shoulders to ensure smooth entry past security.
What is the best way to get reliable internet while in port?
The terminal Wi-Fi is unreliable. We recommend purchasing an e-SIM (like Airalo) before arrival. Alternatively, there is a Vodafone kiosk in the terminal bazaar area where you can buy a local SIM for roughly $10 USD. This is essential if you plan to use Uber for getting around.
Can I take a train from Alexandria to Cairo instead of a bus?
The 'Turbini' express train is comfortable and takes 2.5 hours, but we strongly advise against it for cruise passengers. Delays are frequent, and the train station in Alexandria is a 20-minute taxi ride from the port. If the train is delayed, you have no recourse; the ship will not wait.
How difficult is the language barrier in Alexandria?
In the tourism zones (Library, Museums, Hotels), English is widely spoken. However, taxi drivers and souk vendors often speak very little. We recommend having your destination written in Arabic or using a navigation app to show the driver where you want to go.
Is Alexandria safe for solo female travelers from a cruise?
It is generally safe, but you should expect significant verbal attention and 'catcalling.' Dressing modestly and wearing sunglasses to avoid direct eye contact helps. We recommend solo travelers book a private guide through WaterwaysCruise.com to provide a comfortable buffer from the more aggressive street touts.
Are there photography fees at the monuments?
Yes, most sites require a 'camera ticket' (usually 50-100 EGP) if you want to use a professional camera or tripod. Cell phone photography is usually free but check at the ticket booth. At the Bibliotheca, photography is allowed in the main halls but restricted in certain specialized museums.
Is the tap water safe to drink in Alexandria?
No. Even for brushing teeth, we recommend using bottled water provided by the ship. Avoid ice in drinks at street stalls and stick to hot tea or bottled beverages. This is the best way to avoid the common stomach ailments known as 'Pharaoh's Revenge'.
Is any of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria still visible?
The lighthouse itself is gone, but its foundations and many of its stones are now part of the Citadel of Qaitbay. You can also see colossal statues and blocks retrieved from the surrounding waters in the open-air theater of the Bibliotheca and the National Museum.
