Alexandria is the third-largest city in Egypt after Cairo and Giza, the seventh-largest city in Africa, and a major economic center. The city extends about 40 km at the northern coast of Egypt along the Mediterranean Sea. Alexandria is a popular tourist destination and also an important industrial center because of its natural gas and oil pipelines from Suez.
Warnings & Dangers in Alexandria
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Alexandria is generally a safe city to visit. Still, due to the political situation in Egypt, it is necessary to follow the news in general and the events in the country.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transport is well developed in Alexandria. Moreover, if you are driving on the roads, you should be especially careful. Use only licensed taxi services.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM
Like any major city in Alexandria, pickpockets do happen. Especially on public transport during rush hour. Keep track of your belongings, and do not leave bags and wallets unattended on the tables in the cafe.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
The city is located in a seismically hazardous zone; there has been large-scale destruction associated with earthquakes in the past. Study the weather conditions before your visit here.
MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM
Serious robberies and armed assaults are rare in Alexandria, but violent car thefts can occur; if you find yourself in this situation, give your car to the criminals and walk away. It will save your life.
TERRORISM RISK : MEDIUM
Terrorist attacks in the city are often associated with internal political showdowns. External threats from terrorist organizations usually do not exist in the city.
SCAMS RISK : HIGH
Fraud is commonly associated with street vendors offering counterfeit goods to tourists. Don't buy them even if the price is very attractive. Also, only withdraw money from ATMs at banks with cameras to avoid skimming your card.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM
Women traveling alone can feel quite safe in Alexandria. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings.
How Safe Is Alexandria for Tourists?
Alexandria is a relatively safe city to travel to.
The crime index here ranges from low to medium.
The main problems are related to corruption, vandalism, and petty theft.
Crimes in Alexandria are rarely violent and violent.
However, pickpocketing is quite common, especially in tourist spots and train stations.
Try not to carry a lot of cash and expensive things with you – this attracts scammers.
It is best if you carry an anti-theft backpack and store your belongings in it.
Street children can also distract you and try to steal from you.
Be attentive and keep an eye on them.
Do not catch a taxi on the street; it is better to use a proven licensed taxi service.
Hop into a taxi with only a taximeter and make sure, or be sure, that the driver has discussed the fare with you.
At night, you should be more careful in areas remote from the city center and on poorly lit streets.
It is customary to bargain in Alexandria, so when choosing a thing or a souvenir, do not be afraid to offer your price.
This is welcome here.
Women need to be modest and wear closed clothing.
It is good if the clothes cover the shoulders and knees.
When visiting holy places, you need to cover your head.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Alexandria?
Visitors to Egypt must obtain a visa from one of the Egyptian diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries or countries eligible for a visa on arrival. Visitors must hold passports valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival to Egypt.
Which Currency Is Used in Alexandria?
The Egyptian pound is the currency of Egypt. It is divided into 100 piastres or ersh. The Egyptian pound is often abbreviated to LE or L.E. (livre égyptienne in French), E£ and £E are also commonly used.
How's the Weather like in Alexandria?
In Alexandria, the summers are long, warm, muggy, arid, and clear, and the winters are cool, dry, windy, and mostly clear. The best time to visit Alexandria is probably autumn or fall (late September to early November) and spring (March and April).
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Alexandria?
Borg el Arab International Airport is the international airport of Alexandria, Egypt. It is located about 40 km southwest of Alexandria, in Borg El Arab (alternate spellings: Borg Al Arab, Burg Al Arab, or Burg El Arab). The airport also serves the nearby areas of the Nile Delta.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Alexandria?
Alexandria is a port city in Egypt on the Mediterranean coast. During the Hellenistic era, Alexandria was famous for the fact that its lighthouse was included in the list of the seven wonders of the ancient world. It was also known for its library, which now houses a modern disc-shaped building. This is a new library called Alexandrina. In addition to it, tourists are attracted by the monuments of the Greco-Roman period of Egyptian history, old cafes, sandy beaches, as well as the Qite Bay fortress built in the 15th century.
Is the Water in Alexandria Safe to Drink?
Drinking water from the tap is not recommended. You should buy bottled water or boil tap water.
Is Uber Safe in Alexandria?
There is an Uber taxi in the city; you can call a taxi from your smartphone application. The fare will depend on the time of day and the distance traveled.
