Alexandria
Though he never lived to see its completion, Alexander the Great founded the coastal city of Alexandria in 332 BC. This second largest city in Egypt had significant military and commercial importance. The causeway that linked the city to the island of Pharos created two harbors and made Alexandria a major port. Alexandria was the home of the famous Library and the Pharos Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Alexandria is a city to explore at random. It is as important to enjoy the atmosphere as it is to see the sights.


The city center now stretches back from Midan Saad Zaghloul, on the seafront, where there is a statue of the nationalist leader. This was formerly the site of the Caesareum, a magnificient temple begun by Cleopatra for her lover, Antony and subsequently completed by their enemy Octavian. The Corniche is lined with beaches with full tourist facilities from the city center outwards. In spite of miles of white sand beaches and azure sea, Egypt's Med is still undeveloped and relatively unpopulated. There are fine beaches all along the coast from Alexandria to Mersa Matrouth, including the resort of Sidi Abd al Rahman, a secluded bay with clear waters and a variety of villas and hotels.

At Mersa Matrouh itself, the natural bay and long white beach make for good sunbathing and swimming in calm transparent waters. Hired bicycles will take you to other good spots, including the outstanding beach at Al-Abyad and Ageebah cove. At Abu Qir, a small fishing town, you can sunbathe , fish, swim and eat fresh seafood. To the west of the city you will find the resorts of Agami or Hannoville.