Shallalat Gardens is a public park in downtown Alexandria built around remnants of the city's old Arab-era walls and moat, with landscaped lawns, mature trees, and small artificial waterfalls that give the gardens their name, meaning 'waterfalls' in Arabic. Laid out in the early 20th century, the gardens incorporate sections of the original fortification stonework into their design, offering a green, shaded retreat within the dense downtown area. Visitors typically walk the grounds for 30 to 60 minutes, taking in the old wall fragments, garden paths, and seating areas. Late afternoon is a comfortable time to visit, as the mature trees provide shade and the gardens fill with local residents relaxing after work. The site is free and open daily, making it an easy, low-cost stop between downtown sightseeing. Shallalat Gardens sits near the old city walls and is reached by a short walk to the Shallalat Gardens tram stop, making it convenient to combine with other downtown Alexandria attractions.
| Admission | Free |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily 8:00AM-8:00PM |
| Typical visit | 30-60 minutes |
| Best time | Late afternoon |
| Getting there | Downtown, near the Shallalat Gardens tram stop |
| Address | Al Shallalat, near the old city walls, Alexandria, Egypt |
Location
Al Shallalat, near the old city walls, Alexandria, Egypt
31.2044, 29.9219 View on map
Highlights
- Remnants of Alexandria's old Arab-era walls and moat
- Small artificial waterfalls that give the gardens their name
- Shaded lawns and mature trees in a downtown setting
- Free public access with a nearby tram stop
Tips for visiting
- Visit in the late afternoon when the trees provide shade and locals relax after work
- The gardens are free, making it an easy stop between other downtown sites
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the garden paths
- Bring a book or snack, since it is a popular spot for sitting and relaxing
- Combine with other downtown Alexandria sightseeing given its central location
When to visit
Late afternoon offers shade from the mature trees and a pleasant atmosphere as local residents arrive to relax.
Accessibility
The main garden paths are paved and relatively flat, though some sections near the old wall remnants have uneven ground.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Shallalat Gardens take?
Most visitors spend 30 to 60 minutes walking the grounds and old wall remnants.
Is Shallalat Gardens free to visit?
Yes, the gardens are free and open daily.
Is Shallalat Gardens good for families?
Yes, the shaded lawns and open paths make it a pleasant, low-cost stop for families.