Alexandria is Egypt's second-largest city, a Mediterranean port stretching along a broad curving corniche on the country's northern coast. Founded by Alexander the Great in 332 BC, it was once home to the ancient Great Library and the Lighthouse of Pharos, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today Alexandria mixes Greco-Roman ruins, Ottoman-era forts, Belle Époque architecture, and a lively seafood and fishing culture along a coastline of sandy bays.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Alexandria Zoo (Al Nozha Gardens)
A historic city zoo and botanical garden dating to 1907, with shaded walking paths, a variety of animal enclosures, and open lawns - an affordable, easy half-day for younger children
Duration: 2-3 hours
Montaza Palace Gardens
Expansive royal gardens along the eastern Corniche with palm-lined walkways, sea-cliff views, small beaches below the palace, and plenty of open space for children to run
Duration: Half day
Public Beaches (Stanley, Montaza, Maamoura)
Several family-oriented beach areas along the eastern Corniche offer calmer water and more space than the busy central beaches, with snack vendors and rental umbrellas nearby
Duration: Half to full day
Bibliotheca Alexandrina Planetarium & Science Museum
The library complex includes a planetarium with sky shows and a small science museum with hands-on exhibits, a good indoor option and an easy add-on to a library visit
Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Qaitbay Citadel
A 15th-century coastal fortress on the site of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse, with ramparts, courtyards, and sea views that appeal to children who enjoy exploring castle-like structures
Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Kom El Shoqafa Catacombs
An underground Greco-Roman necropolis with spiral staircases and carved chambers; older children with an interest in ancient history often find it fascinating, though it may be intense for very young children in enclosed, dim spaces
Duration: 1-1.5 hours
Stanley Bridge and Beach
A recognizable Alexandria landmark with a pedestrian bridge over the bay, popular for family photos, ice cream, and an easy evening walk
Duration: 1-2 hours
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Corniche-facing hotels near San Stefano
International hotel chains along the eastern Corniche near San Stefano Grand Plaza offer family rooms, pools, and easy access to malls, restaurants, and the beach
Family features: Family/connecting rooms, pools, proximity to San Stefano Mall, beach access
Mid-range hotels near Chatby
Comfortable, moderately priced hotels close to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and university district, convenient for families wanting central access without resort prices
Family features: Family rooms, breakfast included, walking distance to the library and Corniche
Resort hotels near Montaza
Beachfront resort-style hotels near Montaza Palace gardens, well suited to families wanting pool and beach access alongside garden walks
Family features: Pools, beach access, garden proximity, family suites
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Egyptian restaurants and cafes are generally very welcoming to children, and staff often go out of their way to accommodate families
Koshary and taameya (Egyptian falafel) are inexpensive, mild, filling dishes that most children take to easily
Fresh fruit juice stands along the Corniche are a hit with kids and a refreshing break between sights
Seafood restaurants near the harbor let you choose fish by weight before it's grilled, which can be a fun, interactive meal for curious children
Ice cream and Egyptian sweets (basbousa, kunafa) are widely available and a reliable treat to keep younger children motivated during a day of sightseeing
Reserve visits to enclosed sites like the Catacombs for a time when children are well-rested, since the dim, tight spaces can be overwhelming late in the day
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Strollers can struggle on uneven Downtown sidewalks and around some archaeological sites; a baby carrier is often more practical
Summer heat and humidity (June-August) are intense; plan indoor or shaded activities like the Bibliotheca Alexandrina or the zoo around midday and save the Corniche and beaches for morning or late afternoon
Public restrooms at some archaeological sites are basic; carry tissues, hand sanitizer, and bottled water
Traffic and informal crosswalks require close supervision of children near the Corniche road and Downtown streets
Pharmacies (saydaliya) are widespread and well-stocked for common children's medications, but pack essentials like fever reducers and rehydration salts for travel days
Ride-hailing apps (Uber, Careem) are a practical, safer alternative to street taxis for families moving between sites with children and gear