Souq El Attarine sits in the Attarine district of central Alexandria, Egypt, a warren of narrow lanes that has served as the city's antiques and spice trading quarter for generations. The market's name, meaning 'perfumers' market,' reflects its origins as a hub for spice and herb sellers, though today the stalls are dominated by antique furniture, brassware, chandeliers, old clocks, vintage jewelry, and salvaged architectural fittings pulled from Alexandria's grand old apartments and villas. Genuine antique dealers with decades-old shopfronts sit alongside newer stalls selling reproduction pieces and tourist-oriented trinkets, so buyers need a discerning eye to separate period furniture and real curiosities from artificially aged copies. Bargaining is the norm and expected at nearly every stall; asking prices are typically inflated by 30-50% for anything aimed at visitors, and vendors respond well to a calm, friendly back-and-forth rather than an aggressive opening offer. Cash in Egyptian pounds is the standard payment method, and few if any stalls accept cards, so visitors should carry small denominations for easier negotiation. There is no formal tax-refund scheme available at the souq itself. The atmosphere is dense and unhurried, with narrow covered alleys, stacked furniture spilling onto the walkways, and the occasional tea vendor offering a place to sit and haggle over a glass of sweet black tea. Food options within the souq itself are limited to street snacks and juice carts rather than sit-down restaurants, though the surrounding Attarine and Mansheya streets have inexpensive local eateries nearby. The market's layout radiates from El Attarin Street, with the furniture and large antiques concentrated closer to the main street and smaller curiosities, glassware, and brassware tucked into the side alleys further in; the must-visit corners are the cluster of chandelier and lighting dealers and the small side lanes lined with vintage clocks and mirrors. Visiting in the morning avoids both the midday heat and the thinner Sunday trading hours, when many shops stay shut.
| Hours | Daily approx. 9AM-8PM (many shops closed Sunday) |
|---|---|
| Price | EGP 20-5,000+ depending on item (approx $0.40-96+) |
| Address | El Attarin St, El Attarin, Alexandria, Egypt |
Location
El Attarin St, El Attarin, Alexandria, Egypt
31.1958, 29.8951 View on map
Highlights
- Dense cluster of antique furniture and chandelier dealers
- Vintage brassware, clocks, and salvaged architectural fittings
- Narrow covered alleys typical of old Alexandria trading quarters
- Active bargaining culture at nearly every stall
- Nearby side lanes specializing in mirrors and glassware
Tips for visiting
- Arrive in the morning for cooler temperatures and fuller stalls
- Many shops close on Sundays, so plan visits Monday through Saturday
- Bring cash in Egyptian pounds since cards are rarely accepted
- Expect to negotiate on nearly everything except small everyday items
- Examine joinery and wear patterns closely to spot new reproductions passed off as antiques
- Set a target price before bargaining and be willing to walk away
Frequently asked questions
Is Souq El Attarine good for finding genuine antiques?
Yes, but buyers should shop carefully since the market mixes real period pieces with newer reproductions, and comparing several stalls helps establish a fair price.
Can prices be paid by card at Souq El Attarine?
Most vendors deal only in cash, so visitors should bring Egyptian pounds in small denominations.
Is bargaining expected at the souq?
Yes, negotiating is standard practice, and initial asking prices are usually set well above what a vendor will ultimately accept.
What is the best day to visit Souq El Attarine?
Weekday mornings tend to offer the fullest selection, since many stalls close or operate reduced hours on Sundays.