We spent two days in Alexandria on a trip to Egypt and I am very glad we did, lots to see and do and we enjoyed our time. I really wanted to visit the site of the old lighthouse and we totally enjoyed exploring the Citadel of Qaitbay. We had a guide, which I think always helps appreciate and understand historical sites. We learned about how they used some of the old Lighthouse in the construction of the citadel, we learned about how it used to be a home for the King to come and stay, etc... It doesn't take long, I think we were there maybe a total of an hour. If you are in Alexandria, I certainly wouldn't miss seeing this!

This simple but impressive fortress is situated in a great location for views of the Alexandria waterfront and of the Mediterranean Sea. You can enter the fortress and visit the upper level, but be prepared for somewhat step stairways. Stroll around the outer ramparts for great views by staking a stairway to the right of the main fortress entrance.

Quatbay Citadel located in Alexandria and close to Mediterranean Sea. It was built in 14 centuries and many renovations done Time to time. From fort citadel you can view beauty of Mediterranean Sea. Entrance fee is 60EGP

Interesting old fort in a beautiful setting with multiple lovely views. It was a lot of fun to walk around and explore. There were more signs than at most historic attractions we saw in Egypt. We spent between 1-2 hours there, was glad that we didn't have to rush through.

Impressive, historic fort but the setting is the stand out feature. As you walk along the thronging corniche you get to see the citadel from many different angles but it is definitely worth a visit, which we did on our tour with Reflections Travel, to see inside the fort and view Alexandria from a different perspective. Look out for the great mural on the street wall as you're leaving....worth a photo :)

Big queue for tickets as it was a public holiday, also couldn't park nearby so had a 5-6minute walk in the sunshine from where we were dropped off. Our guide had pre paid tickets and we spent about an hour wandering around. Great views of the sea. We took a boat trip too across the Med to the library and back..200egp each..about £5 Lots of market stalls selling shells, jewellery, ornaments etc. Weren't hassled as you past by unlike other parts of Egypt. We didn't buy anything as visited at the end of our holiday and had bought all our souvenirs.

Getting tickets was pretty much hassle-free, and they accept cards. As for the fort itself, we were able to explore the entire fort at a relaxed pace. We were also able to see the surroundings also at a relaxed pace. The main entrance had a hole at the ceiling, and it turns out that's where defenders would pour boiling oil to potential invaders. That must have hurt! The view of the Mediterranean was unrivalled in Alexandria. The fort also had a large Egyptian flag at the top, pretty epic.