Alexandria Hotels: Where to Stay in Alexandria, Egypt

Alexandria’s accommodation divides into two distinct zones: the Downtown area around Raml Station, which gives walking access to the city’s main cultural sites and the historic Corniche; and the eastern suburbs around Stanley and San Stefano, which offer beach access but require transport to reach the heritage sites. The right choice depends on why you are visiting.

Downtown and Raml Station Area

Steigenberger Cecil Hotel (formerly the Cecil) is the most atmospherically significant option in Alexandria. Built in 1930 on the Corniche at Raml Station, it was a meeting point for British officials, writers, and intelligence operatives during the Second World War. Somerset Maugham, Lawrence Durrell, and Winston Churchill all stayed here. The building retains its original character; the rooms are dated relative to modern standards but the history is genuine. Rates run EGP 2,000–4,500 per night ($40–90).

Holiday Inn Alexandria — Corniche provides reliable mid-range accommodation with Corniche views. Rates EGP 2,500–5,000 per night ($50–100). Less character than the Cecil but more consistent in the basics.

Budget options cluster around Raml Station and the Eastern Harbour area: EGP 500–1,200 per night ($10–24). Quality varies — read recent reviews carefully.

Eastern Suburbs: Stanley and San Stefano

Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano is the premium option in the city. Beach access, a pool, marina views, and full Four Seasons service. Rates range EGP 8,000–20,000 per night ($160–400). The location is primarily useful for those prioritising the beach and luxury over proximity to the cultural sites.

A cluster of 3–4 star hotels in the Rushdi and Stanley areas offers mid-range options at EGP 1,500–4,000 per night ($30–80). Closer to the beach than Downtown; further from everything else.

Day Visitors vs. Overnight Stays

Alexandria functions as a day trip from Cairo — the train takes approximately 2–2.5 hours each way. A day visit delivers the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the Corniche, and Qaitbay Citadel. An overnight stay adds time for a seafood dinner at the Eastern Harbour fish restaurants, an evening walk on the Corniche, and a relaxed morning at whichever sites remain. Two nights is enough for a thorough visit.

Summer Booking

July and August are Alexandria’s busiest period. Egyptian families from Cairo arrive in large numbers to escape the summer heat, and the city’s hotels fill significantly. Prices rise 30–50% above the rest of the year. Book well in advance for any summer visit, particularly on weekends.

Getting Around Alexandria

The historic tram network covers the Corniche from Downtown to the eastern suburbs — slow but functional and inexpensive. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are the practical option for moving between zones quickly.

For more on Alexandria, see our Alexandria city guide.