Trying to decide between Alexandria or Hurghada for a trip to Egypt? These places are very different, so picking between them should not be too tough.Hurghada has been a popular beach getaway on the Red Sea for a long time.
Its 12 miles of coastline attract sun and salt lovers. Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great. It has an exciting modern feel, but remnants of its glorious past are still visible.
This guide compares seven key things about each place to help you choose what’s right for your trip. We’ll look at which spot offers the best relaxation and beaches.
We’ll see which one is easier to reach. And, since Egyptian history matters for any trip there, we’ll check out which destination has the most fascinating historical sites.
The information below should help make clear which place better fits what you and your travel group want this season.
Alexandria or Hurghada: Getting There
Alexandria’s airport opened in 2011. Now it is the main entry point to the city for international travelers. Flights come from the Middle East, like Dubai, and some European cities like Paris and Milan. You can also travel from Cairo by train in a little over two hours. There are no direct boat connections anymore.
Hurghada Airport is a lot bigger than Alexandria’s since the Red Sea coast has developed so much for international tourism. Many low-cost and charter flights go into Hurghada each season from May to September. Brands like Air Astana and FlyEgypt land on the runways. Flying from Cairo takes about seven hours. So flying is the better option.
Alexandria or Hurghada: For Things to do
In Alexandria, sightseeing is mostly about finding the old glory of this ancient city by the Mediterranean. A good starting point is the legendary Great Library, built to honor the ancient Library of Alexandria that burned down almost 2000 years before. You’ll also want to walk along the windy shorefront path to see 1950s buildings there and explore underground tombs that show Alexandria’s Roman past.
Hurghada has really become Egypt’s best beach resort, with many shoreline hotels and beaches with umbrellas. It’s also known for diving. Some of the world’s best diving happens on reefs along Hurghada’s coast, even if pollution has hurt coral near the shore. Hurghada is also a top launch point for multi-day trips to amazing Nile sites like Luxor if you want an adventure.
Alexandria or Hurghada: For Culture and History
Alexandria has much more history than Hurghada. Hurghada only dates back about 100 years – not long for Egypt! The only real historical sights in Hurghada are a four-hour trip along the Nile. You can also see the “old town” at El Dahar Square, but it’s just a regular Egyptian market.
Alexandria is different. It was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC and was once a center of culture and learning in the ancient Mediterranean world. Sadly most of that old history is now gone. Only glimpses remain at sites like the restored library and Citadel of Qaitbay, where the Pharos lighthouse (a wonder of the ancient world) once stood. Traces of Roman theaters and 1950s palaces along the shorefront path also show Alexandria’s long history.
The Best Outdoor Adventures?
Alexandria has over 5 million people and covers a huge 1,000 square miles by the Nile Delta. So experiencing Egypt’s wild areas takes effort. The delta is very developed. The amazing Siwa Oasis is in the desert but over 7 hours west. Your best natural bet is the sparkling Mediterranean beaches, some even within the city.
Hurghada is a far better gateway to Egypt’s rugged areas. You can easily reach the shifting Egyptian desert sands – many choose quad bikes for adrenaline. The historical Valley of the Kings is also near huge sandy ridges. But the main natural lure is the Red Sea, with its colorful 10,000 hued coral reefs and remote snorkeling islands like Magawish and Giftun.
The Best Beaches?
Both Alexandria and Hurghada offer beaches, but Alexandria’s urban beaches string along the metropolis shore by the Alexandria Corniche waterfront path. Abu Qir Beach to the east on the peninsula, Cleopatra Beach nearer the center, quieter Elbeytash Beach to the west, and Zomoroda rank among the top picks.
Hurghada overflows with beach options – they first established it on the tourist map. The town names many beaches after the resorts situated behind them. So hotels may charge entry fees of $3-$20 to use “their” sands.
Prime selections include protected Old Vic lagoon beach with its calm water that swimmers enjoy and sunbed-dotted Merritt Beach, which cleanliness earns it acclaim as one of Hurghada’s finest.
The Best for Accommodation?
Alexandria and Hurghada offer very different lodging. Hurghada has overwhelming hotel choices along its 20km coastline. Big, flashy hotels with pools and restaurants dominate.
Hurghada’s Top Options Include:
Bellagio’s grand suites and pools epitomize a Hurghada resort.
Elite Suites earns high ratings for roomy suites.
Grand Palace provides five-star pampering exclusively for adults.
Alexandria’s large city setting provides apartments, affordable bed and breakfasts, and upscale hotels, with many top accommodations located along the lively Mediterranean Corniche.
Alexandria’s Prime Choices Consist Of:
Sunrise Alex Avenue much-loved rooms overlooking the sea.
Hilton Alexandria infinity-pool gazing at the bustling boulevard.
Downtown Sea View Suite’s stylish, modern suites near key city sights.
The Best for Nightlife?
Egypt lacks all-night partying. Strict traditions mean many avoid alcohol, limiting nightlife to hotel bars. In Alexandria, spots around the Corniche and downtown offer some options like La Cueva’s sport-playing expat bar and NEO’s pricey DJ dance club.
Since Hurghada targets European tourists, it has more nightlife. The Marina area works best, hosting Hard Rock Cafe and smaller bars like Papas and Little Buddha with cocktails, beers, and music into the night. But parties still end earlier than elsewhere in the Mediterranean region.
Conclusion:
These destinations differ a lot. Hurghada fits if you seek beaches and sea for a classic relaxation trip filled with sun, diving adventures, and poolside lounging. Alexandria suits city lovers and history fans. There, you can walk where Alexander the Great once did, shop Arab markets, and see cultural icons like the amazing library in that widespread metropolis.
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