Alexandria: The Healing Holiday You’ve Been Waiting For

 Imagine waking up to the gentle hum of waves, the salty breeze brushing your cheeks, and sunlight spilling over the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. You open your eyes and feel… lighter. Calmer. Like the world has paused just for you.

Welcome to Alexandria—a city that doesn’t just invite exploration, it invites healing.

With its sun-drenched shores, fragrant gardens, bustling markets, and centuries of history whispering through every stone, Alexandria is more than a destination. It’s a sanctuary. A place where the body, mind, and soul can relax, reconnect, and rejuvenate.

This is your guide to experiencing Alexandria as a healing holiday, a five-day journey to rest, wonder, and immerse yourself in beauty.

Day 1: Arrival and the Magic of the Sea

The moment you step off the plane, the Mediterranean greets you. Check into a hotel along the Corniche, where your balcony opens to endless water. The first act of a healing holiday is simply being present. Open the window, breathe deeply, and feel the tension of travel melt with the waves.

Take a slow walk along the Corniche. The rhythm of the sea mirrors a heartbeat, steady and comforting. Fishermen haul in their catch, seagulls dive gracefully, and locals laugh quietly by the promenade. Stop for a simple lunch—grilled sea bass with a squeeze of lemon. Eating slowly, savoring the flavors, is your first mindful lesson.

As the afternoon stretches, allow yourself to rest. Lounge on the balcony, journal your thoughts, or dip your toes into the sea. By evening, head to Stanley Bridge to watch your first Alexandrian sunset. The sky transforms into pink, gold, and violet hues, reflecting off the water. Let it remind you to release whatever no longer serves you.

Day 2: History, Mindfulness, and Perspective

Begin with a sunrise yoga session by the sea. Feel the sand under your feet, the wind on your face, and the waves syncing with your breath.

Next, visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern marvel celebrating knowledge and curiosity. Walk among the towering shelves, linger on exhibits, and let the quiet energy recalibrate your mind.

Lunch at a nearby café is simple yet divine—a Mediterranean salad with mint tea, eaten slowly, enjoying every aroma and texture.

In the afternoon, explore the Citadel of Qaitbay, standing proudly where the legendary Lighthouse once guided sailors. Look out at the horizon and notice how the vast sea puts life’s worries in perspective.

For dinner, choose a seafood restaurant by the harbor. Freshly caught fish, gentle music, and the sound of the waves make nourishment feel like therapy.

Day 3: Gardens, Hidden Corners, and Gentle Wandering

Spend the morning at Montazah Palace Gardens. The air is fragrant with jasmine, roses, and citrus, and the sunlight filters through the leaves. Wander slowly. Sit on a bench. Close your eyes and breathe deeply. Here, even silence feels alive.

Lunch is a light picnic from a local deli: bread, olives, cheeses, and fresh fruit. Eat slowly, savoring each bite.

In the afternoon, explore Kom El-Dikka, an archaeological gem filled with Roman mosaics and ancient theaters. Walking among these remnants of history reminds you how resilience, creativity, and time shape life—lessons for your own journey.

Return to the Corniche at sunset for reflection. Bring a journal or just sit quietly, watching the sun dip below the water.

Day 4: Culinary Healing and Sensory Immersion

Start your morning with a peaceful walk along Maamoura Beach. Notice the sunlight sparkling on the waves, the sand beneath your feet, and the faint salty scent in the air. Each sensory detail grounds you in the present.

Join a cooking class or food tour for lunch. Learn to prepare local dishes like grilled calamari, molokhia, or basbousa. Cooking becomes mindfulness in motion—the chopping, stirring, and tasting engage your senses and bring joy.

In the afternoon, indulge in a traditional hammam or spa. Steam, massage, and exfoliation release physical tension and emotional fatigue.

Dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the sea combines flavors, music, and lights in perfect harmony, leaving you deeply relaxed and content.

Day 5: Reflection and Farewell

Begin your final day with sunrise meditation by the water. Reflect on your journey, the peace you’ve found, and the insights you want to carry home.

Take a leisurely walk through Alexandria’s markets. Engage with artisans, savor street snacks, and immerse yourself in colors, textures, and aromas. Simple pleasures here become a form of therapy.

For your final meal, choose a café overlooking the sea. Eat slowly, drink in the view, and let the city’s energy imprint itself on your soul. Before leaving, sit quietly along the Corniche one last time, feeling the rhythm of the waves and the city’s gentle pulse.

As you depart, carry Alexandria with you—a place where calm, beauty, and healing are never far away.

Why Alexandria Heals

Alexandria works on multiple levels:

• The Sea: Its waves and breeze calm the mind and body.

• History and Culture: Ancient sites remind us of resilience and perspective.

• Gardens and Nature: Flowers, sun, and greenery restore balance.

• Food: Fresh, local, and mindful eating nourishes deeply.

• Human Connection: Warm, welcoming locals remind you of kindness and joy.

A healing holiday in Alexandria isn’t about rushing or sightseeing—it’s about presence, sensory immersion, and mindful connection.

Practical Tips for a Healing Stay

1. Stay Near the Sea: Water views enhance relaxation.

2. Wake Early: Sunrises set the tone for calm days.

3. Engage Your Senses: Taste, touch, smell, hear, see consciously.

4. Walk Slowly: Let every step be intentional.

5. Journal: Reflect on your thoughts and experiences daily.

6. Unplug: Limit phone use to immerse fully in the city.

7. Try Local Experiences: Cooking, hammams, and markets are therapeutic.

Alexandria is more than a city—it’s a healing sanctuary. Waves, gardens, sunsets, and centuries-old streets teach that restoration is holistic. Here, you rest your body, quiet your mind, and feed your soul. A holiday in Alexandria leaves you lighter, calmer, and more connected—to yourself and the world around you. 

Princess Aziza Fahmy's Palace Alexandria Governorate

 Discover Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace in San Stefano, Alexandria – history, architecture, location, and why this hidden gem matters.

Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace in San Stefano, El Raml 1, Alexandria Governorate is one of Egypt’s most fascinating yet lesser-known architectural treasures. Built in the early 20th century, this grand palace blends European design influences with Egyptian aristocratic heritage. While many visitors to Alexandria rush to Montaza Palace or the Library of Alexandria, few realize that tucked near San Stefano stands a palace with equally rich stories of royalty, art, and history.

What Is Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace?

Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace is a historic royal residence in San Stefano, Alexandria, built in the early 20th century for Princess Aziza Fahmy, a member of Egypt’s royal family. It showcases European architectural styles and today stands as a cultural landmark in the Alexandria Governorate.

The palace represents the elegance of Alexandria’s aristocratic past and serves as a living reminder of Egypt’s royal connections to Europe.

Where Is Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace Located?

The palace is located in San Stefano, El Raml 1, Alexandria Governorate, Egypt, just steps away from the famous San Stefano Grand Plaza Mall and overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

• Exact location: San Stefano district, eastern Alexandria.

• Nearby landmarks: San Stefano Grand Plaza, Stanley Bridge, Montaza Palace, and the Royal Jewelry Museum.
  

• Accessibility: Easily reached by car, taxi, or Alexandria’s tram network.

History of Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace

Who Was Princess Aziza Fahmy?

Princess Aziza Fahmy (1886–1962) was a prominent figure in Egypt’s aristocracy, belonging to the influential Fahmy family that maintained close ties with the ruling dynasty. Her life reflected the blend of Egyptian traditions with European influences that characterized Alexandria during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

When Was the Palace Built?

The palace was constructed in the early 20th century (circa 1920s), during a time when Alexandria was a cosmopolitan hub attracting royalty, merchants, and European architects.

The Fahmy family commissioned the palace as both a residence and a cultural statement, showcasing their prestige in Alexandria society.

Architectural Style of the Palace

Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace features a neo-classical European design, with ornate facades, marble staircases, and lush gardens, reflecting Alexandria’s cosmopolitan character.

Key Architectural Features

• European influences: Italian marble, French windows, ornate ironwork.
  
  

• Egyptian touches: High ceilings for ventilation, local stonework.
  
  

• Layout: Spacious halls, multiple salons, and balconies overlooking the Mediterranean.
  

  How Does It Compare to Other Palaces in Alexandria?

  Unlike the more famous Montaza Palace, which has Ottoman influences, or the Royal Jewelry Museum’s palace with its baroque flair, Aziza Fahmy’s Palace is a subtle blend of European luxury and Alexandrian seaside charm.

Why Is Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace Important?

The palace is important for its historical, cultural, and architectural value, representing Alexandria’s aristocratic past and the city’s role as a Mediterranean cultural crossroads.

Cultural Significance

• A symbol of Egypt’s royal past.
  

• Reflection of Alexandria’s cosmopolitan society.
  

• Connection to the city’s modern cultural identity.

Historical Value

The palace tells the story of Egypt’s early 20th-century elite, their lifestyles, and their architectural choices in an era of transformation.

Visiting Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace

Is the Palace Open to the Public?

Currently, public access is limited. Some sections are occasionally used for cultural or governmental purposes. Unlike Montaza or Ras El Tin Palace, Aziza Fahmy’s Palace is not always open for daily tours.

Tips for Visitors

• Check with Alexandria Governorate’s cultural authorities before planning a visit.
  

• Nearby Alexandria attractions like San Stefano Grand Plaza, Stanley Bridge, and Montaza are always open.
  

• The palace’s exterior can still be admired from the outside and makes for stunning photography.
  

  How to Get to Princess Aziza Fahmy’s Palace

  The palace is in San Stefano, Alexandria, about a 20-minute drive from downtown Alexandria and easily accessible by car, Uber, or the city’s historic tram system.

  Transport Options

  • By Car/Taxi: Convenient, especially from Alexandria Corniche.

  • By Tram: El Raml line towards San Stefano.
    

  • By Train: From Cairo, then taxi or tram within Alexandria.

  • By upper or kareem private trip .

Nearby Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss

If you’re visiting the palace, here are must-see nearby landmarks:

• San Stefano Grand Plaza Mall – luxury shopping and dining.
  

• Royal Jewelry Museum – another royal residence turned museum.
  

• Stanley Bridge – iconic modern bridge over the Mediterranean.
  

• Montaza Palace Gardens – expansive royal gardens and seaside views.
  

Local Guide: Best Things to Do Around San Stefano

• Stroll the Corniche for sunset views.
  

• Dine in seafood restaurants nearby.
  

• Explore Alexandria’s royal heritage at Montaza and Ras El Tin Palaces.
  

• Visit cultural sites like Bibliotheca Alexandrina.
  

Preservation and Future of the Palace

While the palace remains a landmark, ongoing conservation efforts are needed to preserve its structure and legacy for future generations.

The Alexandria Governorate and heritage organizations are working on plans to maintain the palace, though it has not yet received the same restoration attention as Montaza Palace.

Qaitbay Promenade: Where Alexandria's History Meets the Sea

Discover the new Qaitbay Promenade in Alexandria, Egypt – the longest sea walkway in the country, combining historical charm, coastal beauty, and tourism development around the iconic Qaitbay Citadel.

A Modern Icon Built on Ancient Foundations

In the vibrant city of Alexandria, Egypt's storied Mediterranean capital, history and innovation come together in stunning fashion with the unveiling of the Qaitbay Promenade. Stretching 550 meters into the sea, this newly constructed sea walkway is the longest of its kind in Egypt, and it surrounds one of the city’s most iconic monuments – the Qaitbay Citadel. Designed as a model of sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and urban regeneration, the project has transformed Alexandria's eastern waterfront into a thriving destination for locals and international travelers alike.

 

What is the Qaitbay Promenade?

The Qaitbay Promenade is a coastal development project built as part of a comprehensive plan to protect and enhance the area surrounding the historic Qaitbay Citadel. With its 550-meter-long walkway extending into the Mediterranean, it allows visitors to walk directly over the sea, offering panoramic views of the citadel, the harbor, and the endless horizon.

Whether you're walking at sunset, enjoying the cool breeze, or photographing the iconic views, this promenade delivers a one-of-a-kind experience in Egypt's most culturally rich city.

Qaitbay Citadel: A Fortress of History

The Qaitbay Citadel, built in 1477 AD by Sultan Al-Ashraf Qaitbay, is not just a monument — it is a symbol of Egyptian maritime strength. Located at the site of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the citadel served as a vital military fortress during the Mamluk era.

Today, it remains a major historical and cultural landmark in Alexandria, attracting thousands of tourists and historians interested in the city’s layered past.

Strategic Purpose: Protecting Heritage and Enhancing Tourism

The Qaitbay Promenade was developed as a dual-purpose project:

• To protect the citadel and surrounding coastline from the dangers of rising sea levels and seasonal storms.

• To transform the area into a world-class tourism destination that meets modern travel expectations.

The project was executed with advanced concrete technologies designed to resist marine erosion, while maintaining the natural flow of sea currents to protect the beach and surrounding marine environment.

What Can Visitors Expect? The promenade offers a complete experience for visitors: Resting areas and shaded seating spots for relaxation Elegant decorative lighting for evening strolls A 30-meter stone jetty and 100-meter viewing dock for photography and sightseeing Enhanced accessibility for families, seniors, and tourists Opportunities for cultural activities, walking tours, and water sports At night, the promenade transforms into a glowing path over the sea, creating a magical atmosphere for romantic walks, cultural performances, and coastal celebrations.

Revitalizing East Alexandria: A New Cultural Hub

The Qaitbay Promenade is more than an architectural upgrade – it is part of a larger vision to redevelop Alexandria's historical waterfronts. It acts as a catalyst to turn East Alexandria into a vibrant cultural hub, with:

• Tourist-friendly infrastructure

• Cultural festivals and events

• Access to heritage sites and museums

• Opportunities for diving, swimming, and eco-tourism

A Model for Heritage Preservation This project reflects Egypt’s strategy of blending cultural preservation with tourism growth. Instead of separating the past from the present, the Qaitbay development celebrates Alexandria’s history by placing it at the heart of its future. The promenade has been hailed as a model for waterfront heritage protection. It ensures the structural stability of the Qaitbay Citadel while promoting safe, sustainable tourism.

Why the Qaitbay Promenade Matters

In a time when many historical sites face threats from climate change, over-tourism, and neglect, the Qaitbay Promenade stands out as a shining example of what is possible when vision, engineering, and respect for history come together.

It allows visitors to do more than see a monument — it lets them immerse themselves in the story of Alexandria. Walking along the sea, with the fortress on one side and the endless blue horizon on the other, is a powerful reminder of Egypt's legacy and its modern aspirations.

A Must-Visit in Modern Alexandria

Whether you’re a history lover, architecture enthusiast, or simply someone looking to enjoy Alexandria’s beauty, the Qaitbay Promenade offers a new way to experience the city. Combining breathtaking views, cultural depth, and urban innovation, it is destined to become a signature highlight on Egypt’s tourism map.

Plan your visit. Discover Qaitbay. Walk through centuries of history — above the waves.

Sidi Bishr Mosque – A Spiritual Landmark by the Sea Alexandria

Bishr Ibn Al-Hussein Abdallah Ibn Al-Hussein Ibn Bishr Al-Gohari, descended from the line of the Bishrs who had a special standing as preachers. 

He came to Alexandria at the end of the fifth or the beginning of the sixth century according to the Islamic Calendar (twelfth century CE), along with the ulama who came from the Maghreb and Andalusia during that period.

Sidi Bishr Al-Gohari was a hermit devoted to worship and prayer. He gave up the material world and lived in a distant, lonely spot. When he died in 528 H / 1133 CE, a shrine was set up for him there, and as the city expanded eastwards, a new mosque was built for him at the end of the nineteenth century. 

Sidi Bishr Mosque Architecture 

The mosque contains a rectangular courtyard surrounded by porticoes. The mosque also has an iwan containing three porticoes made of octagonal columns bearing pointed arches. 

The iwan is divided into four corridors parallel to the wall of the qibla. On the western side of the iwan is a shrine containing a square-shaped room surmounted by a dome. 

The dome is considered the oldest part of the mosque, as it dates back to the 19th century CE.[6][7] The mosque has been renovated several times, most notably during the reign of the Khedive Abbas II of Egypt and in 1945, when its size quadrupled

The mosque was renovated during the reign of Khedive Abbas II and a railway line was laid to the mosque, so that the khedive could pray there when he was in Alexandria. The mosque was renovated once more in 1945 CE so that it became four times its original size.

In 1945, the mosque was expanded and added to it, making its area four times what it was. In 1947, a spacious square and a garden were built in front of the mosque, adjacent to the sea shore, so that the Sidi Bishr neighborhood became one of the most famous neighborhoods in Alexandria. In June 2000, during the reign of the Governor, Major General / Mohamed Abdel Salam Mahjoub, the facades of the Sidi Bishr Mosque were renewed and the square facing it .