Citadel of Qaitbay, Alexandria: The Fort …

Overview

A 15th-century Mamluk fortress on the tip of Alexandria's eastern harbour, standing where the Pharos Lighthouse once did.

Why Visit Citadel of Qaitbay

It is the only place in Alexandria where you stand on the footprint of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, with open Mediterranean views from the ramparts.

History of Citadel of Qaitbay

The Pharos Lighthouse guided ships into Alexandria from the 3rd century BC until a series of earthquakes destroyed it. Sultan Qaitbay built the present fortress in 1477 on the cleared site, incorporating stone from the collapsed lighthouse into its structure.

Best Time to Visit Citadel of Qaitbay

October to April for comfortable coastal weather. Late afternoon gives the best light over the harbour.

How to Get to Citadel of Qaitbay

At the end of the eastern harbour causeway in central Alexandria, a short taxi ride from the Corniche and included in most Alexandria day tours from Cairo.

Nearby Attractions

Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Egypt's modern library on the Alexandria seafront, built to echo the lost Library of Alexandria.

Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa

Roman-era tombs cut deep under Alexandria, where Egyptian, Greek and Roman art meet in one place.

Tours That Include Citadel of Qaitbay

Wadi El Natrun Tour from Alexandria

Experience a spiritual and historical journey on this Wadi El Natrun Tour from Alexandria. Travel across the tranquil Western Desert to one of Egypt’s most sacred Christian sites, where monastic life first began. Explore ancient monasteries dating back to the 4th century, each preserving centuries of devotion, faith, and architectural beauty. This guided excursion offers a deep insight into the origins of Christian monasticism and the enduring legacy of Egypt’s early monks.

Alexandria Day Tour

Embark on a captivating journey through Alexandria, the Pearl of the Mediterranean, on this private day tour. Discover the city’s fascinating blend of ancient heritage and coastal beauty as you explore its most iconic landmarks. Visit the mysterious Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, the towering Pompey’s Pillar, the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, and the historic Citadel of Qaitbay, built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the lush Montaza Palace Gardens overlooking the sea, and take in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. This tour offers a perfect mix

El Alamein Day Tour from Alexandria

Experience a remarkable day trip from Alexandria to El Alamein, one of the most historically significant sites in Egypt. This journey takes you to the location of the decisive World War II battles that changed the course of history in North Africa. Situated about 106 kilometers west of Alexandria along the Mediterranean coast, El Alamein witnessed fierce confrontations in 1942 between the Allied forces under Marshal Montgomery and the Axis troops led by General Erwin Rommel, famously known as the “Desert Fox.” During this tour, you will explore the El Alamein Military Museum, which houses auth

Grand Egyptian Museum Tour from Alexandria

Experience an extraordinary day journey from Alexandria to Cairo to visit the Grand Egyptian Museum, the world’s largest museum dedicated to ancient Egyptian civilization. This exclusive excursion takes you from the Mediterranean coast to the heart of Egypt’s history, where you will explore the museum’s vast halls filled with priceless antiquities, including the complete collection of King Tutankhamun’s treasures. Wander through the Grand Hall, admire the colossal statue of Ramses II, and discover the museum’s modern galleries showcasing artifacts that span thousands of years of Egyptian herit

Luxor Egypt Solar Eclipse Tour

Eight days centred on Luxor for the 2 August 2027 totality, with Karnak, the Valley of the Kings and a Nile cruise south to Aswan.

07 Days Egypt Solar Eclipse Tour

Seven days taking in Giza, the Nile and the temple corridor between Luxor and Aswan, with the 2 August 2027 totality viewed at Luxor.

Plan Your Visit to Citadel of Qaitbay

Want to include Citadel of Qaitbay in your Egypt itinerary? Browse our tours or ask for a custom plan.

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Internal linking hooks

Alexandria & North Coast Attractions Explore Alexandria & North Coast Attractions
Bibliotheca Alexandrina Shared taxonomy
Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa Shared taxonomy
Aswan Tourism relevance match
Cairo Tourism relevance match
Egypt Tourism relevance match
Can this itinerary be customized around our arrival and departure dates? Tourism relevance match
Is a Nile cruise worth it on a first Egypt trip? Tourism relevance match