Citadel of Qaitbay image

Citadel of Qaitbay

Tourist attraction Fortress

One of the Most Revieweds in Alexandria


Address

As Sayalah Sharq, Al Gomrok, Alexandria Governorate 5321431, Egypt

Website

www.sis.gov.eg

Rating on Google Maps

4.40 (41K reviews)

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Working Hours

  • Sunday: 9 am to 8 pm
  • Monday: 9 am to 8 pm
  • Tuesday: 9 am to 8 pm
  • Wednesday: 9 am to 8 pm
  • Thursday: 9 am to 8 pm
  • Friday: 9 am to 8 pm
  • Saturday: 9 am to 8 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: visit (19) Alexandria (14) history (14) view (13) citadel (12) views (11) Citadel (11) amazing (10) nice (10) fort (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Julio 1 year ago on Google
    I had an amazing tour guide show me around, it took about 45 minutes and it flew by learning all about this place. This fort was built in the 1480s by Sultan Qaitbey, at the site of Alexandria's ancient lighthouse. Remnants of the lighthouse can be seen in the construction of the old fort. One of the seven wonders of the ancient world, the lighthouse was an astonishing 125 meters high, containing some 300 rooms for workers.
    18 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Robin de B. 4 months ago on Google • 1011 reviews
    Build in the 15th century this fort was a nice place to be visiting. Although it looks impressive and clean from the outside there is really not much to see on the inside... It is well-maintained but that says it all. Not artifacts, furniture, cloths, etc to be seen anywhere. Completely empty. If I knew it before, I'd pass it.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Christopher C. 2 years ago on Google
    After so many years, it still feels like a strong fortress. Beautifully constructed with breathtaking views of the sea and the city all around. While I walked through, I imagined what it must've been like for the soldiers living and training there.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Thanos G. 6 months ago on Google • 143 reviews
    An amazing fortress constructed in the Middle Ages. You can choose to have a guide or not (we didn't have any) and you can buy the tickets there. Only cards are acceptable, and the price is 100 Egyptian pounds (£4-£5 GBP) per person. The price is ridiculously cheap as it is really very interesting. Not recommended to people with a wheelchair as the steps are too steep and narrow. A gift shop is also available and don't forget to take some pictures from the rooftop.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rabel S. 6 months ago on Google
    It’s so scenic. If you have money and time, please come and roam. The Mediterranean breeze will heal your psychic wounds. Alexander the great is the founder of this magnificent city of Egypt.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Huda 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful 15th century fort. A must see when in Alexandria. Amazing how well preserved it is, the only parts in ruin are the outer walls. The view from the fort is spectacular. Reading the stories about life at the fort really takes you on a journey of imagination.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Rahul W. 1 year ago on Google
    This was a palace built by the Sultan Qaitbay to act defensively against Persian invaders. It consists of 3 floors containing prisoner walls, kitchens and bathrooms. Well preserved for an evening walk visit. Around the four walls, you’ll be able to see the Mediterranean Sea view.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shiv S. 2 months ago on Google • 402 reviews New
    Very busy site full of school kids. Nice place to visit and spend an hour or so. Great views from the top.

  • 5/5 Tarek E. 3 months ago on Google • 352 reviews New
    More than 1400 years , smell and vibes of history here where you can see how the Egyptian military was defending and training like the movies we saw about that time , it amazing location to see alexanria as well and take amazing photos 📸

  • 5/5 ehtisham a. 5 months ago on Google • 77 reviews
    I wonderful place with large airy rooms to visit and experience the dynasties who lived through times over here. Cool breeze from the sea keeps you fresh and energetic throughout the Citadel. Must visit the basement and the walls top as well. Unfortunately wall chalking in some rooms has ruined this precious building. The management should be keeping strict surveillance for those who destroy the heritage by writing on it!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 ziizii 0. 1 year ago on Google
    We were there before 8 but told us it opens at 9. Better to go early no tourists much and before we went out a lot came. It's really beautiful 🤩
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Hugo Da C. 1 year ago on Google
    Probably the best view from the city. It costs 60 LE to enter. One inside you can walk all floors in the main building. Check the mosque in the ground floor. Clim to the walls outside, skip the legion of people taking selfies, and enjoy the view from the city. You’ll understand why this is the biggest city in the Mediterranean.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 周紫炫Celist C. 1 year ago on Google
    To be honest, this is one of the most breath taking views in Egypt. Hired a photographer to take some candid photos unfortunately they don’t allow cameraman to go in, only can take by phone, so this must take note. Worth visiting!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mandy B. 1 year ago on Google
    At the same location as one of the ancient 7 wonders of the world, the Lighthouse of Alexandria, the Citadel is a very cool piece of history in Egypt! Sitting right on the Mediterranean Sea, it is an impressive piece of architecture with views of Alexandria. Definitely worth a visit if you are in the city!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gouvana I. 8 months ago on Google
    One of the highlights in Alexandria!! The citadel was so beautiful and majestic. So much beauty to see! I would recommend to go in the morning so you’re able to see more of the beautiful views. Also, it’s less crowded. You’ll spend at least 2 hours in this beautiful fort. There are many signage and workers that will point you in the right direction. While there, you can also rent a boat from the locals and they’ll take you on a tour from the water side. It’s so beautiful and I can’t say enough about it. Highly recommend!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Drazen T. 6 months ago on Google
    Another beautiful site in beautiful Alexandria, The Citadel of Qaitbay, from the 15th century. It is also important that it is located near the former Alexandria lighthouse, one of the 7 wonders of the world. Everything is very organized and tidy, you can literally enter every room, enjoy the wind from the Mediterranean on the walls of the citadel.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Brian F. 2 months ago on Google • 204 reviews New
    A huge, very impressive citadel with sweeping views of Alexandria. Restoration efforts continue on this iconic landmark. An aquarium is on site, as well. Various vendors and nearby restaurant and cafe choices available.

  • 5/5 chioma f. 3 months ago on Google • 158 reviews New
    The Citadel of Qaitbay is a mesmerizing blend of history and scenic beauty. Its medieval architecture and panoramic views of the Mediterranean create a captivating experience. Exploring the well-preserved structures offers a profound connection to Egypt's rich past. A must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking a picturesque glimpse into bygone eras. My tour guide, Nancy, is amazing the way she explains and tells the history of this scenic beauty

  • 5/5 Rami R. 5 months ago on Google
    The place is majestic you MUST visit it if you go to Alexandria. The people there are nice as well.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Zyler H. 9 months ago on Google
    Touring the Citadel if Qaitbay was a great experience. The plaques and displays were very informative of the rich history. Amazing to see their building capabilities at that point in history.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sh M. 9 months ago on Google
    One of the great well maintained ancient places in Alexandria, Egypt. Qaitbay Fort speaks of Egypt's diverse and rich history. The Fort is so clean and staff are so nice, Kind, and friendly. The Museum of Marine Species next to the Fort is also a good place to visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Up To D. 2 years ago on Google
    Qaitbay castle is an amazing place where you can smell fresh air and enjoy old civilization. Also you can visit aquarium in the same place . Tickets are priceless just 20 pounds .Really we have fun there
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anna B. 10 months ago on Google
    A beautiful structure with a ton of history! Would definitely recommend bringing an umbrella as the sun is always out and not really any shade outside the Citadel itself. The views from the wall were amazing.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 OMAR 1 year ago on Google
    The citadel is really amazing and it’s unique color different than any other citadels i have seen in Egypt 🇪🇬 There is not much things you can do inside except seeing the view from all around the citadel. Also you can have at the citadel which made to defend the attack and see how and where the soldier position. Just wished if the roof was open to go up. Over all highly recommended.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Antonio M. 3 months ago on Google • 10 reviews New
    Beautiful place, lot of history behind that building. I recommend going with a tour guide so you can have a better experience

  • 5/5 Sameh A. F. 10 months ago on Google
    Very good visit, it was excited for my kids and spent Avery nice time there also can make boat cruise to see the citadel from sea and have pictures from out side reach also to The marine lighthouse , you can also check The Aquarium Museum with only 10 L.E for Egyptian and 25 for foreign and entering ticket for citadel is 60 LE for Egyptian and 30 LE for students Easy location to reach good parking area friendly people are there

  • 5/5 Afnan M. 2 months ago on Google • 8 reviews New
    great place loved it!!! do not go on weekends tho cuz it was so crowded and do not buy anything from these stores outside without negotiate!!!

  • 3/5 Ahmed A. 2 years ago on Google
    It is ok the visit the citadel. Not to much fun but acceptable. Ticket price is 30 EGP, inside you will enjoy lovely view of the sea. It is very nice place for taking good photo shots. The is no instructions inside the citadel about the ancient place or details.

  • 5/5 Dawood M. 2 years ago on Google
    It is a must place to visit in Alexandria. It tell about the way Arabs and romans used to protect this critical enterance to Egypt from Mediterranean sea. It is pretty well maintained and has a great view of the sea. Do have a guide with you to explain about things as there are literally no details about stuff anywhere. Tickets are advised to be bought as a tour package. It will be economical then. Else u can also buy it on door.

  • 4/5 A F. 4 months ago on Google
    Nice place to visit, i suggest you to get a lots of pictures as it has nice view

  • 5/5 Karen G. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful location overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Some tough steps to get to the top but we'll worth it. The view is stunning. Beware of the restrooms. They are a little rough in functionality.

  • 4/5 barhoom s. 2 months ago on Google • 8 reviews New
    The citadel was a nice place to visit. Booking your ticket in advance would be a good option. The waiting line for the ticket was long since they only accept card payments and not cash. The accessible parts consists of a basement, the citadel itself, and the walls. The view of the ocean and the city was amazing and worth the visit.

  • 5/5 James Z. 9 months ago on Google
    One of the most strategically important fortress during the Ottoman rule. This Citadel controlled the maritime traffic to Alexandria for decades. It was built with large coastal artillery canons mounted on rotating tracks, a technology marvel at the time. The keep inside the Citadel contains many historical displays. There are many photos op spots too.

  • 5/5 Tracey H. 6 months ago on Google
    Fantastic, well-preserved fortress. Give yourself at least an hour to look around properly. It's a long walk along the sea front from city centre, but you can jump on the red double-decker bus for (I think it was) EGP20.

  • 5/5 Sama S. 8 months ago on Google
    Least I could say is that this is truly a majestic piece of art The place is huuuge and very pleasing to visit, with outdoor and indoor areas I wouldn’t recommend visiting on a hot summer day since we really had it hard and felt pretty dehydrated after a couple of hours Nevertheless we enjoyed our visit, one Minor drawback was that they only accepted visa payments and no cash so some visitors were struggling to buy their tickets since they didn’t really know

  • 5/5 Hellyeah1079 10 months ago on Google
    The Citadel of Qaitbay in Alexandria is a remarkable fortress that showcases the city's historical significance. Built in the 15th century, this architectural marvel boasts a captivating blend of Islamic and medieval styles. Its sturdy walls, towering towers, and intricate details transport visitors back in time, offering a sense of exploration and wonder. Standing on the site of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, the Citadel of Qaitbay holds a special place in Alexandria's maritime history. From its strategic location, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding area. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable experience, a visit to the Citadel of Qaitbay is a captivating journey through history and architecture that should not be missed.

  • 5/5 Dave H. 10 months ago on Google
    Beautiful fort built on the top of where the Great Lighthouse used to be. Parking wasn’t an issue here and some nice views.

  • 4/5 Rajat C. 1 year ago on Google
    A good piece of history. Strategically located very beautiful fort. Small as compared to other forts of other part of the world. You can have very good view of the City and sea as well. Good place for selfie and photography. Try to go early to avoid crowds.

  • 5/5 Israa O. 11 months ago on Google
    Such a nice place to visit and explore! You can explore all three floors and check out all the rooms. You also have access to the roof and sorrounding walls where you have a view of the open sea and almost the entire coastline of the city. I do not recommend visiting on the weekend it was very crowded and noisy. Outside you can take a boat ride for very cheap and buy some souviners. Overall worth a visit!

  • 4/5 Gun P. 9 months ago on Google
    It is difficult to go there with your own car. Its very crowded. I advice you to pick a taxi or Uber. The streets are full of sellers. So youncan not find a parking lot. The inside of the Castle is good. Its clean. Castle looks amazing. The view is very nice. A historical place has been renovated lately. Overall I liked the place

  • 5/5 Chris et Mia Lill M. 9 months ago on Google
    In good shape for over 1000 years old. This site is very clean and entry is 50 EGP for students (100 EGP for adults). There is a lot to explore and great views from inside. Probably the best attraction in Alexandria.


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Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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