The best places to shop during cruises to Alexandria, Egypt, are traditional souks — labyrinthine bazaars where artisans, spice traders, jewelers and more display and sell their wares. Alexandria's souk district is located at the westernmost point of Midan Tahrir. This area is always bustling. Its cafes, bakeries and stalls buzz with energy around the clock, especially at night. You'll find everything here including beautifully woven cloth, bangles, souvenirs and sundries. Shopping in Alexandria, Egypt, is an exciting journey through a city where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern trends. Whether you're hunting for unique souvenirs, high-quality textiles, or luxury goods, Alexandria offers a diverse shopping experience. Here’s a guide to the best shopping spots and what to look for in this vibrant Mediterranean city:

Traditional Markets (Souqs) For an authentic taste of local culture, explore the bustling traditional markets, known as souqs: Souq District: Located in the heart of the city, the Souq District is a maze of narrow streets lined with stalls and small shops. Here, you can find everything from fresh produce and spices to traditional crafts and clothing. Haggling is part of the experience, so be prepared to negotiate for the best prices. Souq El-Attarine: Known for its rich history, this market specializes in antiques and traditional items. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs, such as handcrafted jewelry, brassware, and textiles. The market’s atmosphere, filled with the scent of spices and the sounds of vendors, is a sensory delight.

Modern Shopping Centers For a more contemporary shopping experience, Alexandria boasts several modern malls and shopping centers: City Centre Alexandria: One of the largest malls in the city, City Centre Alexandria offers a wide range of international and local brands, a hypermarket, and various dining options. It’s an ideal spot for a day of shopping and entertainment. San Stefano Grand Plaza: Located along the Corniche, this upscale mall features luxury brands, boutique stores, and a cinema. Its location and stylish architecture make it a popular destination for both shopping and leisure.

Specialty Shops Alexandria is home to many specialty shops where you can find high-quality local products: El-Khayameya: Visit this shop for exquisite textiles and traditional Egyptian tent-making crafts. You’ll find beautifully embroidered fabrics and unique home decor items. Attareen Bazaar: This area is known for its antique shops and art galleries. It’s the perfect place to hunt for vintage items, artwork, and one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Bookstores As a city with a storied intellectual history, Alexandria has several notable bookstores: Diwan Bookstore: A popular chain in Egypt, Diwan offers a wide selection of books in multiple languages, as well as stationery and gift items. It’s a great place to find books on Egyptian history, culture, and literature. Shorouk Bookstore: Another prominent bookstore, Shorouk provides a range of books, including bestsellers, academic texts, and children’s books. The knowledgeable staff can help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

Artisan and Craft Shops Support local artisans by visiting shops that sell handmade crafts and traditional products: Glassblowing Studios: Alexandria has a number of workshops where skilled artisans create beautiful glass pieces. These make for unique and elegant souvenirs. Carpet Weavers: Purchase handwoven carpets and rugs that showcase intricate designs and superior craftsmanship. These pieces are not only beautiful but also durable and practical.

Practical Tips Currency: The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). It’s advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller markets where credit cards may not be accepted. Bargaining: Haggling is common in traditional markets, so feel free to negotiate prices. However, in modern malls and branded stores, prices are usually fixed. Timing: The best time to shop in traditional markets is in the morning or late afternoon when it’s less crowded. Malls and shopping centers typically open later and stay open until late in the evening. Shopping in Alexandria provides a rich and varied experience, from the vibrant energy of the souqs to the sleek ambiance of modern malls. Whether you’re looking for traditional crafts, luxury goods, or everyday items, the city’s diverse shopping scene has something to offer every visitor.