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Montaza Palace

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Montaza Palace (Egypt)

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Montaza Palace is a magnificent building complex in Alexandria, situated on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea at the city's eastern tip. The grounds consist of two main palaces: the Salamlek, built in 1892 by Khedive Abbas II as a hunting lodge, and the more imposing Al-Haramlik, constructed by King Fuad I in 1932. The Al-Haramlik is particularly striking for its blend of Turkish and Florentine architectural styles, featuring a high tower inspired by the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence. The palaces are surrounded by extensive gardens covering about 150 acres, which house a diverse collection of exotic plants, palms, and flowerbeds. While the Salamlek has been converted into a luxury hotel, the Al-Haramlik often serves as a state residence for official receptions. The entire estate, with its private bays and sandy beaches, remains a popular destination for those seeking to experience Egypt's royal history and coastal serenity.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Nov.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C161617182124262726242118
Rain mm4428121110001102140

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Montaza Palace is partially open to the public, with the gardens freely accessible. The palace wings house a museum and a hotel.
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Typical hours
The gardens are open daily from early morning to evening, the museum part has typical museum hours. The hotel operates around the clock.
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Photography
Photography is allowed in the gardens and outdoor areas, with possible restrictions in the museum part. The palace building itself is a popular photo subject.
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Time needed
A walk through the extensive gardens takes about one hour, the museum visit an additional 30 to 60 minutes. Allow two hours in total.
Combine with
Combine the palace with the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the Alexandria waterfront. Qaitbay Citadel is also nearby.
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Getting there
The palace is located in the Montaza district of Alexandria, reachable by taxi or bus. From the city centre, the ride takes about 20 minutes.
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Insider tip
Visit the gardens in the late afternoon for better light and cooler temperatures. A picnic on the grass is popular among locals.

Geography

Coordinates
31.28890, 30.01670

Facts

  • Salamlek was built in 1892 as a lodge
  • Al-Haramlik was completed in 1932
  • The gardens cover about 150 acres
  • Tower design inspired by Palazzo Vecchio
  • Former summer residence of Egypt's kings
  • Located on the Mediterranean coast

Explore nearby

Notable places around

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Sights in the town Montaza Palace (5)

Al-Qiddissin⛪ religious

Al-Qiddissin, known as the Church of the Two Saints, is a historically significant Coptic Christian place of worship in Alexandria.

sidi bishr mosque⛪ religious

The sidi bishr mosque is an established and revered Islamic place of worship located near the Mediterranean coast.

Mandara Beach🎡 recreation

Mandara Beach features a broad sandy coastline along the Mediterranean Sea near the Montaza Palace grounds.

Sheraton🎡 recreation

The Sheraton beach attracts visitors with its soft sandy shores and prime Mediterranean coastal access.

Aida Beach🎡 recreation

Aida Beach is a popular, sun-drenched sandy stretch hugging the Mediterranean coastline in Alexandria.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is Montaza Palace located?
It is located at the eastern end of the Corniche in Alexandria.
Can you visit the palace inside?
The main palace (Al-Haramlik) is often closed, but the gardens are open.
How much is the entry to the Montaza Gardens?
Entry to the park costs about 25 EGP per person.
Is picnicking allowed in the gardens?
Yes, many locals use the extensive lawns for picnics.
Is there a beach there?
Yes, there are several small coves and beaches within the complex.
Montaza Palace: where is it located?
Montaza Palace is located in Egypt.
Montaza Palace: what is there to see?
Highlights include Al-Qiddissin, sidi bishr mosque, Mandara Beach.
Montaza Palace: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Nov.
Montaza Palace: why is it worth visiting?
Montaza Palace is a magnificent building complex in Alexandria, situated on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea at the city's eastern tip.
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