Steigenberger Cecil

The Cecil is Alexandria’s most famous historic hotel. It opened in 1929 on Saad Zaghloul Square, facing the Eastern Harbour, and over the decades its guests included Winston Churchill, Somerset Maugham, Agatha Christie and, according to legend, wartime intelligence officers. It also appears in Lawrence Durrell’s Alexandria Quartet. Today it is run under the Steigenberger brand and rated four stars.

The building keeps its elegant white facade, its old-fashioned cage lift and a lobby full of period character. There are 85 rooms and three suites; the best face the sea and the curve of the Corniche, while city-side rooms are quieter. Bathrooms can be small and some street noise is to be expected in this central spot.

There is no pool or spa, but the hotel has a restaurant, a historic bar named after Field Marshal Montgomery, and a rooftop restaurant with harbour views. Breakfast and staff earn consistently strong reviews.

The location is the main reason to stay: Raml Station tram stop, the Corniche, the old cafes and patisseries of downtown and the Alexandria National Museum are all within walking distance. It suits travellers who value history, atmosphere and walkability over resort facilities.

Last checked October 2026. Sources: hrewards.com, booking.com.