The Best Things to See and Do at The Montaza (Montazah) Palace
If you're in Alexandria, Egypt, and looking for a perfect spot to relax and have fun, then the Montaza Palace should be on your list. This stunning palace and its vast gardens are one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Located on the Mediterranean coast with breathtaking views, Montaza Palace is a must-visit attraction. In this blog post, we'll take you on a virtual palace tour and highlight the best things to do and see while you're there. From exploring the stunning gardens to dipping in the crystal-clear waters, there's something for everyone at Montaza Palace. So, let's dive in and discover the best things to do in Montaza Palace.
Overview of The Montaza Palace in Alexandria, Egypt
One of the top tourist attractions you should not miss when you visit Alexandria is the Montaza Palace Gardens. The Montaza Palace is a former royal palace built in the late 19th century by Abbas II of Egypt, the last Ottoman ruler of Egypt. The palace blends Ottoman and Florentine styles with a magnificent view of the Mediterranean Sea. Although the palace is not open to visitors, the gardens are a beautiful place to stroll around and relax. The gardens cover an area of 370 acres and are a combination of formal gardens, woodland, and beach. The Montaza Palace Gardens offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, where you can spend a peaceful and tranquil time surrounded by natural beauty.
The Montaza Palace Gardens is a must-visit destination for lovers of formal gardens. The gardens are beautifully designed and maintained, and you can see a variety of plants, including palm trees, roses, and bougainvillaea. The lush green lawns are perfect for a picnic or a game of frisbee. There are several charming fountains and water features that add to the overall ambience of the gardens. The gardens also have several historic buildings, including two palaces and a lighthouse tower. Although the palaces are not open for visitors, you can still view their exterior and appreciate their architectural beauty.
If you are a beach lover, the Montaza Palace Gardens also offer you access to a private beach. The beach is located within the gardens and offers a peaceful and secluded spot to soak up the sun and admire the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea. While on the beach, you can engage in various water activities such as swimming, snorkelling, and sailing. If you prefer a more relaxing experience, you can lounge on the beach and read a book.
To make the most of your visit to the Montaza Palace Gardens, it is advisable to dress modestly, especially if you plan to visit the beach. The gardens offer plenty of food options, so you don't have to pack a picnic. If you are staying in Alexandria, you can easily get to the gardens by getting on a microbus along the seafront Corniche and asking for Montaza. Many tours also include a stop at the Montaza Palace Gardens, so it is worth checking out if you prefer a more organized and convenient way to get there.
Visiting the Montaza Palace Gardens is an excellent way to spend a day in Alexandria. The gardens offer a perfect escape from the city where you can relax, unwind, and appreciate the beautiful natural scenery. Whether you are a garden lover or a beachgoer, the Montaza Palace Gardens have something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination in Alexandria. [1][2]
The Splendid Gardens of The Montaza Palace
If you're looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Alexandria, head to the Montaza Palace Gardens. Although the palace is not open to the public, the expansive gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with family and friends. Spread over a large area. The gardens offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the date palm trees that sway gently in the breeze.
As you explore the gardens, ensure you don't miss the stunning architecture of the Harambelik Palace. Located on high ground, this former palace has been converted into a luxury hotel, and its distinctive design blends Turkish and Florentine styles. You'll also find several beach baths, restaurants, and a well-equipped tourist centre within the gardens.
One of the highlights of the Montaza Palace Gardens is the Farouk Palace, also known as the Egyptian Summer Palace. Built-in the 1930s, this palace was once a summer retreat for the royal family and played an important role in Egypt's history. Although visitors are not allowed inside the palace, you can still admire the stunning exterior and architectural features.
If you're looking for a romantic spot to spend time with your significant other, the Montaza Palace Gardens is an excellent choice. With its serene surroundings and breathtaking views, this is the perfect place to share a cosy picnic or take a romantic stroll hand in hand.
Overall, the Montaza Palace Gardens are a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Alexandria. Whether you're looking to explore the rich history of Egypt, admire stunning architecture, or relax and soak up the beauty of nature, this expansive park has something for everyone. So grab a picnic basket, pack a blanket and head out to the Montaza Palace Gardens for an unforgettable day trip. [3][4]
Monuments and Historic Buildings within The Montaza Palace
The Montaza Palace is a beautiful site attracting visitors for many years. Here are some of the best things to see and do while you're there:
- Montaza Palace: Start your visit by admiring the breathtaking Montaza Palace, which Abbas II built in the late 19th century. Although you can't go inside, the Palace is still worth seeing for its colourful architectural patterns and elaborate design.
- Montaza Gardens: Stroll through the Montaza Gardens surrounding the Palace. These formal gardens are a must-see for lovers of greenery and flowers.
- Salamlek Palace: Another palace within the grounds of Montaza is the Salamlek Palace. This palace is unique as it was built in the early 20th century to host foreign royalty and dignitaries. Although only the exterior is open to visitors, it is still an impressive sight.
- Al-Haramlik Palace: Al-Haramlik is another palace next to the Montaza Gardens. This palace was a summer residence for the King and was decorated with antique furniture and artwork.
- Manar El Islam Mosque: Within the Montaza Palace complex, you can also find the Manar El Islam Mosque. This mosque was built in the early 20th century and blended Islamic and Ottoman architectural styles.
- Montaza Beach: While visiting the Montaza Palace, take some time to visit Montaza Beach. The beach is located within the same complex as the Palace and has a small entry fee. Women should dress modestly when visiting the beach.
- Walk the Corniche: To make the most of your visit to the Montaza Palace, walk along the Corniche. This waterfront promenade offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the heritage buildings that line the street.
- Visit in Spring: The Montaza Palace and its surroundings are open year-round, but the best time to visit is spring (March to May). This is when the gardens are in full bloom, with mild temperatures.
The Montaza Palace complex has many interesting historic buildings and landmarks to explore. From the beautiful Montaza Gardens to the impressive Montaza and Salamlek Palaces, visitors will surely have a memorable experience. Plan your visit during the spring season and don't forget to take a leisurely walk along the Corniche for a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea. [5][6]
Unique Features of The Natural Swimming Pools at The Montaza Palace
If you're planning a trip to Alexandria, add a visit to the Montaza Palace to your itinerary! This historic palace is a must-visit attraction and offers visitors many unique features. One such feature is the palace's natural swimming pools, designed specifically for the king and princesses to enjoy during the hot summer months. These pools are set within the waters of the Mediterranean and are truly a sight to behold.
As you explore the Montaza Palace and its beautiful gardens, take a moment to appreciate the grandeur of the natural swimming pools. This feature is truly a testament to the incredible engineering and design skill of those who created it, and it's a perfect example of the luxurious lifestyle enjoyed by royalty in ancient Egypt.
Despite being over 75 years old, the natural swimming pools at the Montaza Palace are still in immaculate condition and are a truly unique attraction to explore. So whether you're a history buff, a lover of beautiful architecture, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, the natural swimming pools at the Montaza Palace are worth checking out.
One of the best things about the natural swimming pools at the Montaza Palace is that they're located right within the waters of the Mediterranean. This means that visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean and simultaneously take in the palace's gardens' beauty. It's truly a magical experience that's not to be missed!
In addition to the natural swimming pools, there are plenty of other unique features to explore at the Montaza Palace. From the clock tower with its statues of King Farouk to the stunning Romen-style tea stall that overlooks the beach, every corner of this palace has something special to offer.
So if you're looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Alexandria, don't miss the chance to explore the natural swimming pools at the Montaza Palace. With its stunning gardens, luxurious architecture, and wealth of historical features, this palace is truly a one-of-a-kind attraction that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit it. [7][8]
The Princesses Cinema and Singing Garden in The Montaza Palace
When visiting The Montaza Palace in Alexandria, Egypt, there are many things to see and do. Among the palace's highlights is the Princesses Cinema, located adjacent to the King's Palace. This unique cinema is situated in a walled singing garden, with a large wall equipped to display world cinema movies designed to entertain princesses. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing the opulence and luxury standard of the royal family. As you stroll through the garden, you can imagine the princesses sitting beneath the shade of the trees, surrounded by the scents of flowers and enjoying an afternoon movie.
In addition to the Princesses Cinema, the Singing Garden is another remarkable feature of The Montaza Palace. This garden is located next to the cinema and is a beautiful place to explore, filled with various plants and trees. What really sets it apart, though, is that it is a "singing" garden - as you wander through the grounds, you can hear beautiful music emanating from hidden speakers throughout the greenery. This adds an extra enchantment to an already-charming location, making it feel like you're walking through a magical fairy tale.
Of course, the Singing Garden and Princesses Cinema are just two incredible sights to see at The Montaza Palace. From the gorgeous tropical gardens to the famous clock tower and the luxurious palaces, there's no shortage of beauty and history to discover here. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a romantic and enchanting place to explore, The Montaza Palace will not disappoint. So, grab your camera and prepare to be wowed by the splendour and grandeur of this remarkable location. [9][10]