Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, Alexandria sits on Egypt’s northern coast, some 111 miles northwest of the capital city, Cairo. Renowned in antiquity for its long-lost library and colossal lighthouse, Alexandria was a centre of illumination and scholarly leadership, and the seat of the Ptolemaic dynasty until the death of Cleopatra in 30BC, after which it became the capital of the new Roman Egypt.

Although much of the ancient city has been claimed by the sea, archaeological gems like Roman-era theatres and catacombs remain well-preserved. Don’t miss the Catacombs of Kom-el-Shoqafa, the city necropolis; descend the stone spiral staircase and experience this atmospheric and otherworldly crypt, with its fusion of Egyptian, Greek and Roman art styles.