Montaza Palace

Last updated on November 14th, 2026 at 08:40 pm

At a glance

Montaza Palace is a royal estate on the eastern edge of Alexandria, built from 1892 under Khedive Abbas II and set in large seaside gardens. The palace buildings are not usually open inside, so most visitors come for the gardens, the views and the beach. Allow 1 to 2 hours and check entry details locally.

Montaza is a palace estate and public park in east Alexandria. The main palace buildings, the Salamlek and the Haramlek, stand in gardens of palms, flower beds and cliffs above a small beach on the Mediterranean.

• The Haramlek palace seen from the gardens, with its tall tower, a mix of Ottoman and Florentine style.
• The Salamlek, the smaller palace, now used as a hotel.
• Palm-lined paths, flower beds and picnic spots.
• The small bay and beach below the gardens.
• The royal bridge over the water and the sea views.

The Salamlek was built in 1892 for Khedive Abbas II as a hunting lodge and summer residence. King Fuad added the larger Haramlek in the 1920s. After the 1952 revolution it passed to the state, and the grounds were opened as a public park.

It is one of the greenest, calmest places in Alexandria, with sea views and royal architecture that you rarely see elsewhere in the city.

Montaza is in east Alexandria, about 15 km from the centre and the Corniche, on the road toward Abu Qir.

Morning or late afternoon. October to May is most comfortable; in summer the beach is busy and the city is humid.

Take a taxi or ride app from central Alexandria, usually 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic, or a tram or minibus along the Corniche. From Cairo it fits into a day trip to Alexandria.

One to two hours for the gardens and views.

Light clothes and comfortable shoes. Bring a swimsuit only if you plan to use the beach, and dress modestly in the park.

Yes. It is a popular family park. Keep valuables close in busy weekends.

• Avoid summer weekends when the park is crowded.
• Bring water and a hat.
• Check before you go which areas are open to visitors.

No. It is an easy self-guided visit.

The gardens usually open in the morning and close in the evening. Hours and open areas can change, so check locally.

There is an entry fee for people and often for cars, paid at the gate. Check the current price locally.

Montaza is a relaxed green break from the busy city: come for the gardens and the sea views, not for the interior. Go in the morning or late afternoon and pair it with the Corniche.

Montaza Palace – A Complete Guide for New Visitors

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