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Hotels in Alexandria are located in two clusters that are roughly 30 minutes apart. Upscale resort hotels are all out along the eastern shoreline in Montazah, close to or even within the manicured khedivial palace gardens—but not convenient to the city or the historic sights. Lower-budget hotels are almost all Downtown, much more convenient but less tranquil.
In truth, with the exception of the Salamlek Palace and the Four Seasons, the luxury hotels in Alexandria are drab, generic places not worth what they charge. Fortunately, a couple of mid-range hotels, including the surprisingly elegant Metropole, make attractive alternatives in the city center. Summer is a busy season, when advance reservations are essential. In spring and fall you may find hotels fully booked on weekends (Friday through Sunday), when residents of Cairo head to Alexandria for some downtime. Outside peak summer season, most hotels discount their prices by 30% to 40%. Many hotels quote prices in U.S. dollars or euros, but if you pay with a credit card, your payment will be charged in the equivalent of Egyptian pounds.
Don't be misled by the dingy entrance and modest common area: this is one of the best inexpensive hotels in the city. The upstairs rooms with baths all have white walls, handblown glass lamps, and decent bathrooms. But it's the balconies, which appear to hang over the Mediterranean, that make the place feel like such a steal at this price—be sure to request one. The rooms without bath (downstairs) are in much worse shape.
On the 9th floor of Alexandria's first skyscraper, built in 1930, is one of the nicest budget hotels in town. Every room has a balcony and the 10th floor restaurant and coffee bar provides excellent views of the city. Rooms are basic but clean and well-sized for the price. Unlike most budget hotels, the Wi-Fi signal actually reaches the rooms and is reasonably strong.
A rather basic hotel, Sea Star's greatest appeal is its location. If you are on a budget, it's a clean if uninspiring option that's close to the tram station and within walking distance of Downtown, the museum, the library, and food courts. Decor is minimalist 1980s kitsch against a backdrop of plain, whitewashed walls, but the rooms and suites are spacious and many have large balconies.
