Perched on Alexandria's eastern shore overlooking the Western Harbour, Ras el-Tin Palace is a magnificent coastal landmark with deep historical roots. Situated where the ancient island of Pharos once stood, this site is the oldest royal Egyptian palace still in use. Originally commissioned in 1834 as an Ottoman-style fortress, it eventually evolved into a sprawling château blend of Italian Renaissance, Baroque, Moorish, and French designs.
For generations, it served as the official summer residence for Egyptian monarchs and government leaders when Alexandria acted as the working capital. Throughout its storied past, the palace witnessed critical history: it hosted military command posts, was the location of King Farouk’s 1952 abdication, and was registered as an Islamic and Coptic antiquity in 2015. While the main palace serves today as an official presidential residence for state guests and is closed to the public, you can still visit the site to experience its grand heritage.
You can explore the lush 13-acre formal gardens surrounding the three-storey complex, taking in the historical ambiance, classical architectural elements, and Mediterranean coastal breeze right alongside this active presidential compound and neighboring naval base.
What to see at Ras el-Tin Palace
- Oldest royal Egyptian palace still in use, registered as an Islamic and Coptic antiquity
- Architectural fusion of Italian Renaissance, Baroque, French, and Moorish styles
- Historic site where King Farouk signed his abdication in 1952
- Sprawling 13-acre formal gardens open to the public along Alexandria's harbor
Visiting tips
Keep in mind that while you can tour the formal gardens, the palace interior functions as an active presidential residence and is off-limits to visitors.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Early morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Ras el-Tin Palace is easy to reach on Alexandria’s public transport, and pairs naturally with El-Mursi Abul Abbas Mosque and Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Alexandria travel guide.
See the full Alexandria travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.