Alexandria is one of Egypt’s most atmospheric cities, where Mediterranean light, ancient history and lively market streets come together along the country’s northern coast. Once home to the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria and the Great Library, the city still feels deeply connected to Egypt’s layered past. Shopping here reflects that mix of seaside elegance, ancient symbolism and everyday Egyptian culture.
The best souvenirs in Alexandria include Egyptian cotton scarves, papyrus paintings, cartouche necklaces, alabaster statues, attar perfume oil, copper trays, mother-of-pearl boxes, dukkah spice blends, Lighthouse of Alexandria miniatures and local art prints. You’ll find many of these items in souvenir shops, local markets and traditional souks, including Alexandria’s Souk El Attarine, one of the city’s older market areas known for antiques, collectibles and traditional perfumery.
Here are 10 of the best Alexandria souvenirs to look for during your trip.
1. Egyptian Cotton Scarves
Egyptian cotton scarves are one of the most practical and elegant things to buy in Alexandria. Egyptian cotton is widely associated with softness, durability and breathability, making it a favorite material for linens, clothing and accessories. A scarf is especially easy to pack and can be worn throughout your trip or saved as a thoughtful gift.
Look for lightweight cotton scarves in neutral shades, soft blues, warm desert tones or subtle woven patterns. They work well as travel wraps, beach cover-ups or everyday accessories once you return home. Because Alexandria sits along the Mediterranean, a breezy Egyptian cotton scarf feels especially fitting as a souvenir from a coastal Egyptian city.
2. Papyrus Paintings
Papyrus paintings are classic Egyptian souvenirs, and Alexandria is a fitting place to bring one home. These decorative pieces often feature pharaohs, hieroglyphs, ancient gods, queens, temples or scenes inspired by tomb and temple art. They are lightweight, easy to roll or pack flat and instantly recognizable as Egyptian keepsakes.
When shopping, look for hand-painted papyrus from reputable shops rather than mass-printed versions. Some inexpensive “papyrus” souvenirs may actually be made from banana leaf, so ask questions if authenticity matters to you. A small papyrus painting makes a beautiful wall accent and is a simple way to bring Egypt’s ancient visual language into your home.
3. Cartouche Necklaces
A cartouche necklace is one of the most personal souvenirs to buy in Egypt. A cartouche is an oval shape used in ancient Egyptian writing to enclose royal names, and today it's often customized with a person’s name in hieroglyph-style symbols. These necklaces are commonly made in silver or gold tones and can be found in jewelry shops and souvenir markets.
This is a meaningful gift because it feels personalized rather than generic. Choose your own name, the name of someone back home or a word that represents the trip. A cartouche necklace is small, easy to pack and closely tied to Egypt’s ancient identity, making it one of the most memorable souvenirs from Alexandria.
4. Alabaster Pyramid Statues
Alabaster pyramid statues are popular Egyptian souvenirs because they combine ancient symbolism with traditional stonework. Alabaster carvings are commonly sold throughout Egypt, often shaped into pyramids, scarabs, cats, obelisks or figures inspired by ancient Egyptian deities.
For Alexandria, a small pyramid statue is an easy way to bring home a symbol of Egypt without taking up much space in your luggage. Look for smooth stone, clean carving and a size that feels sturdy but travel-friendly. A small alabaster pyramid can sit on a desk, bookshelf or side table as a simple reminder of your time in Egypt.
5. Attar Perfume Oil
Attar perfume oil is a fragrant souvenir with deep roots in Egyptian market culture. Alexandria’s Souk El Attarine is especially associated with traditional perfumery, making perfume oil one of the most fitting things to buy in the city.
Attar oils are often sold in small glass bottles and may feature scents like jasmine, lotus, rose, musk, amber or sandalwood. Because the bottles are compact, they're easy to pack and make lovely gifts. Look for sealed packaging and sample the fragrance before buying. A small bottle of perfume oil can capture the sensory side of Alexandria, from its old markets to its warm Mediterranean air.
6. Hand-Hammered Copper Trays
Hand-hammered copper trays are beautiful souvenirs for travelers who want something decorative and useful. Copper and brass items are common finds in Egyptian markets, often shaped into trays, lamps, bowls, coffee pots and wall decor. Egyptian souvenir guides often point to copper, brass and other metal crafts as worthwhile market purchases when they reflect traditional craftsmanship.
A small copper tray is easier to bring home than a lamp or large serving piece. It can be used for jewelry, candles or coffee cups. Look for engraved patterns, geometric detailing or hand-hammered texture that gives the piece character.
7. Mother-of-Pearl Boxes
Mother-of-pearl boxes are elegant souvenirs that reflect Egypt’s decorative craft traditions. These small boxes are often inlaid with shimmering shell pieces in geometric or floral patterns, creating a beautiful surface that catches the light. They're commonly used for jewelry, keepsakes, tea bags or small desk items.
A mother-of-pearl box makes a refined gift because it's both useful and ornamental. Choose a compact size so it's easier to wrap and pack. Look for smooth inlay work, secure hinges and a design that feels timeless rather than overly touristy. It’s a lovely option if you want something more polished than a standard souvenir.
8. Dukkah Spice Blend
Dukkah spice blend is one of the best food souvenirs to bring home from Alexandria. This Egyptian blend is usually made with nuts, seeds and spices, often including sesame, coriander and cumin. It's commonly eaten with bread and olive oil, but it can also be sprinkled on roasted vegetables, salads, eggs or grilled meats.
Spices are popular souvenirs throughout Egypt, and sealed packets are easiest for travel. Dukkah is especially giftable because it's flavorful, lightweight and easy to use at home. Look for small sealed bags or jars in local markets or food shops. You can even pair it with a note about serving it with warm bread and olive oil.
9. Miniature Lighthouse of Alexandria Statues
A miniature Lighthouse of Alexandria statue is one of the most destination-specific souvenirs to buy in Alexandria. The ancient Lighthouse, also known as the Pharos of Alexandria, was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and remains one of the city’s most powerful symbols.
You may find small lighthouse figures in souvenir shops, museum gift shops or market stalls. While many Egyptian souvenirs focus on pyramids and pharaohs, a Lighthouse of Alexandria miniature feels more closely tied to the city itself. Choose a small, well-made version that can sit on a desk, shelf or travel memory display.
10. Alexandria Art Prints
Alexandria art prints are lightweight, personal souvenirs that capture the city’s Mediterranean character. Look for illustrations of the Corniche, fishing boats, old architecture, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, seaside cafes or imagined scenes of the ancient lighthouse. These prints are easy to pack flat and can be framed once you return home.
Art prints are a great choice if you want a souvenir that feels more local and less mass-produced. Search for designs by Egyptian artists, small studio shops or museum gift stores. A simple print of Alexandria’s waterfront can become a lasting reminder of the city’s sea breeze, history and coastal beauty.
Discover the Best Souvenirs To Bring Home From Alexandria
If you’re wondering what to buy in Alexandria, Egypt, consider Egyptian cotton scarves, papyrus paintings, cartouche necklaces, alabaster pyramid statues, attar perfume oil, hand-hammered copper trays, mother-of-pearl boxes, dukkah spice blends, miniature Lighthouse of Alexandria statues and Alexandria art prints. These souvenirs reflect the city’s mix of ancient history, Egyptian craftsmanship, market culture and Mediterranean charm.
Planning a Trip to Alexandria?
Want to learn more about this gem in Egypt? Check out these guides to plan your next trip:
- What is Alexandria, Egypt Known For? - Discover Alexandria’s signature highlights from the Bibliotheca Alexandrina to historic fortresses and seaside promenades.
