Windsor Palace Hotel

Windsor Palace Hotel Alexandria: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Travel Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled on Alexandria’s picturesque Corniche, the Windsor Palace Hotel is an enduring symbol of the city’s cosmopolitan history and Mediterranean charm. Since its establishment in 1906, the hotel has welcomed dignitaries, artists, and travelers, offering a luxurious blend of Belle Époque architecture, antique-filled interiors, and sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea. Its rich heritage and central location make it both a cultural landmark and an ideal base for exploring Alexandria’s renowned historical sites, such as the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the Citadel of Qaitbay (Fodor’s; Luxury Hotel Guide; Egypt Tours Plus).

This detailed guide will provide prospective guests and history enthusiasts with an in-depth overview of the Windsor Palace Hotel’s historical context, architectural highlights, visitor information (including visiting hours and ticketing), nearby attractions, accommodation and amenities, dining experiences, travel tips, FAQs, and practical resources for planning an immersive visit to Alexandria.

Historical Background
Architectural and Cultural Significance
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Accommodation and Amenities
Dining Experiences
Nearby Historical Attractions
Travel Tips and Practical Advice
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Summary and Key Takeaways
Sources and Further Reading

Historical Background

The Windsor Palace Hotel was constructed in 1906, a time when Alexandria was flourishing as Egypt’s principal Mediterranean port. The city’s population was a vibrant mix of Egyptian, Greek, Italian, and French communities, and the hotel’s neoclassical and Belle Époque design encapsulate this cosmopolitan spirit. Throughout its history, the Windsor Palace has been a gathering place for royalty, diplomats, and artists, playing a significant role in Alexandria’s social and cultural development (Fodor’s).

Architectural and Cultural Significance

Design Features

Neoclassical and Belle Époque Elements: The hotel’s grand façade, marble staircases, ornate moldings, stained glass, and vintage chandeliers evoke early 20th-century opulence.
Antique Interiors: Public spaces and dining rooms are adorned with period furniture, oil paintings, and tapestries. The Queen Elizabeth Hall and Prince Charles Café are particularly notable for their historic décor (Luxury Hotel Guide).
Rooftop Terrace: The Skyroof terrace provides panoramic views of the Corniche and Mediterranean, serving as a scenic spot for dining and social events.

Cultural Impact

The Windsor Palace has hosted countless social gatherings, banquets, and diplomatic events, contributing to Alexandria’s reputation as a cosmopolitan crossroads. Today, it continues to serve as a living monument to the city’s golden era while offering modern comforts for international guests (HotelsCombined).

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours & Entry

Public Areas: Rooftop terrace and cafés are open daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Tickets: No separate ticket is required for non-resident visitors wishing to dine or attend events. Guided heritage tours of the hotel may be available by prior arrangement—contact the hotel directly (Windsor Palace Hotel Official).
Accessibility: Main public areas are wheelchair accessible, though some historic architectural features may present limitations.

Location and Getting There

Address: 17 El Shohada Street, El Ramle Station, Alexandria.
Transport: The hotel is centrally situated with easy access to public transport, taxis, and the Corniche promenade.

Travel Tips

Best Value: Room rates are lowest in March, with mid-week nights often providing the best deals (HotelsCombined).
Concierge Services: The multilingual concierge can assist with airport transfers, guided tours, and local bookings.

Accommodation and Amenities

Room Categories

Standard Rooms: 20–25 m² with city/partial sea views, air conditioning, modern bathrooms, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Deluxe Sea View Rooms: Up to 30 m², often with private balconies facing the Mediterranean.
Suites: 35–50 m², featuring separate living areas and expansive balconies; some are named after historical figures (Booking.com Windsor Palace).

In-Room Features

High-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with international channels, minibars, safes, and 24-hour room service.
Daily housekeeping, laundry, and tea/coffee-making facilities.

Accessibility and Family Options

Accessible rooms are available; families can request interconnected rooms, cribs, or extra beds. Children under six typically stay free with parents.

Amenities

Historic Public Spaces: Antique-filled lobby, marble staircases, and vintage décor (Lonely Planet Windsor Palace).
Fitness Center: Cardio and free weight equipment; in-room massages available.
Business & Events: Meeting rooms and a historic ballroom for up to 200 guests (Tripadvisor Windsor Palace).

Dining Experiences

Main Restaurant: Buffet breakfast with Egyptian and continental options; à la carte lunch/dinner featuring Mediterranean seafood, grills, and vegetarian dishes (Windsor Palace Dining).
Rooftop Bar: Light snacks by day, cocktails and live music by night.
Lounge: Afternoon tea and Egyptian sweets in vintage settings.
Room Service: 24/7, including dietary accommodations for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive guests.

Special themed dining nights and holiday feasts celebrate Alexandria’s culinary heritage.

Nearby Historical Attractions

Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Distance: 0.9 miles from hotel
Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Sat–Thu), 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Fri)
Tickets: ~70 EGP; guided tours available (Official Bibliotheca Alexandrina)

Citadel of Qaitbay

Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tickets: ~60 EGP

Roman Amphitheatre

Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tickets: ~50 EGP

Additional Sites

Alexandria National Museum, Montazah Palace & Gardens, Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, Pompey’s Pillar, Royal Jewelry Museum, and bustling local souks are all easily accessible (Egypt Tourism Authority; Divergent Travelers; Trip101).

Travel Tips and Practical Advice

Best Visitation Period: October to April offers mild weather.
Dress Code: Modest attire is recommended, especially in religious or historical sites.
Language: Arabic is official; English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP); major cards accepted in the hotel and most restaurants.
Safety: Alexandria is generally safe; standard precautions are advised.

For easy navigation, download the Audiala app for maps, ticketing, and real-time updates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can non-guests visit the Windsor Palace Hotel’s public areas?
A: Yes, public areas including the rooftop, cafés, and restaurants are open to all during operational hours.

Q: Are guided tours of the hotel available?
A: Yes, heritage tours can be arranged by contacting the hotel directly.

Q: How do I access historical sites from the hotel?
A: Most major sites are within walking distance or a short taxi/tram ride; the concierge can help with bookings.

Q: Is the hotel accessible for those with mobility issues?
A: Public areas are accessible, though some historic architecture may limit full access in certain sections.

Q: What are check-in and check-out times?
A: Check-in from 2:00 PM; check-out by 12:00 PM.

Q: Are there hotel packages that include tours or monument tickets?
A: Combined tickets are often available for sites; inquire at the concierge for current offers.

Summary and Key Takeaways

The Windsor Palace Hotel stands as a living relic of Alexandria’s illustrious past, offering guests both historic grandeur and modern luxury. Its central location on the Corniche places travelers steps away from the city’s most treasured sites, while on-site heritage spaces, panoramic terraces, and attentive service guarantee a memorable stay. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, architectural beauty, or a base for exploring Alexandria’s vibrant history, the Windsor Palace Hotel delivers an unparalleled experience (Luxury Hotel Guide; Egypt Tours Plus).

Plan your visit, explore the city’s rich history, and enjoy exclusive travel tips and offers by downloading the Audiala app and following official channels.

Sources and Further Reading

Images and interactive maps are available on the official hotel and tourism websites, with alt tags for accessibility. For detailed guides, local insights, and booking assistance, download the Audiala app and explore our related articles on Alexandria’s historical wonders.