The vast royal palace complex at the eastern end of the Alexandria corniche, set in landscaped gardens with pine and palm trees, beaches, a small island connected by causeway, and the famous Montazah bridge. The palace itself (a hybrid Florentine-Turkish villa) was the summer residence of the Egyptian royal family from the late 19th century until the 1952 revolution.
Most of the palace interior is closed to visitors; the gardens and beaches are the main draw. The 1.7 square kilometres of grounds make this Alexandria's best public park — well kept, breezy, and uncrowded outside summer weekends. Entry is modest. Several private beach clubs operate inside (Aida, Cleopatra, Maamoura) and a public stretch as well. The Salamlek Palace has been converted into a hotel; non-guests can visit the lobby and grounds.