A Memorable Day Trip to Alexandria from Cairo

A Memorable Day Trip to Alexandria from Cairo

Egypt is a country full of ancient history, culture, and beauty that captivates visitors from all over the world. One of the must-visit cities in Egypt is Alexandria, a coastal city located about 225 km northwest of Cairo. Known as the “Pearl of the Mediterranean,” Alexandria offers a unique blend of ancient history, Mediterranean charm, and modern attractions. In this blog post, we will guide you on an exciting day trip to Alexandria from Cairo, including the top highlights, must-visit attractions, and useful tips to make the most out of your trip.

Day Trip to Alexandria from Cairo

If you’re looking for a quick and easy getaway from Cairo, a day trip to Alexandria is the perfect choice. You can explore the city’s top attractions, soak up its Mediterranean vibe, and learn about its rich history, all in a day. There are several ways to travel from Cairo to Alexandria, but the easiest and most comfortable way is by a private car or a minivan.

Alexandria Tours Egypt

There are many Alexandria tours Egypt that you can choose from, depending on your preferences, budget, and time. Some tours include a visit to other nearby cities, such as El Alamein or Rosetta, while others focus only on Alexandria’s top attractions. Here are some of the most popular Alexandria tours Egypt that you can consider:

  • Alexandria Day Tour from Cairo: This tour is perfect for those who want to explore Alexandria’s top attractions, including the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, the Library of Alexandria, the Citadel of Qaitbay, and the Montaza Palace. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Cairo, transportation by a private car, an English-speaking guide, and entrance fees.

  • Nile Cruise Alexandria to Aswan: If you want to experience a more luxurious and relaxing trip, you can opt for a Nile cruise from Alexandria to Aswan. The cruise includes a visit to Alexandria’s top attractions, as well as other cities such as Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. You can enjoy the beauty of the Nile River, admire the ancient temples and monuments, and indulge in the onboard facilities and services.

  • Hop-On Hop-Off Alexandria Egypt: For those who want to explore Alexandria at their own pace, the hop-on hop-off bus is a great option. You can choose from different routes and stops, and hop on and off the bus as many times as you like. The bus takes you to the city’s top attractions, including the Roman Amphitheater, the Stanley Bridge, and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina.

  • Free Walking Tour Alexandria Egypt: If you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more authentic and interactive experience, the free walking tour is a great choice. You can join a group of other travelers and a local guide, who will take you on a walking tour of the city’s hidden gems, street art, and local food spots. You can also learn about the city’s history and culture from a local perspective.

Top Attractions in Alexandria

Alexandria is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, with many top attractions to visit. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in Alexandria:

  • Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa: These ancient tombs date back to the 2nd century AD and are a fascinating example of the Greco-Roman art and architecture. The catacombs consist of three levels, containing tombs, sarcophagi, and sculptures, as well as a hall for funeral banquets.

  • The Library of Alexandria: This modern library is a revival of the ancient Library of Alexandria, which was one of the largest and most important libraries.

 

Alexandria Day Tour from Cairo

Overview

Alexandria, the second-largest city in Egypt, is famous for its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural landmarks. This coastal city is a popular tourist destination and is situated just a few hours from Cairo, making it the perfect day trip destination for travelers who want to experience a different side of Egypt. A day trip to Alexandria from Cairo offers visitors the opportunity to explore ancient ruins, museums, mosques, and other attractions, all while taking in the beautiful Mediterranean Sea views.

Highlights of the Tour

  • Visit the Catacombs of Kom El-Shoqafa, one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages.
  • See the iconic Pompey's Pillar, a towering red granite column standing at over 20 meters tall.
  • Explore the impressive Qaitbay Citadel, a 15th-century fortress built on the site of the legendary Pharos Lighthouse.
  • Walk along the beautiful Corniche, a waterfront promenade that runs parallel to the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Visit the Alexandria Library, one of the largest and most impressive libraries in the world.

Itinerary

Here's a sample itinerary for a one-day tour to Alexandria from Cairo:

  • 7:00 AM: Pick up from your hotel in Cairo and drive to Alexandria (approx. 2.5 hours)
  • 9:30 AM: Arrive at the Catacombs of Kom El-Shoqafa and explore this fascinating ancient necropolis.
  • 11:00 AM: Visit Pompey's Pillar and learn about its history and significance.
  • 12:30 PM: Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Qaitbay Citadel and learn about its role in Alexandria's history.
  • 4:00 PM: Take a leisurely walk along the Corniche and enjoy the beautiful sea views.
  • 5:00 PM: Visit the Alexandria Library and explore its impressive collections and exhibits.
  • 7:00 PM: Return to your hotel in Cairo.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions:

  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off
  • Air-conditioned transportation
  • English-speaking guide
  • Entrance fees to all attractions listed in the itinerary
  • Seafood lunch at a local restaurant

Exclusions:

  • Personal expenses
  • Gratuities for the guide and driver

Pricing Information

The cost for this tour varies depending on the number of people in your group and the time of year you're traveling. As a rough estimate, expect to pay around $80-100 per person for a group tour or $200-250 for a private tour. Prices may vary depending on the tour operator, so be sure to check with your chosen company for exact pricing.

Tips and Advice for Travelers

  • Wear comfortable shoes as there will be a lot of walking involved.
  • Dress modestly when visiting mosques and other religious sites.
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat as it can get hot and sunny in Alexandria.
  • Be prepared for some traffic on the drive from Cairo to Alexandria.
  • Remember to bring cash for personal expenses and gratuities.

Trip Notes

  • This tour is available year-round.
  • This tour involves moderate walking and may not be suitable for people with mobility issues.
  • The tour itinerary may be subject to change depending on traffic and other factors.
  • Private tours can be customized to suit your interests and schedule.
  • This tour is a great option for travelers who want to explore Alexandria without having to spend the night in the city.

FAQs

Q: Is this a private or group tour?

A: Both private and group tours are available. Private tours offer more flexibility and customization, while group tours are a more affordable option.

 

What to Do in Alexandria

There are plenty of things to do in Alexandria, and a day trip will never be enough to see everything. However, we have compiled a list of the top must-see attractions that you shouldn't miss on your visit to this fascinating city.

1. Catacombs of Kom El-Shoqafa

The Catacombs of Kom El-Shoqafa is a historic archaeological site and one of Alexandria's most famous landmarks. The catacombs were built in the 2nd century AD as a private tomb and later used as a burial ground for many centuries. The catacombs are composed of three levels and feature an impressive fusion of ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman styles.

2. Alexandria Library

The Alexandria Library is a modern library and cultural center that houses over 8 million books, manuscripts, and historical artifacts. The library is built on the site of the ancient library of Alexandria, one of the most famous libraries in the ancient world, which was destroyed in a fire over a thousand years ago. The library features several museums, including the Manuscript Museum, Antiquities Museum, and Sadat Museum.

3. Pompey's Pillar

Pompey's Pillar is a massive granite column that stands at over 20 meters tall and is one of the tallest ancient monuments in Egypt. The pillar was built in honor of the Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century AD and is located in the ancient city of Alexandria. The monument is named after Pompey, who was a general in the Roman army, although it has nothing to do with him.

4. Citadel of Qaitbay

The Citadel of Qaitbay is a 15th-century fortress that was built to defend Alexandria from Ottoman invaders. The citadel is located on the eastern point of the Pharos Island and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The fortress features a beautiful mosque and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

5. Montazah Palace Gardens

The Montazah Palace Gardens is a beautiful park that is located on the eastern edge of Alexandria. The park is home to several historic palaces and stunning gardens that overlook the Mediterranean Sea. The gardens are the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, and there are several cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The day trip to Alexandria from Cairo includes the following:

  • Round-trip transportation from Cairo to Alexandria
  • Professional tour guide
  • All admission fees for the attractions mentioned in the itinerary
  • Lunch at a local restaurant

The following are not included in the tour package:

  • Personal expenses
  • Tips for the tour guide and driver

Pricing Information

The price per person for the day trip to Alexandria from Cairo varies depending on the number of people in the group. Please contact us for pricing information and availability.

Tips and Advice for Travelers

  • Wear comfortable shoes and clothing as you will be walking and climbing stairs at some of the attractions.
  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Keep hydrated by bringing a bottle of water with you.
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Do not purchase souvenirs from illegal vendors.

Trip Notes

  • The day trip to Alexandria from Cairo can be customized to suit your needs and preferences.
  • The pickup time and location can be changed to suit your schedule.
  • The tour is available in English, French, Spanish, and German.