Day Trip to Alexandria from Cairo: A Fascinating Journey through Egypt’s Coastal City

If you’re visiting Cairo, make sure to set aside a day to explore the charming coastal city of Alexandria. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and picturesque seafront, Alexandria offers a perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of Cairo. With plenty of tours and activities to choose from, planning a day trip to Alexandria from Cairo has never been easier. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top things to do and see in Alexandria and give you tips on how to make the most of your visit.

Overview of Alexandria

Located on the Mediterranean coast, Alexandria is Egypt’s second-largest city and a major economic hub. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, Alexandria has a rich history and is home to some of the country’s most famous landmarks and attractions. The city is known for its unique blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman architecture and boasts a wealth of museums, mosques, churches, and parks.

Top Highlights of Alexandria Tours Egypt

Alexandria Library

The Alexandria Library, also known as the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, is one of the most famous landmarks in the city. The library was established in 2002 and is a tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria, which was one of the largest and most significant libraries of the ancient world. The modern library is an architectural marvel and houses over eight million books, making it one of the largest libraries in the world.

Citadel of Qaitbay

The Citadel of Qaitbay is a 15th-century fortress located on the eastern side of the Alexandria harbor. Built by Sultan Al-Ashraf Qaitbay, the citadel was designed to protect the city from foreign invaders. Today, the fortress is a popular tourist attraction and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa

The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa is an ancient burial site that dates back to the second century AD. The catacombs were discovered in 1900 and are a testament to the unique blend of cultures that existed in Alexandria during the Hellenistic period. Visitors can explore the underground tombs and see the intricate carvings and decorations that adorn the walls.

Pompey’s Pillar

Pompey’s Pillar is a massive granite column that stands over 25 meters tall. The column was erected in honor of Emperor Diocletian in the fourth century AD and is one of the few remaining ancient monuments in Alexandria. Visitors can climb to the top of the pillar and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Montazah Palace

Montazah Palace is a stunning palace complex located on the eastern edge of Alexandria. Built in the early 20th century, the palace was originally used as a summer residence for the Egyptian royal family. Today, the palace is a popular tourist destination and features lush gardens, stunning architecture, and a private beach.

Itinerary: How to Spend a Day Trip to Alexandria from Cairo

Here’s a sample itinerary for a day trip to Alexandria from Cairo:

7:00 AM – Departure from Cairo

Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Cairo and drive you to Alexandria. The journey takes around two hours, so make sure to bring some snacks and water.

9:00 AM – Arrive in Alexandria

Upon arrival, your guide will take you to the Citadel of Qaitbay. You’ll have some time to explore the fortress and take in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

10:00 AM – Visit the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa

Next, you’ll head to the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa. Your guide will also take you to the catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, the largest known Roman burial site in Egypt. The site is a complex of underground tombs that dates back to the 2nd century AD. You will descend a spiral staircase to explore the underground tombs and see the beautiful decorations, including Egyptian, Roman, and Greek art.

Afterward, you will visit the impressive Bibliotheca Alexandrina, which is one of the largest and most significant libraries in the world. The library was built to honor the ancient Library of Alexandria, which was destroyed in antiquity. The modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina houses millions of books, manuscripts, and documents in multiple languages. You can explore the library’s collection, visit the exhibitions and museums, and admire the stunning architecture.

Next, your guide will take you to see the Citadel of Qaitbay, a 15th-century fortress that was built by Sultan Qaitbay on the site of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The citadel was constructed to protect the city from invaders and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Alexandria. You will be able to tour the citadel and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

In the late afternoon, you will return to Cairo, where you will be dropped off at your hotel or a location of your choice.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The day trip to Alexandria from Cairo includes the following:

• Private air-conditioned transportation
• English-speaking tour guide
• Entrance fees to all attractions mentioned in the itinerary
• Bottled water and snacks
• All taxes and service charges

The following are not included:

• Gratuities for the tour guide and driver (recommended)
• Any additional expenses not mentioned in the itinerary

Pricing Information

The cost of the day trip to Alexandria from Cairo varies depending on the number of people in your group and your preferred pickup time. Please contact us for a quote and to make a reservation. We accept payment in local currency (Egyptian pounds) or US dollars.

Tips and Advice for Travelers

Here are some tips and advice to help you prepare for your day trip to Alexandria from Cairo:

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the weather.
• Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
• Bring cash or a credit card to purchase souvenirs or additional expenses.
• Be respectful of the local culture and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
• Follow your tour guide’s instructions and stay with the group at all times.

Trip Notes

• The tour operates daily except on Fridays, when some attractions may be closed.
• Pickup times can be customized to suit your schedule and location within Cairo or Giza.
• The tour itinerary may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, such as traffic or weather conditions.
• This tour is suitable for all ages and physical abilities, but some walking and stairs are required to visit some of the attractions.
• The tour is conducted in English, but we can provide tour guides who speak other languages upon request.

FAQs

Q: How long does the day trip to Alexandria from Cairo take? A: The tour lasts approximately 10-12 hours, including transportation.

Q: Is lunch included in the tour? A: No, lunch is not included, but your tour guide can recommend local restaurants for you to try.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Alexandria? A: The best time to visit Alexandria is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and pleasant.