Exploring the enchanting city of Alexandria from Cairo is a must-do for history buffs and culture enthusiasts. This comprehensive day trip takes travelers on a journey through the highlights of Egypt’s second-largest city, uncovering its rich heritage and captivating sights. From the towering Pompey’s Pillar to the enigmatic Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, each stop on the itinerary promises to transport visitors back in time. With the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, seamless transportation, and a delectable included lunch, this excursion offers a hassle-free and immersive experience. But the true allure lies in discovering the city’s timeless secrets and understanding why Alexandria remains a captivating destination for those seeking to unravel the mysteries of ancient civilizations.
Key Points
- Private door-to-door tour from Cairo to Alexandria, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.
- Explore the top sights of Alexandria, including Pompey’s Pillar, the catacombs, the Citadel of Qaitbay, and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina.
- Enjoy a guided tour with a knowledgeable guide providing historical context and insights into the city’s rich heritage.
- Convenient pickup and drop-off, bottled water, lunch, and all necessary tips included in the tour package.
- Flexible cancellation policy, with full refunds available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
👉 Check out our guide to the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Cairo
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Highlights of Alexandria
- Included in the Tour
- Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
- Cancellation Policy
- Exploring Pompey’s Pillar
- Discovering the Catacombs
- Visiting the Citadel of Qaitbay
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included?
- Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Specific Sites?
- What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
- Can I Bring My Own Food and Drink on the Tour?
- Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cairo
- More 1-Day Tours in Cairo
- More Lunch Experiences in Cairo
- More Tour Reviews in Cairo
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Cairo we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview
This private door-to-door tour from Cairo allows visitors to discover the highlights of Egypt’s second city, Alexandria, which was founded by Alexander the Great.
The tour covers the city’s top sights, including the towering Pompey’s Pillar, the eerie catacombs, the imposing Citadel of Qaitbay, and the impressive Bibliotheca Alexandrina.
With a knowledgeable guide providing historical context, travelers can explore the rich heritage of this ancient metropolis.
The tour includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, bottled water, a delicious lunch, and all necessary tips, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply exploring a new destination, this Alexandria day trip from Cairo is an excellent choice.
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Highlights of Alexandria
Anchoring the Alexandria day trip is a visit to Pompey’s Pillar, an impressive 82-foot-tall granite column that stands tall as a remnant of the city’s Ptolemaic past.
Nearby, the eerie catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa provide a glimpse into the ancient burial practices of Alexandria.
Towering over the Mediterranean, the Citadel of Qaitbay offers sweeping views and a chance to explore a 15th-century fortress built on the ruins of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The tour culminates at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern library and cultural center honoring the legacy of the city’s once-renowned ancient library, destroyed centuries ago.
Included in the Tour
The tour includes bottled water, a provided lunch, an expert tour guide, and private air-conditioned transportation to and from the Cairo or Giza hotel. Tipping is also covered as part of the experience.
You won’t have to worry about arranging any logistics or navigating on your own, as the tour handles all the details. The guide will lead you through the highlights of Alexandria, sharing their knowledge of the city’s rich history and culture.
Whether you’re sipping water, eating lunch, or being transported in comfort, you can sit back and enjoy the day without the hassle of planning. This all-inclusive experience ensures a seamless and memorable trip to Alexandria.
Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
Starting your day in Cairo or Giza, a private air-conditioned vehicle will pick you up from your hotel, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey to Alexandria.
This door-to-door service makes it easy to explore the highlights of Egypt’s second city without the hassle of arranging your own transportation.
Your friendly, knowledgeable guide will be there to greet you and provide insightful commentary throughout the day.
When your Alexandria adventure comes to an end, the same private vehicle will drop you back off at your hotel in Cairo or Giza, allowing you to relax after a day of sightseeing.
This convenient pickup and drop-off service ensures your day trip runs smoothly from start to finish.
Cancellation Policy
Cancelling your Alexandria day trip from Cairo can be done up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. However, no refunds will be issued for cancellations less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, and any changes within that time frame won’t be accepted.
This cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while also ensuring the tour operator can adequately plan and prepare for the excursion. Customers are encouraged to carefully consider their plans and make any necessary changes well in advance to avoid any potential penalties.
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Exploring Pompey’s Pillar
Towering over the ancient ruins of Alexandria, Pompey’s Pillar stands as a testament to the city’s rich history.
This 25-meter-tall red granite column, erected in honor of the Roman Emperor Diocletian, offers visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of the Ptolemaic and Roman eras that once graced this Mediterranean coastal city.
As part of the day trip, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the base of the pillar and marvel at the intricate carvings and hieroglyphics that adorn its surface.
This iconic landmark provides a tangible connection to Alexandria’s past, allowing you to imagine the bustling metropolis that once surrounded it.
Don’t miss the chance to capture the pillar’s impressive scale and historical significance during your visit.
Discovering the Catacombs
Descending into the ancient catacombs of Alexandria, visitors are transported to a remarkable underground necropolis, where the secrets of Egypt’s Greco-Roman era are etched into the walls and corridors. This expansive network of tombs and burial chambers, carved from solid rock, offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the burial practices and rituals that once defined the city’s cultural and religious landscape.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Architectural Wonders | The catacombs boast intricate architectural details, including carved niches, columns, and frescoes, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the era. |
| Burial Customs | Visitors can explore the various burial chambers and understand the complex rituals associated with entombing the dead, from mummification to sarcophagus placement. |
| Historical Significance | The catacombs serve as a tangible link to the city’s Greco-Roman past, providing valuable insights into the lives and beliefs of the people who once occupied this ancient metropolis. |
| Atmospheric Experience | Descending into the dimly lit, labyrinthine passages of the catacombs creates a unique and immersive historical experience, transporting visitors back in time. |
Visiting the Citadel of Qaitbay
Visitors to the Citadel of Qaitbay are immediately struck by its impressive fortified walls, which have stood guard over the Alexandria coastline for centuries. Constructed in the 15th century on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, this remarkable fortress now serves as a museum, showcasing a wealth of Mamluk-era architectural and historical wonders.
Marvel at the intricate carvings and calligraphy adorning the walls, offering a glimpse into the artistry of the Mamluk period.
Explore the various defensive structures, including towers and ramparts, which highlight the strategic importance of this coastal outpost.
Climb to the top of the citadel for breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the bustling city of Alexandria.
Discover the museum’s collection of ancient artifacts, providing a tangible connection to the site’s rich past.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included?
The tour price includes all the listed inclusions, and there are no additional fees or taxes to be paid. Customers do not need to worry about any hidden costs for this private tour.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Specific Sites?
The tour can be customized to include specific sites, though additional costs may apply. Travelers should discuss their preferences with the tour provider to ensure the itinerary meets their needs and interests.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour does not have a strict dress code, but visitors are advised to dress modestly out of respect for the cultural and religious sites visited. Comfortable, breathable clothing that covers shoulders and knees is recommended.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drink on the Tour?
Participants can bring their own food and drink on the tour. However, the tour includes bottled water and lunch, so bringing additional sustenance may not be necessary. Check with the tour operator if you have any dietary restrictions or preferences.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
Yes, the tour operator offers discounts for children and seniors. Children under 12 receive a 50% discount, and seniors aged 65 and above receive a 20% discount on the tour price. These discounts must be requested at the time of booking.
Alexandria Day Trip From Cairo With Lunch
“Our day trip to Alexandria was as educational as it was entertaining! Huge shoutout to our driver, Ahmed Ali—possibly the only peaceful, non-honk…”
Recap
This Alexandria day trip from Cairo offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history and culture.
Travelers will visit iconic landmarks like Pompey’s Pillar, the Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, and the Citadel of Qaitbay, uncovering the ancient Mediterranean metropolis’ heritage.
With a knowledgeable guide, lunch, and seamless transportation, it’s a hassle-free way to take in the highlights of this historical destination.
