Cairo: Archeological Day-Trip to Alexandria

Exploring the rich archaeological heritage of Alexandria, a vibrant coastal city steeped in history, can prove to be a captivating day-trip for visitors to Cairo. From the enigmatic Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa to the grandeur of the ancient Library, this immersive experience offers a glimpse into Egypt’s storied past. With comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide, travelers can explore the city’s fascinating attractions, including the impressive Roman Amphitheater, the towering Pompey’s Pillar, and the historic Quaitbay Castle. This day-trip promises to provide a compelling and insightful perspective on the enduring legacy of one of the Mediterranean’s most influential ancient cities.

Key Points

1. The day-trip from Cairo to Alexandria lasts 12 hours and features archaeological exploration of ancient wonders, including the Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa, Roman Amphitheater, and Library of Alexandria.

2. The Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa, the largest Roman cemetery in Alexandria, offer a glimpse into the city’s ancient burial practices and beliefs about the afterlife.

3. The partially submerged Roman Amphitheater showcases the engineering prowess of ancient Alexandria and its significance as a venue for public events and performances.

4. The Library of Alexandria, once the largest library in the ancient world, is a symbol of the city’s cultural and intellectual legacy, attracting scholars from across the Mediterranean region.

5. The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a live guide, and flexible booking options, ensuring a comfortable and informative experience for visitors to explore Alexandria’s archaeological wonders.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview

This day-trip from Cairo to Alexandria offers an engaging archaeological exploration, providing visitors with a rundown of the city’s ancient wonders and cultural heritage.

Set out on a 12-hour journey to discover the impressive Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa, the Roman Amphitheater, and the famed Library of Alexandria, which once housed over 8 million books.

Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to visit the iconic Pompey’s Pillar, the President Sadat Museum, and the Quaitbay Castle, built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria.

The trip includes convenient pickup from your Cairo accommodation, air-conditioned transportation, and the services of a knowledgeable guide.

With flexible booking options and wheelchair accessibility, this tour ensures a memorable archaeological adventure.

Highlights of Alexandria

The day-trip to Alexandria offers visitors a remarkable opportunity to explore the city’s rich archaeological heritage, with a lineup of captivating highlights that showcase its ancient wonders.

Key attractions include the Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa, the largest Roman cemetery carved into rock with three levels. Nearby, the Roman Amphitheater displays sunken monuments discovered under the East Harbor.

The iconic Library of Alexandria, once the largest library in the world, boasts 8 million books and statues of Alexander the Great and Ptolemy I.

Other highlights include Pompay’s Pillar, the President Sadat Museum, the St. Mark’s Church, and the impressive Quaitbay Castle built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria.

Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa

Comprising three levels carved into the rock, the Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa represent the largest Roman cemetery in Alexandria, showcasing the city’s remarkable ancient heritage.

Descending into the underground necropolis, visitors are transported back in time, marveling at the intricate architectural details and the fusion of Pharaonic, Greek, and Roman influences.

The highlights of the Catacombs include:

• The helical staircase, a stunning engineering feat that winds down to the burial chambers

• Ornate sarcophagi, carved with motifs of Egyptian deities and Roman figures

• Remnants of wall paintings depicting funerary rituals and the afterlife

• The Triclinium, a subterranean dining hall where families would gather to commemorate the dead

Monumental Roman Amphitheater

Situated along the water’s edge, the impressive Roman Amphitheater in Alexandria stands as a testament to the city’s illustrious past. This open-air theater, partially submerged under the East Harbor’s waters, showcases the remarkable engineering prowess of the ancient Romans who constructed it. Visitors can explore the remarkably preserved remains, which include marble seating, ornate columns, and intricate architectural details.

Feature	Description
Capacity	800 spectators
Architectural Style	Classical Roman
Construction Materials	Marble, limestone, granite
Excavation Status	Partial, with ongoing discoveries
Historical Significance	Used for public events, games, performances

The Roman Amphitheater offers a captivating glimpse into Alexandria’s rich cultural heritage and the ingenuity of its ancient inhabitants.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Grandeur of Library of Alexandria

Among the most celebrated landmarks in Alexandria stands the iconic Library of Alexandria, once the largest repository of knowledge in the ancient world. Housing an estimated 8 million scrolls, the library was a testament to the city’s intellectual and cultural prowess, drawing scholars from across the Mediterranean region.

The library’s grand architecture, featuring statues of Alexander the Great and Ptolemy I, created an imposing and inspiring atmosphere for visitors. Its collection encompassed a vast array of subjects, from literature and philosophy to science and medicine, making it a hub of learning and discovery.

The library’s tragic destruction remains one of the greatest cultural losses in history, yet its legacy continues to inspire awe and wonder.

Impressive Pompay’s Pillar

Towering over the ancient city, Pompay’s Pillar stands as a remarkable testament to the architectural prowess of Alexandria. This massive granite column, rising over 25 meters in height, was erected in the 3rd century AD to commemorate the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s victory over a local rebellion.

Visitors can admire the impressive scale and grandeur of this structure, which serves as a powerful reminder of Alexandria’s storied past. The pillar’s ornate Corinthian capital and the intricate decorations carved into its base further highlight the skill and craftsmanship of the ancient builders.

As a popular photo opportunity, Pompay’s Pillar offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and enduring cultural significance.

Architectural and Cultural Attractions

The Alexandria of today seamlessly blends its ancient heritage with modern architectural marvels, creating a rich tapestry of cultural attractions that captivate visitors.

From the grandeur of the Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa, the largest Roman cemetery in the city, to the awe-inspiring Library of Alexandria – a testament to the region’s scholarly legacy – the city offers a unique glimpse into its storied past.

Visitors can also explore:

• The impressive Pompay’s Pillar, a towering monument that stands as a testament to the city’s Roman history.

• The Abbo Elabbas Mosque, a stunning example of Islamic architecture and the largest and prettiest mosque in Alexandria.

• The Quaitbay Castle, built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

• The Montazah Palace Gardens, a serene oasis of royal elegance and tranquility.

Transportation and Tour Experience

The day-trip to Alexandria from Cairo is facilitated by air-conditioned transport, ensuring a comfortable journey for participants.

A live guide is available throughout the tour, providing commentary in English, French, and Arabic. The guide is highly rated for their attentiveness and depth of knowledge, enhancing the overall experience.

The transportation used for the tour is also well-reviewed, with a 4.5/5 rating from previous customers.

While the tour organization has received slightly lower ratings, the overall experience is still highly recommended, especially for archaeology enthusiasts.

Suggestions from past travelers include allowing more time at key sites and considering lunch options, as the choices can be limited during the long day-trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Approximate Driving Time From Cairo to Alexandria?

The approximate driving time from Cairo to Alexandria is 12 hours according to the trip details provided. This covers the distance between the two cities and is a key consideration for travelers planning this journey.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Size of Luggage Allowed?

There are no explicit restrictions on the size of luggage allowed, but the tour recommends packing light as long journeys can be more comfortable with minimal baggage. Passengers are advised to check with the tour operator for specific guidance on luggage allowances.

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Requirements or Preferences?

The tour can accommodate a range of dietary requirements and preferences. Travelers should notify the tour operator in advance to ensure appropriate meal options are available during the optional lunch stop in Alexandria.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Expenses Not Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price covers pickup, transport, guide services, and entrance fees. However, any additional expenses such as optional lunch, personal purchases, or tips for the guide are not included in the listed price.

Can the Tour Be Customized or Personalized to Individual Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized or personalized to individual interests. The tour provider offers flexibility in the itinerary and can accommodate specific requests, such as focusing more on certain historical sites or areas of interest.

Recap

This archaeological day-trip from Cairo to Alexandria offers a captivating exploration of the city’s rich history.

Visitors can discover ancient wonders, including the Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa, the Roman Amphitheater, and the famed Library of Alexandria.

With comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide, the experience promises immersive insights into Egypt’s storied past, from Pompey’s Pillar to Quaitbay Castle.

You can check if your dates are available here: