Day Trip to Alexandria From Cairo

Exploring the vibrant history and culture of Alexandria is a must for any traveler to Egypt. This guided day trip from Cairo unlocks the city’s renowned landmarks, from the stunning Citadel of Qaitbay to the ancient Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa. You’ll marvel at Mamluk architecture, uncover Roman ruins, and discover the iconic Bibliotheca Alexandrina. With comfortable transportation and an expert guide, this enriching experience ensures you make the most of your time in this captivating Mediterranean city. But the real question is, what hidden gems await as you delve deeper into Alexandria’s enchanting past?

Key Points

• Comprehensive guided tour of Alexandria’s renowned historical and cultural landmarks, including the Citadel of Qaitbay, Mosque of Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi, and Roman Amphitheater.
• Exploration of the ancient Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, providing a glimpse into the city’s Greco-Roman burial practices.
• Visit to the iconic Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern library and cultural center honoring the legacy of the ancient Library of Alexandria.
• Comfortable air-conditioned transportation and hotel pickup and drop-off for a seamless day trip experience from Cairo.
• Opportunity to immerse in the rich history and architecture of Alexandria, a city with a captivating blend of ancient and modern elements.

Guided Day Trip

The guided day trip to Alexandria from Cairo provides visitors with a comprehensive tour of the city’s renowned historical and cultural landmarks.

Accompanied by a professional guide, travelers will explore the Citadel of Qaitbay, a 15th-century fortress overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. They’ll also visit the Mosque of Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi, a stunning example of Islamic architecture, as well as the impressive Roman Amphitheater and Pompey’s Pillar.

The highlights continue with a journey through the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa and a stop at the iconic Bibliotheca Alexandrina.

Throughout the day, guests will enjoy comfortable air-conditioned transportation and hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Sights in Alexandria

During the guided day trip, visitors will explore an array of renowned historical and cultural landmarks in Alexandria.

The Citadel of Qaitbay, a 15th-century fortress overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the city’s medieval past.

The Mosque of Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi, a magnificent example of Mamluk architecture, is known for its intricate designs and serene atmosphere.

The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, an underground necropolis dating back to the 2nd century AD, provide a fascinating insight into ancient burial practices.

Visitors will also discover the impressive Roman Amphitheater and the iconic Pompey’s Pillar, a towering granite column that once stood at the center of the ancient city.

Citadel of Qaitbay

Perched atop the Mediterranean coastline, the Citadel of Qaitbay commands sweeping views of the sea and the city’s bustling harbor.

This 15th-century fortress, built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich medieval history.

Constructed by Sultan Qaitbay, the citadel’s imposing stone walls and sturdy towers once protected Alexandria from invaders.

Today, the citadel houses a fascinating museum showcasing artifacts from the site’s long history.

Visitors can explore the fortress’s grand halls, climb to the top of the ramparts, and marvel at the impressive architecture that has stood the test of time.

A visit to the Citadel of Qaitbay is a must-do on any Alexandria day trip from Cairo.

Mosque of Abu Al-Abbas Al-Mursi

Situated in the heart of Alexandria’s bustling corniche, the Mosque of Abu Al-Abbas Al-Mursi stands as a testament to the city’s rich Islamic heritage.

This grand 13th-century structure, named after a revered Sufi saint, is renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate decorative elements.

Visitors can expect to be mesmerized by:

• The mosque’s ornate façade, featuring intricate marble carvings and a majestic minaret
• The serene interior, adorned with colorful stained glass windows and ornate chandeliers
• The tranquil courtyard, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling city life

This architectural gem offers a glimpse into Alexandria’s long-standing tradition of religious devotion and cultural preservation.

Roman Amphitheater

Amidst the vibrant streets of Alexandria, the remnants of a grand Roman Amphitheater stand as a testament to the city’s storied past. This impressive structure, dating back to the 4th century AD, once served as a grand venue for entertainment and cultural events.

Today, visitors can explore the partially preserved ruins and imagine the lively scenes that once unfolded within its walls. The amphitheater’s three-tiered seating arrangement and expansive central arena provide a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Roman architecture. As part of the guided day trip, guests can marvel at the site’s historical significance and enjoy the captivating legacy of this remarkable archaeological treasure.

Feature	Description
Type	Roman Amphitheater
Size	Capacity for 800-1,000 spectators
Location	Situated in the heart of Alexandria
Significance	Hosted events, performances, and games in ancient times

Pompey’s Pillar

Standing tall against the backdrop of Alexandria’s urban landscape, Pompey’s Pillar is an iconic monument that has captivated visitors for centuries. This towering granite column, rising over 25 meters (82 feet) in height, was commissioned in the 4th century AD and dedicated to the Roman Emperor Diocletian.

The pillar’s impressive scale and ornate Corinthian-style capital make it a remarkable example of ancient Roman architecture.

Situated on the site of the former Serapeum, a renowned temple of the Greco-Egyptian god Serapis, Pompey’s Pillar offers a glimpse into the city’s rich historical past.

Climbing to the top of the pillar provides visitors with sweeping views of Alexandria, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring the city’s ancient wonders.

Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa

Beneath the bustling streets of Alexandria lies an impressive network of underground tombs and chambers known as the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.

This extensive necropolis, dating back to the 2nd century AD, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the ancient burial practices of the Greco-Roman era.

Descending into the three-level labyrinth, visitors can explore the elaborate carvings, statues, and relics that adorn the walls and passageways.

The centerpiece is the Rotunda, a grand circular hall with a Roman-style domed ceiling.

Visitors can also see the remains of animal and human burials, providing insight into the complex funerary rites of the time.

Touring the Catacombs is an unforgettable experience that transports visitors back to Alexandria’s ancient past.

Bibliotheca Alexandrina

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern library and cultural center, stands as a grand homage to the renowned Library of Alexandria of antiquity.

Hosting millions of volumes, the library’s iconic architecture and ambitious mission to revive the city’s intellectual legacy make it a must-visit destination for travelers in Alexandria.

The library boasts:

• A striking, disc-shaped building designed by the Norwegian firm Snøhetta, featuring a granite exterior and a massive, tilted glass wall.
• An extensive collection spanning diverse disciplines, including a sizable archive of ancient Egyptian and Greco-Roman manuscripts.
• Regular exhibitions, lectures, and events that celebrate the city’s rich cultural heritage and promote intellectual exchange.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no strict dress code for the tour, but visitors should wear comfortable, modest clothing suitable for walking. Light, breathable fabrics are recommended to stay cool in the warm climate.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are generally welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator beforehand, as some may have restrictions or prefer to provide refreshments during the excursion.

Are There Any Stops for Shopping or Local Cuisine?

The tour includes stops at several historic sights, but doesn’t provide dedicated time for shopping or local cuisine. Travelers can explore on their own during free time, but there aren’t any scheduled stops for shopping or dining.

Can I Extend My Stay in Alexandria After the Tour?

Travelers can extend their stay in Alexandria after the tour, but the tour package only includes round-trip transportation and sightseeing. Guests would need to book additional accommodation and activities independently to prolong their time in the city.

Is There a Discount for Booking as a Group?

Yes, there’s a group discount for this tour. The more people you book with, the lower the per-person price. The maximum group size is 15, so booking as a larger group can provide significant savings.

Recap

Set out on a captivating day trip from Cairo to explore Alexandria’s rich history and cultural wonders.

Discover the Citadel of Qaitbay, the Mosque of Abu Al-Abbas Al-Mursi, the ancient Catacombs, and the iconic Bibliotheca Alexandrina, all while enjoying comfortable transportation and an expert guide.

This seamless and enriching experience will immerse you in the city’s enduring legacy.