Exploring Ancient Alexandria with a Full-Day Tour from Cairo

These days, it’s not unusual for tourists to want to explore more than just their home city or the country where they’re visiting. Thankfully, for those who visit Cairo, there is the option of taking a full-day tour of ancient Alexandria. This tour is the best way to get a glimpse of a piece of history up close.

What Is Included in the Tour?

The full-day tour of ancient Alexandria includes a guided walk of the city’s historical sites with an expert tour guide. Here, visitors can learn about the past and present history of this ancient city and its rich cultural background. The tour visits some of the most significant sites including the iconic Library of Alexandria, The Citadel of Qaitbay and The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa. Depending on the day and time of the year, the tour operator may show you other relevant sites like Pompey’s Pillar and Fort of Qaitbay. The tour also includes stops for tea or coffee at a local café and lunch at Fish Market – to give tourist an authentic experience of eating like a local. There are also options to pick up souvenirs at local bazaars in the area.

What Is the Cost of the Tour?

The cost of this tour varies depending on how many people are going on it. It starts from as low as £30 per person. Some tour operators may offer additional services for the same cost, such as transfer by air-conditioned bus from Cairo to Alexandria, or from Alexandria to Cairo.

How Can You Book the Tour?

The best way to book this tour is through a reliable tour operator like GetYourGuide. All you have to do is choose a date, book the tour and wait for confirmation. The tour includes an expert guide who will meet and greet you at your hotel and provide informative commentary throughout the day.

Which Are the Benefits of Taking This Tour?

1. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of ancient Alexandria. 2. Spend a full day exploring the most important sites in the city and learn fascinating stories about them. 3. Enjoy a local lunch together with a visit to a local market to shop for souvenirs. 4. Get an expert tour guide with you who is knowledgeable and friendly. 5. Experience stress free booking from a reliable tour operator with no hidden costs.

Conclusion

Taking the full-day tour to ancient Alexandria from Cairo provides an unbeatable experience for those eager to explore some history. It’s a great way to explore this city and its historical sites with an expert guide who can share stories and knowledge while providing informative commentary throughout the journey. Enjoy a fun filled full-day of exploration and make unforgettable memories with this tour! To book this tour and make the most out of your vacation in Cairo, click here.

Insider’s Guide: Exploring Ancient Alexandria

Alexandria is a beautiful city situated on the Mediterranean coast of Egypt, and it is known for its rich historical and cultural significance. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, it has a long and fascinating history that is reflected in its ancient landmarks, museums, and architecture. Here is an insider’s guide to exploring ancient Alexandria, complete with local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Attractions

1. Bibliotheca Alexandrina – This stunning library is a modern marvel built on the location of the ancient Library of Alexandria. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina boasts an impressive collection of books and manuscripts, and it is also home to several museums, auditoriums, and galleries.

2. Citadel of Qaitbay – The Citadel of Qaitbay is a medieval fortress built by the Mamluk sultan, Qaitbay, on the site of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse. This impressive structure offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and is a popular attraction for history buffs.

3. Pompey’s Pillar – This ancient Roman pillar is the largest of its kind in Egypt and stands at 26.85 meters tall. It was built to honor the Roman emperor Diocletian and is a popular spot for tourists looking to take stunning Instagram photos.

4. Alexandria National Museum – This museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Visitors can learn about the history of Alexandria through a range of exhibits, including mummies, jewelry, pottery, and sculptures.

Dining Spots

1. Fish Market – This popular seafood restaurant offers some of the freshest seafood in Alexandria. Located on the Mediterranean coast, visitors can enjoy stunning sea views while indulging in dishes such as grilled shrimp, calamari, and fish soup.

2. El Shabrawy – For more casual dining, El Shabrawy offers some of the best street food in Alexandria. Visitors can enjoy delicious Egyptian dishes such as koshari (a combination of rice, lentils, and pasta), foul (fava beans), and taameya (Egyptian falafel).

3. Arabesque – Arabesque is a trendy restaurant that serves up delicious Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine. Visitors can enjoy dishes such as hummus, kibbeh, and shawarma while admiring the stunning views of the city skyline.

Cultural Experiences

1. Montazah Palace – Montazah Palace is a stunning palace and gardens complex that dates back to the early 20th century. Visitors can wander through the beautiful gardens and explore the palace, which features a mix of Islamic and European architectural styles.

2. El Raml Station – This historic train station dates back to the early 20th century and is a popular spot for history buffs. The station has been beautifully preserved, and visitors can explore the old ticket office, waiting room, and platform.

3. Alexandria Opera House – The Alexandria Opera House is a beautiful building that dates back to the early 20th century. Visitors can attend music performances, operas, and theater shows in the stunning auditorium, which can seat up to 1,200 people.

Local History

1. The Alexandria Library – The ancient Library of Alexandria was one of the largest and most significant libraries in the ancient world. Although the original library was destroyed over 2,000 years ago, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina has been built on the same site to honor its legacy.

2. The Lighthouse of Alexandria – The ancient Pharos Lighthouse was one of the tallest structures in the ancient world and was ranked among the Seven Wonders of the World. Although the lighthouse no longer stands, visitors can still see the Citadel of Qaitbay, which was built on its site.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Ras el-Tin Palace – Ras el-Tin Palace is a beautiful palace that dates back to the 19th century. It was once a summer residence of the Egyptian royal family, and visitors can now wander through its beautiful gardens and admire the stunning architecture.

2. Kom el-Dikka – Kom el-Dikka is an archaeological site that dates back to the Roman period. Visitors can explore the remains of an ancient theater, a bathhouse, and a residential complex, all of which have been beautifully preserved.

3. Abou al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque – This beautiful mosque is located in the heart of Alexandria and is a popular spot for locals. Visitors can admire the stunning architecture, which features a mix of Islamic and Ottoman styles, and learn about the history of the mosque.

In conclusion, Alexandria is a beautiful city with a rich and fascinating history. Whether you are interested in ancient landmarks, cultural experiences, or culinary delights, you are sure to find something to love in this beautiful city. With this insider’s guide, you can explore the very best of Alexandria and create memories that will last a lifetime.