How to Plan Your Alexandria Day Tour From Cairo

Are you planning to visit Egypt’s second-largest city? Alexandria is a beautiful coastal town with a rich history and plenty of landmarks to explore. A full-day tour from Cairo to Alexandria is a perfect way to discover the city’s famous landmarks, such as the ancient Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa and the Alexandria Library. In this article, we will guide you on how to plan your Alexandria day tour from Cairo, from booking the tour to enjoying your day trip.

Booking the Tour

Before you head to Alexandria, you need to book your tour in advance. You can easily book your Alexandria day tour from Cairo through the Viator website. This day trip includes comfortable transfers from your hotel in Cairo or Giza, bottled water, entry tickets to the mentioned landmarks, and an English-speaking guide to escort you throughout the trip.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour starts with pickup from your hotel in Cairo or Giza at 07:00 AM. You need to select a pickup point from the available options while booking your tour. The tour is operated by Live Egypt, and they will confirm your booking and send you the exact pickup details via email. Make sure to be ready at the pickup point 15 minutes before the scheduled time.

What to Expect

Once you meet your guide at the pickup point, you will board a private, air-conditioned vehicle and head towards Alexandria. The journey takes about three hours, and you will reach Alexandria at around 10:00 AM. Throughout the day, your guide will take you to the following landmarks:

Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa

The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa is a complex of tombs that date back to the second century AD. The underground tombs are a beautiful blend of Roman and Egyptian art and architecture, and you will get a chance to explore them with the help of your guide.

Pompey’s Pillar

Pompey’s Pillar is a Roman triumphal column that stands tall in the middle of Alexandria. The column is about 25 meters high, and it is made of red granite. Your guide will take you on a tour of the pillar and tell you about its history.

Alexandria Library

Alexandria Library is one of the largest and most modern libraries in the world. The library’s architecture is a beautiful blend of ancient and modern styles, and it houses millions of books, manuscripts, and artifacts. You will get a chance to visit the library and explore its vast collection of books and artifacts.

What’s Included

The Alexandria day tour from Cairo includes the following:

• Transfers from your hotel (back and forth)
• Bottled water
• Mentioned entry tickets
• An English-speaking guide to escort you throughout the trip

Additional Info

Here are a few things you should keep in mind before booking your Alexandria day tour from Cairo:

• Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
• The tour is wheelchair accessible
• Infants must sit on laps
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund
• For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time
• If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
• Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted
• Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time

Conclusion

An Alexandria day tour from Cairo is an excellent way to explore this beautiful coastal city. From ancient tombs to modern libraries, the tour covers a lot of historical and cultural landmarks. By booking the tour in advance, you can avoid any last-minute hassle and enjoy your day trip to the fullest. To book the tour, click here and get ready for an unforgettable day trip.

A Local’s Guide to Alexandria: Discover Hidden Gems of Egypt’s Second City

Alexandria, Egypt’s second city, is often overshadowed by its flashy neighbor Cairo. However, those who take the time to explore Alexandria’s hidden gems will be rewarded with a unique and authentic experience. As a local, I am excited to share my insider’s guide to Alexandria, complete with off-the-beaten-path suggestions, cultural experiences and local history that will make your Alexandria day tour one to remember.

Local Attractions: Explore Alexandria’s Hidden Gems

While Alexandria’s most famous attractions, the Catacombs and Bibliotheca Alexandrina, are undoubtedly worth a visit, there are many other lesser-known hidden gems throughout the city. To experience the city’s authentic vibes, head to the vibrant neighborhood of Al Mansheya for a street art tour or the Greek Club for a beautiful view of the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors may also explore the ancient Serapeum or discover the elegant Montazah Palace that lies near the sea, surrounded by picturesque gardens and stunning seascapes.

Dining Spots: Savor the Unique Flavors of Alexandria

Alexandria’s culinary scene offers a vast array of delicious options ranging from the classical Egyptian ‘fatta’ and ‘koshari’ to the sumptuous seafood dishes that the coastal city is famous for. One restaurant you must visit is Mohamed Ahmed Restaurant and Grill, which serves up a famous lamb liver sandwich. Alexandrians also swear by Miami, known for its affordable seafood, and the award-winning Andrea restaurant set in Al-Gaish Rd. Visitors should consider the street food in the local markets or the traditional breakfast cafes to enjoy a hearty, authentic meal.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in Local Traditions and Festivals

One of the most fascinating aspects of Alexandria is its rich cultural diversity, from its ancient roots to its more modern heritage. Head to the Alexandria Opera House, which was built in 1921. Famous musicians and singers have performed on stage here, and this is considered to be the heart of music and art in the city. You may also learn about the art of belly dancing or watch a Sufi dance performance. In August, the city comes alive with the Bibliotheca Alexandrina’s yearly celebration, commemorating the Library of Alexandria’s reopening.

Local History: Discover Fascinating Stories From Alexandria’s Past

Alexandria has a rich and varied history, and it is arguably the most historically captivating city in Egypt. Admire the ancient citadel of Qaitbay constructed in 1477 A.D. as a defensive fortress to protect Alexandria against the Ottoman Empire’s invasion. Or visit Kom El Shoqafa, meaning Hill of Treasures, which is a fusion of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman cultures where visitors can find underground tombs. Don’t forget to explore the Alexandria National Museum, which showcases an extensive history of Alexandria’s past, starting from ancient Egypt to modern times.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions: Experience the Authentic Alexandria

To truly appreciate the beauty of Alexandria, visitors should go beyond its established tourist spots and indulge in unique experiences. Take a picturesque boat ride along the corniche, visit the iconic El Ibrahim Mosque, which is unique for its wooden minaret, or simply stroll through the Souq Hamidieh market for a unique shopping experience. Visitors may also experience the serenity of Alexandria’s parks, such as the Antoniadis Gardens or the charming Al Montazah Park, the Green Lung of Alexandria, and a favorite among the locals.

Alexandria may not be as glamorous as Cairo, but it is a city with an enormous amount of character and history. By taking this insider’s guide’s recommendations, visitors can experience the hidden gems that make Alexandria so unique. From authentic food to cultural experiences, there is something for everyone to indulge in. We hope this guide helps you prepare for a memorable Alexandria day trip.