How to Plan Your Cairo Day Tour to Alexandria
If you’re looking to get out of the hustle and bustle of Cairo and explore some of Egypt’s rich history, a day trip to Alexandria is a perfect option. Alexandria offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern-day cosmopolitan life, and with this day tour, you can experience it all. In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know to plan your Cairo day tour to Alexandria.Overview
This full-day tour from Cairo will take you on an interesting journey to Alexandria, Egypt’s second-largest city. You’ll visit the city’s most famous historical sites, such as the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, Pompey’s Pillar, and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. You’ll also get to explore the stunning Abu El Abbas Mosque and the ancient Roman theater. The tour includes lunch at a local restaurant, and pickup and drop-off at your Cairo accommodation. An expert tour guide will accompany you along the way, providing in-depth knowledge and commentary about each of the sites.What’s Included
- Pick up and drop off at your accommodation in Cairo
- Lunch
- Expert tour guide
- Entrance fee (optional to be selected)
- Extra 15 USD pick up from Airport Nasr City New Cairo 6th of October
- 20 USD per head pick up from the new administration capital
Meeting and Pickup
Your guide will meet you in the lobby of your accommodation in Cairo, holding a sign with the company name (Gem Explore Egypt). If you’re staying in a private apartment or a location that’s hard to find, your guide will meet you at the closest accessible location, such as a nearby hotel.What to Expect
During this tour, you’ll get to see some of Alexandria’s top attractions, including:1. Alexandria
First, you’ll visit the city of Alexandria itself. This city of nearly 5 million people is the second-largest in Egypt, and it’s famous for both its history and vibrant culture. Your guide will show you the highlights of the city and help you get a feel for the character and personality of Alexandria.2. Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa
Your next stop will be the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa. This ancient site, discovered in the 1900s, was used for hundreds of years as a burial chamber for members of a wealthy family. You’ll descend into the catacombs and see the impressive underground tombs, which include both Egyptian and Roman architecture.3. Pompey’s Pillar
After the catacombs, you’ll head to Pompey’s Pillar, one of Alexandria’s most recognizable landmarks. This ancient column, nearly 82 feet tall, was constructed in honor of the Roman emperor Diocletian in the 4th century AD.4. Bibliotheca Alexandrina
Next, you’ll visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the stunning modern library that’s home to millions of books and cultural artifacts. The library is modeled after the ancient Library of Alexandria, one of the world’s largest libraries of antiquity, which was destroyed centuries ago.5. Abu El Abbas Mosque
The Abu El Abbas Mosque is our next stop. This beautiful mosque, named after a 13th-century religious figure, is located on the site of an earlier mosque that dates back to the 7th century AD.6. Roman Theater
The last stop on your tour is the Roman theater. This ancient amphitheater, which was built in the 4th century AD, once held thousands of spectators who came to watch plays and musical performances.Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Most travelers can participate
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
- Operated by GEM Explore Egypt
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.Booking
Ready to book your Cairo day tour to Alexandria? Follow this link to book the tour here.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cairo, Egypt
Cairo, often referred to as the City of a Thousand Minarets, is a bustling metropolis and the capital of Egypt. It is one of the world’s oldest cities, with a rich history that dates back to the time of the pharaohs. Cairo is an important cultural and economic hub of the Arab world and attracts millions of visitors each year. In this FAQ, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the city of Cairo.1. What is the best time to visit Cairo?
The best time to visit Cairo is in the winter months (December to February) when the weather is mild and comfortable. During this time, the city experiences cool breezes, and the temperature ranges from 10 to 20°C. Summers in Cairo can be scorching, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C. If you plan to visit during this time, be prepared for the heat and humidity.2. How do I get around Cairo?
Cairo has a well-developed public transportation system, including a metro system, buses, and taxis. The metro system is the most convenient and affordable way to get around the city. The fares are low, and the trains are clean and reliable. Taxis are also readily available, but make sure to negotiate the fare before you get in. Uber and Careem are also widely available in Cairo.3. What are the top tourist attractions in Cairo?
Cairo is home to many famous landmarks and tourist attractions, including:- The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
- The Egyptian Museum
- The Citadel of Salah El Din
- Khan El-Khalili Bazaar
- The Mosque of Mohamed Ali
4. Is Cairo safe for tourists?
Cairo can be a safe city to visit, but it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in tourist areas, so it is advisable to keep your valuables in a safe place. It is also best to avoid demonstrations and protests and to be respectful of Egyptian culture and customs.5. What should I wear in Cairo?
Egypt is a conservative country with traditional Islamic dress codes. Women should dress modestly and cover their shoulders and knees when in public places. Men should also avoid wearing shorts in public. It is advisable to wear comfortable cotton clothing and a hat to protect against the sun.6. What is the local currency, and where can I exchange money?
The local currency in Egypt is the Egyptian pound (EGP). Exchanging money can be done at banks, exchange bureaus, and hotels. It is advisable to carry cash, as credit cards are not widely accepted outside of major hotels and tourist areas.7. What is the local language spoken in Cairo?
The official language of Egypt is Arabic. English is widely spoken in major tourist areas, as well as in many businesses and hotels.8. What is the local cuisine in Cairo?
Egyptian cuisine is a delightful combination of Middle Eastern flavors and traditional recipes. Some of the most popular Egyptian dishes include:- Koshari – a vegetarian dish made of rice, pasta, lentils, and tomato sauce
- Falafel – deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas
- Kebab – grilled meat skewers served with rice and salad
- Kofta – minced meatballs served with grilled vegetables
- Baba ghanoush – a dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, and garlic
9. What is the tipping culture in Cairo?
Tipping in Cairo is a common practice in many places, including restaurants, cafes, and hotels. The standard tip for good service is around 10-15% of the bill. It is also customary to tip hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides.10. What kind of souvenirs can I buy in Cairo?
Cairo is famous for its handcrafted souvenirs, including:- Papyrus scrolls – ancient Egyptian paper made from papyrus plants
- Spices – a variety of traditional spices used in Egyptian cuisine
- Alabaster – beautifully carved vases, bowls, and lamps made from translucent stone
- Perfume oils – traditional Egyptian perfumes in small glass bottles
- Textiles – colorful fabrics and clothing, including traditional Egyptian galabeyas
How to spend your time as a tourist in Cairo
Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is one of the most populous cities in the world and a hub of Egyptian civilization. The city is famous for its rich history, stunning architecture, and bustling markets. For tourists, the city offers a range of activities that can keep you busy throughout your stay. Here’s a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Cairo.Visit the Pyramids of Giza
The Pyramids of Giza are one of the most stunning sights in Cairo, and they are, without a doubt, the most famous attraction in the city. These ancient structures are a symbol of the greatness of Egyptian civilization and are easily accessible from the city center. The Pyramids are also one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, which makes them a must-visit attraction. The Great Pyramid of Giza is the largest of the three and stands as the oldest of the ancient wonders of the world.Explore the Egyptian Museum
The Egyptian Museum is home to some of the most significant collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world. The museum’s collection includes the treasures of King Tutankhamun, which were discovered in 1922. You can spend hours exploring the museum, learning about the history of the pharaohs and their dynasties.Take a Walk Down the Nile River
The Nile River is the longest river in the world, and it has played an essential role in Egypt’s history. You can enjoy a scenic walk down the river’s banks while taking in the breathtaking views of the city. The area around the Nile is full of cafes and restaurants where you can stop and enjoy a cup of coffee or a traditional Egyptian meal.Shop in Khan El Khalili Market
Khan El Khalili Market is a traditional Middle Eastern market that dates back to the 14th century. The market is an excellent place to shop for souvenirs, spices, and traditional Egyptian clothing. You can also enjoy a cup of tea and a shisha pipe while soaking in the market’s ambiance.Visit the Citadel of Salah al-Din
The Citadel of Salah al-Din is a massive fortress that has stood since the 12th century. The castle was built to protect the city from invaders and has played an essential role in Egypt’s history. Today, the citadel is a popular tourist attraction that offers stunning views of the city.Try Traditional Egyptian Food
Egyptian cuisine is known for its unique blend of spices and flavors. Cairo offers a range of traditional Egyptian dishes, including falafel, koshari, and ful medames. You can find these dishes at local restaurants and cafes throughout the city.Visit the Al-Azhar Mosque
Al-Azhar Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Cairo and serves as a center of Islamic learning. The mosque is a stunning example of Islamic architecture, and visitors can explore the mosque’s interior and surrounding gardens.Explore Islamic Cairo
Islamic Cairo is full of historic buildings, mosques, and markets that date back to the medieval period. You can explore the area’s narrow streets and alleyways while taking in the stunning architecture and vibrant culture.Take a Day Trip to Alexandria
Alexandria is a beautiful coastal city located a few hours north of Cairo. The city is famous for its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and unique architecture. You can take a day trip to Alexandria and explore the city’s many sights.Book Your Tour Now
Cairo is a city full of history, culture, and stunning attractions. Visitors to the city can enjoy a range of activities, including exploring ancient ruins, shopping in bustling markets, and enjoying traditional Egyptian food. With its rich history and vibrant culture, Cairo is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the wonders of Egypt.Table of Contents
