An Alexandria day tour from Cairo is unique day out. With some of Egypt’s main tourists attractions, it’s worth adding a day tour to Alexandria.

The city is steeped in history and brimming with cultural treasures. It offers a captivating escape from the bustling metropolis of Cairo and is only a short 2.5 to 3 hours away by road. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, this ancient port city has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, leaving behind a legacy of architectural marvels and a unique blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences.

Why Alexandria is Unique

Alexandria feels a little different from other places in Egypt. Being right on the Mediterranean Sea has given this city a unique vibe lime no other.

Mix of Cultures: Over the centuries, people from all over – Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and many more – have lived here. This mix of cultures has created a special atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else in Egypt.
Sea Breezes and Fresh Seafood: The sea is everywhere! You can smell the salty air, enjoy delicious seafood, and take relaxing walks along the waterfront.
A Modern Feel: While you'll see ancient sites, Alexandria is also a modern city. You'll find bustling markets, lively cafes, and a more relaxed pace of life compared to Cairo.

It's this unique blend of history, culture, and coastal charm that makes Alexandria a truly special place to visit.

Why a Guided Tour is well worth it

While independent travel can be rewarding, navigating Alexandria alone can be challenging. Also, with a huge day to get through, navigating the city, let alone getting there in the first place can waste hours of much needed time. You’ll want to have well organised agenda that is streamlined to your needs so you don’t miss anything.

For this reason, guided day tours with Absolute Egypt Tours offers several advantages:

Small Group Tours: taking in other iconic cities including Cairo and Awsan, along with Nile cruises and the ancient temples of Luxor. For a more comprehensive tour, we love the White and Black Deserts.

Tailor Made Tours: Why not design your own adventure and do it your way with our Tailor Made Tours.

Expert Guidance: Our knowledgeable guides will provide insightful commentary on the historical and cultural significance of each site, enriching your understanding of Alexandria's past.

Efficient Itinerary: We will curate a well-planned itinerary, ensuring you see the most important attractions without wasting time.

Hassle-Free Travel: We will arrange comfortable transportation, eliminating the stress of navigating public transport or dealing with traffic.

Local Insights: Our guides can offer valuable local tips, such as where to find the best local cuisine, hidden gems, and insider knowledge.

Alexandria Day tour versus overnight stay

For a fast-paced adventure, an exhilarating day trip from Cairo is a big day out, but that’s the beauty of not having to drive, you can easy take a quick nap to and from. You can easily expect a 12 hour day if seeing at least 4 of the following attractions. That’s because drive time, Alexandria traffic, attraction time and lunch will all contribute to a full day.

To fully immerse yourself in the Alexandrian atmosphere, consider spending a night or two in the city. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the Corniche, indulge in fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, and explore the vibrant local markets. Plus, we can show you some worthy hotels right on the shoreline for easy access around the city.

For more Egypt travel tips, go to: Best Travel Tips for Egypt from a frequent traveller

Best Alexandria Attractions

Let’s take a look at some of the best highlights you can expect to see on a day tour. While you can potentially see them all, it will be extremely fast paced. I suggest no more than 3 to 4 in a day tour, otherwise consider overnight.

1. Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa:

The Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa are an ancient underground cemetery in Alexandria, Egypt. They were built around the 2nd century AD and are a mix of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman styles. Originally meant for a wealthy family, the catacombs later became a large public burial site.

Descend via a spiral staircase into a remarkable underground necropolis over 3 extraordinary levels. These catacombs have several levels of tombs and rooms where people were buried. Inside, you’ll see carvings and statues that combine Egyptian gods with Greek and Roman art, showing how different cultures influenced each other at the time.

Accidentally discovered in 1900, when a local man was riding his donkey in the area, the animal stumbled into a hole that led to the underground chambers. This unexpected event revealed one of the most significant archaeological finds in Alexandria.

After the initial discovery, archaeologists began exploring the site, uncovering the extensive network of tombs and burial chambers. The catacombs had been hidden for centuries, likely due to the gradual buildup of soil and debris over time. Their rediscovery provided valuable insights into the cultural blending of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman societies during the period when Alexandria was a major cultural hub.

2. Pompey's Pillar:

Standing tall at 26.85 meters (88 feet), Pompey's Pillar is a Roman triumphal column that dominates the skyline. The inscription on the column suggests it was erected in honor of Roman Emperor Diocletian and was considered to be one of the highest ancient monuments of its time.

Conveniently located only minutes from the Catacombs, adding a stop here is not only convenient but worth while. Climb the steps for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.

3. Roman Amphitheatre

The Roman Amphitheatre in Alexandria, Egypt, is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing thousands of visitors each year.

This ancient structure, dating back to the 2nd century AD, is the only Roman amphitheatre found in Egypt. Originally, it could seat around 800 spectators, and it was used for various performances, including musical concerts, lectures, and public events. The amphitheatre is made of white and grey marble, featuring 13 tiers of seating and an impressive design that showcases Roman architectural ingenuity.

For tourists, the site offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the grandeur of Roman entertainment. Visitors can walk through the well-preserved ruins, explore the open-air seating, and even stand on the stage where performers once entertained ancient audiences. The amphitheatre is part of a larger archaeological park that includes Roman baths, villas, and mosaics, providing a comprehensive glimpse into Alexandria’s Roman past

4. Qaitbay Citadel

Perched on a rocky promontory overlooking the Mediterranean, the Qaitbay Citadel is a majestic fortress built in the 15th century by the Mamluk Sultan Qaitbay. This impressive structure was built on the ruins of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World damaged by earthquakes.

Qaitbay built the fortress to protect the city from potential invasions by the Ottoman Empire and other enemies. The citadel is made of large stone blocks and has thick walls designed to withstand attacks. It has a square shape with towers at each corner and a large central tower, which offers a great view of the sea and the city.

Over the centuries, the fortress has seen many changes. It was used by different rulers and armies, including the Ottomans and the British. Today, the Citadel of Qaitbay is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the fortress, learn about its history, and enjoy the beautiful views of the Mediterranean.

5. Montazah Gardens

A stop at Montazah Gardens is the perfect way to escape the city.

Imagine a place where Egyptian royalty used to spend their summers. The Montazah Gardens are also made up of Palaces, but unfortunately, you can't go inside them. They are still used by the Egyptian government. However, you can definitely admire them from the outside where you'll see their beautiful architecture and imagine the royal families who once lived there.

The expansive royal gardens, with their lush greenery, vibrant flowerbeds, and elegant palaces, offer a peaceful retreat. Stroll along the waterfront promenade and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.

6. Bibliotheca Alexandrina

A modern marvel, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina stands as a testament to the city's rich intellectual past.

This state-of-the-art library houses millions of books, manuscripts, and digital resources. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is more than just a library; it's a symbol of Egypt's rich intellectual past. This impressive building, with its sloping granite facade, is a striking sight. It's designed to resemble a vast disc, symbolizing the sun and knowledge.

Explore the impressive reading rooms, visit the planetarium, and delve into the interactive exhibits that showcase the history of knowledge and learning.

More Alexandria Things to see

Corniche: Take a leisurely stroll along the Corniche, a scenic coastal promenade that offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, watch the world go by, and savor the fresh sea breeze.

Local Markets: Explore the vibrant local markets, such as the Souk El Attarine (Perfume Market) and the Souk Tutun (Tobacco Market), where you can find a plethora of souvenirs, spices, handicrafts, and local delicacies.

Seafood Restaurants: Indulge in fresh seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants. Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with dishes like grilled fish, calamari, and shrimp, all while enjoying the scenic views.

Further reading: 18 Best street foods and cuisines in Egypt to try

Weather in Alexandria

Alexandria enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot, dry summers. Here's a general overview of the weather throughout the year:

Spring (March-May): Pleasant temperatures, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Summer (June-August): Hot and dry with high temperatures.

Autumn (September-November): Warm and comfortable with pleasant evenings.

Winter (December-February): Mild temperatures with occasional rain.

Further Reading: Best time to visit Egypt - Summer or Winter?

Join a tour or go fully tailor made with a private tour

A day to Alexandria can be a educational and fun day out. Pair it other iconic sites such as Pyramids of Giza, a Nile Cruise, and Valley of the Kings, and you have yourself an incredible adventure.

Experience the magic of Alexandria with Absolute Egypt Tours. Our knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and well-planned itineraries will ensure a memorable and enriching journey through time.

Book Your Alexandria Day Tour, multi night stay or Small Group Tour - with Absolute Egypt Tours Today!

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