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Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo | Private Mediterranean Tour

1 days$0/ per person
  • Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa
  • Pompey's Pillar
  • the Serapeum
  • Citadel of Qaitbay
  • Seafood lunch on the harbour
  • Roman Amphitheatre at Kom el-Dikka
  • Roman theatre in Egypt
  • Graeco-Roman Museum
  • Bibliotheca Alexandrina
Discover Alexandria, Egypt's Historic Mediterranean Capital Escape the busy streets of Cairo and travel north to Alexandria, Egypt's beautiful Mediterranean city. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, Alexandria became one of the most important cities of the ancient Mediterranean and a major center of learning, culture, science and commerce. Today, the city combines ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Christian, Islamic and modern Mediterranean influences. On this private full-day Alexandria tour from Cairo, explore some of the city's most fascinating historical landmarks, including the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, Pompey's Pillar, Qaitbay Citadel and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina area. Travel comfortably in a private air-conditioned vehicle accompanied by your private Egyptologist, who will explain Alexandria's extraordinary history throughout the day.
Book Your Private Alexandria Day Trip Discover the Mediterranean side of Egypt on an unforgettable private journey from Cairo. Explore the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, stand beside Pompey's Pillar, visit the historic Qaitbay Citadel, experience the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, and enjoy the atmosphere of Alexandria's Mediterranean waterfront. Book your private Alexandria day trip from Cairo and discover one of Egypt's most fascinating cities.

Tour Overview

Country

Egypt

Duration

1 days

Starts

Hotel

Ends

Hotel

Age Range

6 – 99

Arrival Transfer

Yes

Departure Transfer

Yes

Tour Guide

English speaking Guide

Hotel Rating

Meals Included

Optional Lunch

Tour Style

Tour Style

Liesure & Cultural

Trip Type

Private

Guiding Style

Fully Guided

Tour Pace2/5
Physical Rating3/5

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

  • First-time visitors to Egypt
  • Couples & Families
  • Ancient civilization enthusiasts
  • Travelers interested in Greek and Roman Egypt
  • Travelers looking for a Mediterranean experience
  • Visitors who want to explore beyond the pyramids

Trip Map

Route line appearance

Tour Highlights

• Explore Alexandria, the Mediterranean Capital of Egypt • Discover the ancient Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa • Visit Pompey's Pillar • See the historic Qaitbay Citadel • Visit the area of the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina • Drive along Alexandria's Mediterranean Corniche • Enjoy the atmosphere of Egypt's Mediterranean coast • Taste fresh seafood at an optional local restaurant • Travel with a private Egyptologist • Enjoy private door-to-door transportation from Cairo

Itinerary

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  1. Alexandria in a Day — The Mediterranean Capital
    Tour Overview Enjoy a private day trip from Cairo to Alexandria and discover the archaeological and cultural treasures of Egypt's Mediterranean coast. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience a different side of Egypt beyond the pyramids and ancient temples of Upper Egypt.
    Tour Details • Duration: Full Day • Departure: Cairo or Giza • Destination: Alexandria • Tour Type: Private • Transportation: Private air-conditioned vehicle • Guide: Private English-speaking Egyptologist • Meals: Optional lunch • Pickup: Cairo or Giza hotel • Return: Cairo or Giza hotel • Distance: Approximately 220 km from Cairo • Suitable For: Couples, families, first-time visitors, history lovers and repeat visitors to Egypt
    Detailed Itinerary Morning – Pickup from Cairo Your private driver and Egyptologist will meet you at your hotel in Cairo or Giza in the morning. Begin your journey north toward Alexandria. The drive takes you from Egypt's capital through the Nile Delta toward the Mediterranean coast. Along the way, your Egyptologist can introduce you to the history of Alexandria and explain why the city became such an important center of the ancient world.
    Alexandria – The Mediterranean CapitalA City Founded by Alexander the Great Arrive in Alexandria and begin exploring this fascinating Mediterranean city. Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC and developed under the Ptolemaic dynasty into one of the greatest cities of the ancient Mediterranean. The city became famous for its intellectual and cultural achievements and was associated with two legendary monuments of the ancient world: • The Great Library of Alexandria • The Pharos Lighthouse Although these ancient monuments no longer survive in their original form, their legacy remains an important part of Alexandria's identity. Your Egyptologist will explain how Greek, Egyptian and later Roman influences shaped the city.
    Catacombs of Kom El ShoqafaExplore Alexandria's Underground Necropolis Your first archaeological stop is the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, one of Alexandria's most fascinating ancient sites. Discovered in the early 20th century, the underground complex contains tombs and chambers dating primarily to the Roman period. The site is particularly interesting because its architecture and decoration combine Egyptian, Greek and Roman influences. This mixture reflects the multicultural character of ancient Alexandria. What You Will Discover As you explore the catacombs, your Egyptologist will explain: • Ancient Egyptian funerary traditions • Greek influence on Alexandria • Roman-era Alexandria • Egyptian religious symbolism • Burial customs • The combination of different artistic traditions The decorations provide a fascinating example of how different cultures interacted in ancient Egypt.
    Pompey's PillarOne of Alexandria's Most Famous Ancient Landmarks Continue to Pompey's Pillar, one of Alexandria's best-known archaeological monuments. The enormous red granite column stands among the remains of the ancient Serapeum. Despite its traditional name, the column was not actually erected in honor of the Roman general Pompey. Your guide will explain the monument's real historical background and its relationship with the ancient city. The surrounding archaeological area also provides an opportunity to see remains of ancient Alexandria beyond the city's more famous coastal landmarks.
    Qaitbay CitadelVisit the Fortress Beside the Mediterranean Continue to the impressive Qaitbay Citadel, one of Alexandria's most recognizable landmarks. The fortress was constructed during the 15th century by Sultan Qaitbay and occupies a strategic position on the Mediterranean shore. The location is traditionally associated with the site of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The Pharos Lighthouse The ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria was one of the most famous structures of the ancient world. It helped guide ships into Alexandria's harbor and became an enduring symbol of the city's importance. Although the lighthouse was eventually destroyed by earthquakes, the Qaitbay Citadel now occupies this historic waterfront location. Inside and around the fortress, enjoy views of the Mediterranean and Alexandria's coastline.
    Bibliotheca AlexandrinaSee the Modern Library of Alexandria Continue to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the modern cultural institution inspired by the legendary ancient Library of Alexandria. The contemporary building has become one of Alexandria's most recognizable landmarks. Your guide will explain the connection between the modern library and the ancient intellectual tradition that made Alexandria famous throughout the Mediterranean world. Depending on opening hours, ticket availability and your selected itinerary, an interior visit can be arranged as an optional addition.
    Alexandria CornicheEnjoy the Mediterranean Atmosphere Take a scenic drive along Alexandria's famous Corniche. Enjoy views of the Mediterranean Sea and experience the city's distinctive coastal atmosphere. The Corniche is one of the best places to appreciate the contrast between Alexandria's ancient history and its modern Mediterranean identity. Take photographs, enjoy the sea views and see some of the city's historic and modern neighborhoods.
    Optional Seafood LunchTaste Alexandria's Mediterranean Cuisine Alexandria is famous for its seafood. You can enjoy an optional lunch at a local restaurant featuring fresh fish, seafood and Egyptian specialties. Vegetarian and other dietary preferences can be requested in advance. Your guide can recommend a restaurant according to your preferences and budget.
    Free Time in AlexandriaDepending on your schedule, you may have some free time to enjoy the city, take photographs or experience the waterfront. Your private guide can also suggest additional stops if time permits.
    Optional Services Enhance your Alexandria day trip with optional services: • Seafood lunch • Bibliotheca Alexandrina interior visit • Additional archaeological sites • Private guide in another language • Professional photography assistance • Private vehicle upgrade • Additional free time in Alexandria • Special dietary arrangements
    Return to CairoAfter completing your Alexandria sightseeing, begin the journey back to Cairo in your private air-conditioned vehicle. Relax during the drive back through the Nile Delta. Upon arrival in Cairo or Giza, you will be transferred directly to your hotel.
    The History of AlexandriaAlexandria is unlike any other major destination in Egypt. While Cairo is famous for the pyramids and medieval Islamic heritage, and Luxor is famous for its pharaonic temples and tombs, Alexandria offers a fascinating combination of Mediterranean, Greek, Roman, Egyptian and modern Egyptian history. Ancient Alexandria Founded by Alexander the Great, Alexandria quickly became a major center of the Hellenistic world. Under the Ptolemaic dynasty, the city developed into a major political, commercial and intellectual center. Roman Alexandria After Egypt became part of the Roman world, Alexandria remained one of the Mediterranean's most important cities. The city's catacombs and archaeological remains provide evidence of this multicultural period. Medieval Alexandria The city's strategic Mediterranean location continued to make it important during the Islamic period. The construction of the Qaitbay Citadel reflects Alexandria's continued importance as a defensive and maritime center. Modern Alexandria Today, Alexandria remains one of Egypt's most important coastal cities. Its cafés, seafood restaurants, Corniche, beaches and Mediterranean atmosphere make it a popular destination for both Egyptians and international visitors.
    Suggested Tour Schedule A typical schedule may look like: 06:30 — Cairo hotel pickup 06:30–09:30 — Desert Road to Alexandria Roughly 220 km 09:45 — Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa-60 minutes. 11:00 — Pompey's Pillar and the Serapeum-40 minutes. 12:00 — Citadel of Qaitbay-45 minutes 13:15 — Seafood lunch on the harbour-75 minutes. 16:15 — Bibliotheca Alexandrina-45 minutes. 17:00 — Corniche drive and departure 20:00–20:30 Hotel drop-off in Cairo around
    Overnight:
    Your Hotel
    Meals:
    Optional Lunch
    Visit:
    Catacomb Pompy Pillar Qaitbay citadel
    Entrance Fees:
    $40

    Arrival flight for Day 1

    Book to land in time for the first day of the tour.

    TLV → CAI · pick your date

    Skyscanner Kayak Refine on our Flights page
  2. Additional Info
    Two Operational Warnings That Will Make or Break This Tour Friday closures the Bibliotheca Alexandrina is closed on Fridays (Bibliotheca Alexandrina). Saturday hours are also short the official site lists Saturday and Sunday 10:00 to 14:00, with Monday to Thursday 10:00 to 18:00, while other official pages list Sunday to Thursday 10:00 to 19:00 with museums and visit tours closing at 17:00 (Bibliotheca Alexandrina working hours). The Graeco-Roman Museum is also reported closed Fridays by some sources while the ministry booking page lists Friday hours (Audiala, Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities). Your rule: run a separate Friday itinerary that substitutes Montazah Gardens and the Royal Jewellery Museum for the library and the Graeco-Roman Museum, and state the substitution on the booking page. Reconfirm both sites weekly with your Alexandria handler — the published hours genuinely conflict across sources, including official ones.
    Cost Build (per adult, 2026 published rates) Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa 200 EGP (~$4) Pompey's Pillar / Serapeum 200 EGP (~$4) Citadel of Qaitbay 200 EGP (~$4) Roman Amphitheatre, Kom el-Dikka 200 EGP (~$4) Bibliotheca — inclusive ticket 300 EGP (~$6) Main library 150 EGP alone; inclusive adds Antiquities + Manuscripts museums Graeco-Roman Museum 400 EGP (~$8) Alexandria National Museum 200 EGP (~$4) Optional Royal Jewellery Museum 220 EGP (~$4.50) Optional Children 6–12 at 60% of adult; under 6 free at most sites. Add-on Guest price guide Graeco-Roman Museum $18 Royal Jewellery Museum $15 Montazah Palace Gardens (replaces two downtown stops) $12 Sunset extension on the Corniche with return after dark $25 Guest Brief for the Confirmation Email
    • Early start, roughly 5–6 hours of to tal driving, 6–7 hours on the ground
    • Comfortable walking shoes; the catacombs involve a deep spiral staircase
    • Alexandria is noticeably cooler and windier than Cairo — bring a light layer, especially at Qaitbay on the harbour
    • Sun protection; the Corniche and citadel are fully exposed
    • Modest dress, though Alexandria is more relaxed than Middle Egypt
    • Mobile-phone photography is free at ministry sites; tripods and professional gear may incur a small fee
    • Card payment is standard at all sites; carry small EGP notes only for restrooms and tips
    • Not recommended for guests with serious back or heart conditions, or in late pregnancy, due to the catacomb descent and the long drive
    Season Year-round, and this is the key commercial advantage over your Giza and Minya products. Alexandria's Mediterranean climate makes it comfortable when Middle Egypt is unsellable — position it as your summer flagship from June through August, exactly when the Amarna product closes. Winter brings rain and genuine storms on the Corniche, so hold the National Museum in reserve as a wet-weather substitute.

    Return flight after Day 2

    Departure flights for the last day of your itinerary.

    CAI → TLV · pick your date

    Skyscanner Kayak Refine on our Flights page

Nights You Will Stay

Extended your tour stayIf you wish to enjoy more time at your destination, extending your hotel stay or add hotel in Luxor or Aswan is easy. Notify Us Early. Inform us so we can check availability and secure your room for the additional nights with extra payment.

Meals

Optional Egyptian LunchBetween your sightseeing, enjoy an optional lunch at a local restaurant. Choose from traditional Egyptian and oriental cuisine, international dishes or vegetarian options. Your guide can recommend a restaurant according to your preferences. Seafood Lunch Enhance your Alexandria tour experience with an optional lunch at one of the city’s charming local restaurants. Enjoy a selection of authentic Mediterranean and Egyptian dishes featuring fresh seafood, traditional mezze, and flavorful local specialties. Enjoy freshly grilled fish, shrimp, calamari, and other seafood specialties while overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Complement your meal with classic Egyptian flavors such as garlic sauce, lemon, and herbs, or indulge in regional favorites like Samak Mashwi (grilled fish) or Sayadeya (spiced fish with rice). A seafood lunch in Alexandria is more than a meal—it’s a cultural experience that combines delicious cuisine with breathtaking coastal views, perfect for enhancing your day of sightseeing.

Included

  • Lunch: Optional Sea Food

What Makes This Tour Special?

Explore the Mediterranean Alexandria Capital of Egypt stands as a vibrant fusion of ancient history and modern Mediterranean charm. Iconic Historical Sites → From the mysterious Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, a rare underground necropolis blending Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences, to the towering Pompey’s Pillar, one of the largest ancient Roman columns ever built, Alexandria showcases wonders found nowhere else. Fortress and Legacy → Discover the Citadel of Qaitbay, a formidable 15th-century fortress built on the site of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, once a wonder of the ancient world. Culture and Relaxation → Alexandria offers an experience distinct from Cairo and Luxor—where history meets the sea, and travelers enjoy both ancient monuments and vibrant local life. This tour is perfect for those seeking a culturally rich, scenic, and less crowded destination in Egypt.

What's included & what's not

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Included (3/3)

Not included (0 added)

Pricing

Essentials

  • Group departure

Signature

  • Small group (max 8)

Luxury

  • Private Guide & Driver

Additional Extras

Sound and light show

in Egypt are night events held at famous historical sites like the Giza Pyramids, Karnak Temple, and Philae Island

A Nile River dinner cruise

in Egypt is a 2 to 3 hour evening excursion featuring an open buffet, live music, cultural performances belly dancing and Tanoura shows

An optional lunch buffet

Usually features local or traditional dishes, side items, and fruits, though specialized diets (like strict vegan or allergen-free)

Good To Know

What does this Alexandria day tour include?+
Round-trip private transport by car, a licensed Egyptologist guide, entrance fees to four key sites, bottled water, seaside lunch, and hotel pickup/drop-off in Cairo.

What is the best time of year for this tour?+
October to April is ideal for mild weather. Summer can be hot and humid, making midday sightseeing less comfortable.
Can families with children join this tour?+
Yes, it is family-friendly with easy access to sites and engaging storytelling for all ages.

Is this tour suitable for families and first-time visitors?+
Yes, it suits solo travelers, couples, and families with flexible pacing. First-time visitors get a comprehensive overview of Alexandria's main landmarks.

How long is this tour and when does it start?+
The tour lasts 12 hours, including about 2.5 to 3 hours driving each way. Pickup is in the morning from Cairo hotels, with return in early evening.
What sites or experiences does this tour cover?
+
Visits to the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, Pompey's Pillar, Citadel of Qaitbay, and Bibliotheka Alexandrina, in that order, with a seaside lunch between stops.

Send Inquiry

About this tour

Additional information

Confirmation

You receive written confirmation by email once your booking is accepted, usually within 24 hours.

Documents

A valid passport with at least 6 months' validity is required. We advise on visas for Egypt and Jordan before travel.

Pick-up

Hotel pick-up and drop-off in the tour city is included; we confirm your exact pick-up time the evening before.

Group size

Private departures run for your party only. Small-group departures are capped so everyone hears the guide.

Accessibility

Some archaeological sites involve uneven ground, steps and heat. Tell us about mobility needs and we adapt the pace.

Children

Family friendly. Child rates and car seats are available on request; infants usually travel free.

What to bring

Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, modest clothing for religious sites and cash for tips.

Insurance

Travel insurance covering medical care and cancellation is strongly recommended and is not included in the tour price.

Cancellation & refund policy

30 days or more before departure

100% refund

15 – 29 days before departure

50% refund

14 days or less before departure

No refund

  • • Cancellations must be sent in writing to explore@exploreplus.net; the date we receive your email is the cancellation date.
  • • Approved refunds are returned to the original payment method within 14 working days.
  • • Third-party costs already paid on your behalf (domestic flights, Nile cruise cabins, special-event tickets, visas) are non-refundable once issued.
  • • Date changes requested 15 days or more before departure are free of charge, subject to availability; inside 14 days they are treated as a cancellation.
  • • If we have to cancel your tour for reasons within our control, you receive a full refund or a free date change — your choice.

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