Alexandria Sightseeing
A full day on the Mediterranean — catacombs, a Roman pillar, a sea-girt citadel and the great modern library.
Overview
Alexander's city wears its Greco-Roman past lightly along a curving Mediterranean corniche. This full day takes in the underground Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, the towering Pompey's Pillar, the Citadel of Qaitbay built on the foundations of the legendary Pharos lighthouse, and the soaring modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina — heir to the ancient Library. A seafront seafood lunch comes with the territory. Private guide and transfers from Cairo.
Itinerary
Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa
Descend into the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, a multi-level Roman necropolis where Egyptian and classical styles blend in carved stone — one of antiquity's stranger marvels.
Pompey's Pillar
Visit Pompey's Pillar, the great Roman triumphal column rising from the ruins of the Serapeum, flanked by granite sphinxes.
Citadel of Qaitbay
Walk the sea walls of the Citadel of Qaitbay, raised on the very spot where the Pharos lighthouse — a wonder of the ancient world — once stood.
Bibliotheca Alexandrina & seafood lunch
Finish at the dramatic modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the reborn Library of Alexandria, after a relaxed seafood lunch on the Mediterranean front.
Included & not included
Included
- Private Egyptologist guide throughout
- Seafront seafood lunch
- All entrance fees to sites and monuments
- Lunch on each touring day
- Private air-conditioned transfers
- Hotel pickup & drop-off
- Bottled water every day
Not included
- International flights to and from Egypt
- Egypt entry visa
- Tipping (gratuities)
- Personal expenses
- Optional extras — Abu Simbel, camel rides, dinner cruise, drinks
Good to know
How long is the drive from Cairo?
Around two and a half to three hours each way on the desert road, which is why this is a long but rewarding full-day trip.
Can we visit by train instead?
Yes — for those who prefer it we can arrange the journey by train and meet you in Alexandria with your private guide and vehicle. Just ask.
Is the Bibliotheca Alexandrina worth it?
Very much so — its architecture alone is striking, and the building stands as a deliberate echo of the ancient Library that made the city famous.
Is this journey right for you?
- Travellers who prefer a private, guided experience
- Those with a deep interest in ancient history and culture
- Visitors who want a curated itinerary rather than self-guided travel
- Anyone seeking high-quality, professionally managed logistics
- Travellers seeking large group or coach tours
- Budget-focused independent backpackers
- Visitors looking primarily for nightlife or beach holidays
Preparation reading
Guides to help you prepare for this journey.
Egypt Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan a trip to Egypt — visa requirements, the best time to go, getting around, top destinations, culture and practical essentials.
Best Time to Visit Egypt
Egypt's best travel season is October to April, when Nile Valley temperatures are mild and monuments are comfortable to explore. Here is what to expect season by season and destination by destination.
Egyptian Food Guide
A practical guide to Egyptian cuisine — the dishes to seek out, how Egyptians eat, where to find the best food, and what to expect for dietary requirements.
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