Giza , Egypt

Private From Cairo: Alexandria Day Trip

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(46 reviews)

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Behold historical Alexandria, Egypt’s second-largest city on this full-day tour from Cairo. Travel to this beautiful Mediterranean coastal city, founded by Alexander the Great in 312 BC, to learn more about how it served as Egypt’s capital for nearly 1,000 years. Explore the spooky Roman catacombs of Kom ash-Shuqqafa; see medieval Fort Qaitbey where Alexandria’s fabled lighthouse once stood; and marvel at the new Alexandria Library, a disc-shaped wonder that honors the ancient library. Lastly, visit the National Museum, where Greek, Roman and medieval displays chart the city’s tumultuous past.

Available options

Private Cairo: Alexandria Day Trip

What's included

Entrance fees to the Library

Local guide

Entrance fees to the National Museum

Entrance fees to the catacombs

Transportation

Local Lunch in Alexandria

Detailed itinerary

Are you ready for an awe-inspiring day? Then let's get to it! Alexandria is one of the world's most impressive historical cities, and certainly a must-see in Egypt, so if you're thinking about doing this day tour from Cairo...what are you waiting for?! It'll take us about a three hour drive from Cairo before our day tour of Alexandria will truly begin, and where better to kick it off than the Catacombs of Kom Ash-Suqqafa. One of the world's largest Roman burial sites, the Catacombs are one of Alexandria's most popular attractions. Watch your head as you descend into a network of underground passages, tombs, and antechambers via aspiral staircase over a three-level labyrinth (seriously cool, isn't it?!).

Dozens of chambers with sculpted pillars and statues await your curiosity, as well as a large Roman-style banquet room, where relatives of the deceased traditionally hosted memorial meals.

Our next stop is the National Museum, home to Greek and Roman era masterpiece ruins discovered under the water on the shores of Alexandria. Super impressive old stuff right here!

We will enjoy an Egyptian local lunch , Alexandria is famous for its fresh sea food (vegetarian and other dietaries will be accommodated).

After lunch we will head to the former site of the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the seven ancient wonders of the world. Although the lighthouse is no longer standing, atop its ruins lie the Citadel of Qaitbay, a defensive fortress built in the 15th century. Designed as a defence along the Mediterranean coastline, the Citadel offers extensive views, fresh Mediterranean air, and a supreme sense of historical significance.

Our final stop in Alexandria day tour will be the Alexandria Library. Nerd time! Inspired by the original great library of Alexandria, the modern library was built to hold over eight million books. Built between 1995 and 2002, it covers 11 cascading levels and although it has not yet reached its capacity, it's an impressive homage to the ancient splendour of Alexandria. Pick your jaws up off the ground and explore!

As one of Egypt’s most historically significant cities, Alexandria really is a must-see for history and culture buffs. We have no doubt it will leave you enriched, impressed, and perhaps a little awe-struck.

Following recent safety incidents we recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest information on travelling in Egypt before your departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all areas of your itinerary.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

13 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

33 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

We can accommodate vegetarians. Please notify us in advance if you have any dietary requests.

Following recent safety incidents we recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest information on travelling in Egypt before your departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all areas of your itinerary. We have links to prominent government travel advisories and regular updates on issues affecting this trip on our Travel Alerts page.

This is a child-friendly tour. Children under the age of 6 are permitted to join this tour free of charge.

Meeting point

Pharaohs Hotel, 12 Lotfy Hassouna, St, Dokki, Giza Governorate

Important notes

Dress Code
Please dress modestly yet considering the heat. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and light fabrics like cotton are advisable.

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About Giza

Giza, home to the iconic Great Pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx, is a city steeped in ancient history and modern intrigue. Just a short distance from Cairo, Giza offers a blend of ancient wonders and bustling urban life, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.

Top Attractions

Great Pyramids of Giza

The iconic Great Pyramids, including the Pyramid of Khufu, Pyramid of Khafre, and Pyramid of Menkaure, are the last standing wonders of the ancient world.

Historical Half day to full day Moderate (Entrance fees apply)

Great Sphinx of Giza

The enigmatic Sphinx, with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, is a symbol of ancient Egypt and a must-see attraction.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (Entrance fees apply)

Solar Boat Museum

This museum houses the reconstructed solar boat of Pharaoh Khufu, discovered near the Great Pyramid.

Historical 1 hour Moderate (Entrance fees apply)

Saqqara

Saqqara is an ancient burial ground and home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt.

Historical Half day to full day Moderate (Entrance fees apply)

Dahshur

Dahshur is an ancient royal necropolis featuring the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, both built by Pharaoh Sneferu.

Historical Half day to full day Moderate (Entrance fees apply)

Camel Market

The Camel Market is a unique and bustling market where you can see and buy camels, as well as experience traditional Egyptian commerce.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (Purchases extra)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Koshari

A hearty dish made with lentils, rice, pasta, chickpeas, and fried onions, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and garlic vinegar.

Dinner Vegetarian

Ful Medames

A traditional breakfast dish made from slow-cooked fava beans, often served with tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil.

Breakfast Vegan

Grilled Kofta

Spiced minced meat (usually lamb or beef) shaped into sausages and grilled to perfection.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Molokhia

A green leafy vegetable soup, often served with chicken or rabbit and eaten with bread.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian (if made without meat)

Popular Activities

Hot air balloon rides over the pyramids Quad biking in the desert Spa treatments Beach visits in Alexandria Visiting museums and historical sites Attending traditional Egyptian performances Boat tours on the Nile Visiting historical sites during the cooler months

Best Time to Visit

October to April

This period offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperatures are mild, making it ideal for exploring the ancient sites.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Egyptian Pound (EGP)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Giza is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Avoid accepting help from strangers, especially at tourist sites.
• Use reputable tour companies and guides.

Getting there

By air

Cairo International Airport • 25 km from Giza

By train

Giza Station

By bus

Giza Bus Station, Downtown Cairo Terminals

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Giza. They are affordable but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Careem

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Pyramids Road Downtown Giza Haram

Day trips

Cairo

20 km • Half day to full day

Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a vibrant city with a rich history and numerous attractions, including the Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo, and Coptic Cairo.

Saqqara

20 km • Half day to full day

Saqqara is an ancient burial ground and home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt.

Dahshur

30 km • Half day to full day

Dahshur is an ancient royal necropolis featuring the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, both built by Pharaoh Sneferu.

Festivals

Cairo International Film Festival • November (dates vary) Eid al-Fitr • End of Ramadan (dates vary) Coptic Christmas • January 7

Pro tips

Hire a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the ancient sites and their significance.
Visit the pyramids early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the intense heat.
Bargain politely but firmly when shopping at markets and souks.
Carry small bills and coins for easier transactions, as change can be hard to come by.
Learn a few basic Arabic phrases to enhance your interaction with locals and show respect for their culture.