2 Days in Alexandria , El Alamein From Cairo

Discovering Alexandria & El Alamein in Two Days: An Honest Review of the Cairo to Coast Experience

Traveling from Cairo to Alexandria and El Alamein offers a chance to see Egypt’s coastal charm and its pivotal battle sites. This 2-day, 1-night tour promises a blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty—all wrapped in a private, comfortable package. With an overall rating of 5.0 based on one reviewer—who described it as “convenient and comfortable”—this experience seems tailored for those who want a personalized and hassle-free journey.

What we love about this tour is the carefully curated itinerary that combines historical marvels like Roman catacombs and ancient fortresses, with relaxing moments in lush gardens and seaside views. The inclusion of a local seafood lunch adds a delicious, authentic touch. Plus, the expert guides speak your language, making complex history accessible.

One possible consideration is the long drive times, especially the roughly three hours from Cairo to Alexandria and the nearly 90-minute trip to El Alamein. This makes for a packed schedule, so travelers should be comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and some vehicle time.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, culturally curious travelers, and those eager for a comfortable, all-inclusive experience without the stress of planning every detail. It’s especially suitable for small groups or individuals who appreciate personalized service and insightful guides.

Key Points

• Private, hassle-free experience with hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport
• Rich historical sites like Roman catacombs, Roman amphitheater, and Qaitbay Citadel
• Cultural insights provided by knowledgeable Egyptologist guides
• Scenic coastal views at Montazah Palace and the Mediterranean Sea
• Comprehensive battlefield tour at El Alamein, including cemeteries and military museum
• Value for money with entrance fees, two lunches, and hotel accommodation included

A Close Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Cairo to Alexandria

Your adventure begins with a comfortable private vehicle pickup from your Cairo hotel. The three-hour drive might sound long, but it’s a chance to relax and absorb some Egyptian scenery—think bustling highways, local towns, and glimpses of the Nile delta.

The first stop, the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, offers a peek into Greco-Roman burial practices. Discovered by accident in 1900, these rock-cut tombs are the largest Roman cemetery in Egypt and are known for their intricate carvings and subterranean tunnels. Visitors often comment on the eerie yet fascinating atmosphere of walking through these ancient chambers, with some noting the blend of Egyptian and Greco-Roman styles that make the site unique.

Next up is the Roman Amphitheater, which, although partially sunken, displays remnants of Alexandria’s Roman era. It’s a compact site but rich with history. A quick drive-by past Pompey’s Pillar offers a photo opportunity—this towering red granite column stands as a memorial to Roman achievements.

The highlight of the day is the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern marvel paying homage to the ancient library. It holds around 8 million books, and the building itself is visually striking with its contemporary architecture. Visitors can explore the reading halls, visit the Alexandria Museum, and get a sense of the city’s intellectual history. The President Sadat Museum adds a political layer, showcasing Egypt’s recent history.

Lunchtime at a local restaurant provides a chance to sample traditional Egyptian cuisine, with fresh seafood being a common highlight, given Alexandria’s coastal location. Reviewers mention the quality of the food, making this meal a memorable part of the trip.

Day 2: Fort Qaitbay & Battlefield of El Alamein

After breakfast and a hotel pickup, your day begins with a visit to Abo Al Abbas Mosque, the largest in the city. Its impressive dome and minarets are a visual treat, and the guide will likely share insights into its religious and cultural significance.

Next is the Qaitbay Citadel, built on the same site as the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders. The fortress’s sturdy walls and strategic location on the Mediterranean coast make it a must-see. Visitors consistently remark on the outstanding views inside and outside the fort, perfect for photos and soaking in the history.

A walk through Montazah Park and the Royal Gardens of King Farouk offers a tranquil break. The gardens are landscaped beautifully, with expansive lawns, palm trees, and sea views—ideal for a leisurely stroll and some photos of the royal palaces, even from the outside.

The afternoon takes you on a 90-minute drive to El Alamein, the site of a key WWII battle. Here, you’ll visit cemeteries of Commonwealth, Italian, and German soldiers, paying respects in a profoundly moving environment. The military museum exhibits memorabilia, weapons, and uniforms—offering a tangible connection to history. Reviewers note that the collection of artifacts brings the battlefield to life, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Comfortable Transportation & Personal Service

The tour’s private air-conditioned vehicle ensures a smooth ride, with the flexibility to adjust pacing slightly if needed. Being a private experience, it’s tailored to your interests and pace, avoiding the rush of larger group tours.

Expert, Language-Speaking Guides

The guides are described as knowledgeable and fluent in your language, often sharing intriguing stories and historical context that you might miss if exploring alone. One reviewer appreciated the personalized experience that made the history lessons accessible and engaging.

A Perfect Balance of History & Leisure

While the itinerary is packed, it balances historical exploration with relaxing moments in gardens and seaside views. The inclusion of two lunches at local restaurants adds an authentic culinary touch, often highlighted as a favorite part of the experience.

Value for Money

At $320 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, two lunches, and accommodation, which is a solid deal considering the scope of activities, transportation, and guides. The 1-night hotel stay in Alexandria on a bed-and-breakfast basis** provides a comfortable base without additional expense.

Authentic Cultural Experiences

From the Roman catacombs to the royal gardens, and the battlefield cemeteries, the tour offers a broad spectrum of Egypt’s coastal and military history—delivering a well-rounded snapshot of the region.

Potential Drawbacks & Considerations

While the tour covers a lot, the long drives—particularly the nearly three hours from Cairo to Alexandria and the 90-minute route to El Alamein—may be tiring for some travelers. It’s best suited for those comfortable with vehicle travel and full days of sightseeing.

Also, the packed schedule means there’s limited time at each site, so if you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace, consider this when booking.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Alexandria and El Alamein tour offers a compelling mix of history, culture, and scenery—all within a convenient private package. The inclusion of notable sites, expert guides, and local cuisine makes it a great value for those wanting a broad yet intimate experience of Egypt’s Mediterranean coast and pivotal battlefields.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized tour that doesn’t skimp on detail or comfort. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a curious traveler, or someone seeking a seamless day-trip from Cairo, this experience delivers a solid taste of Egypt’s coastal treasures.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Cairo to Alexandria?
The drive takes about three hours, allowing plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery en route.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees to the sites listed in the itinerary are covered, making it a straightforward experience.

Is hotel pickup available?
Absolutely, the tour includes pickup from your Cairo hotel in a private, air-conditioned vehicle.

What meals are included?
Two lunches at local restaurants are included, with a focus on quality, local seafood and Egyptian cuisine.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, guides can sometimes accommodate slight adjustments, but the main sites are fixed in the schedule.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, but travelers should be prepared for some walking and the overall full day of sightseeing.

What is the best time to book?
The tour is available year-round; however, booking in advance ensures availability, especially during peak seasons.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a camera, and perhaps a light jacket if visiting in cooler months are recommended.

To sum it up, this tour offers a thoughtful, enriching way to see Egypt’s coastal and battlefield highlights without the stress of planning it all yourself. It’s perfect for those who value expert insights, comfort, and authentic experiences in a compact timeframe.