Alexandria Full Day Tour

Exploring the Alexandria Full Day Tour: A Practical Guide

If you’re planning to visit Alexandria, Egypt, and want a comprehensive yet flexible way to see its most iconic sights, the Alexandria Full Day Tour might just be your best bet. This private excursion offers an efficient way to uncover the city’s rich tapestry of history, architecture, and local culture—without the hassle of planning or navigating on your own.

What truly stands out about this tour are three things we love: the knowledgeable guides who bring the stories alive, the carefully curated stops that balance ancient wonders with modern marvels, and the value for money, especially considering the personalized experience. That said, one consideration is the library’s closure on Fridays, so planning around this is essential. This tour is perfect for history buffs, culture lovers, or anyone who wants a full, immersive day in Alexandria without the stress of organizing logistics.

Key Points

• Personalized, private experience ensures you get the attention and flexibility you want.
• Expert guides like Shaimaa and Rasha make history engaging with their deep knowledge.
• Efficient itinerary covers major landmarks in about 5-6 hours, ideal for travelers with tight schedules.
• All-inclusive transport and services simplify the day, with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Flexible stops allow customization based on your interests.
• Admission fees are paid separately, so budget accordingly.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect on the Alexandria Full Day Tour

Starting Point: Comfort and Convenience

The tour kicks off at the Hilton Alexandria Corniche at 9:00 am, a central and accessible location. From there, you’ll be whisked around Alexandria in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort through the busy streets of Egypt’s second-largest city.

The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa: A Must-See Introduction

Our first stop is the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, a three-level underground necropolis dating back to the 3rd century AD. These Roman-era tombs carved into the rock are a spectacular glimpse into ancient burial practices. Reviewers like Jennifer highlight this as “a must-see,” noting the impressive architecture and historical ambiance. Visitors should prepare for a bit of walking and exploring underground tunnels, but it’s well worth it for the photo opportunities and the chance to step back in time.

Tip: Admission isn’t included, so be ready to pay separately, and remember, this is a site that invites awe but also respect for its age and significance.

Greek Temple Photo Stop

Next, you’ll get a quick photo opportunity at a gigantic Greek temple dedicated to a main deity of Alexandria. While just a stop for photos rather than a detailed visit, the size and grandeur of the temple make it a striking visual. It’s a great chance to stretch your legs and snap some memorable shots.

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina

The modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a highlight for many, especially given its striking architecture and cultural significance. As the largest library in the world with 8 million books, it symbolizes Alexandria’s historical role as a center of learning. The tour includes a visit to its main reading hall, museums, and art galleries, allowing you to appreciate its design and scope. Reviewers like Betty mention that, despite it being closed on Fridays, guides had alternatives ready to keep the day lively.

Pro Tip: If visiting on a Friday, plan to visit the library independently or on a different day, as it’s closed then.

The Lighthouse of Alexandria and Citadel of Qeitbay

A quick stop at the site of the ancient lighthouse—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—gives a sense of Alexandria’s maritime importance. Nearby, you’ll explore the Qeitbay Citadel, built in the 14th century, which offers a taste of medieval fortress architecture and stunning views over the sea. Reviewers like Steven appreciated the picturesque setting and the chance to learn about Alexandria’s naval history.

Roman Amphitheater and Ancient Ruins

The Roman Amphitheater, dating to the 4th century AD, is a beautifully preserved site that provides insight into Roman life in Alexandria. It’s an intimate reminder of the city’s Greco-Roman past. Expect to see stonework and theater layouts that spark imaginations about ancient performances and gatherings. Rasha’s storytelling makes this spot particularly engaging, according to guests.

Optional Stops: Religious and Cultural Landmarks

You can opt to visit Saint Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Cathedral, Egypt’s oldest Coptic church, for a peaceful moment of reflection. Its Basilica-style architecture, as reviewers note, radiates serenity. Price included in the tour, and it’s a good pause in the day.

Alternatively, the Alexandria National Museum offers a broader overview of Egyptian history from antiquity to Islamic times. Depending on your interests, this can be added to your day, providing artifacts from different eras.

The Mosque of Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi rounds out the sightseeing with its beautiful architecture and historical significance, plus a chance for some great photos.

End of Day: Circular and Customizable

The tour wraps up back at the starting point, typically around 3:00-4:00 pm. The flexibility built into the itinerary—courtesy of the private setup—means guides like Shaimaa and Rasha tailor visits based on your preferences, with stops that suit your pace and curiosity.

How the Experience Feels in Practice

From reviews, it’s clear this tour excels because of its expert guides and flexible approach. Shaimaa, Rasha, Karim, and others are commended for their deep knowledge, humor, and ability to customize the day. Guests appreciate that they can spend more or less time at each site, avoiding the rushed feel of larger group tours.

The transportation is consistently praised for being comfortable and hassle-free, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, saving you time and energy. The cost of $62 per person offers great value, especially when considering the personalized service, private guide, and multiple stops packed into a relatively short day.

The Authentic Touches

What sets this tour apart are the small details—like guides sharing insider tips on where to find the best local foods or how to get the most out of each site. For example, one reviewer mentioned that Rasha customized the tour to their preferences, ensuring they spent enough time at each location and even showed them a monument of Alexander the Great to satisfy a specific interest.

Realistic Expectations

While the tour is comprehensive, keep in mind that admission fees are paid separately, often via Visa card, so budget accordingly. Also, some sites like the library are closed on Fridays and public holidays, so plan your visit around these dates.

The Value of a Private Tour

The reviews highlight that this experience feels exclusive—you won’t be sharing the space with strangers or rushing through landmarks. The guides’ local insights and ability to adapt make every moment more meaningful, whether you’re snapping photos at Qeitbay or soaking in the peaceful ambiance of Saint Mark’s.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is well-suited for travelers wanting a deep, personalized look at Alexandria’s highlights in a single day. It’s ideal for those who prefer comfort and flexibility over group tours, and for those with an interest in history, architecture, and culture. Since it’s private, families, couples, or solo travelers can enjoy a tailored experience without feeling rushed or crowded.

If your time in Alexandria is limited but you want to maximize your sightseeing, this tour gives you a broad yet manageable overview. The knowledgeable guides and well-chosen stops ensure you leave with a good understanding of the city’s layered past and vibrant present.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate. The tour involves some walking and exploration but is generally manageable for all age groups.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
No, admission tickets are not included in the price. These are paid separately, often via Visa card, at each site.

Can I customize which sites I visit?
Absolutely. The tour is flexible, and guides like Shaimaa and Rasha are known for tailoring the itinerary to your interests.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and some cash or a card for entrance fees. A camera for photos and water for hydration are also recommended.

What if some sites are closed?
Your guide will suggest alternatives. For example, if the library is closed, you’ll enjoy other landmarks or cultural sites instead.

How long does the tour last?
Typically around 5 to 6 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a perfect day trip without feeling rushed.

In Closing

The Alexandria Full Day Tour offers a well-balanced mix of ancient ruins, cultural highlights, and modern landmarks—all delivered with expert guidance and flexibility. The combination of historical sites like the Catacombs and Roman Amphitheater, alongside modern marvels like the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, provides a full picture of this vibrant city.

Prices are reasonable considering the personalized service, and the reviews underscore the importance of knowledgeable guides who go above and beyond to tailor your experience. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply want to see the best Alexandria has to offer in one comfortable day, this tour delivers.

This experience is perfect for travelers who value authentic insights, comfortable transport, and a customized approach. It’s especially ideal for those short on time but eager to make the most of their visit, ensuring every moment counts and every site leaves a lasting impression.