Enjoy A Full-Day Tour to Alexandria From Cairo Private

Exploring Alexandria on a Day Trip from Cairo: A Complete Review

Visiting Egypt often means dreaming of the pyramids and ancient temples, but the city of Alexandria offers a different kind of magic—laid-back seaside charm paired with fascinating history. We’ve taken a close look at this private full-day tour from Cairo to Alexandria, and it’s clear this trip packs a punch for anyone wanting a mix of culture, scenery, and good food in a manageable, well-organized package.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides who bring the city’s stories to life. Second, the chance to wander along the Mediterranean coast, soaking in fresh sea breezes and scenic views. Finally, the value for money—especially given the convenience and personalized touch of a private tour. Yet, it’s worth noting that the library visit isn’t available on Fridays, which could impact your plans if you’re visiting then.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a seamless, insightful, and comfortable day out without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It’s also ideal if you’re a history lover, a foodie, or simply someone eager to experience Alexandria’s unique vibe beyond Cairo’s bustling streets.

Key Points

• Comfortable transport in a private air-conditioned vehicle ensures a smooth ride.
• Expert English-speaking guides enrich the experience with engaging stories and insights.
• Flexibility to explore key landmarks such as the Catacombs, Pompey’s Pillar, and the Alexandria Library.
• Delicious seafood lunch at a local restaurant adds a memorable taste of the city.
• Flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Limited entry to the Library on Fridays, so plan accordingly.

Introduction: Why Consider a Day Trip to Alexandria?

Breaking away from the usual Cairo sights, Alexandria offers a different glimpse into Egypt—one filled with seaside beauty, historical marvels, and vibrant street life. This private tour makes it simple to explore the city’s top spots in one day, making it especially appealing for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a curated experience.

The tour combines scenic drives, guided storytelling, and opportunity to relax by the coast. What’s especially nice? The small-group feel and the chance to customize your experience a little—if you’re into history, food, or just want a break from Egypt’s hustle, this trip checks all those boxes.

While the price of $170 per person might seem high at first glance, the personalized attention, private transport, and carefully planned itinerary make it a very reasonable deal for a full-day adventure.

What You Can Expect on the Itinerary

Early Morning Pickup and Travel to Alexandria

Starting early at 7:00 am, a private driver and guide will come to pick you up from your Cairo accommodation. The journey to Alexandria takes about three hours, which, yes, means a fair bit of time in the car, but the private setup ensures you avoid crowded buses or group travel stresses.

During the drive, a quick 30-minute stop offers a chance to stretch, buy coffee, or use the restroom—small touches that make the long trip more comfortable. Reviewers note that the driver is friendly and professional, with many appreciating the smooth ride and clean vehicle.

First Stop: The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa

Your first visit is to the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, an underground necropolis that’s a seamless blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences. Expect eerie chambers, intricate carvings, and a glimpse into ancient burial practices. Visitors often describe this as a “distinctive historical touch,” and guides share stories about the tombs, adding depth to the experience.

While entry tickets aren’t included, the site’s atmosphere and unique architecture make it worth the extra cost. Expect about an hour here, giving enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

Roman Amphitheater and Pompey’s Pillar

Next, the Ancient Roman Amphitheater stands out as the only one of its kind in Egypt, making it a rare find. The amphitheatre’s stonework and layout reveal Egypt’s Roman past, with many reviews mentioning how well-preserved and impressive these ruins are.

Following that is Pompey’s Pillar, a colossal Roman triumphal column and one of Alexandria’s most recognizable landmarks. Many visitors find it stunning, describing it as “majestic,” and admire its scale, considering it one of the largest of its type outside Rome and Constantinople.

Lunch and Free Time

After the historical sites, the tour provides around an hour for lunch at a local restaurant. This is a much-appreciated break, especially since many reviewers remark on the quality of Egyptian cuisine. The guide will assist in choosing a restaurant, ensuring you enjoy authentic dishes—some reviews highlight the seafood as particularly delicious.

Fortifying with Kayetbai and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Post-lunch, you might visit Kayetbai, a formidable defensive fortress from the 15th century, offering a glimpse into Egypt’s medieval military architecture. Though it’s not as famous as other sites, it adds another layer of history to your day.

Finally, the highlight for many—the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. This modern marvel echoes the grandeur of the ancient library, which was once Egypt’s center of learning. Although it’s closed on Fridays, most days it’s open, and reviewers describe it as “majestic,” with inspiring architecture. Guides share stories about its historical significance, adding to the visit’s richness.

Return to Cairo

Leaving Alexandria at 5:00 pm, expect a 3-hour scenic drive back, with the driver ensuring a comfortable and relaxed journey. Many reviews mention arriving around 8:00 or 9:00 pm, tired but satisfied with a well-rounded day.

Why This Tour Offers Value

For a $170 price tag, this tour covers a lot in one day—transport, a knowledgeable guide, multiple landmarks, and a delicious meal. The private setup means you skip the crowds, have tailored commentary, and enjoy the flexibility to ask questions or linger at favorite spots.

Many reviewers praise the guides for their expertise. Names like Ahmed, Mohamed, and Omar come up repeatedly as guides who go above and beyond, sharing stories and taking inspiration shots at sites. The driver, Khaled or Yossef, are consistently mentioned as friendly and professional, making the long drive comfortable.

The inclusion of bottled water and the flexibility to choose your lunch spot also boost the experience’s value. Plus, the optional cancellation up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund is a safety net for those hesitant about travel plans.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration? The library’s closure on Fridays may disappoint visitors planning to see it. This means adjusting the day or managing expectations before departure. Also, the long drive—around six hours in total—may be tiring for some, especially if traveling with young children or mobility issues.

Some reviews mention that the car was old or cramped, but most found the vehicle clean and comfortable enough for the trip. As with any long-distance day trip, be prepared for a full day with a fair amount of sitting.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This?

This Alexandria day trip from Cairo offers excellent value for travelers eager to see key landmarks and enjoy some seaside leisure. It’s perfect for history buffs, food lovers, and those wanting a hassle-free way to explore outside of Cairo’s hustle.

If you enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable guides, want to avoid the stress of self-planning, and are comfortable with a full day in a private vehicle, this experience really delivers. It’s especially suited for first-timers or those with limited time who want a comprehensive taste of Alexandria.

While it’s not ideal for travelers seeking a spontaneous or very relaxed day, the overall organization, reviews, and detailed itinerary make it a highly dependable choice for anyone eager for an authentic, enjoyable experience.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes all transfers in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable ride throughout the day.

Can I cancel this tour?
Absolutely. You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour start time and receive a full refund.

Are entry tickets included?
No, entry tickets to sites like the Catacombs, Amphitheater, Pompey’s Pillar, and the Library are not included. You’ll need to purchase these separately.

What if the library is closed on the day I visit?
The Library is closed on Fridays, so plan your visit accordingly. On other days, it’s typically open and worth exploring.

How long is the drive from Cairo to Alexandria?
The drive usually takes around 3 hours one way, with a short break included in the schedule.

What’s the best time to book this tour?
Most travelers book about 18 days in advance, which helps secure availability and preferred dates.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers reported positive experiences, consider the long car ride and site walking involved. It’s best for older children or teenagers.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included in the price, but a local restaurant is provided for a seafood meal or other Egyptian specialties.

This private Alexandria day trip from Cairo strikes a fine balance between sightseeing, comfort, and value. It’s an easy way to add a splash of coastal charm and history to your Egyptian adventure—just be sure to plan around site closures on Fridays.