Day Tour To Alexandria City Includes Lunch From Cairo

Introduction

Taking a day trip from Cairo to Alexandria is one of those excursions that promises a satisfying blend of history, stunning scenery, and modern vibrancy—all in one package. This particular tour, offered by Wonders of Egypt Tours, comes highly recommended, boasting a 5.0-star rating from 10 reviews and a 90% recommendation rate. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply in search of a scenic escape, this trip aims to tick all those boxes.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it covers the top sights of Alexandria efficiently—perfect for travelers with limited time. Second, it offers a knowledgeable Egyptologist guide who brings the city’s stories to life. Third, the inclusion of a scenic lunch overlooking the harbor turns the day into a memorable experience.

One possible consideration? The drive from Cairo takes around 3 hours each way, so you’ll want to be prepared for a busy, full-day schedule. Still, for those eager to see Egypt’s second-largest city without the hassle of planning, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s ideal for travelers wanting an authentic, well-organized trip with a mix of history, culture, and scenic views all wrapped into one day.

Key Points

• Comprehensive sightseeing in Alexandria, from ancient tombs to modern libraries, in a single day.
• Expert guidance provided by a knowledgeable Egyptologist who adds context and stories to each site.
• Convenient door-to-door transfers with air-conditioned vehicles, making the journey hassle-free.
• Scenic lunch overlooking Alexandria’s harbor, included in the price, adding value and a relaxed vibe.
• Authentic experiences complemented by reviews praising guides, scenic stops, and good organization.
• Ideal for travelers short on time who want a balance of history, culture, and leisure.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa

Your adventure kicks off with a pickup from your Cairo hotel, followed by a comfortable drive to Alexandria. En route, there’s a quick stop at a cafeteria for a 10-minute break—an excellent chance to stretch your legs and grab a coffee before the sightseeing begins.

Once in Alexandria, you’ll meet your private Egyptologist guide for a tour of the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, dating back to the 3rd century AD. This subterranean necropolis is fascinating, combining Roman, Egyptian, and Greek elements. Expect to see intricately carved statues, tiny sphinxes, and a stone sarcophagus, all whispering stories of the ancient past. One review highlights how the guide shared plenty of details about the artifacts, making the visit both informative and engaging.

Stop 2: Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Next, you’ll visit the modern yet iconic Bibliotheca Alexandrina, built in 2000 as a tribute to the historical Library of Alexandria. It’s one of the world’s largest libraries and a symbol of Alexandria’s ongoing role as a center of learning. The structure itself is stunning, with a vast glass and granite design—perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the contemporary vibe of the city.

Our reviewers appreciated how the guide explained the library’s significance, turning a simple visit into a deeper appreciation of Egypt’s cultural resilience. You’ll have about an hour here, plenty of time to explore the reading rooms or admire the impressive architecture.

Stop 3: Ancient Roman Amphitheater

The tour continues with a visit to the Roman Amphitheater, unearthed by chance in 1960 and dating back to 4th AD. This is the largest amphitheater in the Middle East, and it’s a remarkable relic of Roman influence. The site offers a glimpse into early entertainment and social life in ancient Alexandria.

Guided commentary will help you visualize what this amphitheater was like in its prime. Reviewers noted that the site is well-preserved, and the guide’s insights enriched the experience, helping you connect the ruins to the broader Roman history.

Stop 4: Pompey’s Pillar

Your last stop is Pompey’s Pillar, a towering monolith carved from red Aswan granite. Measuring over 20 meters tall, it stands as a monument to Roman victory, although its name is a misnomer—constructed in 297 AD to commemorate Emperor Diocletian’s victory over an uprising.

The pillar’s size and the stories behind it make it a highlight. Reviewers commented on how the guide explained the history in an accessible way and pointed out interesting details such as the weight of the stone (about 285 tonnes). The site offers great photo opportunities, especially with the backdrop of the Mediterranean.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included:

• Bottled water to keep hydrated during the day
• A full, scenic lunch overlooking the harbor—an excellent value addition
• A qualified Egyptologist guide who makes history lively and accessible
• Hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless experience
• Air-conditioned transportation for comfort and convenience

Not included:

• Additional food or drinks outside the provided lunch
• Personal spending or souvenirs
• Extras such as optional activities not listed

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently highlight the professionalism and knowledge of guides like Maha, Shaima, and Maria, who seem to go beyond just rattling off facts—they share stories and answer questions patiently, making each site come alive. One guest mentioned how Shaima was “very informative and also patient with the many questions my children asked,” which shows the tour is family-friendly and engaging for all ages.

Many appreciated the comfort of private, air-conditioned transfers and the smooth organization from pick-up to drop-off. The scenic lunch with harbor views received praise as a relaxing break amidst a busy day of sightseeing. Several reviews pointed out that the tour was well-paced, allowing enough time at each site without feeling rushed.

However, some reviewers noted that the drive from Cairo is about three hours each way, so expect a full day of travel—something to keep in mind if you prefer more relaxed, less rushed outings. Despite this, the opportunity to see Alexandria’s top sights in one day makes it a worthwhile adventure.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This tour offers a balanced mix of history, modern culture, and scenic views. It’s perfect if you want a rundown of Alexandria without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transport, and a scenic lunch, the trip feels well-curated and authentic.

For those who value local insights and well-organized logistics, this experience delivers. It also suits travelers with limited time who want to see major highlights, or families seeking a safe, engaging day trip with a mix of educational and leisurely moments.

While it’s a full-day commitment, the experience compensates with rich storytelling, comfortable travel, and the chance to tick off Alexandria’s most iconic sights in one go.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Cairo to Alexandria?
The drive takes approximately 3 hours each way, so plan for a full day when booking this tour.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, a qualified Egyptologist guide, bottled water, and a scenic lunch overlooking the harbor.

Can I customize the tour or request vegetarian options?
The tour is private, so guides can accommodate dietary preferences like vegetarian options if advised at booking.

Is there free time during the tour?
Most of the time is scheduled for sightseeing, but the lunch break offers a relaxed moment. The guide may also allow some time for photos or browsing at particular sites.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention family-friendly guides and engaging storytelling, making it suitable for children accompanied by adults.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, along with sun protection and a hat. Bottled water is provided, but feel free to bring extra snacks or personal items as needed.

To sum it up, this Alexandria day tour from Cairo combines convenience, expert guidance, and a well-rounded itinerary. It’s an excellent choice for those eager to experience Egypt’s second city—its ancient sites, modern landmarks, and scenic views—without the stress of self-organizing. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just want a scenic escape, this tour offers good value and authentic experiences wrapped into one satisfying day.