Alexandria Full-Day Private Tour from Giza or Cairo with Lunch

Exploring Alexandria in a Day: A Practical Review of the Private Tour from Cairo

If you’re looking to experience the charm of Egypt’s Mediterranean coast without the hassle of planning every detail, a full-day private tour of Alexandria from Cairo offers a compelling option. With its blend of history, culture, and scenic views, this tour promises an authentic taste of Egypt’s second-largest city. From ancient tombs to modern libraries, it’s a journey through time wrapped in comfort and convenience.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its personalized approach—only your group participates, ensuring a tailored experience. The guides, praised for their knowledge and friendliness, help you navigate the city’s key sites while providing insightful commentary. Plus, the inclusion of lunch overlooking the Mediterranean elevates the day, turning sightseeing into a feast for the senses.

However, it’s worth noting that the drive from Cairo takes about 3 hours, which might be tiring for some. While the itinerary covers essential highlights, be prepared for a full day of walking and exploring. This tour suits history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and those craving a curated, hassle-free adventure with an emphasis on authentic sites and local flavor.

Key Points

• Highly personalized experience with private transportation and guides
• Highlights include ancient tombs, Roman relics, and modern landmarks
• Lunch by the Mediterranean adds a scenic touch to the day
• Well-rated guides with extensive knowledge and friendly service
• Ideal for those with moderate physical fitness due to walking and stairs
• A full-day tour perfect for travelers seeking a rundown of Alexandria

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Early: Comfort and Convenience

The day kicks off at 7:00 am with pickup from your hotel in Giza or Cairo. The journey to Alexandria takes about 3 hours via desert road, giving you time to relax, enjoy scenic views, or catch up on some rest. The private vehicle ensures a smooth, air-conditioned ride—no crowded buses or group schedules to worry about.

Stop 1: The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa

Your first stop is the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, a site often called one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages. This underground necropolis showcases a fascinating blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences—a testament to Alexandria’s cultural crossroads.

Inside, you’ll see tombs, statues, and archaeological objects that reveal the funeral practices of ancient civilizations. Reviewers love the site for its mysterious atmosphere and impressive architecture, although admission tickets are not included, so plan accordingly.

One visitor shared, “We loved the way the tombs merge different cultures, making it a unique experience.” Expect about an hour here; be prepared for some stairs and uneven surfaces, especially if mobility is a concern.

Stop 2: Pompey’s Pillar

Next, you’ll visit Pompey’s Pillar, a tall Roman triumphal column from around 298-302 AD. Despite its name, it’s not associated with Pompey but is a significant Roman monument. The Corinthian column once supported a massive statue of Emperor Diocletian.

The site is set in the ruins of the Serapeum temple, where you can snap photos of this impressive relic and imagine what the city looked like during Roman times. Reviewers mention that the inscription on the base is a highlight, giving a tangible connection to history.

Allow approximately an hour for this stop, which is free to visit, making it a budget-friendly highlight.

Stop 3: The Lighthouse of Alexandria & Qaitbay Citadel

The iconic Lighthouse of Alexandria, once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, no longer stands but the Qaitbay Citadel now occupies its site. Built in the 15th century, the fortress served as a defensive stronghold against pirates and invaders.

You’ll explore the fortress walls, towers, and panoramic views over the Mediterranean. The site is free to visit and offers fantastic photo opportunities. Many travelers mention the stunning views and the sense of history that’s palpable as you walk around the ramparts.

Stop 4: The New Library of Alexandria

Your last major stop is the modern Library of Alexandria, opened in 2002 with UNESCO support. It’s a symbol of Egypt’s commitment to knowledge, hosting the sixth-largest Francophone library in the world. Its trilingual collection includes Arabic, English, and French books, and it boasts a striking contemporary design.

Spending about 10 minutes here, you’ll get a feel for Alexandria’s modern intellectual spirit. Reviewers have noted the library’s vast collection of books and its significance as a cultural hub.

Lunch with a View

A highlight of this tour is the lunch on the Mediterranean coast, typically at a Greek club or similar venue. Expect a relaxed atmosphere with scenic views, where you can enjoy local seafood and Egyptian dishes. Many reviewers appreciate this break, describing the food as tasty and the setting as serene and picturesque.

The Transportation & Guide Experience

The private, air-conditioned vehicle offers comfort and flexibility, allowing your guide to adjust the schedule slightly if needed. Since reviews highlight guides like Eslam, Ibrahim, and Hima as highly knowledgeable and considerate, you’re in good hands.

Guests repeatedly mention the friendly, well-informed guides who go beyond basic facts, often sharing personal insights or local stories. One reviewer noted that their guide Hima provided a wealth of information and was attentive to their schedule and physical comfort.

Physical Considerations

While most stops involve walking and stairs, the tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness. However, some reviewers pointed out that the day can be quite exhausting, especially for those with mobility issues or limited stamina.

Price & Value

At $100 per person, this tour provides a comprehensive look at Alexandria’s key sights, guided by experts, with lunch included. While it may seem a bit steep compared to self-guided visits, the convenience, local knowledge, and access to sites that are not always easy to navigate independently make it a worthwhile investment, particularly if you value comfort and storytelling.

Why This Tour Hits the Mark

• Authentic Cultural Experience: You get to walk through ancient tombs, Roman columns, and modern Libyan architecture, blending past and present.
• Expert Guides: The guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to tailor the experience.
• Convenience & Comfort: Private transport and a well-organized schedule mean less hassle and more focus on enjoying the sights.
• Scenic Lunch: Dining overlooking the Mediterranean adds a memorable touch, making the tour feel special.
• Balanced Pacing: The itinerary covers a lot without feeling overly rushed, allowing time for photos, exploration, and breaks.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history and culture lovers who want a curated day out without the stress of planning. It suits travelers who appreciate guided insights and the ability to see multiple sites in one day. If you’re comfortable walking and not overly sensitive to long drives, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

Those seeking a more relaxed pace or with mobility limitations should consider their stamina and the physical demands of walking and stairs involved.

Final Thoughts

A full-day private tour of Alexandria from Cairo offers a well-rounded, convenient way to explore Egypt’s coastal city. From ancient tombs to the legendary lighthouse site and the modern library, it covers the highlights with the added comfort of personalized service. The inclusion of lunch with scenic views turns this into a memorable cultural feast.

While the drive is long, the quality of guides, the authenticity of sites, and the scenic lunch combine to create a worthwhile experience—especially for those eager for a comprehensive introduction to Alexandria’s history and charm.

If you value expert insight, private comfort, and a taste of Alexandria’s diverse past, this tour is a strong choice. It’s best suited for curious travelers, history buffs, and anyone wanting a hassle-free, immersive day by the Mediterranean.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
The tour involves walking and stairs, so it’s best for those with moderate physical fitness. Reviewers mention some fatigue after a full day.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
No, most entrance tickets are not included, so you might need to purchase tickets at sites like the Catacombs or Pompey’s Pillar separately.

What is the starting time?
The tour begins at 7:00 am with hotel pickups in Cairo or Giza.

How long does the tour last?
It typically lasts between 6 to 8 hours, depending on pace and stops.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a lunch overlooking the Mediterranean is part of the package, often at a Greek club or a scenic seaside venue.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, guides are usually flexible and can adjust the schedule slightly based on your interests and stamina.

To sum it up, this private Alexandria day trip balances historical immersion, scenic beauty, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for visitors who want a guided, insightful journey into Egypt’s Mediterranean city.