Private Day Tour to Alexandria From Alexandria

Exploring Alexandria: A Private Day Tour Worth Considering

Our review of this private day tour to Alexandria offers a look at a well-rounded experience that covers some of the city’s most iconic sites. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the combination of reviews and detailed itinerary paints a promising picture.

What we love about this tour is its flexibility—offering options with or without a guide, private transportation that takes the hassle out of logistics, and an itinerary packed with historical highlights. The price point of around $32 per person also makes it accessible. However, a potential consideration is that some attractions, like the Catacombs and the Bibliotheca, require entry tickets that aren’t included. So, budget-wise, it’s important to factor in those extra costs.

This tour suits travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction to Alexandria’s historical sites without the fuss of self-planning. If you value knowledgeable guides and personalized attention, this experience might be just what you need for a meaningful day exploring Egypt’s Mediterranean gem.

Key Points

• Flexible options: Choose between guided or self-guided packages for greater independence.
• All-in-one convenience: Private transfers, snacks, water, and entry fees (if you opt for the full package) create a seamless experience.
• Authentic sites: Visits include the Catacombs, Pompey’s Pillar, Qaitbay Citadel, and the Bibliotheca, showcasing Alexandria’s diverse history.
• Knowledgeable guides: Reviews highlight the value of friendly, well-informed guides like Marwa, who enhance the experience.
• Good value: At $32, this tour offers a lot for your money, especially if you add in the optional guide service.
• Potential for extras: Some travelers have expressed disappointment when certain sites, like the Bibliotheca, were missed or not visited as planned.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa

Starting our journey here, the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa are a defining feature of Alexandria’s Roman past. Carved into rock over three levels, these tombs are a fascinating glimpse into ancient burial practices. Visitors can expect to walk through narrow tunnels and see intricate Roman-style decoration.

One reviewer, Richard, appreciated the site’s significance but also noted that entry tickets are not included, so be prepared to pay on the spot. The site’s quiet, slightly eerie atmosphere is enhanced by the fact that it’s the largest Roman cemetery in Egypt, making it a must-see for history buffs.

Pompey’s Pillar

Next, the tour visits Pompey’s Pillar, a towering Roman triumphal column built in honor of Emperor Diocletian. It originally belonged to the Serapis temple and, despite its name, isn’t directly related to Pompey. The site offers a quick but striking photo opportunity, with the 27-meter-high granite column standing proudly amidst ruins.

Reviewers like Robert praised this stop, describing the site as “magnificent” and highlighting the care the driver and guide took to ensure visitors could enjoy the views comfortably. Expect to spend around an hour here with an optional visit to explore more of the surroundings.

Qaitbay Citadel

The Qaitbay Citadel is a highlight for many visitors. Built in the 15th century on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria (one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), this fortress offers a tangible link to Egypt’s maritime past. The views of the Mediterranean from the citadel walls are spectacular, and you can walk through its historic chambers and ramparts.

Reviewers noted that the tour’s timing allows for a meaningful exploration, but some mentioned that access to certain parts might be limited depending on the day. As a key defensive structure, it’s an excellent example of medieval military architecture.

Alexandria Bibliotheca (Bibliotheca Alexandrina)

Finally, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina stands as a modern tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria. With its vast collection of over 8 million books, it’s a center of learning and culture. The site also features the reconstructed Lighthouse of Alexandria and offers striking architecture that blends old and new.

While some reviews mention that they didn’t visit the Bibliotheca as planned, this site remains a major draw, especially for those interested in Egypt’s scholarly history. The library’s expansive reading rooms and exhibitions provide plenty to explore if time permits.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s main draw is the private transportation—air-conditioned vehicles that take you smoothly between sites—making it easier to cover multiple attractions in a single day. The package includes snacks, water, and the option for entry fees if you select the full package, which boosts overall value.

However, entry tickets to individual sites are not included by default, so be prepared for additional costs. The optional guide service is also not mandatory, but reviews consistently point out how a knowledgeable guide can elevate the experience, with Marwa being specifically praised for her friendliness and expertise.

Practical Considerations

Timing-wise, the full-day tour lasts about 8 hours, making it a manageable way to see Alexandria’s highlights without feeling rushed. Pickup from your hotel or airport simplifies logistics, especially if you’re short on time or unfamiliar with local transportation.

The tour tends to be booked about 39 days in advance on average, indicating steady interest. Given the small group size (private, only your group), you can expect a personalized experience, with the flexibility to ask questions or make slight adjustments.

Keep in mind that some sites, like the Catacombs and Bibliotheca, require separate entry fees. Tours are suitable for most travelers, but consider mobility if you have difficulty walking or standing for periods, as some sites involve uneven terrain or stairs.

The Sum Up

This private Alexandria day tour offers a practical and enriching way to explore key historical sites with minimal hassle. Its flexibility, combined with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, makes it an excellent choice for first-time visitors or those short on time. The price point is reasonable, especially if you opt for the full package, including guide services and entrance fees.

If you’re interested in Egypt’s layered past—ranging from Roman cemeteries to medieval fortresses—and prefer a personalized experience, this tour checks many boxes. The only caveat is that some sites might be missed or not visited depending on the day or guide, so clarifying expectations beforehand can help.

Ultimately, this tour is best suited for travelers wanting a curated, hassle-free introduction to Alexandria’s most compelling sights, all within a day’s manageable itinerary.

FAQ

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transfers from your Alexandria hotel or airport, making it convenient and stress-free.

Can I choose to have a guide?
Yes, you can opt for a package with or without guide services. Many reviews highlight the value of a knowledgeable guide like Marwa, especially for historical context.

What sites are included in the itinerary?
Major stops include the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, Pompey’s Pillar, Qaitbay Citadel, and the Alexandria Bibliotheca.

Are entrance fees included?
Entry tickets are not included unless you select the full package, which covers entrance fees, snacks, and water.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 8 hours, enough time to visit all the main sites comfortably.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but consider mobility if you find walking or standing for long periods challenging.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the tour is structured, some reviewers mention they appreciated the guide’s flexibility, such as visiting additional sites like the Roman Theater.

What is the price for this tour?
It costs around $32 per person, making it a budget-friendly way to see Alexandria’s highlights.

This private day tour to Alexandria offers a well-balanced mix of history, comfort, and flexibility—ideal for those eager to uncover Egypt’s coastal city without the chaos of independent planning.