Full Day Private guided Tour to Alexandria From Cairo

A detailed look at a private full-day tour from Cairo to Alexandria offers an excellent way to explore Egypt’s second city with ease and expert guidance. For travelers who have already checked off Cairo’s main attractions, this trip promises a fresh perspective on Alexandria’s storied past, including Roman relics, Greco-Roman architecture, and the legendary Bibliotheca Alexandrina.

What makes this tour appealing?
First, it’s completely private, meaning your group gets undivided attention from a knowledgeable guide. Second, the customizable itinerary allows you to focus on what interests you most—whether it’s history, architecture, or local stories. Third, traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during Egypt’s warm days.

A potential caveat? The tour duration of 10 to 12 hours might be long for some, especially if you prefer more relaxed pacing or are traveling with small children. Still, for those eager to maximize their day, the full itinerary is packed with highlights.

This experience suits history buffs, first-time visitors eager to see a different side of Egypt, and travelers who value a private, flexible service that takes away the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• Private experience with undivided guide attention ensures a more personalized visit
• Flexible itinerary allows customization based on your interests
• Comfortable transport in air-conditioned vehicles makes long drives less draining
• Rich historical sites including Roman, Greek, and medieval landmarks
• Expert guides with high praise for their knowledge and engaging storytelling
• All-in price offers value but excludes entrance fees and meals

Why Choose This Tour?

Traveling from Cairo to Alexandria in one day is a smart way to see the city’s finest sites without the need for an overnight stay. This tour’s private setup means you don’t have to stick to a rigid schedule—your guide can adapt to your interests and pace, which is a big plus compared to group tours.

The price of $70 per person seems reasonable considering the full-day service, private transport, and the expertise of your guide, especially since the reviews mention excellent guides like Mohammed, Hassan, and Emad, who are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner. The fact that this tour is booked well in advance (on average 25 days) indicates it’s popular with travelers who want a reliable, immersive experience.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa

Your day begins early, with pickup around 7:00 am from your Cairo hotel. First stop: the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa. These are some of Egypt’s best Roman-era burial sites, dating back to the 2nd century AD. Carved into the rock, the complex’s spiral multi-level design combines Egyptian, Greek, and Roman art elements.

Visitors rave about this site, with one reviewer describing it as “incredibly cool,” noting the three levels carved from rock. Admission isn’t included, but the chance to walk through these underground chambers offers a tangible connection to Alexandria’s diverse past. Expect about an hour here to explore, take photos, and soak in the eerie atmosphere.

Stop 2: Pompey’s Pillar

Next is Pompey’s Pillar, an 82-foot (25-meter) granite column built to honor Emperor Diocletian. Though named after Pompey, it was actually erected in the Roman period and is a symbol of Alexandria’s Roman heritage.

The review praises guides like Emad for their knowledge, especially at sites like this, where understanding the significance of each monument adds depth to your visit. The pillar’s location offers great photo opportunities and a chance to imagine the city’s grandeur during Roman times.

Stop 3: Qaitbay Citadel

Then, we visit Qaitbay Citadel, built on the very site of Alexandria’s ancient lighthouse—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This medieval fortress, constructed in the 15th century, is a fascinating blend of military architecture and history.

The citadel’s sturdy stone walls and strategic location overlooking the Mediterranean make it an evocative spot. One reviewer noted their appreciation for guides who shared insights into the site’s layered history, adding context to the impressive structure. An hour here allows ample time to explore the fortress grounds and enjoy views of the sea.

Stop 4: Bibliotheca Alexandrina

The tour then ventures to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a stunning modern library designed to revive the spirit of the ancient Library of Alexandria. Its contemporary architecture, combined with vast collections and exhibits, makes it more than just a library—it’s a cultural hub.

While admission isn’t included, visitors often find the building’s design inspiring and the exhibits engaging. This stop provides a cultural contrast to the ancient sites, illustrating Alexandria’s ongoing role as a center of learning and innovation.

Stop 5: Roman Amphitheater

Finally, the Ancient Roman Amphitheater was discovered quite by chance in 1960. It’s an open-air stadium-like structure, originally used for performances, with seating that could accommodate a significant audience. The site’s relatively recent discovery adds an element of surprise.

One reviewer appreciated the stories shared by guides like Emad, emphasizing how their enthusiasm brought the site to life. About 45 minutes are allocated here, giving you time to walk around, imagine the past performances, and appreciate the Roman influence.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included

• Pickup and drop-off from your hotel
• Private, air-conditioned vehicle
• Qualified Egyptologist guide
• Mineral water during the tour
• All service charges and taxes

Not Included

• Entrance fees for each site
• Food and drinks (you might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal at your own expense)

The fact that entrance fees are not included is worth noting—these costs could add up depending on the sites you choose to visit. However, the focus on private guiding and transportation ensures a smooth day without the stress of navigating alone.

Travel Experience and Guide Quality

Based on reviews, guides like Ahmed, Mohammed, Hassan, and Emad consistently impress visitors with their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills. One reviewer mentioned that Ahmed explained the sites’ history in a way that made their experience more meaningful, with a lot of enthusiasm and clarity.

Guests often comment on how the guides are eager to share local stories and insights, making the visit more than just sightseeing. Mineral water on board adds a touch of comfort, ensuring you stay refreshed on the long drive.

The private nature of this tour means you can ask questions freely, and guides tend to be flexible with time, which is a big advantage if you want to spend longer at a particular site or skip something that’s less interesting to you.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
• Bring cash for entrance fees and any personal expenses, as these aren’t included.
• Wear comfortable shoes—many sites involve walking on uneven surfaces or climbing stairs.
• Carry sunscreen and a hat—Alexandria’s outdoor sites can get quite sunny.
• Prepare for a long day; starting early at 7:00 am helps you maximize your time.
• Bring a camera—the sights are photogenic and worth capturing.
• Consider light snacks or a packed lunch, especially if you plan to spend extra time at particular sites.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts eager to see Alexandria’s Roman, Greek, and medieval monuments firsthand. It’s also perfect for first-time visitors who want a comprehensive yet flexible day exploring in comfort. If you’re traveling with family or friends and prefer a private, tailored experience, this tour fits the bill well.

Travelers who appreciate guided storytelling and want to avoid the hassle of independent arrangements** will find this fully guided experience convenient and enriching. Plus, the reviews emphasize guides’ passion and expertise, which adds significant value.

Final Words: Is It Worth It?

This private day trip offers a compelling mix of historical sites, personal guidance, and comfort. The price of $70 per person, considering all logistics handled for you, makes it quite competitive—especially given the glowing feedback on guide quality and site variety.

It’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see Alexandria in a single day without rushing or worrying about navigation. If you’re interested in Roman relics, Greco-Roman architecture, and engaging storytelling, this tour delivers on all fronts.

Travelers who enjoy customizable experiences and value expert guides will find this trip a worthwhile addition to their Egyptian adventures. Just be prepared for a full day, and remember to bring your curiosity along for the ride.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
Pickup begins around 7:00 am, giving you plenty of time to explore Alexandria’s highlights before returning to Cairo.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance tickets are not included in the tour price. You should budget for these additional expenses, depending on which sites you choose to visit.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The long day might be tiring for small children, so plan accordingly.

What transportation is used?
A private, air-conditioned vehicle is provided, ensuring comfort during the approximately 10-12 hour day.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, guides are usually flexible and willing to tailor the stops to your specific interests.

How long is each site visit?
Stops vary from about 45 minutes at the Roman Amphitheater to around an hour at major sites like the Catacombs and Citadel.

Is food included?
No, meals or snacks are not included. You may bring your own or plan to purchase food during the day.

What is the cost?
The tour costs $70 per person, offering good value considering the personalized service and transport included.

To sum it up, this private tour to Alexandria from Cairo offers a well-rounded and flexible way to enjoy some of Egypt’s most intriguing sites. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and the freedom to customize your day, it’s a top choice for those looking to explore beyond Cairo’s limits with ease. Ideal for history lovers and first-time visitors alike, it balances comfort, education, and a touch of adventure to make your Egyptian trip truly memorable.