Private Day to Alexandria from Cairo with lunch

If you’re heading to Egypt and want to see the legendary city of Alexandria without the hassle of planning, this private tour promises a comprehensive and personalized experience. It combines history, architecture, and culture, all wrapped up in a convenient day trip that’s perfect for travelers seeking value and authentic sights.

What we love about this tour? First, the personalized touch with a private guide and transportation makes for a relaxed, tailored experience. Second, the itinerary covers all the major highlights—from the ancient Roman ruins to modern cultural centers—ensuring you get a full picture of Alexandria. And third, the delicious lunch at a local restaurant adds a tasty, authentic touch to the day.

One possible consideration? The total drive time from Cairo is around 2.5 hours each way, so you’ll want to be prepared for a full day on the road. But for those eager to maximize sightseeing in one day, this journey is well worth it.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, or anyone craving a seamless, in-depth visit to Egypt’s second city without the hassle of planning each stop. It’s ideal for travelers looking for value—offering a lot for just $50 per person.

Key Points

• Private & Personalized: Your own guide and vehicle make every moment tailored to your interests.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covering major landmarks like Qaitbay Citadel, Pompey’s Pillar, and the Catacombs.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides share insights, making history come alive.
• Authentic Lunch: Enjoy local Egyptian cuisine in a traditional restaurant.
• Comfort & Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup, and drop-off.
• Great Value: At $50, the tour offers a well-rounded day of exploration.

What to Expect on the Tour

Starting from your Cairo hotel, the tour kicks off early with a comfortable private transfer that takes about 2.5 hours. The scenic drive offers a chance to relax and get a first glimpse of Egypt’s landscape as you head north toward Alexandria.

Visiting the Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Your first stop is the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern marvel that pays homage to the legendary Library of Alexandria. While the entrance fee isn’t included, the building’s architecture alone is worth the visit—think sweeping curves, vast glass facades, and a space filled with exhibitions and art galleries. It’s a place that makes you feel connected to ancient knowledge, even if it’s a contemporary creation.

Qaitbay Citadel – A Fortress by the Sea

Next, you’ll explore Qaitbay Citadel, built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The fortress’s sturdy stone walls and turrets stand tall against the Mediterranean, offering stunning sea views and photo opportunities. It’s a tangible piece of history, with plenty of space to wander and imagine life during the Sultan Qaitbay’s reign in the 15th century.

Roman Theatre and the Catacombs

Afterward, the Roman Theatre awaits—an impressive relic from the Roman era with semi-circular tiers of marble seats, giving you a sense of how entertainment and culture thrived two millennia ago. The nearby Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa are a highlight—these underground tombs combine Egyptian, Greek, and Roman burial styles in a fascinating labyrinth of chambers filled with sculptures and inscriptions. Reviewers have expressed how much they appreciated exploring this unique blend of ancient practices, with one saying, “It’s a remarkable archaeological site that blends Egyptian, Greek, and Roman burial practices.”

The Roman Amphitheater

Another highlight is the Roman Theatre, a semi-circular structure with 13 tiers of marble seats. It offers insight into how Alexandria celebrated performances and gatherings during Roman rule. The guide often shares stories about the theater’s history, adding layers of context to your visit.

Lunch and Leisure Time

Midway through the day, you’ll enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch at a local restaurant. Reviewers frequently mention the delicious, authentic flavors and the opportunity to relax and soak in the lively atmosphere of Alexandria’s streets. This break also provides a chance to chat with your guide and ask questions about Egyptian cuisine and culture.

Pompey’s Pillar & Return to Cairo

The final stop is Pompey’s Pillar, a towering granite column 27 meters high, built in honor of Emperor Diocletian. It’s a striking sight—one of Alexandria’s most recognizable landmarks—standing proudly amidst modern surroundings. After this, it’s time to head back to Cairo, where you’ll arrive in the early evening, feeling enriched and satisfied.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

The value here is clear: for just $50, you get a full day of curated sightseeing, guided explanations, comfortable transportation, and a local lunch. The tour’s reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, who “shared their knowledge with me,” making the experience both educational and engaging.

Most reviewers found the timing well-structured, with ample opportunity to explore each site without feeling rushed. The air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pickup and drop-off are especially appreciated, as they smooth out what could otherwise be a logistical challenge. Plus, the fact that the tour is private means you can customize your experience or simply enjoy it at your own pace.

However, the 2.5-hour drive each way does mean a long day on the road, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy full-day excursions and don’t mind the travel time. The flexibility of being a private tour ensures that if you wish to linger longer at specific sites or skip a stop, that can be arranged.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history lovers and culture enthusiasts who want an in-depth visit without the stress of navigating alone. It suits travelers who value expert guidance and authentic local cuisine. If you’re after a hassle-free way to see Alexandria’s highlights, this tour delivers.

It’s also an excellent choice for first-time visitors to Egypt wanting a balanced mix of ancient wonders and modern culture, all with the comfort of private transport and flexible timing.

Final Thoughts

A private day trip from Cairo to Alexandria offers a well-rounded look at almost 2,000 years of history, beautifully preserved and presented. The combination of stunning landmarks, knowledgeable guides, and authentic food makes it a compelling choice for many travelers.

While the long drive may be a consideration, the convenience of hotel pickup, the quality of sites visited, and the value for money make this tour a rewarding experience. It’s particularly ideal if you’re keen to maximize your sightseeing in a single day while enjoying personalized service.

For those eager to explore Egypt’s second city without the fuss, this tour stands as a practical, insightful, and genuinely enjoyable option.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward.

How long is the drive from Cairo to Alexandria? The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours each way, so expect around 5 hours of transportation total.

Are entrance fees included? No, tickets for sites like the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Qaitbay Citadel, and others are not included, but the tour covers the main highlights.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers? Most travelers can participate, as it’s designed for a broad audience and is private, allowing flexibility.

Can I customize the itinerary? Since it’s a private tour, there’s room for customization—discuss your preferences with your guide.

How is the guide? Based on reviews, guides are highly knowledgeable and friendly, sharing insights that enhance your understanding of each site.

What about lunch? A traditional Egyptian meal is included, allowing you to enjoy local flavors in a relaxed setting.

What should I wear? Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and sun protection are recommended, especially in warmer months.

Is this tour good for photography? Absolutely, sites like Pompey’s Pillar and the Citadel offer fantastic photo opportunities.

What if the weather is bad? The tour provider offers a full refund if canceled due to poor weather, ensuring peace of mind.

In summary, this private Alexandria day tour offers an enriching, hassle-free way to explore one of Egypt’s most fascinating cities. It strikes a great balance between historical depth, comfort, and value—making it a standout choice for your Egyptian itinerary.