Private From Cairo: Alexandria Day Trip

Introduction

If you’re visiting Egypt and want to see a city that combines ancient marvels with a relaxed Mediterranean vibe, a private day trip to Alexandria from Cairo is a top pick. While we haven’t personally been on this tour, reviews consistently praise its combination of fascinating historical sites, expert guides, and good value for the price—just over $160 per person for a full day.

What we love about this experience is how it offers a well-rounded glimpse of Alexandria’s history, from Roman tombs to the legendary lighthouse site, all with the comfort of private transportation and a knowledgeable guide. Plus, you’ll get to see some of the city’s most iconic sights, like the Alexandria Library and Fort Qaitbey, without the hassle of planning the logistics yourself.

That said, keep in mind the long travel time—about six hours round-trip—meaning you’ll spend a large part of your day in transit. If you’re aiming for a quick visit to Egypt’s second city, this might be a lengthy day, but the array of sights makes it worthwhile. This tour suits history lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone eager to explore Alexandria’s legendary past in a manageable, organized way.

Key Points

• Comfortable private transportation ensures a stress-free journey from Cairo.
• Expert guides bring the sites to life with detailed stories and insights.
• Diverse attractions include Roman catacombs, historic forts, and the modern library.
• Long travel times require patience but are manageable with good company and commentary.
• Value for money reflects access to multiple key sites, knowledgeable guides, and transportation.
• Child-friendly and flexible, making it suitable for families or group travelers.

Exploring Alexandria: A City of Contrasts and Legends

The full-day trip from Cairo to Alexandria packs a lot into roughly 10 hours, but each stop offers something memorable. The journey begins early, with pickup at the designated meeting point, setting out in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The drive takes approximately three hours, giving you a chance to watch the landscape change from desert to coastal scenery, with some reviews mentioning surprisingly light traffic, especially if you’re traveling during a holiday.

The Roman Catacombs of Kom ash-Shuqqafa

Your first stop is the Catacombs of Kom ash-Shuqqafa, often highlighted as one of the highlights of the trip. These underground tombs date back to the Roman era and are widely regarded as the largest Roman burial site in the world. Visitors describe descending into a labyrinth of tunnels, tomb chambers, and ancient sculptures that meld Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences.

One reviewer excitedly mentions, “the melding of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman cultures,” which makes the site especially engaging. The site’s eerie, ancient atmosphere is intensified by its three levels, with a spooky triclinium where Roman families held giant feasts to honor their relatives. The experience is both educational and a little spooky, perfectly suited for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

The National Museum

Next, the tour moves to the National Museum of Alexandria, which houses Greek and Roman relics recovered from the city’s shores. While some reviews found the museum small and “not quite what they expected,” others appreciated the well-curated displays. Visitors can admire artifacts like statues, mosaics, and relics that reveal the city’s multicultural past.

A review notes: “The museum was kind of boring and you couldn’t take pictures,” but others found it a worthwhile stop for understanding the layers of history. It’s an opportunity to see ancient artifacts up close and understand Alexandria’s significance in Egyptian, Greek, and Roman eras.

Lunch with a View: Fresh Seafood and Mediterranean Flavors

After the museum, the tour usually includes a local Egyptian lunch, often featuring fresh seafood—an ode to Alexandria’s Mediterranean location. Many reviews highlight how delicious and fresh the food is, providing a real taste of coastal Egypt. This break offers a chance to relax and refuel before the next stops.

The Legendary Lighthouse and Fort Qaitbey

One of the most iconic sites is the Fort Qaitbey, built in the 15th century on the original site of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Visitors describe walking along the ramparts, imagining the massive lighthouse that once guided sailors into the harbor. The fortress offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean, and the rugged walls make you feel like you’re stepping back in time.

A reviewer recalls, “The lighthouse was an incredible sight,” and others mention the strategic importance of the fort, which now serves as a historical monument with panoramic coast views.

The Modern Library of Alexandria

Your final major stop is the Alexandria Library, inspired by the ancient Great Library of Alexandria. Today, it’s a striking modern building with 11 cascading levels and over eight million books. Visitors describe it as impressive and inspiring, with many enjoying wandering through its halls filled with books, art exhibits, and technological displays.

One reviewer calls it “incredible” and notes that it’s a perfect symbol of the city’s ongoing role as a knowledge hub. The library’s architecture and extensive collection make it a highlight for book lovers, students, and curious travelers alike.

Practicalities and Tips for the Tour

• Transportation: You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long drive much more bearable. The vehicle is private, so your group can move at your own pace and enjoy personalized attention from your guide.
• Duration: The entire day lasts about 10 hours, including travel and sightseeing. If you’re on a tight schedule or not comfortable with long drives, this is something to consider.
• Guides: Reviewers rave about the guides, describing them as knowledgeable, personable, and attentive. They provide detailed historical context, making the sites more meaningful.
• Cost and value: At just over $160 per person, this tour offers access to several iconic sights, entrance fees, lunch, and private transport—all curated into one package. Given the depth of the experience, many reviewers agree it’s good value for money.
• Booking and cancellation: You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility in case plans change.
• Child-friendliness: The tour is suitable for families, with children under six able to join free of charge.

What To Keep in Mind

While most travelers find this trip rewarding, some reviews mention the long travel times—about six hours total—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with spending time in transit. Plus, site visits are concentrated into a packed schedule, so don’t expect to linger long at each site.

The tour is ideal if you want a rundown of Alexandria’s key sights without the hassle of organizing individual tickets or transportation. If you’re interested in history, architecture, and coastal scenery, this trip packs a lot into a manageable day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private Alexandria day trip is perfect for travelers who want a structured, guided experience without the stress of planning. History buffs and culture lovers will enjoy the detailed stories and variety of sites, from Roman tombs to modern libraries. Families or groups seeking a flexible, personalized itinerary will also appreciate the private format.

If you’re short on time but eager to see Alexandria’s highlights, this tour offers a convenient way to do so. However, if you prefer to explore at a more relaxed pace or focus on just one or two sites, you might prefer customizing your own day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under the age of 6 can join free of charge. The tour is generally family-friendly, but keep in mind the long drive might be less engaging for very young children.

How long is the drive from Cairo to Alexandria?
The round-trip drive takes approximately six hours. Reviewers mention that traffic can be light during holidays, making the journey more comfortable.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation, entrance fees to the catacombs, library, and museum, as well as a local lunch. The tour is private, so only your group will participate.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Refunds are processed if you cancel in time.

Is there a guide?
Absolutely. You’ll have an expert guide who shares detailed insights into each site, making the experience more enriching.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all listed entrance fees are included, so no hidden costs at each site.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll walk around outdoor sites and historic structures.

Is food provided?
Lunch is included, typically featuring fresh seafood and local flavors. Be sure to notify the provider in advance if you have dietary restrictions.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and lunch.

What if I want to explore more?
Since the tour is private, you can discuss with your guide to spend more time at certain sites or customize the itinerary slightly.

Final Thoughts

A private Alexandria day trip from Cairo offers a fantastic way to see some of Egypt’s most iconic historical landmarks without the hassle of organizing logistics yourself. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and a well-rounded itinerary, you’ll get a snapshot of Alexandria’s legendary past and vibrant present.

It’s ideally suited for history lovers, families, or anyone eager to combine cultural exploration with coastal scenery. While the long drive may be a stretch for some, the variety of sites and expert guiding make this a worthwhile investment for a fulfilling day.

This tour provides excellent value for those who want to maximize their time and experience Alexandria’s highlights in one convenient, private package. Whether you’re captivated by Roman tombs, fascinated by the legendary lighthouse, or inspired by the modern library, you’ll leave with plenty of stories to tell—and perhaps a desire to return for more.