After breakfast at the hotel, meet your tour guide as you embark on a captivating day trip from Cairo to Alexandria, often referred to as the "shining pearl of the Mediterranean" and Egypt's second-largest city. It owes its name to its founder, the Macedonian leader Alexander the Great, who conquered Egypt in 332 B.C.
Your Egyptologist guide will accompany you on a comfortable 2-hour drive to Alexandria in a modern car. Along the way, there will be a rest stop where you can relax, have refreshments, and stretch your legs.
Your tour of Alexandria includes the following highlights:
Pompey’s Pillar: This impressive pillar is the sole surviving remnant of the Roman temple, which was known in ancient times as the Serapeum.
The Citadel of Qaitbay: This Citadel was built by Mamluk rulers to fortify Alexandria's Mediterranean coastline against the Ottomans. It stands on the same site where the ancient lighthouse of Alexandria, which is one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, once stood.
Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa: Explore the largest Roman cemetery in Egypt, featuring three layers of tombs and chambers that were carved into the rock underground. Admire the beautifully decorated burial sites of a wealthy Romanian-Egyptian family.
Bibliotheca of Alexandria: Visit this modern architectural marvel, which pays homage to the ancient library that was once a hub of learning and research in the ancient world. The new Bibliotheca graces the sea boulevard like a symbol of knowledge rising over the Mediterranean from Alexandria.
Church of St. Mark: Explore one of Africa's oldest churches.
Old Downtown Alexandria: Stroll through the historic city center and explore local markets where you can find an array of goods, including traditional Egyptian sweets.
Mansheya Market: Pass through the oldest market area, including the traditional ladies' markets (zan'et elsetat) with narrow streets. There's also a gold market where many purchase their wedding and engagement jewelry.
Abbo Elabbas Mosque: Visit the city's prettiest and largest mosque.
Old Funfair: Witness an old funfair where children enjoy antique rides and indulge in candy floss.
Corniche and Old Harbor: Take in the scenic views of the old fishing boats, fishermen at work, and traditional net-making. This is an excellent spot for photography.
We will end the tour with a seafood lunch at a high-quality local restaurant. Afterwards, you'll be driven back to Cairo with a break during the journey.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch