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A day trip from Cairo to Alexandria is a popular excursion for tourists looking to explore one of Egypt’s most historic coastal cities. These tours typically last between 8-12 hours, including travel time, and offer a comprehensive overview of Alexandria’s main attractions. Expect an early morning pickup from your Cairo hotel, usually around 6:00-7:00 AM, with return to Cairo in the evening around 7:00-8:00 PM.
Most tours include air-conditioned transportation, an English-speaking Egyptologist guide, and visits to key sites such as the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, the Roman amphitheater at Kom El-Deka, Pompey’s Pillar, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina (Alexandria Library), and the 15th-century Citadel of Qaitbay. Some tours may also include stops at the Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque or a stroll through local markets. Lunch at a local restaurant is typically included, often featuring seafood specialties.
The price range for these day trips varies, generally falling between $50-$100 per person, depending on the tour operator and included amenities. Some tours offer private options at a higher price point, while others are conducted in small groups. It’s worth noting that entrance fees to attractions are sometimes not included in the base price and may need to be paid separately at each site.
When booking, pay attention to what’s included in the tour package. Some may offer add-ons like long-range pickup from areas outside central Cairo for an additional fee. It’s also important to note that the Alexandria Library is typically closed on Fridays and public holidays, so tour itineraries may be adjusted accordingly.
These day trips provide a convenient way to experience Alexandria’s rich history and Mediterranean atmosphere without the hassle of arranging independent transportation. While the schedule can be quite packed, it offers a good overview of the city’s main highlights for those with limited time. Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and some extra cash for optional activities or souvenirs.
Alexandria, founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BCE, is a city steeped in history and cultural significance. Located on Egypt’s Mediterranean coast, it has been a beacon of knowledge, commerce, and diversity for over two millennia.
In its ancient heyday, Alexandria was one of the most important cities in the world. It was home to the Great Library of Alexandria, the largest and most significant library of the ancient world. Though the original library was destroyed, the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina stands as a testament to the city’s intellectual legacy, housing millions of books and serving as a cultural center.
The city’s Greco-Roman past is evident in sites like the Roman Amphitheater of Kom el-Dikka, a well-preserved theater that once seated 800 spectators. This site also includes the remains of Roman baths and elaborate villa complexes, offering visitors a glimpse into daily life in ancient Alexandria.
One of the most intriguing historical sites is the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, a necropolis dating back to the 2nd century AD. These underground tombs showcase a unique blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artistic styles, reflecting the multicultural nature of ancient Alexandria.
Pompey’s Pillar, a massive 25-meter-high granite column, stands as one of the few ancient monuments still visible in the modern city. Despite its name, it was actually erected in honor of Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century AD.
The Citadel of Qaitbay, built in the 15th century, is a formidable fortress that guards the eastern harbor. It was constructed on the site of the famous Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Though the lighthouse no longer stands, the citadel offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean and houses a naval museum.
Alexandria’s rich history extends beyond the ancient world. It was a cosmopolitan city during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, home to a diverse population of Greeks, Italians, Jews, and others alongside native Egyptians. This period left its mark on the city’s architecture, with many Belle Époque buildings still lining its streets.
The city has also played a significant role in modern Egyptian history. It was a center of resistance during Napoleon’s invasion of Egypt and later became a key naval base for the British Empire. In the mid-20th century, Alexandria was at the forefront of Egypt’s nationalist movement.
Alexandria’s intellectual legacy continued into the modern era. It was home to the poet Constantine Cavafy and provided inspiration for Lawrence Durrell’s famous “Alexandria Quartet” novels. The city’s cafes and literary salons were gathering places for writers, artists, and thinkers from around the Mediterranean.
Today, while much of ancient Alexandria lies beneath the modern city or under the sea, ongoing archaeological work continues to uncover new treasures. Underwater excavations in the eastern harbor have revealed thousands of artifacts, including potential remains of the Pharos lighthouse and statuary from the lost palace complex of Cleopatra.
Despite the passage of time and the overlays of modernity, historical Alexandria continues to captivate visitors and scholars alike. Its layered history – from Ptolemaic kingdom to Roman province, from Islamic conquest to Ottoman rule, from colonial influence to modern Egyptian city – makes it a unique place where past and present intertwine. Each era has left its mark, creating a rich tapestry of cultural heritage that continues to influence and inspire to this day.
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