Private Alexandria Day Trip with Guide and Lunch from Cairo

The drive from Cairo to Alexandria

Alexandria lies on the Mediterranean coast about 220 kilometres north-west of Cairo, and the drive takes roughly two hours each way on the desert highway. A private vehicle means you can sleep, watch the farmland of the Delta appear and stop for a comfort break whenever needed, without the stress of trains or minibuses.

The city was founded in the fourth century BC and became the capital of Egypt under the Ptolemies, famous for its harbour, its library and its mix of Greek, Egyptian and later Roman culture. If you are searching for the best way to do an Alexandria day trip from Cairo, a private tour with a guide is the simplest, because the sights are spread across the city.

Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa

The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa are the largest Roman burial site in Egypt, dating from the 2nd century AD. They were found by accident in 1900 when a donkey is said to have fallen through a hole in the ground. A spiral staircase leads to rock-cut chambers on three levels, where families once held funeral banquets.

The main tomb blends Egyptian, Greek and Roman styles, with gods such as Anubis shown in Roman dress beside classical columns. Your guide explains the symbols and the story of the tomb. The visit takes around 30 minutes, the air is cool, and the spiral stairs are narrow, so wear sturdy shoes.

Bibliotheca Alexandrina

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina opened in 2002 beside the Eastern Harbour, close to where the great library of antiquity stood. The ancient library was founded under the early Ptolemies in the third century BC and became a symbol of learning, and the new building is a tribute to it, with a tilted disc roof facing the sea.

The granite outer wall is carved with letters and signs from many alphabets, and inside, a vast reading room is arranged on cascading levels. The complex includes museums, among them an antiquities museum with finds from ancient Alexandria. Your guide explains the story of the old library. Note that the library is closed on Fridays, so please plan with our team.

Qaitbay Citadel on the seafront

Qaitbay Citadel stands on the point at the entrance of the Eastern Harbour. The Mamluk sultan Qaitbay built it in 1477 on the site of the Pharos lighthouse, one of the Wonders of the Ancient World, which was destroyed by earthquakes. Stone from the fallen lighthouse was reused in the fort's walls.

Inside, you climb ramps and towers for views over the harbour, the fishing boats and the city's skyline. The fort is a great place for photographs, with the Mediterranean on three sides. A visit lasts around 45 minutes. Many guests say it is the most atmospheric stop of the day, especially in the afternoon light.

Lunch in Alexandria and planning your private day

Lunch is included at a local restaurant, a relaxed break at about midday, and a chance to try the flavours of the Mediterranean coast. Tell your guide about any dietary needs in advance. Pickup times run from 07:00 to 10:00 in Cairo or Giza, and you return in the evening.

With your own guide and driver, you can change the order of the visits, lengthen the stop you enjoy or add a short seafront drive along the Corniche. October to April is the most comfortable season, and summer days are hot but breezy by the sea. Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sun cream and a light layer for the road.