Alexandria is Egypt's second city and its cultural soul. Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, it was once home to the Great Library, the Lighthouse (one of the Seven Wonders), and a cosmopolitan mix of Greek, Egyptian, Jewish, and Roman cultures. Today it's a faded but charming Mediterranean city that makes a perfect day trip from Cairo.
Getting There
Alexandria is 220 km northwest of Cairo. The drive takes approximately 2.5-3 hours along the Cairo-Alexandria Desert Highway. Our Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo includes private transport, an Egyptologist guide, and all entrance fees — the most stress-free way to experience the city. Alternatively, our Cairo to Alexandria Private Transfer provides the transport without the guided tour.
Bibliotheca Alexandrina
The modern library, opened in 2002, is a stunning architectural achievement — a tilted disc-shaped building on the corniche that pays homage to the ancient library. Inside, the main reading room is one of the largest in the world, spanning 7 floors with space for 8 million books. The complex includes several museums, art galleries, and a planetarium. Entry costs 70 EGP and is well worth an hour of exploration.
Qaitbay Citadel
Built in 1477 by Sultan Qaitbay on the exact site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, this 15th-century fortress offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the Eastern Harbor. The lighthouse foundation stones are visible in the citadel's walls. Entry is 60 EGP.
Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa
These Roman-era underground tombs (1st-2nd century AD) are a unique blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman funerary art. Descending the spiral staircase into the three-level tomb complex is eerie and fascinating. The central tomb chamber features reliefs of Egyptian gods in Roman armor — a visual metaphor for Alexandria's multicultural identity. Entry is 80 EGP.
Pompey's Pillar
Despite the name, this 30-meter-tall granite column has nothing to do with Pompey — it was erected in honor of Emperor Diocletian in 297 AD. It's the tallest ancient monumental column outside of Rome and Constantinople. The surrounding site includes sphinx statues and the remains of the Serapeum temple.
The Corniche and Seafood
Alexandria's 20-km waterfront corniche is one of Egypt's most pleasant walks. The eastern section around Stanley Bridge and Montaza Palace Gardens is particularly scenic. Seafood is Alexandria's culinary claim to fame — grilled fish, calamari, and shrimp are served fresh at restaurants along the corniche. Abu Ashraf and Balbaa Village are local favorites for no-frills, excellent seafood.
Montaza Palace Gardens
At the eastern end of the corniche, the 150-acre Montaza Palace complex was the summer residence of Egypt's last king, Farouk. The palace itself is closed to the public, but the gardens are beautiful — manicured landscapes, beaches, and Turkish-style kiosks overlooking the Mediterranean. Entry is 25 EGP.
Tips for Your Day Trip
Start early (7 AM departure from Cairo) to maximize time. The drive back can be slow due to traffic. Wear comfortable shoes — you'll walk a lot. The Mediterranean breeze makes Alexandria cooler than Cairo, but sun protection is still essential. Friday is the Egyptian weekend — the corniche and beaches are crowded but the atmosphere is festive.