Best tours to Alexandria, EgyptUnveil Alexandria's Secrets: Expert-Guided Tours Await
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2024
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Adults (18+)
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Welcome to Alexandria, Egypt
Alexandria, the fabled city of ancient wonder, intellect, and culture, has left an indelible mark on the tapestry of human history. It is nestled on the Mediterranean coast of Egypt. This city was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BCE, and it quickly rose to prominence as one of the greatest centres of learning in the ancient world.
At its height, Alexandria was a cultural melting pot that drew intellectuals, scientists, poets, and philosophers from all over the world. Its renowned library, the Library of Alexandria, had innumerable scrolls and manuscripts from different cultures and was a beacon of knowledge. Some of the greatest minds in history, including Euclid, Archimedes, and Eratosthenes, studied here and made important discoveries that served as the basis for contemporary science and mathematics.
But there has been turmoil throughout Alexandria's history. The city experienced fires, political upheavals, the rise and fall of empires, and persistent conquests. Whether due to fire, battle, or negligence, the destruction of the Library of Alexandria stands as one of the biggest disasters in history and represents the loss of invaluable knowledge and wisdom.
Guided tours to Alexandria, Egypt
Explore the fascinating history, culture, and mystery of Alexandria with guided tours that take you on a fascinating journey through its historic streets. These immersive encounters, conducted by informed local guides, provide an insight into the historical treasures and contemporary pleasures of this fabled city. Every tour is an exploration journey that weaves together legends of pharaohs, philosophers, and conquerors, whether it is strolling through the Old Town's busy markets or seeing the ruins of the magnificent Library of Alexandria. Explore the thriving cultural life that flourishes amid the ancient ruins, marvel at the architectural marvels of the Citadel of Qaitbay, and learn the secrets of the Pharos Lighthouse. Whether you are an art enthusiast, history buff, or just an inquisitive visitor, guided excursions to Alexandria guarantee an amazing experience full of breathtaking sites and intriguing tales just waiting to be discovered.
What to expect – why visit Alexandria
A trip to Alexandria is sure to be enlightening, full of culture, history, and classic charm. Anticipate to be enthralled by a city that has seen the rise and fall of civilizations, where marvels from antiquity and contemporary pleasures coexist peacefully. Discover what is left of the fabled Library of Alexandria, which was once the largest collection of knowledge in antiquity, and take in the thriving cultural life that survives among the crumbling ruins. Explore the Old Town's vibrant markets, where the smells of spices and the sounds of bargaining merchants fill the air, or take in the stunning architecture of the Pharos Lighthouse and the Citadel of Qaitbay.
Travelers wishing to solve historical puzzles and enjoy the timeless charm of one of the finest towns in the world will find a wealth of experiences in Alexandria, from its stunning coastline to its busy streets. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or are just curious about travel, an excursion to Alexandria promises to be an amazing one full of wonder, discovery, and the enduring beauty of Egypt's Mediterranean jewel.
Add Ons: A Day Tour to Alexandria
Alexandria, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Mediterranean," offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. Day tours to Alexandria from Cairo or other nearby locations provide a perfect opportunity to explore this historic city. Carry on your Egyptian affair before or after your tour, with a day trip (including lunch) to amazing Alexandria on the Mediterranean Coast. Founded by Alexander the Great, Alexandria boasts wonderful beaches and an impressive seafront corniche, along which are dotted cafes and restaurants, as well as catacombs, a fortress, souks, and relics from a bygone age.
Whilst in Alexandria, head underground to take a guided tour of the Roman catacombs, the largest known Roman burial site in Egypt, which consists of three tiers of tombs and chambers. These remarkable 35-meter-deep catacombs contain over 300 mummies and were discovered accidentally in 1900 when a donkey-drawn cart fell into a pit. After the catacombs, visit Pompey’s Pillar before stopping to see the exterior of the impressive Library of Alexandria (and if we are fortunate and it is open to the public during our stop here, those who are interested can go inside) and taking a leisurely stroll along the corniche, with views of the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. At the end of Alexandria’s corniche is the striking Citadel of Qaitbey, a defensive fortress built in the 14th century by Sultan Qaitbey. Our day trip includes a guided tour of the fortress, which was built on the site of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, destroyed by a powerful earthquake in 1323 AD.
Historical Landmarks
The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa
One of Alexandria’s most remarkable historical sites, the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, date back to the 2nd century AD. These catacombs are a unique blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman cultural references and contain numerous tombs, statues, and archaeological objects.
Pompey's Pillar
This ancient Roman triumphal column stands in the Serapeum of Alexandria. It is the largest of its kind outside the imperial capitals of Rome and Constantinople. The pillar, erroneously named after Pompey, actually commemorates the victory of Emperor Diocletian.
Cultural Experiences
Bibliotheca Alexandrina
A modern tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina is an architectural marvel and a major cultural center. It houses millions of books, a planetarium, museums, art galleries, and a research center.
Alexandria National Museum
This museum showcases the rich history of Alexandria through a collection of artifacts from the Pharaonic, Greco-Roman, Coptic, and Islamic eras. It provides a comprehensive overview of the city's evolution over millennia.
Culinary Delights
Local Cuisine
A day tour wouldn’t be complete without sampling Alexandria's culinary delights. Fresh seafood is a highlight, given the city’s coastal location. Popular local dishes include Sayadeya (fish with rice and tomato sauce) and Fattah (a dish of rice, meat, and bread).
Traditional Cafes
Stopping by a traditional cafe, such as the historic Trianon or Delices, allows visitors to enjoy local beverages and pastries while soaking in the nostalgic ambiance of Alexandria’s past.
Popular Sites to See in Alexandria
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina
Paying homage to the city's famed ancient library, this modern architectural marvel is a center of learning and culture, featuring a vast library, museums, art galleries, and a planetarium.
The Citadel of Qaitbay
Constructed on the location of the former Pharos Lighthouse, this fortification from the 15th century has sweeping views of the Mediterranean and is home to a marine museum that illuminates Alexandria's maritime history.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time of year to visit Alexandria?
The best seasons to visit Alexandria are spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the temperature is moderate and comfortable for taking in the city's sights and outdoor activities.
Is it safe to travel to Alexandria as a tourist?
Though Alexandria is generally thought to be safe for visitors, it is always a good idea to use caution and be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas and at night.
What are the opening hours and ticket prices for major attractions like the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the Citadel of Qaitbay?
For the most recent information, it is recommended to visit the official websites or get in touch with the key attractions, such as the Citadel of Qaitbay and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, personally. Their opening hours and ticket rates fluctuate.
Is there a dress code or any cultural etiquette I should be aware of when visiting religious sites or interacting with locals in Alexandria?
Although there is not a set dress code in Alexandria, it is polite to wear modest clothing when visiting places of worship and to be aware of local etiquette and cultural practices.
Are there any special events, festivals, or celebrations happening in Alexandria during my visit?
The Alexandria International Film Festival, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina's yearly cultural festival, and religious holidays like Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr are a few examples of special occasions, festivals, and celebrations that take place in Alexandria.
Book your next guided tour to Alexandria with us
Alexandria is a constant reminder of the creative and intellectual capacity of people in many ways. It is evidence of the spirit of inquiry, the quest for knowledge, and the ability of civilizations to persevere in the face of hardship. Alexandria's heritage endures, motivating future generations to aspire for the skies and solve the mysteries of the cosmos as we take in its ancient wonders and consider its illustrious past.
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