A Day in Alexandria
- Experience the historic city of Alexandria, exploring the catacombs of Kom El Shokafa and visiting marvelous sites.
- See sunken monuments from the ancient harbor at the Roman amphitheater and enjoy a photo stop at Pompey's Pillar, honoring Emperor Diocletian.
- Visit Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the world's largest library, and dive into history at the Manuscripts and President Saddat Museums.
- Enjoy stunning panoramic views from Quaitbay Castle, built atop the foundation of the ancient Alexandria Lighthouse.
- With an Egyptologist guide, transportation, mineral water, and paid entrance fees, this adventure is sure to be a highlight of your travels!
A Day in Alexandria
This tour is a must-do for history lovers! Bring your camera to capture photos of these marvelous sites as well as St. Mark's Church, Abbo Elabbas Mosque, the old harbor of Alexandria and many others.
On this full day expedition you will be picked up by your guides for a scenic ride in an air-conditioned vehicle to the historic city of Alexandria. While here step inside the catacombs of Kom El Shokafa, the largest Roman cemetery in existence. See the several layers of shelf tombs cut into the hillside rock as well as a large room used to hold banquets for the dead. At the Roman amphitheater you will find a display of sunken monuments of ancient Alexandria that were pulled from the harbor. Stop for a photograph at Pompey's Pillar, a 4th century monument erected in honor of Emperor Diocletian.
Visit Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the world's largest library with 8 million volumes as well as statues of Alexander the Great and Ptolemy the First. Check out the artifacts at the Manuscripts Museum and President Saddat Museum. Ride through the old downtown district with its Baroque, Italian and French influences and visit St. Mark's, the oldest church in Africa.
See El Nabi Daniel Mosque which is believed to contain Alexander's mummy and tomb as well as the remains of the venerated prophet and scholar Daniel. Take a break for a delicious lunch (on your own) then continue to Abbo Elabbas Mosque built in 1796. This major pilgrimage site draws thousands of religious and non-religious visitors alike. From here you can look out over the Corniche and watch the fisherman making nets in the old harbor of Alexandria. Stop at Quaitbay Castle built atop the foundation of the Alexandria Lighthouse which was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Reach the roof of the castle and be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the city.
Pass by the harbor with its 7,000 underwater monuments and take a relaxing stroll at Montazah Gardens, a calm oasis of swaying palms, blossoming flowers and well-manicured lawns. See the royal gardens of King Farouk and the royal palaces of Haramlek and Salamlek then enjoy some fresh squeezed orange juice at King Mango while you take a photo at the Memorial of the Unknown Soldier of Alexandria. Take a walk across the Montaza Bridge to Tea Palace Island and see the royal beaches of the queens. Stop on the famous Stanley Bridge, the city's modern landmark built by Alexander the Great, on your way back to port.
Don't delay, reserve your spot now for a comprehensive city tour of Alexandria that is sure to be a highlight of your travels for years to come.
Please Note: Bibliotheca Alexandrina is closed on Fridays and public holidays. This 14-hour tour includes your English speaking Egyptologist guide, transportation, mineral water and all entrance fees to the sites. Collapsible wheelchair/walkers permitted; mobile-impaired guests must have a companion to assist. If you do not have a wheelchair one can be provided for a fee. This tour requires an Egyptian visa that may be included in your cruise package; if not, you may purchase one on board for a $15-$25 USD fee.