Programs

Alexandria day trip: catacombs, library and Qaitbay Citadel

1 dayAlexandriaPrivateSmall group

A full day on the Mediterranean from Cairo: the Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, Pompey’s Pillar, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the Qaitbay Citadel on the harbour.

Overview

Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, Alexandria was the capital of Ptolemaic Egypt and home to the ancient Library and the Pharos lighthouse. Today it is Egypt’s second-largest city and a breath of sea air after Cairo.

The drive from Cairo takes about three hours each way, so the day starts early. We visit the main sites in a logical order and leave time for lunch by the sea.

Day by day

1
Alexandria from Cairo
By roadEarly departure on the desert road. The Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, where Egyptian and Roman styles meet, and Pompey’s Pillar on the site of the Serapeum. After lunch by the sea, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the Qaitbay Citadel, built in the 15th century on the site of the ancient lighthouse. Return to Cairo in the evening.
Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa · Pompey’s Pillar · Bibliotheca Alexandrina · Qaitbay Citadel

At a glance

Duration: 1 day
Cities: Alexandria
Pace: Full
Best for: History lovers, a spare day in Cairo

Licensed guide in your language, subject to availability

Included in this program

Vehicle with driver for the Cairo–Alexandria round trip
Licensed guide in Alexandria
Entry tickets listed in your itinerary
A lunch stop by the sea, as stated in your quote

Not included

International flights
Visa fees
Personal expenses and tips
Optional activities not in your quote

Road reality

Cairo ⇄ Alexandria: about 3 h each way by road (≈220 km)

Times are approximate and depend on traffic, season and schedules.

Good to know

Photography rules inside the catacombs can change; your guide will explain the current rule.
Summer evenings on the Corniche are busy; we plan the return drive accordingly.
Add a night in Alexandria to include the Montaza gardens and the National Museum.