Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo: Qaitbay Citadel, Roman Theater, Catacombs & More – The Cheapest Tour to Alexandria

2 Hours

Overview: Explore Alexandria in One Day

Embark on the Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo—a journey through 4,000 years of history, culture, and architecture. This carefully curated itinerary combines ancient fortresses, Roman theaters, underground catacombs, and the coastal charm of the Mediterranean.

For travelers seeking affordable yet high-quality experiences, this is the cheapest tour to Alexandria from Cairo, offering comfort, an expert guide, and immersive storytelling—all in one day.

Alexandria is more than just a port city; it is a cultural crossroads, where Pharaonic, Greek, Roman, and Islamic civilizations merged, leaving a legacy visible in its monuments, streets, and museums.


Tour Duration & Style

  • Duration: Full day (approx. 12 hours including transfers)
  • Tour Type: Private or small group
  • Departure: From Cairo (hotel, airport, or residence)
  • Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle
  • Guide: Professional English-speaking Egyptologist

Tour Prices (Per Person) these prices from cairo to Alexandria

Group Size Price
1 Person €200
2 Persons €170
3–4 Persons €150
5–11 Persons €135
12–18 Persons €110
More than 18 Persons €85
👶 Children under 5 Free

Prices of tour from Alexandria if your Hotel is in Alexandria

Tour Prices (Per Person) these prices from Alexandria to Alexandria

Group Size Price
1 Person €130
2 Persons €110
3–4 Persons €100
5–11 Persons €85
12–18 Persons €60
More than 18 Persons €50
👶 Children under 5 Free

🎁 Optional Add-On

  • 📸 Professional Photographer: €100 / day

🏰 Qaitbay Citadel – Coastal Fortress & Ancient Lighthouse Site

Your day begins with the Qaitbay Citadel, built in the 15th century on the ruins of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Inside the Citadel

  • Defensive towers and soldiers’ quarters
  • Small historic mosque
  • Stone passageways and inner chambers
  • Rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and Alexandria Harbor

Historical Context

Sultan Qaitbay commissioned the fortress to defend Egypt from naval attacks. Stones from the fallen lighthouse were reused, linking ancient wonder with medieval engineering.

Entry Ticket

  • Qaitbay Citadel: €6–8

🎭 Roman Theater (Kom El-Dikka) – Alexandria’s Cultural Center

Next, explore the Roman Theater, Egypt’s only excavated Roman performance venue. Dating to the 2nd century AD, it showcases Alexandria as a city of culture, performance, and intellectual life.

Highlights

  • 13 semi-circular rows of marble seating
  • Roman columns supporting ancient canopies
  • Mosaic floors and Byzantine ruins
  • Nearby bath complexes and villas

Cultural Significance

The theater hosted:

  • Music concerts
  • Poetry readings
  • Public forums

It offers a vivid glimpse into daily life in Greco-Roman Alexandria.

Entry Ticket

  • Roman Theater: €4–5

⚰️ Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa – Underground Necropolis

⚰️ Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa – Underground Necropolis

Descend into the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, a fusion of Pharaonic, Greek, and Roman burial styles. This multi-level necropolis is a rare archaeological gem.

What You Will See

  • Main burial chamber with intricate carvings
  • Spiral staircases and subterranean corridors
  • Triclinium (banquet hall) used to honor the dead
  • Statues blending Roman attire with Egyptian symbolism

Historical Significance

The catacombs illustrate the multicultural identity of Alexandria, where different beliefs and traditions merged.

Entry Ticket

  • Catacombs: €5–6
  • the cheapest tour to Alexandria
    the cheapest tour to Alexandria


🍽️ Traditional Egyptian Lunch

Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo
Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo

After exploring the landmarks, enjoy a buffet lunch featuring:

  • Grilled seafood and meats
  • Rice, fresh salads, and Baladi bread
  • Vegetarian options on request

Lunch is served at a local restaurant near the city center, allowing a break before continuing to later sites like the Bibliotheca Alexandrina or Pompey’s Pillar.


💼 Package Includes

✔ Private air-conditioned vehicle from Cairo
✔ Expert English-speaking tour guide
✔ Buffet lunch with traditional Egyptian and Mediterranean dishes
✔ One bottle of water per person
✔ Pickup and drop-off at any Cairo location


🎯 Why Choose This Tour?

This Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo is the cheapest tour to Alexandria without compromising quality:

  • Comprehensive coverage of Alexandria’s main attractions
  • Professional guide providing historical insights
  • Comfortable transport and lunch included
  • Small or private group options

It’s perfect for:

  • First-time visitors to Egypt
  • History enthusiasts
  • Families and cultural travelers

🎯 Call to Action

Discover the magic of Alexandria in one unforgettable day!

👉 Book your Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo now
👉 Travel in comfort on the cheapest tour to Alexandria
👉 Explore the city’s fortresses, theaters, catacombs, and libraries with an expert guide


Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo & The Cheapest Tour to Alexandria: Bibliotheca Alexandrina and Pompey’s Pillar

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Introduction: From Monuments to Knowledge

After exploring Qaitbay Citadel, the Roman Theater, and the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, your Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo continues with two of Alexandria’s most iconic intellectual and spiritual landmarks:

  1. Bibliotheca Alexandrina – a modern resurrection of the ancient library
  2. Pompey’s Pillar – monumental symbol of imperial and religious power

This stage completes the journey of the cheapest tour to Alexandria, providing a blend of history, culture, and enlightenment.


📚 Bibliotheca Alexandrina – A Beacon of Knowledge

Historical Context

The ancient Library of Alexandria was the largest repository of knowledge in the ancient world, attracting scholars from Egypt, Greece, Persia, India, and beyond. Its destruction is considered one of history’s greatest cultural losses.

The modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, inaugurated in 2002, revives this legacy as a hub of global learning, innovation, and cultural exchange.


Architecture & Design

‪Day Tour To Alexandria from Cairo - Emo Tours Egypt: Unforgettable Budget Tours & Travel Deals 2025-2026‬‏

  • Circular structure representing the sun and knowledge rising
  • Walls engraved with letters and alphabets from around the world
  • Glass roof in the main reading hall, allowing natural light and panoramic views of the Mediterranean
  • Interior spaces include museum halls, planetarium, conference rooms, and art galleries

Key Highlights Inside the Library

Main Reading Hall

  • Capacity: over 2,000 readers
  • Millions of physical and digital books in multiple languages
  • Amphitheater-style desks for seminars and lectures

Museums Inside

  • Manuscripts Museum – rare texts, scrolls, and original documents
  • Antiquities Museum – underwater artifacts from Alexandria’s coastline
  • Sadat Museum – modern political history
  • Science Museum – interactive exhibits for children and adults

Cultural Centers

‪Full day Alexandria Tour from Cairo | Private with Deluxe Tours‬‏

  • Planetarium with astronomy exhibits
  • Art galleries hosting rotating exhibitions
  • Conference halls for international events

Visitor Experience

  • Interactive multimedia screens
  • Guided tours explaining ancient and modern Egyptian knowledge
  • Opportunities to read or study in a unique historic-cultural environment

Entry Ticket

  • Bibliotheca Alexandrina: €5–7
  • Museum exhibitions (optional): €3–5 each

🏛 Pompey’s Pillar – Monument of Power and Faith

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Historical Background

Pompey’s Pillar (actually dedicated to Emperor Diocletian) is a monolithic red granite column standing 26 meters high. Erected in 297 AD, it commemorates the emperor’s success in stabilizing Alexandria.

The pillar is located near the ruins of the Serapeum, Alexandria’s largest pagan temple, showcasing the fusion of Greek, Roman, and Egyptian religious traditions.


What You Will See

‪Day Tour To Alexandria from Cairo - Emo Tours Egypt: Unforgettable Budget Tours & Travel Deals 2025-2026‬‏

  • The massive granite column with carved base
  • Remains of the Serapeum temple complex
  • Underground chambers used in ancient rituals
  • Statues, sphinxes, and carvings reflecting cultural syncretism

Historical Significance

  • Witnessed the decline of paganism and the rise of Christianity
  • Symbolizes imperial power and religious transformation
  • Represents Alexandria’s resilience through centuries of change

Entry Ticket

  • Pompey’s Pillar: €4–5

Why This Stage Is Essential

Completing this Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo ensures you experience every dimension of the city:

  • Fortresses: Qaitbay Citadel
  • Entertainment: Roman Theater
  • Burial traditions: Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa
  • Knowledge: Bibliotheca Alexandrina
  • Faith & power: Pompey’s Pillar

This tour is the cheapest tour to Alexandria that combines all these elements in one day.


Practical Tips

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Bring sunglasses, sunblock, and a hat
  • Photography allowed (extra fees may apply in museums)
  • Best visiting months: October – April
  • Keep water handy; some walking is required

🎯 25 FAQs for Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo

  1. Is this tour suitable for families?
  2. What is the duration of the Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo?
  3. Are entry tickets included in the price?
  4. Can I choose private or group tour options?
  5. What languages are guides available in?
  6. Is lunch included?
  7. Are children under 5 free?
  8. Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
  9. Is photography allowed inside Bibliotheca Alexandrina?
  10. Is the Catacombs area safe for children?
  11. Are there restrooms at each site?
  12. Is tipping expected?
  13. Can this tour start from Cairo airport?
  14. Is there Wi-Fi inside the library?
  15. Are there guided tours for the Roman Theater?
  16. How long do we spend at Pompey’s Pillar?
  17. Can I bring my own food and drinks?
  18. Is there wheelchair access?
  19. What is the best time to visit Alexandria for photography?
  20. Are souvenirs available at Qaitbay Citadel?
  21. Are historical explanations included for all landmarks?
  22. Can we customize the order of sites?
  23. Are local transportation costs included?
  24. Are cashless payments accepted?
  25. Why should I choose this tour over others?
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Book Your Trip

‪Day trip to Alexandria from Cairo | Alexandria tours from Cairo‬‏

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Alexandria in depth: book your Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo now, the cheapest tour to Alexandria, and experience:

  • Iconic coastal forts
  • Roman and Egyptian cultural heritage
  • Underground catacombs
  • World-class libraries
  • Historic monuments of faith and power

Travel comfortably, explore with an expert guide, and return with memories that will last a lifetime.


 Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo: Qaitbay Citadel, Roman Theater & Catacombs

Plan your Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo on the cheapest tour to Alexandria. Explore Qaitbay Citadel, Roman Theater, and Catacombs with an expert guide, lunch, and private transport.


Introduction: The Perfect Day in Alexandria

For travelers looking for history, culture, and Mediterranean charm, an Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo is the perfect option. On this journey, you will visit Qaitbay Citadel, the Roman Theater, and the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, experiencing Alexandria’s rich heritage and unique architectural marvels in a single day.

This is also the cheapest tour to Alexandria, offering private transport, expert guides, and a carefully planned itinerary that ensures a smooth, educational, and enjoyable day for all ages.


Tour Overview

  • Departure: From Cairo (hotel, airport, or residence)
  • Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle
  • Guide: English-speaking professional
  • Duration: 10–12 hours
  • Group Size & Pricing:
Group Size Price per Person
1 Person €245
2 Persons €190
3–4 Persons €170
5–11 Persons €145
12–18 Persons €125
More than 18 Persons €115
Children under 5 Free

Optional Add-On

  • Professional photographer: €100/day

🏰 Qaitbay Citadel – Alexandria’s Coastal Fortress

Your day begins at the Qaitbay Citadel, a 15th-century fortress built on the site of the famous Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Highlights

  • Defensive towers and soldiers’ quarters
  • Small historic mosque inside the fortress
  • Stone passageways leading to inner chambers
  • Rooftop terrace with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and Alexandria harbor

Why Visit Qaitbay Citadel

  • Witness the military architecture of the Mamluk era
  • Learn about Sultan Qaitbay, who protected Egypt from naval invasions
  • Capture panoramic photos of the Alexandrian coastline

Entry Ticket: €6–8


🎭 Roman Theater (Kom El-Dikka) – Step Back in Time

Next, head to the Roman Theater, located in the heart of Alexandria and dating to the 2nd century AD.

Features

  • 13 rows of marble seating arranged in a semi-circle
  • Columns that supported ancient canopies
  • Mosaic floors and remnants of Byzantine villas
  • Roman baths and public gathering spaces

Cultural Insights

The theater hosted:

  • Music and dance performances
  • Poetry readings and orations
  • Community events in ancient Alexandria

Why It’s Worth Visiting

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  • See Greco-Roman cultural heritage
  • Understand daily life and entertainment in ancient Alexandria
  • Enjoy detailed archaeological insights from your guide

Entry Ticket: €4–5


⚰️ Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa – A Mysterious Underground Necropolis

Descend into the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, Alexandria’s largest multi-level Roman burial site. The site blends Pharaonic, Greek, and Roman architectural traditions.

Key Highlights

  • Main burial chamber with intricately carved walls
  • Spiral staircases leading to lower levels
  • Triclinium (banquet hall) where families honored the dead
  • Statues combining Roman togas with Egyptian iconography

What Makes It Unique

  • Offers a rare glimpse of multicultural Alexandria
  • Preserves ancient funerary rituals and artistic traditions
  • Provides excellent photo opportunities underground

Entry Ticket: €5–6


How to Spend a Perfect Day in Alexandria

After exploring the main landmarks, make your day even more enjoyable by:

  1. Taking a stroll along the Corniche: Enjoy sea breezes and views of Mediterranean ports
  2. Lunch at a local restaurant: Fresh seafood or traditional Egyptian dishes
  3. Optional coffee or tea at a local café: Experience Alexandria’s vibrant street culture
  4. Shopping for souvenirs: Small crafts or traditional items near the Citadel or Theater

By combining Qaitbay Citadel, Roman Theater, and Catacombs, your Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo is both educational and relaxing, making it the cheapest tour to Alexandria without compromising experience or comfort.


 Book Your Alexandria Day Trip Now

the cheapest tour to Alexandria
the cheapest tour to Alexandria

Discover Alexandria’s rich history and cultural charm!

  • Travel in comfort from Cairo
  • Explore iconic landmarks with a professional guide
  • Book the cheapest tour to Alexandria today for an unforgettable experience

Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo & The Cheapest Tour to Alexandria: Maximizing Your Day with Food and Culture

Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo
Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo


Corniche Walk and Mediterranean Views

After exploring Qaitbay Citadel, the Roman Theater, and the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, one of the most relaxing and authentic experiences on an Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo is a stroll along the Corniche, Alexandria’s scenic coastal promenade.

Highlights

  • Panoramic views of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea
  • Access to historic cafés and seafood restaurants
  • Opportunity to observe local fishermen and Alexandria’s daily life
  • Excellent photo opportunities of the citadel and coastline

Walking along the Corniche allows travelers to absorb the seaside charm of Alexandria while resting from morning sightseeing.


Seafood in Alexandria: A Culinary Delight

Alexandria is world-renowned for its fresh Mediterranean seafood, making it an essential part of the cheapest tour to Alexandria. Seafood in Alexandria is not just a meal—it’s a cultural experience tied to the city’s history as a port and fishing hub.

What to Try

  • Grilled Fish: Commonly served whole, seasoned with herbs, lemon, and garlic
  • Shrimp and Calamari: Fresh from the Mediterranean, often fried or sautéed with local spices
  • Seafood Platters: A combination of fish, prawns, calamari, and sometimes lobster, often served with rice and vegetables
  • Seafood Mezze: Appetizers such as fried mussels, marinated octopus, and garlic prawns

Famous Seafood Restaurants

  1. Fishawi Alexandria: Located along the Corniche, famous for fresh grilled fish and classic Alexandrian dishes
  2. Steigenberger Cecil Alexandria Restaurant: Offers elegant seafood with Mediterranean views
  3. Balbaa Seafood: Known for platters featuring multiple types of fresh fish and local delicacies
  4. Rouge Sea Food Restaurant: Popular among locals for grilled prawns and calamari

Dining at these restaurants is a highlight of any Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo, allowing travelers to experience authentic local flavors while enjoying the coastal atmosphere.


Exploring Local Markets and Souvenirs

After enjoying lunch, visitors on the cheapest tour to Alexandria often explore nearby markets and small craft shops. This is an excellent way to immerse yourself in local culture and pick up unique souvenirs.

What to Look For

  • Handcrafted jewelry and silverware
  • Egyptian textiles and scarves
  • Spices, teas, and local delicacies
  • Small sculptures and painted ceramics

Visiting markets also offers insight into Alexandria’s centuries-old trading traditions, enriching your cultural experience.


Optional Cultural Stops

For those wanting to extend their day, Alexandria offers several optional cultural sites perfect for enhancing an Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo:

Alexandria National Museum

  • Houses artifacts spanning Pharaonic, Roman, Greek, and Islamic periods
  • Highlights include mummies, jewelry, coins, and manuscripts
  • Provides historical context complementing the outdoor landmarks

Roman Amphitheater

  • Near Kom El-Dikka, featuring well-preserved seating areas and mosaics
  • A glimpse into ancient Alexandria’s entertainment and cultural life

Montazah Palace Gardens

  • Lush gardens overlooking the Mediterranean
  • Ideal for relaxing walks or photography
  • Offers serene contrast to the bustling city center

Practical Tips for a Full-Day Alexandria Trip

Timing

  • Depart Cairo early to maximize sightseeing
  • Morning: Qaitbay Citadel and Corniche walk
  • Midday: Roman Theater and Catacombs
  • Afternoon: Lunch and optional cultural stops

What to Bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen
  • Camera or smartphone for capturing Alexandria’s charm
  • Light jacket for the sea breeze in the afternoon

How to Enjoy Local Seafood

  • Ask for catch-of-the-day specials, usually fresher and more affordable
  • Try local preparation styles, such as grilled with herbs or baked in clay
  • Pair seafood with traditional sides like Baladi bread and fresh salads

By following this schedule, travelers can experience Alexandria’s historic landmarks, Mediterranean charm, and culinary delights in a single day while enjoying the cheapest tour to Alexandria

experience of a Nile cruise in Luxor and Aswan

Overview

💵 Prices:

1 Person: €245

2 Persons: €190 per person

3–4 Persons: €170 per person

5–11 Persons: €145 per person

12–18 Persons: €125 per person

More than 18 Persons: €115 per person

👶 Children under 5 years old: Free of charge

📸 Optional Add-On:

• Professional photographer to document the tour – €100/day

Tour Program:

🏰 Qaitbay Citadel:

Your day begins along the beautiful Mediterranean coast with a visit to the historic Qaitbay Citadel, built on the site of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Inside the fortress, you’ll explore:

Defensive towers and soldiers’ quarters

A small historic mosque

Stone passageways and inner chambers

And finally, ascend to the rooftop for a panoramic view of Alexandria’s coastline and harbor

Your guide will share the fascinating history of this defensive stronghold, built by Sultan Qaitbay in the 15th century to protect Egypt from sea invasions.

🎭 Roman Theater (Kom El-Dikka):

Next, visit Egypt’s only discovered Roman theater, dating back to the 2nd century AD and located in the heart of Alexandria.

Highlights include:

13 semi-circular rows of white marble seating

Elegant columns that once supported shade canopies

Roman bath ruins and ancient villas nearby

Mosaic floors and remains of Byzantine structures

Your guide will explain how this site functioned as a cultural and recreational center in Greco-Roman Alexandria, including musical performances, poetry readings, and public gatherings.

️ Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa:

Descend into the largest known multi-level Roman burial site in Egypt, a unique fusion of Pharaonic, Greek, and Roman architectural styles.

You’ll explore:

A main burial chamber with intricately carved walls

Spiraling stone staircases and subterranean passageways

Triclinium (banquet hall) where families dined to honor the dead

Incredible statues and reliefs that merge Roman togas with Pharaonic symbols

This mysterious underground necropolis offers a rare glimpse into the blend of cultures that once coexisted in Alexandria.

📚 Bibliotheca Alexandrina (New Library of Alexandria):

A visit to the modern-day revival of the ancient Library of Alexandria — a beacon of global knowledge and cultural exchange.

Package Includes

  • Roundtrip private air-conditioned transportation from/to Cairo
  • Expert English-speaking tour guide
  • Open buffet lunch (Egyptian and seafood specialties)
  • One bottle of mineral water per person
  • Pickup and drop-off at any Cairo location (hotel – airport – residence)
From €115
/ Adult