Exploring the Wonders of Alexandria: A Perfect Day Trip from Cairo

Discover the beauty of Alexandria with our ultimate guide to an unforgettable day trip from Cairo. From historical landmarks to stunning coastal views, this city has something for everyone.

Located on the Mediterranean coast, Alexandria is a city that boasts rich cultural heritage and stunning scenic beauty. Known as the “Pearl of the Mediterranean,” this vibrant city is just a few hours away from Cairo, making it an ideal day trip destination for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of the capital city. With its fascinating history, charming streets, and picturesque coastline, Alexandria is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Egypt. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the wonders of Alexandria and show you how to make the most of your Alexandria day trip from Cairo.

  1. How to get to Alexandria from Cairo
  2. The History of Alexandria
  3. Places to Visit in Alexandria a. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina b. The Citadel of Qaitbay c. Pompey’s Pillar d. Montaza Palace e. The Corniche
  4. Where to Eat in Alexandria
  5. FAQS about Alexandria Day Trip From Cairo

How to get to Alexandria from Cairo:

Alexandria is located approximately 220 km from Cairo and is easily accessible by car or train. If you’re traveling by car, the journey will take around 3 hours, depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take the train from Cairo to Alexandria, which takes around 2.5 hours. The train is a comfortable and affordable option, with tickets costing around 50 EGP per person.

The History of Alexandria:

Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, Alexandria has a long and fascinating history. The city quickly became a major center of trade and culture, attracting scholars, artists, and philosophers from all over the world. Over the centuries, Alexandria was ruled by various civilizations, including the Ptolemies, the Romans, and the Ottomans. Today, the city’s rich history is evident in its stunning architecture, museums, and ancient landmarks.

Places to Visit in Alexandria:

  1. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina: The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a modern library that was built in the same location as the ancient Library of Alexandria. The library is a stunning piece of modern architecture and houses millions of books, manuscripts, and artifacts. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, literature, or architecture.
  2. The Citadel of Qaitbay: The Citadel of Qaitbay is a 15th-century fortress that was built by Sultan Al-Ashraf Qaitbay. The fortress is located on the Mediterranean coast and offers stunning views of the sea. Visitors can explore the fortress and learn about its fascinating history.
  3. Pompey’s Pillar: Pompey’s Pillar is a 26-meter-high column that was built in 292 AD. The column is made of red granite and is the tallest ancient monument in Alexandria. Visitors can climb to the top of the column for a breathtaking view of the city.
  4. Montaza Palace: Montaza Palace is a beautiful palace that was built in the early 20th century. The palace is surrounded by stunning gardens and overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can explore the palace and its gardens and enjoy a peaceful afternoon by the sea.
  5. The Corniche: The Corniche is a scenic coastal road that stretches along the Mediterranean coast. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the sea and the city as they walk or drive along the road. There are also several restaurants and cafes along the way where visitors can enjoy a meal or a

Where to Eat in Alexandria:

No trip to Alexandria would be complete without trying some of the city’s delicious cuisine. The city is known for its seafood, but there are plenty of other options available as well. Here are some of the best places to eat in Alexandria:

  1. Abu Ashraf: This popular seafood restaurant is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Alexandria. The restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes, including grilled fish, calamari, and shrimp.
  2. Fish Market: As the name suggests, this restaurant specializes in fresh seafood. Visitors can choose their own fish from the market and have it cooked to order. The restaurant also offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  3. Arabesque: If you’re in the mood for something other than seafood, Arabesque is a great option. The restaurant offers a variety of Middle Eastern and Egyptian dishes, including kofta, shawarma, and falafel.

FAQS about Alexandria Day Trip From Cairo:

  1. How long does it take to get to Alexandria from Cairo?

The journey from Cairo to Alexandria takes around 3 hours by car or 2.5 hours by train.

  1. What are the must-visit attractions in Alexandria?

Some of the must-visit attractions in Alexandria include the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the Citadel of Qaitbay, Pompey’s Pillar, Montaza Palace, and the Corniche.

  1. What is the best time to visit Alexandria?

The best time to visit Alexandria is between March and May or between September and November when the weather is mild and pleasant.

  1. What should I wear when visiting Alexandria?

Egypt is a conservative country, so it’s best to dress modestly when visiting Alexandria. Women should cover their shoulders and wear long skirts or pants, while men should wear long pants and avoid shorts.

Alexandria is a beautiful and fascinating city that is well worth a visit for anyone traveling to Egypt. With its rich history, stunning coastline, and delicious cuisine, Alexandria has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in ancient history, modern architecture, or simply enjoying the sea breeze, Alexandria is sure to impress. So why not take a break from the hustle and bustle of Cairo and explore this beautiful city on a day trip?

The trip from Cairo to Alexandria is not too far, and with so much to see and do, it’s definitely worth the journey. From visiting the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the Citadel of Qaitbay to strolling along the Corniche and trying some of the city’s delicious seafood, there is no shortage of things to do in Alexandria.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Egypt and are looking for a unique and exciting day trip, be sure to add Alexandria to your list. You won’t be disappointed!

In addition, Alexandria offers a glimpse into Egypt’s Mediterranean culture, which is quite different from the rest of the country. The city has a unique blend of Greek, Roman, and Egyptian influences that have shaped its architecture, art, and cuisine. Exploring Alexandria is like taking a journey through time and experiencing the history and culture of the region.

Moreover, taking a day trip to Alexandria from Cairo is also an excellent opportunity to break away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. The pace of life in Alexandria is more relaxed, and the city offers a serene and calm atmosphere that is perfect for a day trip. You can spend your day strolling along the waterfront, enjoying a cup of coffee at a local cafe, or wandering through the city’s charming streets and alleys.

Finally, planning your day trip to Alexandria from Cairo is easy. There are many tour operators that offer day trips from Cairo to Alexandria, and they can help you plan your itinerary and transportation. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive to Alexandria yourself, which gives you more flexibility and control over your schedule.