Alexandria: Full Day Tour with Catacombs, Citadel & Library

Summary

Alexandria’s ancient catacombs, Roman ruins and sea breeze on a guided day trip

You’ll wander through Alexandria’s ancient catacombs in cool silence, stand where pharaohs once ruled at Qaitbay Citadel, see modern life swirl around Roman ruins and libraries full of light. With pickup included and an Egyptologist guide sharing stories (and jokes), you’ll feel both lost in history and right at home by the sea.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the salt in the air — that briny edge you get near the Mediterranean. Our guide, Hossam, waved us over by a battered minivan outside my hotel in Alexandria, grinning like he’d just heard a good joke. He spoke English with this easy rhythm and kept switching to French for another couple on our tour (I tried to follow along but mostly just smiled). The city was already humming even though it wasn’t quite 9am yet — old men sipping tea on plastic chairs, kids darting between cars. We started with a quick stop at what used to be a Greek temple; honestly, I blinked and almost missed it except for Hossam’s stories about ancient gods and lost statues.

I didn’t expect the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa to feel so cool and damp — you go down these stone steps and suddenly it’s quiet except for your own footsteps echoing off the walls. There’s something strange about seeing carvings that old up close, like time gets all twisted. Hossam pointed out some graffiti from centuries ago (he called it “ancient Instagram,” which made us laugh). After that we drove past palm trees and apartment blocks until we reached the famous library — it’s massive from the outside, all glass curves and sunlight bouncing everywhere. Inside, people actually read real books. I liked that.

Lunch was quick falafel from a street vendor; crispy on the outside and spicy enough to make me blink. Then we walked along the water toward the Citadel of Qaitbay where fishermen were hauling in their catch right under these huge stone walls. The wind picked up and you could smell seaweed mixed with diesel from boats nearby — not exactly romantic but definitely real. At one point Hossam told us how this spot used to be where the Lighthouse of Alexandria stood, which made me pause for a second thinking about how much has changed here.

The Roman Amphitheatre was smaller than I pictured but somehow more personal; you can sit on those old stones and imagine crowds cheering or maybe just arguing about lunch plans 1,700 years ago. We had an optional stop at an old cathedral (I went in — quiet, sunlight through colored glass) before heading back through traffic that felt like organized chaos. By then my shoes were dusty and my head was full of stories I’m still sorting out. If you’re looking for a day trip in Alexandria that covers catacombs, citadels, ruins, all with someone who actually knows this place inside out… well, this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Alexandria's historic sites

• Photo stop at Greek temple
• Visit Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa
• Tour Alexandria Library and galleries
• Visit Citadel of Qaitbay and old lighthouse site
• Explore Roman Amphitheatre
• Optional visit to Coptic Orthodox Cathedral
• Optional visit to Alexandria National Museum
• Stop at one of the oldest mosques

Top questions

How long does the full day Alexandria tour last?

The tour typically lasts most of the day with multiple stops around Alexandria including transfers from your residence.

Is hotel pickup included for this Alexandria day trip?

Yes, pickup from your accommodation in Alexandria is included in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Which attractions are visited during this tour?

The main stops are Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, Qaitbay Citadel, Roman Amphitheatre, Bibliotheca Alexandrina (library), plus optional visits to a cathedral or museum.

Is lunch included on this Alexandria tour?

No set lunch is included but there are opportunities to buy local food during breaks.

Can infants join this day trip in Alexandria?

Yes, infants can ride in a pram or stroller or sit on an adult’s lap during transfers.

What languages does the guide speak?

The Egyptologist guide speaks English fluently as well as German and French if needed.

Are entry fees covered for all attractions?

No entry fees aren’t specifically mentioned as included; check when booking for details.

Is this Alexandria tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels but may not be ideal for those with poor cardiovascular health due to walking and stairs at some sites.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and return by air-conditioned vehicle from anywhere in Alexandria, all service charges and taxes covered throughout the journey, plus guiding by an Egyptologist who shares local history (and helps translate if you need). You’ll have chances to explore each site at your pace before heading back home — no stress about logistics or finding your way around busy streets.