Alexandria: Pearl of the Mediterranean
The second largest city in Egypt, Alexandria seems more Mediterranean than Middle Eastern. Although only a three-hour drive from Cairo, its ambience and cultural heritage distance it from the rest of the country.
Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, Alexandria became the capital of Greco-Roman Egypt and was the setting for the stormy relationship between Cleopatra and Mark Antony. It was a center for learning and enlightenment in the ancient world and has been immortalized by writers such as E.M Forster and Cavafy among others. Explore the wonders of Alexandria's past and present on this tour with your private Egyptologist.
Itinerary
This morning drive from Cairo to Alexandria, a journey of approximately 3 hours. On arrival check in to your seaside hotel. This afternoon begin your sightseeing of Alexandria with a visit to its Roman highlights of the catacombs, Pompey’s Pillar and the Roman Theater. End your day at the Qaitbay Fort with spectacular views of the city and Corniche. Evening at leisure. Four Seasons San Stefano, Seaview room
Begin your day with a visit to the Royal Jewelry Museum, housed in the former palace of the Royal Family. The jewels and the palace are a dazzling experience. From here visit the Alexandria National Museum with its small but excellent collection containing about 1,800 artifacts narrating the history of Alexandria throughout the ages, including the Pharaonic, Roman, Coptic and Islamic eras. Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant before continuing to the recently built architectural gem, Biblioteca Alexandrina. This imposing building overlooking the Corniche houses not only a library but museums focusing on Manuscripts & rare books, Antiquities collection, Lithographs, Engravings & early photographs, and the Sadat Collection. (B, L)
Morning at leisure. This afternoon drive back to Cairo’s International Airport in time to board your homeward bound flight. (B)
Extend Your Journey
- Visit the tallest monument in Alexandria, Pompey’s Pillar
- Tour the ancient Roman theater
- See the Royal Jewelry Museum housed in the former palace of the Royal Family
- View and walk the spectacular architectural gem, Biblioteca Alexandrina
- Walk the Qaitbay Fort with a private Egyptologist
3 DAYS & 2 NIGHTS
Cairo & Alexandria
2012 Dates:
Oct - Dec
Single Supplement
Prices From:
$1,675
$625
Note:
Pricing is per person, double occupancy. Minimum night stays may apply over peak season dates. Upon request, your travel consultant can provide an exact price based on your specific dates of travel. A visa is required for Americans visiting Egypt. Certain monuments and tourist attractions in the Middle East are closed on certain days for religious / holiday reasons. If in the event your visit to any of these cities falls on a day when these sites are closed, your tour will be adjusted accordingly.
Includes:
All hotel accommodations as noted. Lunch at Fish Market Restaurant
All transfers by private car and driver. Services of an experienced Egyptologist throughout. Baggage assistance at all airports and hotels. Egyptian Visas for American/Canadian passport holders.