The Best of Alexandria from Port Said shore excursion
Overview
Come explore the vibrant city of Alexandria, a gem on the shores of the Mediterranean. On this incredible journey, you will have the opportunity to discover the breathtaking Catacombs of Kom El Shuquafa and marvel at the magnificent Bibliotheca Alexandrina.
Tour Details
Duration : Day trip 13 hours 30 minutes
Tour type: Shore excursion | Sightseen tour
Tour location: Alexandria
Tour availability: Daily, all year-round
Pick up – Drop off: Port Said
Highlights; Experience the Excitement of Alexandria’s Best Sights on our Port Said Shore Excursion
- Round-trip transfers from Alexandria Port are included
- An English-speaking guide will lead the way
- Private tour for just you and your party
- Transfer by air-conditioned comfortable vehicles
- Visit the famous Bibliotheca Alexandrina
- Be impressed by the uniqueness of the Catacombs of Kom El Shuquafa
Description
Description of the tour | Tour itinerary
1. Port Said | The Catacombs of Kom El Shuquafa
Set sail from Port Said and embark on a scenic three-hour and thirty-minute journey to the beloved city of Alexandria. As we reach our destination, we will kick off our adventure with a stop at the Catacombs of Kom El Shuquafa, which are renowned as one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages. Unearthed by a humble donkey in the year 1900, these ancient catacombs hold the distinction of being the largest Roman burial ground in Egypt, boasting over 300 beautifully preserved tombs.
Built in the 2nd century A.D. and most likely intended for a single family, these catacombs were later enlarged to three floors, intricately carved 90 feet into the preexisting rock. Combining elements of Roman, Greek, and Egyptian culture, they showcase a unique blend of architectural and decorative styles. Access to the catacombs is granted through a series of descending circular steps.
Take a break and indulge in a leisurely lunch.
2. The Alexandria Museum
After enjoying a delicious lunch, you will have the chance to explore the fascinating Alexandria Museum. Located in the historic Al-Saad Bassili Pasha Palace, which was built in 1923, this museum offers a unique perspective on the city’s past. Unlike other museums that simply store ancient artifacts, the Alexandria Museum takes visitors on a journey through the city’s history, with a focus on its people. You’ll discover rarely-seen pieces from the museum’s collection, carefully curated to showcase the different eras of Egyptian civilization. With three floors to explore, each dedicated to a different period, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of this remarkable city’s heritage.
The magnificent Pharaonic collection boasts artifacts from all significant eras, capturing the essence of the Old, Middle, and New Kingdoms. A standout piece is a recreation of a tomb reminiscent of those in the Valley of the Kings on the West Bank of Luxor (formerly Thebes), complete with a mummy and authentic funerary objects. In addition to this, Alexandria, known for its grandeur during the Greco-Roman era, is well-represented with an abundance of items, some freshly retrieved from underwater excavations around the city.
The top level of the museum houses a vibrant display of Coptic and Islamic artifacts, showcasing the rich religious heritage of Egypt. Highlights from the Coptic tradition include sacred icons of Jesus and the Virgin Mary, as well as a depiction of the Last Supper. Shift to the Islamic heritage and one will find an impressive collection of glistening gold and silver coins, intricately designed pottery, and elegant doors and mashrabiya windows adorned with geometric ivory patterns. A special section is dedicated to the exalted royal family of Egypt, featuring opulent jewels, sparkling gold and silver awards, and other exquisite pieces that once graced their grand residence.
3. Bibliotheca Alexandrina
Prepare for your next adventure to the magnificent Bibliotheca Alexandrina, situated on or near the location of the renowned ancient Library of Alexandria. With its inception dating back to the 3rd century BC, this remarkable institution was far more than just a home for books – it housed a museum, served as a prestigious school, and was considered the leading hub of knowledge and academic inquiry globally. However, tragedy struck in the 4th century AD when a devastating fire ravaged both the library and museum, marking a devastating loss for the world of scholarship.
Your tour will include a visit to the new library, and a walking tour of the grounds, which feature a museum, galleries and planetarium. Your guide will explain the architecture, background, development and UNESCO’s part in the creation.
Once you’ve finished exploring the library, you’ll start your journey back to Port Said.
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Details
Inclusions
- Pick up from Port Said.
- Air-conditioned Private Vehicle
- 1 Day tour in Alexandria as mentioned in the program
- Entrance fees to the above mentioned sites
- English speaking guide
- One bottle of Mineral water to each person
- All service charges & tax
- Assist & transfer to Port Said to catch your Cruise
Exclusions
- Any other optional tours if required
- Tips
What do you have to take with
- Camera
- Warm clothes in winter
- Light clothes in the summer
- Sunglasses
- Solid shoes
- Headgear | Hat
Note:
- There is walking over uneven surfaces, and approximately 100 steps each way to access the Catacombs. There are steps at the library. Other sites are paved / smooth walking surfaces.
- The Alexandria Library is closed on Saturdays and Sundays, and will be replaced by a visit to the Citadel of Quait.
- This tour is only available from Port Said. For tours from the port of Alexandria, please see that ports listing.