Contents
Excursions to Giza Pyramids and Cairo
Here our selection of excursions – to Cairo, the Giza Pyramids & Great Sphinx, and/or the new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) – departing from Alexandria, Egypt. Transportation is by bus, private air-conditioned vehicle, or boat, sometimes directly from the port.
All recommend tours are available for online booking via GetYourGuide (free cancellation and full refund available up to 24 hours before the start of each excursion).
Other Excursions from Alexandria
» Excursions from Alexandria (Egypt) to other destinations (e.s. Saqqara and Memphis) and city tours
» Excursions to Cairo and the Pyramids from other parts of Egypt and the Middle East (Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, Marsa Alam, Eilat)
History and Description of the City
Foundation and Origins
Alexandria, Egypt was founded in 331 BC by Alexander the Great during his campaign of conquest in Egypt. He chose the site for its strategic location on the Mediterranean, near the Nile Delta—an ideal place for a commercial port connecting Greece and the Eastern world. The city was designed by architect Dinocrates of Rhodes and was meant to become a metropolis embodying the best of Hellenistic culture.
Hellenistic Alexandria
During the Ptolemaic period (305–30 BC), Alexandria established itself as a major cultural, scientific, and commercial hub. It was home to the famous Library of Alexandria, one of the largest in the ancient world, containing hundreds of thousands of papyrus scrolls and manuscripts. The city also housed the Museion, an institution dedicated to research and knowledge.
One of Alexandria’s most iconic symbols was the Lighthouse of Alexandria, located on the island of Pharos. It was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. About 100 meters tall, the lighthouse guided ships into the port and was a remarkable feat of engineering.
Roman and Byzantine Rule
In 30 BC, after the Roman conquest of Egypt and the death of Cleopatra VII, Alexandria became part of the Roman Empire. The city continued to thrive, maintaining its role as a commercial and cultural hub. During the Byzantine period (from the 4th century AD), it became an important center of Christianity, hosting some of the earliest churches and theological schools.
Decline and Islamic Revival
Following the Arab conquest of Egypt in 641 AD, Alexandria lost part of its prominence, as the capital was moved to Fustat (now part of Cairo). However, the city remained a significant commercial port in the Islamic world. During the Mamluk and later Ottoman periods, Alexandria continued to serve as an important Mediterranean trade hub.
Modern Alexandria
In the 19th century, under the rule of Muhammad Ali, Alexandria underwent significant modernization. New ports, infrastructure, and railway connections helped restore its role in international trade. During the colonial period, the city became a cultural melting pot, home to Greek, Italian, French, and Armenian communities that contributed to its cosmopolitan character.
Today, Alexandria has about 5.2 million inhabitants and is Egypt’s second-largest city, as well as a key cultural and economic center. Highlights include the Bibliotheca Alexandrina—a modern tribute to the ancient Library—and historical ruins such as Pompey’s Pillar and the Roman Theater.
City Features
- Geographical Location: Located on the Mediterranean, Alexandria enjoys a temperate climate and benefits from its proximity to the Nile.
- Culture: The city is a unique mix of Greek, Roman, Christian, and Islamic influences, visible in its architecture, art, and cuisine.
- Economy: The port of Alexandria is one of the busiest in the Mediterranean, and the city is an important hub for industry, commerce, and tourism.
Historical Legacy
Alexandria represents a bridge between East and West. Its rich history reflects the evolution of Mediterranean civilization, from the Hellenistic world to the Arab-Islamic era, leaving a lasting mark on global culture.
Alexandria on Google Maps
View the map of Alexandria on Google Maps (zoom and scroll with your mouse or, on smartphones, two fingers):
Books and Guides on Alexandria
Here is a selection of books and guides on Alexandria, Egypt—including some well-known novels set in the city. All are available online on Amazon.
The Alexandria Quartet: Justine, Balthazar, Mountolive, Clea
by Lawrence Durrell
Open Road Media (2012)
1126 pages
Flights to Alexandria
» Find the cheapest flights to Alexandria, Egypt, by comparing fares from different airlines
Hotels in Alexandria
» Discover the best hotels in Alexandria on Booking.com
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Top photo: the Qaitbay Citadel of Alexandria seen from the sea.
By Moaz Ahmed Elsadek via Pexels