Totally Cairo
Alexandria Day Trip from Cairo
A different Egypt entirely — Mediterranean, Greco-Roman, and built around a curving corniche instead of the Nile. A long but manageable day trip, or a good one-night addition to a Cairo itinerary.
Why go
Alexandria was Egypt's Mediterranean capital under the Ptolemies and later the Romans, home to the ancient Library of Alexandria and the Lighthouse of Pharos — one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Little of the ancient city survives above ground, but its layered Greco-Roman, Ottoman and 19th-century European history, plus a genuinely different, breezy coastal atmosphere, make it a worthwhile break from Cairo's monuments.
Getting there
The train from Cairo (Ramses Station) to Alexandria is the most comfortable option — around 2.5–3 hours depending on the service, with reserved seating. Driving takes a similar amount of time via the desert road. A private driver for the day is popular for groups, since it removes the need to coordinate train times around a full day of sightseeing.
What to see in a day
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a striking modern library built as a tribute to the ancient original, is worth a visit both for the building and its museums. The Qaitbay Citadel, a 15th-century fort built partly from stone salvaged from the ancient Pharos lighthouse, sits dramatically on the harbor. Add the Roman Amphitheatre at Kom el-Dikka, and — for those with more time — the Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa, and you have a full, satisfying day.
Day trip or overnight?
A day trip works well if you're tight on time — an early train out and evening train back covers the highlights. Staying one night lets you see Alexandria's corniche at sunset and gives breathing room if the train schedule or traffic runs long, without racing back to Cairo in the dark.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alexandria worth a day trip from Cairo?
Yes, particularly for its Greco-Roman history and coastal atmosphere, which is a genuine change of pace from Cairo's Pharaonic sites. It's a long day, but manageable by train.
How do you get from Cairo to Alexandria?
By train from Ramses Station (around 2.5–3 hours), by car via the desert road, or with a private driver, which is common for day-trip groups since it removes train-schedule pressure.
How many days do you need in Alexandria?
One full day covers the main sights; two allows a more relaxed pace and time on the corniche without rushing between stops.