Virgin Voyages' guide to Alexandria, Egypt
Egypt’s second largest city is both a gateway to the historical landmarks of Cairo and an impressive metropolis in its own regard.
The bride of the Mediterranean
Originally founded by Alexander the Great, Egypt’s second largest city located on its north coast, boasts a population of over six million people — with an incredibly compelling backstory and conveniently close to Egypt’s largest city, Cairo.
And with access to Cairo approximately a two and a half hour drive away, you can easily tour the Pyramids of Giza, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, see the walls and artifacts of the internationally renowned Egyptian Museum, and The Mosque of Muhamed Ali and shop along the narrowed streets of al-Muizz. Whether you spend your time here touring Alexandria or make the moves to extraordinary Cairo, you’ll certainly leave port with a renewed sense of adventure and your wanderlust satisfied.
Ancient Alexandria
Explore the Catacombs of Kom El Shuquafa, a mesmerizing maze of Roman tombs carved into a rock, and marvel at the 82-foot Pompey's Pillar before reaching the incredibly preserved Roman Theater. You'll savor local specialties with the Med as your backdrop, get snapshots at the Citadel of Quait Bay, a photo stop at the splendid Abu El Abbas Mosque, and a moment to pay homage to the unknown soldier. Your journey culminates at the striking Alexandria Library, an icon reborn from its ancient roots.
Echoes of History: The El-Alamein Battlefield
Starting with a visit to the Commonwealth War Cemetery, you'll find over 7,000 Allied soldiers' tombstones overlooking the desert battlefield. Then, you'll immerse yourself in history at the Military Museum of El-Alamein, stepping into the shoes of those who fought in the Battle of El Alamein as you encounter the weapons, tanks, maps used in the conflict, and more. Finally, you'll see the Italian and German Cemetery, where multiple tombs encircle a memorial obelisk within a sandstone fortress.
Egyptian Museum, Lunch, & Pyramids of Giza
This history is laid out in the world-class Egyptian Museum off Tahrir Square. Home to the famous gold mask of King Tut — the boy king who ruled Egypt for nine years — and countless other treasures of antiquity, the museum is a must-see. You'll head across the Nile next, enjoying lunch in an upscale hotel before visiting the legendary Pyramids of Giza (and the Sphinx that guards them). The world's tallest structure for over 3,800 years, the Great Pyramid is a stunning architectural achievement.
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Seaside access wasn’t always the hot ticket it is now
Alexandria was once the capital, it changed to Cairo to avoid naval raids.
Shore Excursions
Roman Alexandria
Embark on a journey through time as you catch sight of the majestic Pompey's Pillar en route to the captivating Catacombs of Kom al-Shoqafa. This sprawling Roman necropolis dating back to the 2nd century A.D. Get ready to be swept away by Alexandria's enthralling history!
DISCOVER MORE SHORE THINGSWhether you spend your day in Alexandria exploring the ancient architecture, exploring the biggest library in the Middle East, soaking up the Egyptian sun, soaking up the Egyptian culture – or you’re heading to Cairo to immerse yourself in some of the world’s most interesting (and dramatic) history, or you’re planning to fit in the best of both worlds, you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable time here.
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