After soaking in the rich history and vibrant culture that are among the top things to do in Alexandria, from its famed library to the picturesque Mediterranean coastline, day trips from Alexandria invite you to explore Egypt’s diverse landscapes and ancient wonders. These excursions provide a deeper look into Egypt’s illustrious past and present, stretching from the rolling dunes of the desert to the timeless treasures along the Nile.
Venturing beyond Alexandria, you’ll uncover the vast array of things to do in Egypt, from the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza to the bustling markets of Cairo. Each journey outside the city not only broadens your understanding of Egyptian history but also immerses you in its contemporary life and enduring traditions.
Selecting where to stay in Alexandria is crucial for travelers aiming to balance historical explorations with modern comforts. The right accommodation offers easy access to both the city’s ancient sites and convenient starting points for day trips, ensuring a stay that is both enriching and relaxing.
Discover Best Day Trips from Alexandria, Egypt
1. El Alamein, Egypt
El Alamein, a town in northern Egypt, is famous for its World War II history, including the El Alamein War Museum and the Commonwealth War Cemetery. It’s a poignant destination for those interested in military history and memorials.
Distance: Approximately 105 km
Travel Time: About 1 to 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: El Alamein War Museum, Commonwealth War Cemetery
Best Time to Visit: October to April (cooler months)
Entrance Fees:
- El Alamein War Museum: $5
- Commonwealth War Cemetery: Free
- Italian and German Cemeteries: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: War cemeteries, Mediterranean coastline
Travel Tip: Visit during the cooler months and take time to explore the different national cemeteries, each offering a unique perspective on the war’s history.
2. Rosetta (Rashid), Egypt
Rosetta, known in Arabic as Rashid, is famous for the Rosetta Stone and is a charming town with beautiful Ottoman-style architecture. It’s a great place to explore Egypt’s rich history and enjoy traditional Egyptian culture.
Distance: Approximately 65 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Rosetta Stone, Ottoman-style architecture, Rashid Museum
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Rashid Museum: $3
- Ottoman Houses: $2
- Boat Ride on the Nile: $5
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Nile River, Ottoman-era streets
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the Rashid Museum, housed in a historical building, and take a boat ride along the Nile for a different view of the town.
3. Siwa Oasis, Egypt
Siwa Oasis, set in the Libyan Desert, is a remote yet stunning destination known for its Berber culture, date palm groves, and unique mud-brick architecture. The ancient Oracle Temple of Amun and the Cleopatra Bath are key attractions.
Distance: Approximately 560 km
Travel Time: About 8 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Oracle Temple of Amun, Cleopatra Bath, salt lakes
Best Time to Visit: October to April (cooler months)
Entrance Fees:
- Oracle Temple: $6
- Cleopatra Bath: $2
- Salt Lakes: Free
Budget: Approximately $100-$150 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Date palm groves, desert landscapes, salt lakes
Travel Tip: Given the long travel time, consider staying overnight. Enjoy a desert safari or a dip in one of Siwa’s many natural hot springs.
4. Cairo, Egypt
Cairo, Egypt’s sprawling capital, is a must-visit for its historical and cultural landmarks. Key attractions include the Egyptian Museum, the Giza Pyramids, and the Sphinx.
Distance: Approximately 220 km
Travel Time: About 2.5 to 3 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Giza Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, Sphinx
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Entrance Fees:
- Giza Pyramids: $12
- Egyptian Museum: $10
- Sphinx: Included with Giza Pyramids ticket
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Giza Plateau, Nile River, Cairo Tower
Travel Tip: Plan your visit to the Giza Pyramids early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat, and consider hiring a knowledgeable guide.
5. Wadi El Natrun, Egypt
Wadi El Natrun is famous for its ancient Christian monasteries, which are among the earliest in the world. It’s a spiritual and historical journey back in time, offering insights into early Christian monasticism.
Distance: Approximately 100 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Ancient Christian monasteries, spiritual heritage
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Monastery of the Syrians: Free (donations appreciated)
- Monastery of Saint Macarius: Free (donations appreciated)
- Monastery of Saint Pishoy: Free (donations appreciated)
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation and donations)
Scenic Spots: Desert landscapes, ancient monastery architecture
Travel Tip: Dress modestly when visiting the monasteries and be respectful of the monks’ privacy and sacred spaces.
6. Marsa Matrouh, Egypt
Marsa Matrouh is known for its beautiful Mediterranean beaches, such as Cleopatra’s Beach, and the Rommel Museum. It’s an excellent spot for relaxation and enjoying the sea.
Distance: Approximately 240 km
Travel Time: About 3 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Cleopatra’s Beach, Rommel Museum, Mediterranean beaches
Best Time to Visit: Late spring, early autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Cleopatra’s Beach: Free
- Rommel Museum: $4
- Ageeba Beach: Free
Budget: Approximately $40-$80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Mediterranean coastline, crystal-clear waters
Travel Tip: Visit in the late spring or early autumn to enjoy the beaches with fewer crowds and milder weather.
7. Port Said, Egypt
Port Said, located at the northern end of the Suez Canal, offers a unique blend of Egyptian and colonial architecture, interesting museums, and a bustling waterfront. The city is also a gateway to the Suez Canal.
Distance: Approximately 220 km
Travel Time: About 2.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Suez Canal, colonial architecture, Port Said Military Museum
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Port Said Military Museum: $3
- National Museum: $2
- Suez Canal viewpoint: Free
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Suez Canal, waterfront promenade, colonial-era buildings
Travel Tip: Spend some time at the waterfront watching ships navigate the Suez Canal and visit the Port Said Military Museum for its historical insights.
8. Fayoum, Egypt
Fayoum, an oasis city, is known for its rich history, beautiful lakes, and water wheels. Attractions include the ancient city of Karanis and the Wadi El Rayan waterfalls.
Distance: Approximately 300 km
Travel Time: About 3 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Qarun Lake, Wadi El Rayan waterfalls, Karanis ruins
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Entrance Fees:
- Qarun Lake: Free
- Wadi El Rayan: $5
- Karanis Ruins: $4
Budget: Approximately $40-$80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Fayoum Oasis, Valley of the Whales (Wadi El Hitan), Qarun Lake
Travel Tip: Explore the Fayoum Oasis and its natural beauty, and if time allows, visit the Valley of the Whales (Wadi El Hitan) to see fossil remains of ancient whales.
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Sources:
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