Go North – Alexandria and Rashid

From $110.00

The mermaid of the North Coast

Trip Type
Cultural focus, Excursion
Activities
City walks, Culture & History, Sightseeing
Group size
2 Min - 12 Max
Reviews
0 Reviews
Trip Highlights
Alexandria , Rosetta
Duration
1 Day(s)

Keywords Alexandria , Architecture , Bibliotheca Alexandrina , Citywalks , Rashid , Rosetta , Sea , Sightseeing

Trip code WT-CODE 1475

Alexandria: A Timeless Jewel

Founded by Alexander the Great, Alexandria once hosted Queen Cleopatra and is steeped in legend. This city, enduring through various historical epochs, is a testament to resilience. The modern Library of Alexandria, located on the Corniche, symbolizes the city's rebirth as Egypt’s cultural hub.

Visitors often find Alexandria to be a place of ambiance rather than tourist attractions. Enjoy old-world cafes, explore the Harbour area, and appreciate the belle époque architecture while soaking in the city’s historic atmosphere.

Rosetta: A Historic Port City

Rosetta, or Rashid, lies 65 km east of Alexandria in Egypt’s Beheira governorate. Discovered here in 1799, the Rosetta Stone marked a key moment in history. Founded around the 9th century, Rosetta thrived when Alexandria declined after the Ottoman conquest of Egypt in 1517.

During the 19th century, it became a favored British tourist spot. Visitors admired its charming Ottoman mansions, citrus groves, and cleanliness. However, its significance waned as Alexandria revived.

Day 1: Cairo to Alexandria

Meet at 9:00 AM at Cafe Greco, Maadi, Street 9. Enjoy a 3-hour drive to Alexandria. Explore key sites, including the catacombs, Sawari Tower, Library, and Citadel. Overnight stay in private accommodation.

Day 2: Alexandria to Rosetta and Back to Cairo

House of Amasyali
Start with a walking tour through Rosetta's vibrant streets and markets. Admire Ottoman architecture, including the House of Amasyali and the Mill of Abu Shaheen. Enjoy fresh produce, fish, and bread from local vendors.

Castle Rashid Mosque
Visit the “Hanging Mosque” and the Citadel of Qaitbay. Climb the citadel walls, which stand where the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria once stood. This 7-hour tour ends with drop-off at your departure point.

Rosetta Stone
In 1799, the Rosetta Stone was discovered here. This granite stele, inscribed in three languages, helped decipher hieroglyphs. Although Rosetta houses many Islamic monuments, urbanization has caused significant damage. Efforts are needed to preserve these historic treasures. The tour concludes with transfer back to your Cairo hotel.