Private Full-Day Tour: Alexandria Historical Sites from Cairo

After a pick up from your hotel by private air-conditioned van, begin the 3-hour journey to Alexandria. During the drive, take in the Egyptian scenery and learn from your guide what is in store for the day -- about the sites you'll see and about the history of Alexandria.

First stop: the Alexandria National Museum, which contains approximately1800 artifacts and historical items and tells the history of Alexandria and Egypt. Wander around the restored Italian-style palace formally owned by Al-Saad Bassili Pasha, one of the richest wood merchants in Alexandria.

Then, tour the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, considered on of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages. Consisting of three different levels of underground burial chambers that descend to a depth of over 100 feet (33 m) and dating back to the 2nd century AD, the catacombs blend Roman, Greek and Egyptian styles. From here, visit Pompey's Pillar, a huge free-standing granite pillar about 88 feet (27 m) high, which dates back to 297 AD and was erected in honor of the Roman Emperor Diocletian after a victory over an Alexandrian revolt.

Stop for lunch (included) at a local seafood restaurant, then head off to the Library of Alexandria. The modern library was built in 2002 to replace the famous ancient library of Alexandria. Within very few years, the library has become one of the most important attractions in the city. At the end of your tour, you will head back to Cairo or Giza and you accommodations.