SHORE EXCURSIONS

OVERVIEW

Understand the Roman Empire’s profound influence on ancient Egypt during this tour of Alexandria’s catacombs, Pompey’s Pillar and the Roman Theater. Descend into the intriguing Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, Alexandria’s largest Roman cemetery, where more than 300 souls were interred, and discover splendid sculptures and reliefs of Egyptian gods crafted in a Roman style. Wonder at towering Pompey’s Pillar, an astounding 82-foot-tall red Aswan granite column constructed to honor the powerful emperor Diocletian and the largest Roman triumphal monolith outside the imperial capitals of Rome and Constantinople. You’ll learn it was erroneously named after the Roman general Pompey, who was thought to have been buried here after his murder on the orders of Egypt’s King Ptolemy. Applaud the captivating 4th-century Roman amphitheater, unearthed in 1960, where up to 800 spectators thrilled to musical performances, and admire its well-preserved white marble steps and mosaic flooring. You’ll uncover the imprint of the Roman Empire on enthralling Alexandria, a city at the crossroads of two powerful ancient civilizations.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Explore three tiers of burial chambers from the 2nd century BC in the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.
• Survey intriguing depictions of Egyptian gods in underground chambers where over 300 persons were interred.
• Gaze at awe-inspiring Pompey’s Pillar, a soaring granite monument to the Roman Emperor Diocletian.
• See the magnificent 4th-century Roman amphitheater, which seated around 800 spectators.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Treasure Egypt’s rich and alluring history during revealing visits to the new Library of Alexandria and the comprehensive National Museum. Study over 1,800 pharaonic, Greco-Roman, Islamic and Coptic artifacts at the Alexandria National Museum, which is located in a restored early 20th-century palace. As you roam its three floors, you’ll discover a fascinating selection of invaluable items, including artifacts rescued from the depths of the Mediterranean Sea. Visit the remains of the illustrious Library of Alexandria, once a vast repository of knowledge and center for learning and scholarly research, originally founded in the 3rd century BC by Ptolemy I Soter and partially destroyed in 48 BC due to a fire ignited by Julius Caesar’s troops. At the sophisticated new library, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, learn that its design was conceived through cooperation between Egypt and UNESCO to pay tribute to the original, and admire the bold architecture featuring a massive circular structure with a tilting roof. Enjoy a walking tour of the new library’s elegant grounds, which are also home to an absorbing museum, galleries and planetarium, and celebrate Alexandria’s renaissance as the global cultural center it was always destined to be.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Examine over 1,800 artifacts spanning centuries of rich history at the National Museum of Alexandria.
• Visit the ruins of the fabled Library of Alexandria, once a foremost world center for scholarly research.
• Marvel at the new Library of Alexandria, a bold reimagining of the original, which suffered a catastrophic fire in 48 BC.
• Explore the library’s attractive grounds, site of a planetarium, a museum and several galleries.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Embrace Alexandria’s extraordinary landmarks during a leisurely panoramic introduction to this dazzling ancient city. A photo stop will be made to discover the Citadel of Qaitbay, a 15th-century fortress overlooking the glittering sea and built on the foundation of the age-old Lighthouse of Alexandria, or Pharos of Alexandria, one of the Wonders of the Ancient World. You’ll delight a photo stop by the sumptuously ornate Abu El Abbas Mosque, one of the largest in the city and a stunning example of Islamic architecture, and contemplate the majestic Naval Unknown Soldier Memorial, which honors brave souls who lost their lives. A photo stop by the sophisticated new Library of Alexandria, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, admire the bold architecture featuring a massive circular structure with a tilting roof and learn how cooperation between Egypt and UNESCO reimagined the original structure, which was partially destroyed by a fire ignited by Julius Caesar’s troops in 48 BC. Travel along the coast to the inviting Montaza Gardens, 115 acres of lush tropical gardens surrounding a stunning 1932 Ottoman- and Florentine-style palace. On this enlightening tour, you’ll absorb the centuries of riveting history that infuse wondrous Alexandria.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Consider centuries of conflict at the medieval Citadel of Qaitbay and the striking Naval Unknown Soldier Memorial.
• View the exquisite Abu El Abbas Mosque, a monumental example of Islamic architecture.
• Marvel at the new Library of Alexandria, a bold reimagining of the original, which suffered a catastrophic fire in 48 BC.
• Appreciate the alluring Montaza Gardens and a spectacular Ottoman- and Florentine-style palace.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Reflect upon the toll wrought during WWII’s North Africa campaign at El Alamein, site of one of the costliest battles of the global conflict. Learn that 80,000 men were lost in the momentous clash between the German and British armies, with the Allied forces managing to stop the seemingly inexorable advance of General Erwin Rommel’s Afrika Korps into Egypt. Following an enjoyable lunch served aboard your coach, you’ll visit hallowed Commonwealth Cemetery, wherein lie the remains of soldiers who fought alongside the British, as well as monuments commemorating troops from Greece, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. Tour the comprehensive El Alamein WWII Military Museum, which features halls dedicated to each of the four countries who participated in the battle, Great Britain, Italy, Germany and Egypt, as well as a joint hall exhibiting items that depict the war from multiple perspectives. Step outside to view tanks and artillery from the battlefield, many of which bear scars from the grueling action. On a brief visit to the Italian and German cemeteries, ponder the enduring impact of history’s most deadly conflict upon this corner of the world.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Visit Commonwealth Cemetery, final resting place of WWII Allied forces lost in the Battle of El Alamein.
• View monuments dedicated to the troops from Greece, New Zealand, Australia and South Africa.
• Discover El Alamein WWII Military Museum, where individual halls focus on the battle’s primary factions.
• Study tanks and artillery used in the conflict, some with signs of damage from the fighting.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Delight in a comprehensive tour of ancient Egypt’s timeless landmarks recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the spectacular ruins of Memphis and the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza. In the Sakkara necropolis, see the revolutionary Step Pyramid of Zoser, Egypt’s oldest-known pyramid, and visit a funerary chamber interior. You’ll travel to Memphis, ancient Egypt’s enthralling capital, founded in 3,100 BC and once home to over 30,000 citizens. Find the marvelous Colossus of Ramses II among the remains of numerous grand temples, palaces and gardens built during the city’s zenith, and look for the Alabaster Sphinx or the Temple of Ptah ruins. Enjoy a buffet lunch before proceeding to the magnificent Pyramids of Giza, where you’ll gaze in reverence at the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramid of Cheops. Contemplate the singular vision of the pharaoh Cheops, as well as the sacrifice of thousands who labored to place each colossal stone. You’ll marvel at the monumental Great Sphinx, carved from a single piece of bedrock into the shape of a lion with a human head. Browse an enchanting bazaar while recollecting your unforgettable day among the sublime relics of a truly extraordinary civilization.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Discover Egypt’s oldest known pyramid and visit a funerary chamber at the stirring necropolis of Sakkara.
• Roam the grand temples, palaces and gardens of Egypt’s first capital, the legendary city of Memphis.
• Study the delicate craftsmanship of the Colossus of Ramses II, an ancient wonder over 33 feet long.
• View the titanic Great Sphinx, the iconic human-headed lion and enigmatic symbol of Egypt.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Browse an archaeological museum full of Greek and Roman antiquities and stroll through the lavish gardens that surround a 19th-century palace built for Egypt’s royal family. The collection of artifacts in the Greco Roman Museum includes remarkable pieces such as a silver torso of Aphrodite, coins from the 7th century B.C. and mummies and sarcophagi. One of the most spectacular pieces is the white marble statue of Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius. A panoramic drive along Alexandria’s waterfront Corniche will bring you to Montaza Palace, a summer retreat for King Farouk until he was overthrown in a 1952 military coup. From the meticulously manicured gardens, you will have a wonderful view of the palace, which bears a distinct Turkish and Florentine design. Later, you will stop for photos of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the city’s state-of-the-art library complex. It pays homage to the famed ancient Library of Alexandria, which was lost to fire.

HIGHLIGHTS
• See priceless antiquities – many found in Alexandria – in the Greco Roman Museum.
• Meander through the beautiful gardens that surround the ornate Montaza Palace.
• Snap photos at Alexandria’s modern library, which honors its legendary ancient library.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Witness some of the greatest achievements of the ancient world on this excursion to the Great Sphinx, the glorious Pyramids of Giza, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities. Journey through the barren Eastern Desert to cosmopolitan Cairo, the largest city in Africa and the Middle East, and tour the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities. You’ll see a vast collection of pharaonic- and Roman-era artifacts spread over 107 halls. Enjoy a buffet lunch and proceed to the Giza Plateau, where you’ll gaze in awe at the magnificent Pyramids of Giza, including the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramid of Cheops. Contemplate the singular vision of the pharaoh Cheops, as well as the sacrifice of thousands who labored to place each colossal stone. You’ll marvel at the monumental Great Sphinx, carved from a single piece of bedrock into the shape of a lion with a human head. Stand before this humbling monument, the national symbol of Egypt, and glory in the enduring legacy of a civilization long gone. Visit a Papyrus Institute where the art of paper making from reeds discovered by the Ancient Egyptians will be demonstrated. Limited time for souvenir shopping will also be allocated before rejoining your coaches and commence the return drive to the port.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities and find artifacts such as statues of Egyptian gods among its intriguing exhibits.
• Savor a delicious buffet lunch as an invigorating interlude to your day of discovery.
• Admire the breathtaking Pyramids of Giza, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Behold a nearly intact Wonder of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramid of Cheops.
• View the titanic Great Sphinx, the iconic human-headed lion and enigmatic symbol of Egypt.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Appreciate Egypt’s vast contribution to the global patrimony on a tour that includes the astonishing Pyramids of Giza, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the treasures of King Tutankhamen and a relaxing lunch cruise on the Nile. You’ll travel to the magnificent pyramids rising from the Giza Plateau and gaze in reverence at the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramid of Cheops. Contemplate the singular vision of the pharaoh Cheops, as well as the sacrifice of thousands who labored to place each colossal stone. You’ll marvel at the monumental Great Sphinx, carved into the shape of a lion with a human head from a single piece of bedrock. Shop briefly at the Papyrus Institute’s souvenir shop before enjoying a lovely lunch cruise on the Nile, then ponder Egypt’s turbulent history at Tahrir Square, where much of the 2011 Egyptian revolution played out. Roam the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, where a vast collection of pharaonic- and Roman-era artifacts is spread over 107 halls, statues of Egyptian gods and the priceless riches of the legendary. You’ll relish your exploration of this hallowed land, where a great civilization once flourished and left behind myriad enduring icons

HIGHLIGHTS
• Admire the breathtaking Pyramids of Giza, a UNESCO World Heritage site, including the Great Pyramid of Cheops.
• View the titanic Great Sphinx, the iconic human-headed lion and enigmatic symbol of Egypt.
• Indulge in a delectable meal as you float gently down the Nile on a lunch cruise.
• Visit the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities and statues of Egyptian gods among its intriguing exhibits.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Revel in the radiance of Alexandria at night while viewing one highlight after another as a prelude to dining in one of the city’s oldest restaurants. The sprawling urban landscape will look absolutely brilliant with the street lights aglow and the landmarks illuminated for dramatic effect. Up-lighting on the statue of Mohammed Ali – the founder of modern Egypt – and at the Naval Unknown Soldier Memorial will make these revered sites look even more awe-inspiring. Montaza Palace will also be beautifully illuminated, especially from your vantage point while strolling through the lush gardens that surround it. Your ground-level view of the palace’s towers rising majestically into the night sky will leave a lasting impression. Dinner follows at Santa Lucia, an inviting, atmospheric Greek restaurant that opened in 1932 and soon became an institution. The ingredients in your multi-course meal will be locally sourced and one dish will most likely include seafood.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a panoramic drive through Alexandria at night with the city lights shining beautifully.
• Stroll the gardens of Montaza Palace, which will be beautifully illuminated with up-lighting.
• Pause for photos of Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern library with a circular, tilting shape.
• Dine at Santa Lucia, one of the oldest Greek restaurants in Alexandria.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Relish a comprehensive overview of Alexandria’s most storied landmarks on this captivating tour that includes a delicious lunch. Descend into the intriguing Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, where more than 300 souls were interred, and discover splendid sculptures of Egyptian gods. Wonder at towering Pompey’s Pillar, an astounding red Aswan granite column honoring the powerful emperor Diocletian and the largest Roman triumphal monolith outside Rome and Constantinople. You’ll delight in the captivating 4th-century Roman amphitheater, where up to 800 spectators thrilled to musical performances, and admire its well-preserved white marble steps and mosaic flooring. At the sophisticated new Library of Alexandria, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, learn that its design was conceived through cooperation between Egypt and UNESCO to honor the original, and admire the bold architecture featuring a massive circular structure with a tilting roof. After enjoying lunch at a popular restaurant with expansive sea views, continue for a photo stop of the Citadel of Qaitbay, a 15th-century fortress overlooking the glittering Mediterranean. Take a chance for a photo stop by the sumptuously ornate Abu El Abbas Mosque, a stunning example of Islamic architecture, and grasp Egypt’s complex history at the Naval Unknown Soldier Memorial, honoring brave souls who lost their lives.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Explore three tiers of burial chambers from the 2nd century BC in the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.
• Gaze at awe-inspiring Pompey’s Pillar, a soaring monument to the Roman Emperor Diocletian.
• View the magnificent 4th-century Roman amphitheater, which seated around 800 spectators.
• Savor a delicious lunch at a specially selected restaurant with views of the Mediterranean Sea.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Exult in Egypt’s most indelible wonders, the Pyramids of Giza, a UNESCO World Heritage site, then examine the regal Great Sphinx and the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramid of Cheops. Contemplate the singular vision of the pharaoh Cheops, as well as the sacrifice of thousands who labored to place each colossal stone. You’ll encounter the eternal guardian of this ancient mortuary complex, the monumental Great Sphinx, carved from a single piece of bedrock into the shape of a lion with a human head. You’ll relish a chance to shop during a visit to the edifying Papyrus Institute, where traditional paper-making techniques are displayed. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, a satisfying conclusion to your survey of ancient Egypt’s extraordinary monuments and traditions.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Follow a spectacularly scenic route through Alexandria in the evening when the city is beautifully illuminated and most radiant. Along the way, you will pass a statue of the founder of modern Egypt, the Naval Unknown Soldier Memorial and a magnificent mosque built over the tomb of a 13th-century Sufi saint. Similarly, the limestone Qaitbay Citadel was built on a historically significant site – the island where the Pharos lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, stood until an earthquake destroyed it. A tour of the medieval Qaitbay fortification will reveal its Islamic architectural elements and military history through the centuries. While dining at the Greek Nautical Club, you will enjoy a view of Alexandria’s harbor, a setting that will look all the more breathtaking with the city lights reflecting on the water. For the ultimate conclusion to the evening, you will travel along the waterside Corniche in a horse-drawn carriage for two.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Enjoy a panoramic drive through Alexandria at night with the city lights shining beautifully.
• See historically important landmarks and tour the seaside Qaitbay Citadel.
• Dine on a sumptuous dinner at the White & Blue restaurant in the Greek Nautical Club.
• Travel along the waterfront Corniche in an open-air, horse-drawn carriage for two.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.