Half Day Tour to Bibliotheca Alexandrina (Library of Alexandria)

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern-day homage to the legendary ancient library, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of knowledge and culture in Alexandria, Egypt. This half-day tour offers visitors a chance to explore the architectural marvels of this iconic institution, enjoy its rich history, and discover the city’s vibrant spirit. With the option of an expert Egyptologist guide and accessible features, the tour promises an enlightening experience for all. But beyond the practical details, the true allure of this journey lies in the opportunity to uncover the fascinating narratives that have shaped the library’s past and continue to inspire its future.

Good To Know

• The half-day tour to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Alexandria, Egypt, highlights the architectural marvels and historical significance of this iconic library.
• The tour includes round-trip transfers from central Alexandria hotels and provides the option to add entry fees and an expert Egyptologist guide.
• The library is wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly, with service animals allowed and infant seats available for added convenience.
• Pricing for the tour starts from $17.00 per person, with flexible booking options and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
• The Bibliotheca Alexandrina aims to recapture the legacy of the ancient Library of Alexandria, showcasing Egypt’s commitment to knowledge and scholarship.

Tour Overview

Offering a half-day tour to the renowned Bibliotheca Alexandrina, or Library of Alexandria, in Egypt’s coastal city of Alexandria, this experience provides visitors a chance to explore this iconic cultural landmark.

The tour includes round-trip transfers from centrally located Alexandria hotels via a private air-conditioned vehicle. Guests can choose either a car-and-driver package or a complete tour with entry fees and a private Egyptologist guide.

This half-day excursion caters to history enthusiasts and book lovers alike, showcasing the architectural marvels and historical significance of the modern incarnation of the ancient Library of Alexandria.

Included in the Tour

What does the half-day tour to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina include?

The tour provides round-trip transfers from Alexandria hotels in a private air-conditioned vehicle. Bottled water and snacks are included, and gratuities are covered.

Guests have the option to add entry fees and an expert Egyptologist guide for a more comprehensive experience.

The tour is accessible, with features like:

• Wheelchair accessibility
• Stroller accessibility
• Allowance for service animals
• Proximity to public transportation
• Infant seats available

Most travelers can participate in this educational and historical half-day excursion.

Accessibility and Accommodations

The half-day tour to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina is accessible to a wide range of travelers. The tour is wheelchair accessible, stroller friendly, and welcomes service animals. Infant seats are available for families. The site is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easily accessible.

Accessibility Feature	Included?
Wheelchair Access	✓
Stroller Access	✓
Service Animals Allowed	✓
Infant Seats	✓
Near Public Transit	✓

Most travelers can comfortably participate in this tour, ensuring an enjoyable experience for visitors of varying mobility and needs.

Pricing and Booking Details

The half-day tour to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina is priced from $17.00 per person, with the cost varying based on group size.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, and guests can reserve now and pay later for added flexibility.

The tour offers the following:

1. Round-trip transfers from Alexandria hotels in a private vehicle.
2. Bottled water and snacks provided during the tour.
3. Gratuities included in the price.
4. Optional entry fees and private Egyptologist guide available for an additional cost.

This tour is perfect for history and book enthusiasts looking to explore the renowned Library of Alexandria.

Tour Reviews and Feedback

A total of 6 reviews have been left for the half-day tour to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, resulting in an overall rating of 4.5 stars. Reviewers praise the historical significance and engineering of the iconic library, but some express concerns about transportation organization and guide availability.

Positive Feedback	Negative Feedback
Library’s historical importance	Transportation issues
Architectural design	Guide availability concerns
Informative tour	Driver’s limited English

A few guests noted the driver’s limited English skills and lack of clear identification at pickup, which impacted their experience. The tour seems to offer a valuable glimpse into Alexandria’s rich cultural heritage.

Historical Significance of the Library

Although the Bibliotheca Alexandrina stands as a modern recreation of the ancient library that once graced Alexandria, it carries a rich historical significance that captivates visitors.

The original Library of Alexandria was one of the largest and most significant libraries of the ancient world, housing an estimated 400,000 to 700,000 scrolls. It was a center of scholarship, attracting thinkers from across the Mediterranean. The library’s destruction, possibly due to fires, marked the decline of Hellenistic Alexandria.

The new Bibliotheca Alexandrina aims to recapture this legacy, offering:

1. A vast collection of over 8 million books.
2. Specialized libraries for children, young adults, and the blind.
3. Exhibitions on Alexandrian history and culture.
4. Cutting-edge conference and research facilities.

Engineering and Architecture

Designed by the renowned Norwegian firm Snøhetta, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina’s architecture seamlessly blends ancient inspiration with modern engineering.

The striking building is shaped like a giant sun disk, a nod to the sun god Ra worshipped in ancient Egypt. Its façade features intricate geometric patterns evocative of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The library’s main reading room can accommodate up to 2,000 visitors, with its towering shelves capable of housing 8 million books.

Innovative technologies, such as a specialized air conditioning system, ensure optimal temperature and humidity control to preserve the library’s invaluable collection.

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina’s design not only pays homage to its historical legacy but also showcases Egypt’s commitment to advancing knowledge and scholarship.

Preparing for Your Visit

Visitors to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina can expect a seamless and comfortable experience. The tour includes round-trip transfers from Alexandria hotels in a private, air-conditioned vehicle.

Bottled water and snacks are provided, and gratuities are included. For added convenience, the library is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infant seats are available.

The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible to most travelers. To ensure a hassle-free experience, guests can reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the tour.

1. Private, air-conditioned transportation
2. Bottled water and snacks provided
3. Wheelchair and stroller accessibility
4. Flexible booking and cancellation policy

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for sightseeing. Modest attire is recommended when visiting religious or historical sites.

Are Cameras and Photography Allowed Inside the Library?

Cameras and photography are generally allowed inside the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. However, visitors should check with staff on any restrictions or guidelines before taking photos, as rules may vary or change.

What Languages Does the Tour Guide Speak?

The tour guide typically speaks English, though some may speak additional languages like Arabic, depending on availability. The guide’s language skills are not explicitly specified in the tour overview details provided.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Library?

Visitors are allowed to bring their own food and drinks to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. However, they’re encouraged to enjoy the on-site cafeteria and shops for refreshments during their visit.

Is There a Gift Shop or Souvenir Store at the Site?

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina does have a gift shop and souvenir store on-site for visitors to browse and purchase items. Guests can find a variety of books, souvenirs, and other merchandise related to the library and its history.

The Sum Up

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the legacy of ancient Alexandria. With round-trip transportation, professional guides, and accommodations for all visitors, it provides an accessible and enriching experience. Whether you’re interested in the library’s historical significance, architectural marvels, or the vibrant culture of Alexandria, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Egypt.