Tour to The Qaitbay Citadel in Alexandria

The Qaitbay Citadel in Alexandria offers visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the city’s rich history. Perched on the Mediterranean coastline, this impressive 15th-century fortress was built atop the remains of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Visitors can wander through its imposing walls, courtyards, and chambers, taking in the breathtaking views of the sea. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an immersive cultural experience, a tour of the Qaitbay Citadel promises to leave you captivated and eager to uncover more about this remarkable site.

Good To Know

• The Qaitbay Citadel, built in the 15th century, is a fortification that offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and provides insight into Alexandria’s naval history.

• The Citadel stands on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, which was destroyed by earthquakes over the centuries.

• The Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern architectural marvel, houses over 8 million volumes and serves as a hub for knowledge and cultural exchange in Alexandria.

• The scenic Corniche, a seaside promenade, offers a glimpse into local life and provides a picturesque setting to soak in the sights and sounds of Alexandria.

• The tour offers private air-conditioned vehicle transfers, ensures accessibility, and provides optional expert Egyptologist guides for an enhanced experience.

The Citadel of Qaitbay

The Citadel of Qaitbay stands as a testament to Alexandria’s storied past. Built in the 15th century on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, this impressive fortification was constructed to defend the city from invaders.

Today, the Citadel offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich history, with its imposing walls, towering ramparts, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Visitors can explore the Citadel’s courtyards, passages, and chambers, and learn about its strategic importance in the region’s naval history.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking to soak in the beauty of Alexandria’s coastline, a visit to the Citadel of Qaitbay is a must-do on any trip to the city.

Exploring the Ancient Lighthouse

Atop the Citadel of Qaitbay, one can gaze out over the Mediterranean and imagine the towering Lighthouse of Alexandria that once stood on this very site. This ancient wonder, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, was built in the 3rd century BC and stood over 400 feet tall. Its light could be seen for miles, guiding ships to the port of Alexandria. Though the lighthouse was destroyed by earthquakes centuries ago, the Citadel of Qaitbay now stands as a testament to the city’s enduring history and maritime importance.

Feature	Description
Height	Over 400 feet
Purpose	Guide ships to Alexandria’s port
Construction	3rd century BC
Destruction	Earthquakes over centuries
Legacy	Citadel of Qaitbay

Marveling at Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Among the highlights of this Alexandria tour is the magnificent Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern architectural marvel that pays homage to the city’s storied past.

This iconic library features a distinctive circular design and houses an impressive collection of over 8 million volumes, making it one of the world’s largest and most significant libraries.

Visitors can explore the various reading rooms, exhibitions, and cultural centers within the library’s expansive complex.

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina serves as a hub of knowledge, research, and cultural exchange, reflecting the city’s rich intellectual heritage.

It’s a must-see destination that offers a glimpse into Alexandria’s vibrant present and its celebrated history.

Driving Along the Corniche

After exploring the captivating Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the tour winds its way along the scenic Corniche, Alexandria’s iconic seaside promenade.

Passengers gaze out at the shimmering Mediterranean, taking in the stunning views of the city’s coastline. The Corniche hugs the shoreline, offering a glimpse into the vibrant local life, with families strolling, fishermen casting their nets, and vendors selling fresh seafood.

The drive provides a perfect opportunity to soak in the sights and sounds of this historic city, setting the stage for the tour’s final stop at the legendary Citadel of Qaitbay.

Private Transfers and Pickups

This tour offers private air-conditioned vehicle transfers to pick up and drop off guests at their centrally located Alexandria hotels.

The transportation is wheelchair accessible, stroller friendly, and allows for service animals. The tour’s surfaces are designed to be wheelchair accessible, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience for all visitors.

These private transfers provide a hassle-free way to explore the city’s highlights, allowing guests to focus on the tour without worrying about navigating public transportation or hailing cabs.

With pickup and drop-off at the hotel, guests can enjoy a seamless and efficient start and end to their Qaitbay Citadel tour experience.

Accessibility and Accommodation

Designed to accommodate visitors of all abilities, the Qaitbay Citadel tour offers an accessible experience.

The private air-conditioned vehicle used for transportation is wheelchair accessible, and strollers are welcome. Guests with service animals can also join the tour.

The transportation surfaces are wheelchair-friendly, ensuring a smooth journey. Bottled water and snacks are provided, and entry fees and an expert Egyptologist guide are available as optional add-ons to enhance the experience.

With a 4.5-star rating and 100% traveler recommendation, this tour caters to the needs of all visitors, making it an inclusive and enjoyable outing.

Inclusions and Optional Upgrades

The Qaitbay Citadel tour includes a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience.

The basic package covers private air-conditioned transportation, as well as bottled water and snacks. Optional upgrades are available for those seeking a more comprehensive tour.

Visitors can choose to add an expert Egyptologist guide who’ll provide in-depth information about the citadel’s history and significance. Entry fees to the Citadel of Qaitbay and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina can also be included for a seamless experience.

With a 4.5-star rating and 100% traveler recommendation, this tour offers excellent value and a hassle-free way to explore Alexandria’s iconic landmarks.

Booking Details and Reviews

Travelers have several convenient booking options for the Qaitbay Citadel tour. The tour has received excellent reviews, with a 4.5-star rating from 10 travelers.

100% of these travelers recommend the experience. Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Prices start at $16.00 per person, varying based on group size.

Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, or shortly after for last-minute reservations. The tour’s high ratings, convenient booking process, and reasonable pricing make it an attractive choice for those seeking to explore the historic Qaitbay Citadel during their visit to Alexandria.

Things To Known

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour can be customized. Travelers can choose optional add-ons like an Egyptologist guide and entry fees to tailor the experience to their interests and needs.

How Long Does the Tour Typically Last?

The tour typically lasts about 2-3 hours, depending on the pace and number of stops. Guests can expect to spend 1-2 hours exploring the main attractions like the Citadel of Qaitbay and Bibliotheca Alexandrina.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour Guide?

The tour offers an optional upgrade for a private Egyptologist guide. This allows for a more personalized experience and in-depth exploration of the sites. Guests can select this add-on when booking the tour.

Are There Any COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place?

The tour provider follows all local COVID-19 safety protocols, which may include requiring face masks, social distancing, and sanitization of vehicles. Specific measures are subject to change based on government regulations at the time of the tour.

Can I Book This Tour as Part of a Larger Egypt Itinerary?

Yes, this Alexandrian tour can easily be booked as part of a larger Egypt itinerary. The tour’s flexibility makes it convenient to incorporate into a comprehensive travel plan exploring Egypt’s diverse attractions and historical sites.

Sum Up

The Qaitbay Citadel offers a captivating journey through Alexandria’s rich history and stunning coastal vistas. Visitors can explore its impressive fortifications, discover the remnants of the ancient Lighthouse, and marvel at the iconic Bibliotheca Alexandrina. With private transfers, expert guides, and accessible facilities, the tour provides a memorable experience for all. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking breathtaking views, this citadel excursion is not to be missed.