Alexandria is a good base for day trips because it sits between the desert, the Nile delta and the North Coast. Each of the trips below shows a different Egypt, and each is easier with a driver or a guide than by public transport. Distances are approximate and roads can be slow, so allow generous time and leave early.
El Alamein: the Second World War battlefield
El Alamein lies roughly two hours west along the coast road. In 1942 Allied and Axis armies fought a decisive battle in the desert here, and the town is now home to a Commonwealth war cemetery, a military museum and memorials to the German and Italian dead. The museum halls cover the Egyptian, Commonwealth, Italian and German sides, with maps, uniforms and models, and tanks and guns stand outside. The experience is solemn and moving, and it is the best choice for military history fans and for anyone with a family link to the North Africa campaign. Tours take six to seven hours, so the day is manageable. Bring a hat and water, because the sites are open to the sun, and dress respectfully in the cemeteries.
Wadi El Natrun: living Coptic monasteries
About a hundred kilometres away, a desert depression holds some of the oldest working monasteries in Christianity. Monastic life began here in the fourth century, and the survivors, including the Monastery of Saint Bishoy, the Syrian Monastery and Deir al-Baramus, still house Coptic Orthodox monks. A tour takes about eight hours with around four hours of driving, and visits last roughly an hour at each monastery. This is a trip for people who enjoy religious history, quiet courtyards and old painted churches. Dress modestly, ask before taking photographs and respect the places where visitors may not go.
Rosetta, or Rashid: the Nile meets the sea
Roughly an hour from Alexandria, the old Ottoman port of Rosetta sits where the western branch of the Nile reaches the Mediterranean. It is famous as the place where the stone that unlocked hieroglyphs was found, though the original is in London, and a replica is shown in the local museum. The town has narrow lanes with Ottoman-era merchant houses with carved wooden screens and decorated tiles, a working market and views over the river and the sea. A visit takes about half a day to a full day and suits travellers who prefer small towns, architecture and everyday life to big monuments. Wear comfortable shoes for the walking.
Cairo in a day: a long haul
Many visitors ask whether they can see Cairo and the pyramids from Alexandria in one day. It is possible by train or with a guided tour, but the drive or train ride takes around two to three hours each way, so most of the day is spent travelling. If the pyramids are a priority, base yourself in Cairo for a few nights instead and make the reverse trip, an Alexandria day from Cairo, which is a better balance for most itineraries. If you are on a cruise stop or a tight schedule, a guided day is the only realistic option, so choose a small group or a private driver and bring cash for entrance fees.
Choosing between them
Pick El Alamein for the war story and the open coast, Wadi El Natrun for religious heritage, Rosetta for small-town architecture and the delta, and Cairo only if time and priorities demand it. They all work year-round, but spring and autumn are the most comfortable, and summer needs an early start. If you have only one spare day, El Alamein is the most popular choice, and Wadi El Natrun is the most unusual.
Practical tips
Book transport or a guide in advance, especially in the busy seasons. Confirm what the price includes, such as entrance fees, lunch and drinks, because inclusions vary. Carry cash in Egyptian pounds for fees and tips, wear modest, comfortable clothes and bring sun protection. Roads and traffic can slow the return, so avoid scheduling a late dinner or an early flight on the same day. Check current travel advice from your own government before you book any excursion in Egypt, and use licensed guides and reputable drivers.
Back in the city
Plan a relaxed evening after a long day on the road. A seafood dinner by the water or a stroll on the Corniche is the best reward, and a hotel with a pool or a quiet terrace helps you recover for the next day of sightseeing.
