Adventure in Alexandria!

Roman Amphitheatre

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling journey through history and adventure with a tour of the world"s most magnificent Roman Amphitheatres. This itinerary will guide you through iconic arenas where gladiators once battled, set against the backdrop of some of the globe’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Day 1: The Colosseum, Rome, Italy

Start your epic adventure in none other than the Eternal City. Fly into Rome’s Fiumicino Airport and take the Leonardo Express train to the city center. Your first stop is the legendary Colosseum. Built in 80 AD, this architectural marvel could hold up to 80,000 spectators. Join a guided tour to explore its underground chambers and learn about the gladiators" life. As the sun sets, enjoy a Roman dinner at a nearby trattoria.

Day 2: Arles Amphitheatre, Arles, France

Catch a morning flight to Marseille and rent a car for a scenic drive to Arles (about 1-hour drive). The Arles Amphitheatre, dating back to 90 AD, is renowned for its oval architecture and thrilling history of chariot races and gladiatorial combats. Climb up the tiers for a stunning view of the Rhone River and explore the narrow streets of Arles.

Day 3: Pula Arena, Pula, Croatia

Fly from Marseille to Pula via Zagreb. The Pula Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, awaits you. Constructed in the 1st century AD, this colossal limestone structure was once the site of fierce gladiator fights. Today, it serves as a unique venue for concerts and festivals. Don’t miss the underground exhibitions displaying ancient olive oil presses and amphorae.

Each amphitheater on this tour not only promises a peek into the ancient world of sports and spectacle but also offers modern-day adventurers a chance to connect with history in a visceral, vivid way. Whether you"re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or an adrenaline seeker, these ancient arenas promise a journey back in time filled with awe and excitement.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Citadel of Qaitbay (Fort Qaitbey)

Why Visit?

Embark on an enthralling adventure to the Citadel of Qaitbay, a fortress of historical intrigue and architectural marvel located on the Mediterranean"s edge in Alexandria, Egypt.

Morning Arrival: Start your day early by catching a local bus or taxi from your accommodation in Alexandria to the scenic Eastern Harbor area. The fortress is open from 8:00 AM, allowing you to beat the crowds and enjoy a cool morning breeze.

Exploring the Citadel: Enter via the main gate where a nominal entry fee applies. Constructed in 1477 by Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-Din Qa"it Bay, this citadel stands on the exact site of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. As you tread the well-worn stones, imagine the sentinels who once watched over the bustling port city.

Climb the Ramparts: For the adventure enthusiasts, climbing the ramparts offers a panoramic view of Alexandria’s coastline. Feel the rush of history mixed with the spray of the Mediterranean. The narrow passages and staircases provide a tangible sense of the past defenders’ daily lives.

Maritime Museum Visit: Inside the citadel, find the Maritime Museum showcasing artifacts that tell tales of Egypt"s naval glory. Each relic and model ship adds depth to your understanding of how Alexandria served as a beacon of trade and military prowess through the ages.

Lunch and Local Interaction: Post exploration, step out to the surrounding area bustling with shops and cafes. Grab a bite of freshly caught seafood or traditional Egyptian fare at a local eatery. Engaging with the friendly locals will enrich your experience and might even reveal more hidden tales and spots in Alexandria.

Sunset at the Harbor: Conclude your adventure by walking along the harbor, a perfect spot to watch the sunset. As the day fades, reflect on the historical journey you’ve embarked upon, surrounded by the enduring legacy of the Citadel of Qaitbay.

This fortress not only promises a journey through time but also an active adventure with its robust architecture and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit for those drawn to the allure of history and the thrill of exploration.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Montazah Palace Gardens

Why Visit?

Adventure in the Royal Gardens: Montazah Palace Gardens Itinerary

Welcome to a day of exploratory bliss in Alexandria’s Montazah Palace Gardens, an exquisite blend of history, botany, and adventure. Once the summer retreat of Egyptian royalty, this sprawling 150-acre estate offers a delightful escape into nature and opulence.

Morning - Arrival and Exploration

Your adventure begins early in the morning. Arrive at Alexandria via train from Cairo (a two-hour ride) and take a short taxi ride to the Montazah district. As you enter the Montazah Palace Gardens, lush landscapes and the architectural grandeur of the palaces—Al-Haramlik and Al-Salamlik—invite you to explore.

Stroll Through History

Start with a guided stroll around Al-Haramlik Palace, marveling at its unique blend of Ottoman and Florentine styles. While entry to the inside of the palaces is restricted, the exterior and the surrounding gardens are packed with photo opportunities and tales of the past.

Adventure Activities

Post your historical immersion, gear up for some excitement. The gardens are not just about leisurely walks. Engage in a thrilling kayak ride along the coastline, or if you"re visiting in the summer, take a dive into the Mediterranean from the private royal beaches. The clear blue waters against the backdrop of royal history make for a surreal experience.

Picnic with a View

Refuel by indulging in a picnic by the gardens’ numerous fountains and Victorian bridges. Local vendors outside the garden sell delightful Egyptian snacks like falafel and shawarma that you can bring along.

Sunset at Montazah

Conclude your day by finding a serene spot by the Palm Beach area. The sunset over Alexandria’s coast is breathtaking and provides a perfect end to an adventurous day.

Getting Around

Walking is the best way to explore the extensive gardens, but bicycles are available for rent near the main entrance for those who prefer to cruise the gentle hills and hidden corners of the estate.

Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and an adventurous spirit to fully enjoy the royal splendor and natural beauty of Montazah Palace Gardens!

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

El Alamein War Cemetery and Museum

Why Visit?

Embark on a journey through time to El Alamein, a site of profound World War II significance located in the northern region of Egypt, approximately 106 kilometers west of Alexandria. This pivotal battlefield now hosts the El Alamein War Cemetery and the El Alamein Military Museum, both of which provide a poignant glimpse into one of the war"s most decisive confrontations.

Morning Adventure: El Alamein Military Museum

Begin your day early by catching a bus or driving from Alexandria; the trip typically takes around 1.5 hours. The museum opens its doors at 9 AM, giving you the chance to explore without the crowds. Here, you’ll discover a wealth of artifacts, including uniforms, weapons, and armored vehicles. Each hall is dedicated to the nations involved in the battle, offering a comprehensive view of the global impact of this conflict. The detailed dioramas and multimedia displays bring the harrowing tales of warfare to life.

Lunch Break: Local Flavors

Enjoy a midday break at one of the local restaurants nearby. Sample traditional Egyptian fare like koshary or grilled kebabs to refuel for the next part of your tour.

Afternoon Reflection: El Alamein War Cemetery

A short drive from the museum, the War Cemetery is a serene, immaculately maintained site, home to the graves of over 7,000 Commonwealth soldiers. Stroll through the rows of white headstones, each engraved with names of soldiers from various corners of the world, reflecting on the sacrifices made. The cemetery also includes a beautiful memorial bearing the names of soldiers whose bodies were never found, adding depth to your understanding of the war"s extensive human cost.

Sunset at El Alamein

Conclude your visit by watching a breathtaking sunset over the Mediterranean Sea, a poignant reminder of peace after turmoil. The reflective waters provide a serene end to a day filled with historical and emotional depth.

This adventure not only deepens your appreciation for history but also connects you to the enduring spirit of those who fought at El Alamein.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Alexandria National Museum

Why Visit?

Embark on an enthralling adventure to the heart of Alexandria, where the past and present of Egypt’s “Pearl of the Mediterranean” are encapsulated in the fascinating Alexandria National Museum. This guide will lead you through a thrilling day discovering treasures of ancient history and vibrant local culture.

Morning: Arrival in Alexandria

Start your day early by catching a local train from Cairo’s Ramses Station to Alexandria. The journey offers scenic views of the Egyptian countryside and takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. Upon arrival, you can grab a quick traditional Egyptian breakfast of ful medames and ta"ameya at a local café.

Mid-Morning: Alexandria National Museum

Located in a beautifully restored Italian style palace, the Alexandria National Museum sits elegantly on Tariq Al-Horreya Street. The museum houses over 1,800 artifacts that narrate the story of Alexandria through its Greek, Roman, Coptic, and Islamic eras. Highlights include a rare collection of coins and jewelry, ancient statues from the underwater discoveries of Alexandria’s harbor, and personal items from the last Egyptian royal family. The museum is a treasure trove for those fascinated by Egypt’s layered history and the many civilizations that have shaped it.

Lunch: Sea-Inspired Cuisine

Post museum, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant, where you can savor Alexandrian specialties like Sayadeya, a delicious fish and rice dish seasoned with local spices.

Afternoon: Dive into History

Adventure lovers can take their exploration a step further by arranging a dive into Alexandria’s Eastern Harbor with a local dive shop. Witness the submerged ruins of ancient Cleopatra’s Palace and other archaeological marvels beneath the Mediterranean waves.

Evening: Sunset and Stroll

Conclude your day with a stroll along the Corniche to watch the Mediterranean sunset. This iconic waterfront promenade captures the spirit of Alexandria and offers a perfect end to an action-packed day.

Whether you’re exploring underground or indulging in the local flavors, Alexandria’s blend of history and adventure promises a memorable journey.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.