Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Board your air-conditioned motorcoach for a narrated drive through Alexandria, passing such sights as the civic center, the main square and the bazaar.

Alexandria is a unique city, juxtaposing old and new - contemporary architecture can be found in close proximity to ancient landmarks. Alexandria is Egypt's second largest city with a population of approximately 3.5 million people. It has a rich history and has witnessed many historical events and legends.

The Montazah Palace Gardens are beautifully situated on a rocky bluff overlooking the beach below. Khedive Abbas Hilmy (1892-1914) built the area as a summer retreat for the royal family and subsequent royal families have made additions to the complex grounds. The palace overlooks magnificent gardens, which are open to the public and cover an area of some 150 acres. With so much sun and little rainfall, botanical gardens are a rarity in the area, however, the grounds surrounding the Montazah Palace are particularly lush and have a wide variety of trees, plants and flowers. The palace itself is a lovely example of Moorish-style architecture and has an unusual, Victorian bridge, which connects a neighboring island.

You'll want to have your camera at the ready to photograph the Mursi Abu al-Abbas Mosque, the most important Islamic monument in Alexandria. Built in 1775 over the tomb of Spanish scholar and saint, Abu El Abbas El Mursi (1219-86), it was rebuilt in 1943 with the addition of the domes and the towering minaret, 73 meters high. It is an example of modern Islamic architecture, and the exquisite detail in the exterior lends itself to captivating photographs.

Your travels continue along the Corniche, a seafront road, en route to the eastern harbor. In the distance stands Fort Qaitbey, majestic and white, set against the blue Mediterranean Sea. The 15th-century fort was built by Sultan Qaitbey to defend Egypt against the threat of the Turks. Fort Quitbey occupies a narrow peninsula and it is known to be built on the ruins of the Pharos lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. if you look closely you can see remnants of the lighthouse incorporated into the fort's design. In 1984 the Egyptian Antiquities Organization made ambitious plans to restore the medieval fort, and today it houses a navel museum.

Enjoy the sites of Alexandria as you make your way through the exciting streets back to port.

For tours that offer more in-depth exploration with actual visits to one or more sites, see the other options in this port.