Islamic and Coptic Cairo Shore Excursion from Alexandria

Overview

Your ship docks at Alexandria, and instead of the pyramids you go for Cairo's other history, the medieval city of mosques, churches, and fortresses. The drive south is about 3 hours, and then your guide leads you through both the Islamic and Coptic sides of old Cairo. You climb to the Citadel of Saladin for the alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali and the view over the city, then descend into Coptic Cairo for the Hanging Church, suspended over a Roman gate, and the ancient lanes around it. Lunch at a local restaurant is included. It is a long day with real driving, timed around your ship so you reboard comfortably. Ideal for cruise guests who have already seen the pyramids, or who simply prefer living cities to ancient ruins.