Starting September 2025, AmaWaterways will begin visiting the amazing city of Alexandria in Egypt, a city of Old-World marvels and modern wonders. While here, wander the streets that Queen Cleopatra VII once walked, immersing yourself in the religious influence and pursuit of knowledge that remains from ancient times to current day. Here are just a few of the included highlights you can enjoy on our new Secrets of Egypt & the Nile extension.

Graeco-Roman Museum

On your first day seeing the iconic sights of Alexandria, you will explore the famous Graeco-Roman Museum and discover the centuries of history preserved within. Established in 1892, this archaeological museum preserves and displays artifacts uncovered during excavations in Alexandria and the surrounding area.

Alexandria played a pivotal role in fostering cultural fusion between Greek, Roman and Egyptian civilizations, serving as a hub of trade, scholarship, and religious integration throughout antiquity. With unique artifacts on display such as Serapis coins and Fayum mummy portraits, the museum provides insights into how these three cultures interacted and influenced one another in art, religion, daily life and governance.

Bibliotheca Alexandria

On your second day in Alexandria, see the extraordinary modern-day library in this special city. Built to commemorate the ancient Library of Alexandria, Bibliotheca Alexandria was officially inaugurated on October 16, 2002, after decades of planning and construction initiated by Alexandria University and supported by both UNESCO and the Egyptian government. An architectural marvel connecting Egypt’s past with its future aspirations, the modern library aims to revive the legacy of universal knowledge associated with its predecessor.

The building’s circular, tilted design was inspired by the sun rising over the Mediterranean Sea. The Aswan granite exterior is engraved with letters from all known alphabets, reflecting the immense knowledge held within its walls. Inside, the library can hold up to eight million books across its seven cascading levels. Alongside those books, museums (including antiquities and science museums), art galleries, a planetarium, and a manuscript restoration laboratory are features as well.

Citadel of Qaitbay

Later that same day, enjoy a guided tour of the coastal Citabel of Qaitbay. Built by Sultan Al-Ashraf Sayf al-Din Qaitbay in 1477 AD, this fortress was constructed on the ruins of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria (Pharos), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The lighthouse had been destroyed by earthquakes in the 14th century, and its remnants were repurposed for the citadel's construction.

The fascinating fortress features Islamic military architectural elements such as high limestone walls, towers, and crenellations for defense. Its main tower is a massive three-story square structure with half-circular towers at each corner. The tower includes balconies for city defense and a tank to supply water to soldiers and horses. After you explore this unique structure on your tour with us, enjoy the vibrant Mediterranean Sea views as you savor a special seafood lunch.

Wadi el Natrun

During the third day of your Alexandria experience, journey into to desert on a guided tour to see Wadi El Natrun*. This historically significant desert valley derived its name from Arabic ("Valley of Natron") due to its alkaline lakes rich in natron salts, which were historically used in Egyptian mummification. In Coptic tradition, this destination is known as Shi-Hyt ("measure of the hearts"), reflecting its spiritual significance.

The region became a cornerstone of early Christian monasticism in the 4th century, initiated by Saint Macarius the Great around 330 CE. At its peak, the area hosted over 100 monasteries, attracting ascetics seeking solitude in the harsh desert environment. Today, four active Coptic Orthodox monasteries remain, housing approximately 500 monks and serving as vital centers for this unique heritage. Connect with these some of these monks and learn their stories during your time there.

*During Coptic lent and other holidays, the monasteries may be closed to visitors. If so, we will instead tour the beautiful Montaza Gardens, the magnificent complex surrounding the Montaza Palace.

What’s Included in Your Optional Alexandria Land Extension

• 3 nights in a 5-star hotels (2 nights in Alexandria, 1 night in Cairo to prepare for early morning flights home)
• Guided excursions to the Roman Amphitheater, Graeco-Roman Museum, Alexandria Bibliotheca, Citadel of Qaitbay and Wadi el Natrun
• A special seafood lunch on your second day in Alexandria
• The services of one of our wonderful AmaWaterways Egyptologists
• Air-conditioned transfers between Cairo and Alexandria
• Daily breakfast at the hotel

Contact your travel advisor to find out more about how you can add our Alexandria land extension to your Secrets of Egypt & the Nile itinerary.