Cairo to Alexandria tickets

About the ride from Cairo to Alexandria

Traveling from the chaotic streets of Cairo to the laid-back, Mediterranean charm of Alexandria feels like swapping a whirlwind of ancient energy for a breezy coastal escape. Visiting both cities means you'll get to experience the beautiful diversity of Egypt.

Thankfully, with affordable public transportation and regularly maintained roads, traveling from Cairo to Alexandria is a snap. It's a well-worn route.

There are four ways to travel the 136 miles (219 km) between these two unique hotspots:

1. Bus  

2. Train 

3. Car

4. Minivan 

Below, we'll dive into the details of each so you can make an informed decision when booking your ride.

But first…

Five unique things to do in Alexandria

1. Chill at El-Max Fisherman's Village. This colorful little village feels like stepping into a living postcard. Boats aren't just transportation here — they're homes, markets, and restaurants. 

Wander the narrow lanes, chat with friendly locals, and grab some freshly grilled fish straight from the sea. Plus, the bright boats and street art are basically begging to be on your Insta feed.

2. Explore the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa. Ready to channel your inner Indiana Jones? These ancient underground tombs are part Roman, part Egyptian, and 100% fascinating. You'll weave through spiral staircases, chambers, and eerie statues — it's a little creepy but in the coolest way possible.

3. Sunset stroll along the Corniche. Alexandria's waterfront promenade is the spot for a laid-back afternoon. Grab a sugarcane juice or fresh-off-the-grill corn from a street vendor, feel the salty breeze on your face, and just watch the city vibe shift as the sun dips below the horizon.

4. Sip coffee at an old-school café. Step into Délices or Trianon, and it's like time-traveling to Alexandria's golden days. These iconic cafés have been around forever, serving up strong coffee, creamy pastries, and a hefty dose of nostalgia. 

5. Pop into the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. Forget dusty old libraries — this place is a sleek, modern marvel. Inside, you'll find way more than books: think art galleries, science exhibits, unique architecture, and rotating cultural events. Whether you're a legit bookworm or just love a good photo opp, it's a must-visit.

How to get from Cairo to Alexandria

The good thing about this route is that you can find a ride that suits any budget and travel style.

Here are the details of them all:

Option one: Bus

Duration: 2.5-3 hours

Starting price: $5

The cheapest way to get between these two destinations is to take the bus. There are dozens of daily departure times from the wee hours of the morning well into the darkest hours of the night. Finding a bus that works with your schedule won't be a challenge. 

All buses have AC, but some are fancy, and for one dollar more, you could have WiFi, USB ports, reclining chairs and blankets. So, it pays to read all the details before booking. 

Some have TV screens, but bring a book or download a podcast or a show to keep you occupied along the way. 

Seats are comfortable for a short ride, and there is plenty of luggage storage under the bus.  

Not all buses have bathrooms, and they may not stop along the way. It is better to use the bathroom at the bus stop before you take off.

Not all the buses use the same departure and arrival spots. Try to pick the most convenient place so you won't have a far ride from or to your accommodation. 

Option two: Train

Duration: 1.5-2 hours

Starting price: $49

Train travel is a safe and scenic mode of transportation between Cairo and Alexandria. 

You can book a first-class or second-class seat, but for such a short ride, it may not be worth the upgrade if you're on a budget.  

First-Class Train: These trains are sleek and modern. Some have individual TV screens, offer more luggage allowance and very spacious and comfortable seats. It is set up in a two-and-one configuration: two seats right next to each other and then a row of single seats divided by an aisle.

Second-Class Train: These cabins have standard train seats, but they are not as wide and cushy as first class. There are four seats per row — two on either side of an aisle. Seats are relatively comfortable, but there are no special amenities. 

The French Express train is a bit older. Don't let the "Express" part fool you. It takes about two hours to get from Cairo to Alexandria. 

Some trains leave once per day in the morning, and others have 12 daily departures, so you'll easily find something suitable for your itinerary. 

Trains leave from the Ramsis or Cairo Train Station and arrive at the Sidi Gaber Train Station or the Alexandria Train Station.

Option three: Private car

Duration: 2.5-3 hours

Starting price: $34 for the car

If you are traveling with a couple of friends, a private car is a very affordable option to get you from Cairo to Alexandria. Cars can accommodate three to four people, and you split the total with the group. For example, if it's $34 and there are four of you, you'll only pay $8.50 per person. That is nearly bus cheap.

All cars and SUVs are modern with AC, charging ports, and occasionally, even WiFi (but don't count on it).

It's a private ride, so you call the shots. You'll get picked up and dropped off at your hotel of choice and have the entire vehicle for yourself. Additionally, you get to set your schedule, and request stops for snacks, a bathroom break, or even a photo stop along the way.  

Option four: Shared and private minivan

Duration: 2-3.5 hours

Starting price: $8 (for a seat), $40 (for the whole minivan)

Booking a seat in a modern shared minivan is a super affordable way to get from Cairo to Alexandria. You'll have reclining seats, charging ports, and AC. 

Each company has its own departure and drop-off spots, so be mindful of that when booking. 

For a few dollars more, your driver can pick you up at the airport or your hotel in Cairo and drop you off at your next accommodation in Alexandria. However, this will add time to your journey since the driver has to pick up everyone at different locations. 

If you're traveling with a small group, go for a private minivan. Prices are around $40, which gets split with your group. Even if you are only four people, a private ride for $10 is a no-brainer. 

Plus, it's door-to-door service with only one hotel pick up and drop off — yours!

The best time to travel to Alexandria

The sweet spots are March to June and September to November. The weather is mild, the sea breeze keeps things cool, and the city is not overly packed with tourists. It's warm enough to enjoy the city but not so hot that you feel like you're walking on the sun.

Avoid July and August. They are scorchers — hot, humid, and super busy with local vacationers. 

Also, winter months, like December to February, can get surprisingly chilly, windy, and rainy, making beach days a no-go.

How many days should you spend in Alexandria?

Two to three days are just enough time to soak up the city's history, wander the Corniche, explore the catacombs, and chill at a seaside café without rushing. If you're all about slow travel or want to fit in a day trip (maybe to El Alamein), you can stretch it to four days. 

Where should you travel after Alexandria?

If you want to see a more remote, untouched side of Egypt, check out the incredible pools of Siwa. It'll take you about 6-7 hours from Alexandria.

Alternatively, Port Said is only three hours away. It has an old-world charm where you can wander through colonial streets and watch ships pass through the Suez Canal. It feels like you've stumbled on a hidden corner of history.