Cairo International Airport (CAI) → Alexandria transfer
The transfer from Cairo International Airport to Alexandria covers 237 km and usually takes 187–234 minutes, with a typical price of around €80–110 for a private car and €110–150 for a minivan. The exact price is shown before you book.
- From
- Cairo International Airport (CAI)
- To
- Alexandria
- Distance
- 237 km
- Typical drive
- 187–234 min
It is the longest of the common trips from CAI: first across Greater Cairo to its western edge, then north-west through the desert to Egypt's second city on the Mediterranean. A private car takes you to your hotel without changing to a train in the centre of Cairo.
The journey step by step
Leaving the airport
The driver meets you in arrivals and loads your luggage. The first part of the trip crosses or bypasses the city on the ring road, which is where most of the variation in time comes from.
Onto the desert road
On the western side of Giza the car joins the Cairo–Alexandria desert road, a wide, multi-lane highway with toll points, service stations and rest stops along the way.
Through the open desert
The road runs west of the Nile Delta past farmland reclaimed from the desert and new towns. A short break at a service area is easy to arrange.
Into Alexandria
City traffic picks up again on the approach, and the driver continues to your hotel on the Corniche or in the city.
Where in Alexandria are you staying?
Alexandria stretches for many kilometres along the sea, and the Corniche road links almost all of its districts. Hotels near the Eastern Harbour and Qaitbay Citadel are in the historic centre, close to the old cafes and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, while others sit further east towards Montaza.
Because of this length, the time inside the city can vary noticeably. Give the full hotel name and address when booking so the driver can plan the final part of the ride.
Seasons on the Mediterranean coast
Alexandria is milder than Cairo in summer, and it is then a favourite holiday city for Egyptian families, so the Corniche is at its busiest. In winter it can be cool, windy and sometimes rainy, which suits travellers interested in the city's history and museums more than the beach.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take from Cairo Airport to Alexandria by car?
Usually 187–234 minutes for the 237 km. Most of the variation comes from Cairo traffic at the start and Alexandria traffic at the end.
How much is a private car from CAI to Alexandria?
Typically around €80–110 for a private car and €110–150 for a minivan. The price shown before booking is the total for the ride.
Can we stop on the way?
A short comfort break at a service area on the desert road is normally possible. If you want a longer stop, mention it when booking so the provider can plan for it.
Is a private transfer better than the train from Cairo?
Trains leave from central Cairo, so from the airport you would first need a ride into the city. A private car goes door to door, which is easier with luggage, children or a late arrival.
Do you also go to hotels outside Alexandria on the north coast?
This page covers Alexandria itself. For resorts further west along the coast, enter the exact address when booking to see whether a transfer is available.