Egypt

How to get from Cairo to Alexandria

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

⏱
FASTEST
2h 46min
💶
From
8€
📍
Distance
180 km
Powered by 12Go system

There are 1 way(s) to get from Cairo to Alexandria

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Cairo
📍Most premium coach services to Alexandria, including Go Bus and Blue Bus, depart from the Almaza Bus Terminal in eastern Cairo. It's a modern, well-organised terminal with waiting areas and basic amenities, designed for efficient departures.
🚇To reach Almaza Terminal from downtown Cairo, a taxi or a ride-hailing service (Uber/Careem) is your best bet. The ride typically takes 25-40 minutes depending on traffic, and costs approximately €4-€7. Public buses are an option but less convenient with luggage.
⏰Buses to Alexandria are incredibly frequent, with departures roughly every 30-60 minutes throughout the day, from early morning (around 6 AM) until late evening (around 11 PM). It's a highly serviced route.
💸 Transport from 8€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 2h 46min
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia
📶 Stay connected the moment you land

Activate an eSIM before you go: internet the moment you land, no SIM to swap, zero roaming fees.

Yesim · eSIM partner

Practical tips

💡
Book Premium Coaches for Comfort

Always opt for premium services like Go Bus VIP or Blue Bus Deluxe. They offer more legroom, better air conditioning, and fewer stops, making your 3-hour journey much more pleasant and efficient compared to standard local buses.

💡
Check Terminal Locations in Cairo

Cairo has several bus terminals. For Alexandria, most premium buses depart from the Almaza terminal. Always double-check your ticket for the exact departure point to avoid any last-minute stress or confusion.

💡
Book Online in Advance

While you might find tickets at the terminal, booking online via the operator's website (Go Bus, Blue Bus) or platforms like 12go.asia ensures your seat and often allows you to choose your preferred time slot, especially during peak travel periods.

💡
Consider Your Arrival Point in Alexandria

Buses usually arrive at the main Moharam Bey terminal in Alexandria, which is centrally located. Plan your onward journey from there, whether it's a taxi to your hotel or local transportation, to save time upon arrival.

💡
Pack Snacks and Water

Even on a relatively short 3-hour journey, having your own snacks and water can enhance your comfort. While buses might offer stops or amenities, it's always best to be prepared for your personal preferences.

🛣️ The journey experience

Navigating Egypt's vast and efficient long-distance coach network can feel a bit daunting from abroad, especially when trying to figure out if a coach or a flight is your best bet. For the popular route from Cairo to Alexandria, you're in luck: the bus is overwhelmingly the smartest and most convenient option. Forget about flights for this one; they're simply not practical for such a short distance.

Your journey from Cairo to Alexandria by bus is straightforward and comfortable. Expect premium coach operators like Go Bus, Blue Bus, and High Jet to offer frequent departures throughout the day. A ticket will typically cost you between €8-€12, and the journey itself is a quick 2.5 to 3 hours, door-to-door. These buses are modern, air-conditioned, and provide a far more direct and relaxing experience than navigating airport transfers for such a short hop.

When planning your routes across Egypt, remember that for shorter to medium distances, especially those well-served like Cairo to Alexandria, the coach network is your go-to. You'll save money, time, and avoid the airport hassle. For longer overnight hauls, however, such as Cairo to Aswan or anything involving Siwa, that's when a cheap domestic flight can genuinely be a game-changer, saving you from a potentially very long night on the road. For Cairo to Alexandria, though, stick with the bus, and you'll be enjoying the Mediterranean coast in no time.

Frequently asked questions — Cairo → Alexandria

✨ Why visit Alexandria?

  • ✓ Explore the historic Qaitbay Citadel, built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria.
  • ✓ Wander through the catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, a unique blend of Roman, Greek, and Egyptian art.
  • ✓ Visit the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a striking architectural marvel and cultural hub.
  • ✓ Stroll along the Corniche and enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • ✓ Discover the Roman Amphitheater and its well-preserved mosaics.
🌙
Recommended stay
2 to 3 nights — allows ample time to visit major historical sites and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

☀️ When to visit Alexandria?

MEDITERRANEAN DRY-SUMMER

October to April — enjoy mild temperatures, avoiding the intense summer heat, perfect for sightseeing.

Jan 😐
Feb 😐
Mar 😐
Apr 😊
May 😊
Jun 😊
Jul 😊
Aug 😊
Sep 😊
Oct 😊
Nov 😐
Dec 😐
📍
In Alexandria — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Alexandria
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in Alexandria?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
🏛️
Bibliotheca Alexandrina Marvel
Explorez la moderne Bibliotheca Alexandrina, un hommage impressionnant à l'ancienne Grande Bibliothèque. Son architecture audacieuse et ses collections variées en font un centre culturel majeur. Prévoyez une demi-journée pour découvrir ses musées et expositions. Entrée musée et exposition dès 3€, la bibliothèque principale est libre d'accès.
🛕
Catacombs Kom el-Shuqqafa
Descendez dans les mystérieuses Catacombes de Kom el-Shuqqafa, un site funéraire romain avec des influences pharaoniques et grecques. Ces tombeaux souterrains à plusieurs niveaux offrent un aperçu fascinant des pratiques d'enterrement antiques. Arrivez tôt le matin pour éviter les foules. Billet d'entrée environ 4€.
🏰
Citadel Qaitbay Fort
Visitez la Citadelle de Qaitbay, une forteresse du XVe siècle construite sur le site de l'ancien Phare d'Alexandrie. Elle offre des vues panoramiques sur la Méditerranée et le port. Idéal pour une promenade en fin d'après-midi, puis profitez du coucher de soleil. L'entrée coûte environ 3€.
🏛️
National Museum Insights
Plongez dans l'histoire d'Alexandrie au Musée National. Ses collections, allant de l'Égypte pharaonique à la période islamique, sont présentées dans un ancien palais restauré. Le musée est bien agencé et offre un aperçu chronologique. Prévoyez 2-3 heures. L'entrée est autour de 3€.
🌳
Montazah Palace Gardens
Détendez-vous dans les vastes jardins du Palais de Montazah, l'ancienne résidence royale. Les jardins luxuriants et la vue sur la mer Rouge invitent à la flânerie. C'est un excellent endroit pour échapper à l'agitation de la ville. L'accès aux jardins est généralement gratuit, le palais lui-même n'est pas toujours ouvert au public.
🗿
Pompey's Pillar Serapis
Contemplez la Colonne de Pompée, une imposante colonne romaine monolithique, et explorez les vestiges du Sérapéum qui l'entourent. Ce site archéologique offre une perspective sur l'ancienne grandeur d'Alexandrie. La vue du sommet est intéressante. L'entrée est environ 2€.
🍜
Local Seafood Experience
Goûtez aux délices de la mer dans un restaurant local près du port. Alexandrie est réputée pour ses fruits de mer frais. Demandez la pêche du jour et n'hésitez pas à essayer des plats traditionnels comme le tajine de poisson. Un bon repas coûte entre 10€ et 20€ selon la sélection.
🚶‍♀️
Corniche Evening Stroll
Faites une promenade relaxante le long de la Corniche, le boulevard côtier d'Alexandrie, en fin de journée. L'ambiance est animée, les habitants se promènent et les lumières de la ville s'illuminent. C'est une excellente façon de prendre le pouls de la ville et d'observer le quotidien. Gratuit et accessible à tout moment.

⏱️ How long to visit Alexandria?

3 to 5 days

For an independent francophone traveler, 3 to 5 days are ideal to explore Alexandria. In 3 days, focus on the main historical sites like the Library, Citadel, and Catacombs. With 5 days, you can delve deeper into neighborhoods, enjoy the Corniche, and perhaps a day trip to El Alamein.

Related searches

bus Cairo Alexandria how to get from Cairo to Alexandria ticket price Cairo to Alexandria travel time Cairo to Alexandria travel to Egypt

Other trips from Cairo

Book now