Cairo to Alexandria by Private Car
A private car from Cairo to Alexandria costs $60β200 in a sedan or $80β280 in a minivan (2026) and takes 2.5 to 3 hours on the Desert Road. A same-day return with the driver waiting runs $90β260.
Car, train or bus?
| Time | Typical cost (2026) | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private car | 2.5β3 hours, door to door | $60β200 per car | Groups, luggage, day trips |
| Train | About 2.5β3 hours | From about 190 EGP on standard first class, more on Talgo | Solo travellers and couples |
| Bus | Allow 3β4 hours | Usually under $10 | Tight budgets |
Train fares are from the Cairo Governorate's published table, updated in 2026. Reseller sites can charge much more. Check before you travel.
What a private car costs
| Trip | Sedan (1β3) | Minivan (4β8) |
|---|---|---|
| Cairo to Alexandria, one way | $60β200 | $80β280 |
| Same-day return with driver waiting | $90β260 | $165β330 |
| Cairo Airport to Alexandria, one way | $90β240 | $130β310 |
A day trip that works
Leave Cairo at about 7 am and you reach Alexandria mid-morning. Spend the day at the Graeco-Roman Museum, Kom el-Dikka and the Corniche, and you are back in Cairo by about 9 pm. AMEN's same-day return includes up to 8 hours of driver waiting.
The road
Your driver takes the CairoβAlexandria Desert Road, a fast multi-lane highway. If you want a break, the Wadi El Natrun monasteries are close to the route. From Sphinx Airport the trip is shorter, at about 185 km and 2ΒΌ hours.
How to book with AMEN Limousine
AMEN Limousine is the private transfer company we recommend for this trip. It covers 11 Egyptian airports and intercity routes across the country.
- Message AMEN on WhatsApp with your route, date, flight number and number of passengers.
- You get a quote for the whole car, and that is the amount you pay.
- Once you accept, AMEN sends the driver's name, car and plate number.
- Pay the driver in cash (EGP, USD or EUR), or by card or bank transfer when booked in advance.
Included in the quote: fuel, highway tolls, airport parking and the first 60 minutes of airport waiting. Waiting caused by a flight delay is free, and short stops on the way are free if you mention them when booking.
Cars: Executive Sedan (up to 3 passengers) Β· 7-Seat Family SUV (up to 6) Β· Toyota HiAce van (up to 12) Β· Mercedes S-Class (up to 3).
Get a quote on WhatsAppFrequently Asked Questions
How much is a private car from Cairo to Alexandria?
Typically $60-200 in a sedan and $80-280 in a minivan in 2026, one way and per car.
How long does it take to drive from Cairo to Alexandria?
About 2.5 to 3 hours on the Cairo-Alexandria Desert Road, depending on your start point and traffic.
Is the train or a private car better?
The train is far cheaper and takes about the same time, so it suits solo travellers. A car wins for groups, luggage and door-to-door day trips.
Can I visit Alexandria as a day trip from Cairo?
Yes. A same-day return typically costs $90-260 for the car. Leaving at 7 am and getting back by about 9 pm is common.
How much is a transfer from Cairo Airport to Alexandria?
Typically $90-240 in a sedan and $130-310 in a minivan. The drive is about 230 km and takes around 3 hours.
Can we stop on the way?
Yes. The Wadi El Natrun monasteries are a popular stop on the Desert Road. Mention any stops when you book.