Private car from Cairo to Alexandria
A private car from Cairo to Alexandria costs USD 60–200 in a sedan or USD 80–280 in a minivan (2026) and takes 2.5 to 3 hours on the Desert Road. A same-day return, with the driver waiting for you, comes to USD 90–260.
Updated:
Car, train or bus?
| Time | Typical cost (2026) | Suits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private car | 2.5–3 hours, door to door | USD 60–200 per car | Groups, luggage, day trips |
| Train | About 2.5–3 hours | From about 190 EGP in standard first class, more on the Talgo | Solo travellers and couples |
| Bus | Allow 3–4 hours | Usually under USD 10 | The tightest budgets |
Train fares come from the table published by the Cairo Governorate, updated in 2026. Reseller websites can charge a lot more, so check before you go.
What the car costs
| Trip | Sedan (1–3) | Minivan (4–8) |
|---|---|---|
| Cairo to Alexandria, one way | USD 60–200 | USD 80–280 |
| Same-day return, driver waiting | USD 90–260 | USD 165–330 |
| Cairo Airport to Alexandria, one way | USD 90–240 | USD 130–310 |
A day trip that works
Set off from Cairo around 7 am and you are in Alexandria by mid-morning. Spend the day at the Graeco-Roman Museum, Kom el-Dikka and along the Corniche, and you are back in Cairo around 9 pm. AMEN's same-day return includes up to 8 hours of waiting time for the driver.
On the road
The driver uses the Cairo–Alexandria Desert Road, a fast multi-lane highway. For a break, the Wadi El Natrun monasteries are just off the route. Starting from Sphinx Airport cuts the trip to about 185 km and 2¼ 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 Your route, date, flight number and number of passengers.
- Get a price for the whole car That is the amount you pay.
- Meet your driver Once you accept, AMEN sends the driver's name, car and plate number.
- Pay on the day In cash (EGP, USD or EUR), or by card or bank transfer when booked in advance.
Included: 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) · 7-Seat Family SUV (up to 6) · Toyota HiAce van (up to 12) · Mercedes S-Class (up to 3).
Get a quote on WhatsAppFrequently asked questions
How much is a private car from Cairo to Alexandria?
Usually USD 60–200 in a sedan and USD 80–280 in a minivan in 2026, one way, for the whole car.
How long is the drive from Cairo to Alexandria?
Roughly 2.5 to 3 hours on the Cairo–Alexandria Desert Road, depending on where you start and the traffic.
Should I take the train or a private car?
The train costs far less and takes about as long, so it suits solo travellers and couples. The car is better for groups, heavy luggage and door-to-door day trips.
Can I do Alexandria as a day trip from Cairo?
Yes. A same-day return usually costs USD 90–260 for the car. A typical plan is to leave at 7 am and be back around 9 pm.
How much is a transfer from Cairo Airport to Alexandria?
Usually USD 90–240 in a sedan and USD 130–310 in a minivan. The distance is about 230 km, roughly 3 hours.
Can we stop on the way?
Yes. The Wadi El Natrun monasteries are a popular break on the Desert Road. Mention any stops when you book.