How to Get from Alexandria Airport to Marsa Matruh

The Egyptian National Railways (ENR) operates regular services from Alexandria to Marsa Matruh, offering a comfortable and affordable journey along the Mediterranean coast. This is the most recommended method for independent travelers seeking a balance of value and experience.

Important Note: There is no train station at Borg El Arab Airport (HBE). Your journey requires a two-step process.

Step-by-Step Guide: Airport to Matruh by Train

1. Airport to Alexandria City (1 - 1.5 hours, EGP 100-300): Exit the arrivals hall and head to the official taxi counter or use the Uber/Careem app. Your destination is either Misr Station (Alexandria's main station) or Sidi Gaber Station (closer to the airport). A pre-paid taxi costs EGP 150-250. Shared minibuses are cheaper (~EGP 20-40) but confusing for first-timers.
2. Buying Your Train Ticket: Purchase your ticket at the station counter. Tickets cannot be bought online for this route. Popular services include:
   • North Coast Express: Air-conditioned, more comfortable, fewer stops. (Approx. EGP 80-150 for 2nd/1st class).
   • Regular Train: Slower, more stops, basic amenities. (Approx. EGP 40-80).
3. Train Journey to Marsa Matruh (4 - 5 hours): The train travels west along the coast. First-class offers reserved, reclining seats. Bring snacks and water, as onboard services are minimal.
4. Arrival at Marsa Matruh Station: The station is located slightly outside the city center. Use a local taxi (EGP 20-50) to reach your final hotel or destination.

Alexandria to Marsa Matruh Train Overview

Aspect	Details
Total Door-to-Door Time	5 - 7 hours
Total Approximate Cost	EGP 200 - 500 (Airport Taxi + Train + Local Taxi)
Train Frequency (Summer)	3-5 trains per day
Key Advantage	Scenic coastal views, spacious seats, reliable schedule.
Key Disadvantage	Requires transfer at Alexandria; no online booking.

While Marsa Matruh has an international airport (MUH), flying directly from Alexandria Airport is not a logical choice for this route and is generally not recommended.

Why Flying is Impractical:

• No Direct Route: There are no commercial flights from Alexandria Borg El Arab (HBE) to Marsa Matruh (MUH).
• The Complex Alternative: You would need to travel from HBE to Cairo International Airport (CAI) (a 3-4 hour drive) to catch a connecting flight to MUH operated by EgyptAir or Air Cairo. This turns a 5-7 hour land journey into a 10+ hour multi-leg ordeal.
• High "Door-to-Door" Time: When you factor in early airport arrival, flight time, baggage claim, and travel from MUH airport to Matruh city, flying is slower and more expensive than taking a train or bus.

Exception: If you are already in Cairo and need to get to Marsa Matruh urgently, the 1-hour flight from CAI to MUH is worthwhile. Otherwise, disregard flying for travel originating in Alexandria.

Several private bus companies offer direct services from Alexandria to Marsa Matruh. This is the most straightforward and economical public transport option.

Key Bus Companies & Stations

• West Delta Bus Co. (Most Reliable): Departs from their main terminal, Al-Mo'af Al-Gedid (New Garage) in Alexandria. Offers air-conditioned coaches with varying classes (VIP, Super Jet).
• SuperJet: Another reputable company with services from similar terminals.

Step-by-Step Guide: Airport to Matruh by Bus

1. Airport to Alexandria Bus Station (1 - 1.5 hours): Take a taxi from HBE to Al-Mo'af Al-Gedid bus station. Inform the driver "Mo'af Gedid" or "West Delta." Cost: EGP 150-250.
2. Buying Bus Tickets: Purchase at the station counter. In peak summer (June-August), book a day in advance or early in the morning. Buses fill quickly. One-way fare: EGP 80-150 for standard/VIP class.
3. Bus Journey (4 - 5.5 hours): Buses take the Desert Road (Route 1). VIP buses are comfortable with air conditioning and sometimes Wi-Fi.
4. Arrival in Marsa Matruh: Buses terminate at the main bus station in Matruh. From there, take a local taxi to your destination.

Bus vs. Train Quick Comparison

Feature	Bus	Train
Total Cost (Approx.)	EGP 150 - 400	EGP 200 - 500
Journey Time	5 - 7 hours total	5 - 7 hours total
Direct from Airport?	No (requires taxi to station)	No (requires taxi to station)
Scenery	Desert Road	Coastal Route
Booking Ease	Easier, more frequent departures	Limited schedules, sell out fast

For groups, those with heavy luggage, or travelers prioritizing convenience and time over cost, a private car for the entire 500km journey is an option.

Options & Costs

• Pre-Booked Private Transfer: The safest and most reliable method. Book online via reputable travel agencies or global transfer sites. A sedan for 1-3 people costs EGP 2000 - 3500 one-way. The journey takes 4.5 - 6 hours.
• Airport Taxi (Negotiated Long-Distance): You can negotiate with white taxi drivers at HBE. This is highly discouraged due to safety risks, potential for drastic overcharging, and driver reliability. If you must, negotiate firmly before getting in. Expect to start bargaining at EGP 2500+.
• App-Based (Uber/Careem): While you can book a long-distance trip, many drivers may refuse or cancel due to the distance and empty return journey. It's not a guaranteed option.

When is it worth it? For a group of 4 splitting the cost, or if you arrive on a late flight and need to reach Matruh urgently. Otherwise, the train/bus combination is far more economical.

This table summarizes all options to help you decide based on budget, time, and comfort.

Alexandria Airport (HBE) to Marsa Matruh: Transport Comparison 2024

Transport Method	Total Door-to-Door Time	Approximate Cost (One-Way)	Comfort & Convenience	Best For
Train (via Alexandria)	5 - 7 hours	EGP 200 - 500	Medium-High. Scenic, spacious, but requires a transfer.	Most travelers, solo/duo, scenery lovers.
Public Bus (via Alexandria)	5 - 7 hours	EGP 150 - 400	Medium. Direct route, frequent, but can be crowded.	Budget travelers, backpackers.
Private Taxi / Transfer	4.5 - 6 hours	EGP 2000 - 3500+	Very High. Door-to-door, flexible.	Groups, families, luxury/urgent travel.
Flight (via Cairo)	10+ hours	EGP 2000 - 5000+	Low for this route. Multiple transfers, airport hassle.	Not recommended for this journey.

Verdict: For value and experience, choose the train. For the lowest cost, choose the bus. For ultimate convenience regardless of cost, choose a pre-booked private transfer.

Essential Advice for a Smooth Journey

• Seasonal Impact (Summer Rush): From June to August, Marsa Matruh is a major holiday destination for Egyptians. Book train and bus tickets several days in advance. Expect crowds and higher prices for taxis.
• Currency & Payment: Carry sufficient Egyptian Pounds (EGP) in cash. Taxis from the airport, bus tickets, and train tickets are primarily cash-only transactions. Small bills are useful.
• Language: Few drivers or ticket clerks speak fluent English. Have your destination written in Arabic: "محطة مرسى مطروح" (Marsa Matruh Station) or "المواف الجديد" (Al-Mo'af Al-Gedid). Use a translation app.
• Safety: Egypt is generally safe for tourists. Standard precautions apply: use official taxis, don't flash valuables, and be aware of your surroundings in crowded stations.
• Luggage Strategy: If you have large suitcases, a private transfer is easiest. For public transport, pack light. Consider using a luggage forwarding service within major cities if you have excess baggage, though this is less common for this route.
• Stay Connected: Purchase a local SIM card (Vodafone, Orange, Etisalat) at the airport for data to use ride-hailing apps and maps during your transfers in Alexandria.