Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Alexandria Airport (ALY) to Alexandria Railway Station is by pre-booked private transfer or taxi, taking 15-25 minutes and costing between £E 150 to £E 250. For budget travelers, the public bus (Line 303) is the cheapest option at around £E 5-10, but takes 45-60 minutes. There is no direct train connecting the airport to the main railway station; a combination of taxi/bus to a metro or train hub is required.
Is There a Direct Train from Alexandria Airport to the Railway Station?
No, there is no direct train or metro line connecting Alexandria Borg El Arab Airport (ALY) directly to the central Alexandria Railway Station (Misr Station). The airport is located approximately 45 km southwest of the city center. To use rail services, you must first reach a city-center transport hub via road.
The most common rail-integrated route involves:
- Road Transfer to City: Take a taxi, bus, or private car from the airport to either:
- Sidi Gaber Railway Station: A major station east of the city center, better connected to some destinations.
- Alexandria Tram or Metro Stations (e.g., San Stefano, Raml Station).
- Complete Journey by Train/Tram: From Sidi Gaber or the city center, take an Egyptian National Railways (ENR) train or a local tram to your final destination within Alexandria or beyond.
Key Consideration: This two-leg journey is not recommended for first-time visitors with luggage due to potential confusion, wait times, and multiple ticket purchases.
Public Bus from Alexandria Airport to City Center & Station
This is the most economical option for solo travelers and those familiar with Alexandria's public transport.
Primary Bus Route: Line 303
- Route: Borg El Arab Airport → Mazarita / Raml Station (city center).
- Travel Time: 45 to 90 minutes, heavily dependent on traffic.
- Cost: Approximately £E 5 – £E 10 (as of 2024).
- Frequency: Every 30-60 minutes. Service may be less frequent late at night.
- Bus Stop: Located directly outside the airport terminal arrivals hall.
Minibuses (Microbuses)
Shared minibuses operate on similar routes and are faster but more crowded. Fares are negotiated but rarely exceed £E 15-20. They depart when full.
Pros: Extremely cheap, direct to central hubs.
Cons: Unreliable schedules, can be crowded, limited luggage space, requires local currency (Egyptian Pounds), and a basic understanding of Arabic or route numbers is helpful.
Tip: For the railway station, take the bus to "Raml Station" or "Mazarita" and then a short taxi (£E 20-30) or tram to the main Alexandria (Misr) Railway Station.
Taxi, Uber, Careem & Private Airport Transfers
This is the most convenient and recommended door-to-door option, especially for families, groups, or those with luggage.
| Option | Estimated Cost (ALY → Railway Station) | Booking Method | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official Airport Taxi | £E 200 – £E 300 | Kiosk inside arrivals hall | Fixed price, metered, sometimes older vehicles. |
| Uber / Careem | £E 150 – £E 250 | App (requires internet) | Upfront pricing, cash/card payment, newer cars, driver tracking. |
| Pre-Booked Private Transfer | £E 250 – £E 400+ | Online via booking platforms | Meet & greet, fixed price, child seats available, luxury vehicles. |
Why Choose This Option?
- Direct Service: No stops or changes.
- Time-Efficient: 15-25 minutes in normal traffic.
- 24/7 Availability: Crucial for late-night or early-morning flights.
- Safety & Comfort: Air-conditioned, secure, and hassle-free.
Recommendation: Use Uber or Careem for the best balance of cost, convenience, and reliability. Have a small amount of Egyptian cash for potential tolls.
Cost & Time Comparison: Alexandria Airport to Railway Station
| Transport Method | Approximate Cost (EGP) | Approximate Travel Time | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Transfer | 250 - 400+ | 15-25 min | Families, Groups, Luxury | Pre-booked, most comfortable |
| Uber / Careem | 150 - 250 | 15-30 min | Most Travelers | Best Value & Convenience |
| Airport Taxi | 200 - 300 | 15-30 min | Immediate departure | Negotiate/use meter |
| Public Bus + Local Taxi | 25 - 40 | 60-90 min | Solo Budget Travelers | Cheapest Option, complex |
| Bus Only (to City Center) | 5 - 10 | 45-90 min | Adventurous Travelers | No direct station access |
Note: Travel times vary dramatically with Alexandria's traffic. Costs are subject to change and fuel price fluctuations.
Essential Travel Tips for Alexandria Airport Arrivals
- Currency & SIM Cards: Withdraw Egyptian Pounds (EGP) from ATMs in the arrivals hall. Consider purchasing a local Vodafone or Orange SIM card for data to use ride-hailing apps.
- Negotiating Taxis: If not using Uber, agree on the fare BEFORE getting in any white airport taxi. Confirm if the price is total or per person.
- Peak Traffic Times: Avoid travel during Friday prayers (midday) and weekday rush hours (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM). A 15-minute trip can become 60+ minutes.
- Luggage Consideration: Buses and microbuses have very limited luggage space. If you have more than a backpack, opt for a taxi or private transfer.
- Final Destination: Confirm which "Alexandria Railway Station" you need:
- Misr Station (Alexandria Main): For most long-distance trains to Cairo, Luxor, etc.
- Sidi Gaber Station: Often a stop for trains coming from Cairo before terminating at Misr Station.
- Safety: Alexandria is generally safe for tourists. Standard precautions apply: keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.
FAQs: Alexandria Airport to Railway Station Transportation
Is there a direct train from Alexandria Airport to the city?
No. Alexandria Borg El Arab Airport does not have a direct train or metro connection. You must use road transport (bus, taxi) to reach the city's rail hubs.
What is the cheapest way from the airport to the train station?
The public bus (Line 303) is the cheapest, costing under £E 10. However, it only goes to the city center (Raml/Mazarita). You will need an additional short taxi or tram ride to reach the main railway station.
How much is a taxi from ALY to Alexandria Railway Station?
An official airport taxi costs £E 200-300. Using Uber or Careem is usually cheaper, ranging from £E 150 to £E 250, depending on demand and vehicle type.
Is Uber available at Alexandria Airport?
Yes, Uber and Careem operate reliably at ALY. You will need an internet connection (airport Wi-Fi or local SIM) to book. The pickup point is well-signposted outside arrivals.
How long does the journey take?
By taxi/private car: 15-30 minutes depending on traffic.
By public bus: 45 to 90 minutes to the city center, plus additional time to reach the station.
What's the best option for a late-night arrival?
Pre-book a private transfer or use Uber/Careem. Public bus services are very limited at night. Pre-booking guarantees a driver will be waiting for you.
Can I walk from the airport to the train station?
Absolutely not. The airport is about 45 km from the city center. Walking is impossible and unsafe on the highways.
I'm a group of 4 with luggage. What should I choose?
For a group, a pre-booked private minivan transfer or two Ubers offers the best value for money, comfort, and convenience compared to multiple taxi fares or the impracticality of public bus with luggage.