Getting to Alexandria
If you are arriving by air, all flights into Alexandria land at Borg el Arab Airport. This modern facility is located approximately 45 km southwest of the city center. Please note that there is no public transportation directly from this airport; travelers typically rely on taxis to reach the downtown area.
For those traveling from other Egyptian cities, several options are available:
- Train: This is considered the easiest way to travel between Cairo and Alexandria. "Special" and "Express" services offer comfortable, air-conditioned rides. Trains arrive at Misr Station in downtown Alexandria, which is conveniently located near the Corniche.
- Bus: Numerous companies provide air-conditioned bus services from Cairo to Alexandria. These are generally affordable and run frequently throughout the day.
- Minibus: For a more budget-friendly option, minibuses operate between Cairo and Alexandria. These vehicles typically depart only when full and can be quite crowded.
Navigating the City
Alexandria is an elongated city with a primary transport corridor along the Corniche. While the city extends inland, most tourist interests are concentrated near the coast.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing:
Yellow and black taxis are common throughout the city. Because taxi meters are rarely used, it is essential to agree upon a fare with the driver before beginning your journey. For those seeking an app-based experience, both Uber and Careem operate in Alexandria; however, using Careem requires an Egyptian phone number.
Tram System:
The city features a historic tram network that is one of the oldest remaining in Africa. The system is divided into two distinct types:
- Ramleh Lines (Tram el-Raml): These use blue-and-cream cars and generally run on dedicated tracks, making them faster for traveling toward the eastern suburbs.
- City Lines (Tram el-Madina): These yellow trams operate west and south of central Alexandria but are more frequently subject to city traffic.
Both lines offer a flat fare paid on board. Note that the first car of the blue trams is reserved exclusively for women.
Buses and Minibuses:
Local bus services and "mini-buses" provide extensive coverage along main streets. Mini-buses operate on a "hop-and-go" basis, stopping when signaled by passengers. Because drivers rarely speak English and routes can change frequently, it is helpful to know the specific Arabic name of your destination if you choose this method.
Walkability:
The area along the Corniche provides a scenic and accessible way to move through parts of the city. However, due to the city's significant length, motorized transport is often necessary for reaching locations further inland or across different districts.