Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, there are numerous options for getting to the city, depending on your budget and time preferences. Taxi, private transfer, shared transfer, and public transport are all viable options. This guide will help you navigate the possibilities so your stay in Cairo starts as comfortably as possible.
Official taxi ranks are usually located at the exits of the airport terminals. It is important to only take taxis from official taxi ranks and to check that the taxi has a working taximeter. Taxi fares depend on the distance and traffic. A taxi from the airport to the city center usually costs around 20-40 EUR, depending on traffic. The journey time can vary between 30 minutes and 1 hour, and may be longer during peak hours.
A private transfer is a more comfortable and reliable alternative to a taxi. With a private transfer, a pre-booked vehicle and driver will be waiting for you at the airport. The meeting point is usually clearly indicated in the airport arrivals hall. Check the driver's name and vehicle type when booking. The price of a private transfer usually ranges from 40-70 EUR, depending on the type of vehicle and the distance. The journey time is similar to that of a taxi, but with a private transfer you can avoid the detours often taken by taxis.
A shared transfer is a cost-effective solution if you are not in a hurry and do not mind sharing the vehicle with other passengers. Shared transfers generally operate from the airport to the city center or major hotels. The journey time may be longer as the transfer has to make multiple stops. The price of a shared transfer is usually between 15-30 EUR. Minibuses are also available and operate at a similar price to shared transfers.
You can also reach the city from Cairo International Airport by public transport. Trains and metro lines depart from the train station near the airport to the city center. Buses are also available, but may be less comfortable and reliable. Public transport is the cheapest solution, but the journey time is longer and it can be crowded. Train tickets start from a few euros.
| Mode of Transport | Duration (approx.) | Price (EUR, approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 30 minutes – 1 hour | 20 – 40 |
| Private transfer | 30 minutes – 1 hour | 40 – 70 |
| Shared transfer | 45 minutes – 1.5 hours | 15 – 30 |
| Train/Metro | 1 – 2 hours | 2 – 5 |
| Bus | 1.5 – 2.5 hours | 1 – 3 |
The above times and prices may vary depending on traffic conditions and the season.
Popular destinations from Cairo International Airport: Giza, the pyramids, downtown Cairo, Zamalek and Maadi.
The official taxi ranks are located at the exits of the terminals.
The journey time can vary between 30 minutes and 1 hour, depending on traffic.
The price of a private transfer usually ranges from 40-70 EUR.
With a shared transfer you have to share the vehicle with other passengers, while with a private transfer you can travel alone.
Public transport is the cheapest solution, but the journey time is longer and it can be crowded.
You can book a private transfer online or at the offices located at the airport.
It is important to only get into a taxi with a taximeter. If there is no taximeter, agree on the price with the driver before getting in.
Taxis generally accept Egyptian pounds (EGP) and euros (EUR).
You will receive the meeting point when booking, usually clearly indicated in the arrivals hall.
Traffic in Cairo is often heavy, especially during peak hours. This can affect the journey time.
In most cases, a passport or identity card is sufficient.