Local Transportation: Alexandria

Public Transit Overview

Alexandria features one of the world's oldest tram systems, offering a charming and highly local way to get around.

Buses and microbuses also operate, but navigating them without knowledge of Arabic can be difficult.

Tram System

Ramleh Tram: blue, more modern, along Corniche.
City Tram (Yellow): older, often crowded, wider local network.
Useful for exploring seafront areas.
Central hubs: Ramleh Station, San Stefano, Sidi Gaber.

Public Buses

Extensive network, but often crowded. Routes not clearly marked in English.

Microbuses Minivans

Privately owned, shared minivans. Very cheap, for locals, but need route knowledge.

Fares

Cash payment directly to conductor on board. Fares are very inexpensive, EGP 5-15.

Operating Hours & Accessibility

Timings

Trams and buses operate early morning (around 6 AM).
Until late evening (around midnight).
Frequency varies, with more frequent services during peak hours.

Accessibility

Public transportation is generally not wheelchair accessible.
Challenges for individuals with mobility issues due to steps, crowds.
Lack of ramps or designated accessible spaces.

Smart Public Transport Use

Use Ride-Sharing

Uber/Careem are often better for longer journeys or convenience.

Tram Off-Peak

Board trams at less crowded stops or during off-peak hours.

Ask Locals

Many younger Egyptians speak English and can help with directions.

Small Bills

Carry small denominations of Egyptian Pounds for fares.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis are plentiful, but ride-sharing apps offer a more predictable and often safer alternative.

Traditional Taxis

Alexandrian taxis are often black and orange or yellow.
You can hail them directly on the street.
Agree on the fare BEFORE getting in, meters rarely used.
Bargaining is expected. Be firm but polite.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Careem are widely available and reliable in Alexandria.
These apps offer transparent, pre-determined pricing.
GPS tracking, driver ratings, and ability to share trip details.
Often a more predictable fare than street taxis.

Safety & Airport Taxi Tips

Street taxis: Main risks are overcharging and lack of accountability.
Ride-sharing: Generally safer due to tracking and trip sharing.
Confirm driver and car match app details before entering.

Borg El Arab Airport (HBE): Official airport taxis available.
Uber or Careem from the airport are convenient options.
Train/Bus Stations: Taxis are abundant, agree on fare.

Vehicle Rental Options

Car Rental

Self-driving is not generally suggested for tourists due to challenging traffic and driving style.

Motorcycles

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are rarely available for tourists due to risky city traffic conditions.

Bicycle Rentals

Alexandria has limited infrastructure for cycling. Cycling on main roads is hazardous.

Walking & Cycling

Explore Alexandria on foot for a closer experience, especially along pedestrian-friendly routes.

Pedestrian Areas

Corniche: excellent for walking with beautiful sea views.
City Center: Areas around Ramleh Station, Fouad Street are walkable.
Historical Sites: Best explored on foot within their immediate vicinity.
Pavements can be uneven, crowded, and sometimes obstructed.

Cycling & Safety

Very limited dedicated bicycle lanes.
Cycling on main roads is not advisable due to heavy traffic.
Avoid walking or cycling on major multi-lane highways or fast-moving roads.
Be aware in very narrow, crowded, non-touristic alleys, especially at night.

Specialized Transport

Tour Buses

Organized tour buses for specific excursions are available from private tour companies.

Hop-on-hop-off services are less common.

Water Transportation

Boat taxis are not a regular form of urban transport within Alexandria.

Short leisure boat rides are available near the Citadel of Qaitbay.

Accessibility Services

Egypt generally lacks adequate infrastructure for travelers with mobility needs.

Pre-arranged private transport with an accessible vehicle is often the only feasible option.

Neighborhood Guide

Corniche & City Center

Corniche: Ocean views, refreshing sea breeze, many hotels. Can be noisy.
City Center (Ramleh Station Area): Historical and commercial heart, excellent transport. Very busy and noisy.
Good for budget and mid-range hotel options.

San Stefano & Bahari

San Stefano: Upscale, modern, luxurious, high-end shopping, private beach access.
Bahari (Fisherman's Quarter): Oldest part of city, authentic local experience, fresh seafood. Very crowded and chaotic.
San Stefano is further from traditional city center attractions, requiring taxis.

Safety by Area

All tourist-relevant neighborhoods are generally safe.
Standard urban precautions: aware of surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted streets at night.
Corniche and upscale areas tend to be well-lit and frequently patrolled.

City Center provides best access to most historical sites and museums.
San Stefano is ideal if priority is modern amenities, luxury, and beachfront access.
Expect higher noise levels in the city center and along the Corniche due to traffic.
For a quieter ambiance, consider accommodations set back from main thoroughfares.

Accommodation Guide

Options range from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious seaside hotels, catering to various preferences and budgets.

Full Spectrum Lodging

Hostels: Dorm beds, shared bathrooms, basic amenities, social atmosphere.
Budget Hotels/Guesthouses: Small, independent, affordable, localized experience.
Mid-range Hotels: Local and international chains, comfortable, Wi-Fi, AC.
Luxury Hotels: High-end international chains, grand historic hotels, spas, pools.

Unique Local & Rental Options

Unique Local: Older hotels with charming colonial or classic European aesthetic.
Vacation Rentals: Apartments on platforms like Airbnb, for space and kitchen.
Camping: Not available within city limits, usually outside urban centers.
Longer stays benefit from apartment rentals.

Booking Platforms

International platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, and Agoda are widely used and reliable.

Negotiation

Slight room for negotiation on walk-in rates for smaller guesthouses, especially in low season.

Advance Booking

Recommended several months in advance for high season (Oct-Apr) and major holidays.

Cancellation & Price Fluctuations

Policies

Deposit and cancellation policies vary by property.
Review specific policies before confirming reservation.
Many platforms offer free cancellation up to a certain date.

Seasonal Pricing

Prices are highest during peak winter tourist season (Oct-Apr).
Significantly lower during hot summer months (June-Aug).
Low season can be a budget-friendly time to visit.

Choosing Your Stay

When booking, consider your priorities: budget, location, amenities, and the kind of experience you seek.

Alexandria offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every traveler.

Local Transportation