Welcome / Cairo / Airport to City

Getting from Cairo Airport to the City

Olivia De Santos

October 19, 2024

Cairo International Airport (CAI) is 21 km away from the center of Cairo. If you’re traveling to this legendary city, you have three options: taxi, private transfer, or public bus.

The fastest and most convenient method for most travelers is a Cairo Airport taxi or private Cairo Airport transfer. With direct, door-to-door service, you’ll be comfortable and have minimal wait time after landing.

If you’d rather take a public bus, three services run from Cairo Airport to Cairo regularly. The cheapest bus is the 400, but it’s also the longest journey. The 356 is faster and slightly more comfortable. Finally, the 1138 is also a long bus that passes through the residential areas of the city. While these services operate around the clock, buses tend to be stuffy, crowded, and uncomfortable – particularly during peak hours.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Cairo at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi Learn more

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Taxi	€3	25min	24/7
Bus (no. 400)	€0.18	50min	05:00–23:00
Bus (no. 356)	€0.36	35min	07:00–23:00
Bus (no. 1138)	€0.18	60min	05:00–23:00
Welcome Airport Transfer	€23	25min	24/7

How to get from Cairo Airport to the city center by taxi

A Cairo Airport taxi to the city center is the quickest and most convenient transfer option. There are three types of taxis operating from Cairo Airport.

The black and white taxis are old, often uncomfortable and lack air-conditioning. However, these taxis are the cheapest. The white taxis are air-conditioned at a mid-range price. Finally, the yellow taxis are the newest cars at the highest prices.

Regardless of the taxi you choose, it shouldn’t take longer than 25-30 minutes to get from Cairo Airport to Cairo, depending on the traffic conditions.

Let’s break down the costs of a taxi from Cairo Airport to the city center in the next section.

Cairo Airport to city center taxi fares

Cairo taxis are very affordable compared to most other major cities. A taxi from Cairo airport to the city center taxi will cost around €3 (EGP 155) for a white taxi.

The old black and white taxis are unmetered, so you’ll need to negotiate your price with the driver.

White and yellow Cairo taxis are metered without flat rate fees, though they do have a price list. This price list is more of a guide to the fares you can expect as opposed to a set rate. The meter will calculate your fare depending on the distance traveled.

For example, the base fare for white metered taxis is €0.09 (EGP 5) and the rate per km is €0.04 (EGP 2.50).

Therefore, the final cost of your journey will depend on your exact destination in the city center of Cairo.

You can pay for your cab via cash. Some drivers carry a card machine but cash is the best option.

Cost

€3 (155 EGP)

Trip Duration

25 Min.

*Prices may vary unless booked in advance.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis are available 24/7 at Cairo Airport.

Where do I get a taxi from?

The official Cairo airport taxis are located just outside of Terminals 1, 2 and 3. Simply look for the line of cars once you leave the Arrivals Hall. You’ll find all three types of taxis distinguished by colour. It’s up to you which taxi you choose.

Convenience

Taking a taxi from Cairo Airport to Cairo is by far the most convenient transfer option. You won’t have to wait in the hot sun for public transport and you will be dropped off right outside the door of your hotel. Plus, the taxi price from Cairo Airport to the city center is budget-friendly, making it one of the best ways to travel to your hotel after a long flight.

Editor’s Note

The older black and white taxis do not use a taximeter. Therefore, the cost of a taxi from Cairo Airport to the city center can vary depending on your negotiation skills. We recommend that you take a metered white taxi to ensure you get a fair price.

Useful Tips

The white and yellow Cairo Airport taxis are usually more modern and air-conditioned.

Make sure your driver resets the taximeter before you begin your journey.

To avoid confusion, have clear instructions or addresses written down as not all Cairo taxi drivers speak English.

Do not accept a ride from any drivers approaching you in the Arrivals Hall. Instead, wait for an official taxi at the taxi rank outside.

The wait for a taxi can be long during peak hours. If you want a smoother experience, a private transfer may be preferable.

It’s best to carry cash in the local currency, Egyptian Pounds, to pay for your taxi.

How to get from Cairo Airport to the city center by bus (no. 400)

Though there isn’t a typical Cairo Airport to the city center shuttle, there are several public services from Cairo Airport to the city. The two main buses tourists tend to take are the 400 and 356. The 400 has a long bus route with multiple stops ending at Abd Al Moneim Riad. This is located right by downtown Cairo, next to the Nile.

It also passes convenient transportation hubs such as the Al Demerdash Metro Station, Rameses Train Station and Abd Al Moneim Riad Bus Station. Therefore, it’s one of the best public transportation routes you can take if you want a low-cost journey through the city.

Running from 05:00 to 23:00 every day, this is one of the most reliable services running from the airport.

The downside is that the 400 takes a lengthy route through Cairo, so the journey is around 50 minutes depending on the traffic conditions. However, if you’re in no rush and you’re traveling light, it could be a good option for you.

How much is the bus from Cairo Airport to the city center?

The 400 bus from Cairo Airport to the city center is one of the cheapest ways to travel. It costs just €0.09 (EGP 5) for a bus ticket.

You will need to buy your ticket from the driver when entering the bus, so be sure to carry the change in the local currency with you. Bus drivers don’t carry card machines but you can find an ATM in the Arrivals Hall in Terminal 1.

Cost

€0.09 (EGP 5)

Trip Duration

50 Min.

There's a waiting time of up to 30 minutes for the public bus from Cairo Airport.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The 400 public bus runs from 05:00 to 23:00 every day.

Where do I get the bus from?

The Cairo Airport Bus Station is located outside of Terminal 1. There are signs from the Arrivals Hall to the bus stop. If you land in Terminal 2 or 3, you will need to take the free airport shuttle bus to Terminal 1 first.

Convenience

Although taking the bus into the city center is a very cheap Cairo Airport transport option, it’s not the most convenient. The 400 bus takes double the travel time of a taxi. Plus, if you land after 23:00, and no buses are running, you will have to wait until the morning or choose a different mode of transportation.

Editor’s Note

Although taking the public bus is a cheap Cairo Airport transfer option, taking a taxi is also extremely cheap and much more convenient. Consider taking a taxi if you have lots of luggage or are traveling in a group.

Useful Tips

You can only buy bus tickets from the driver in cash.

There is very limited luggage space on public buses. We recommend taking a taxi or private transfer if you have heavy luggage.

The 400 bus isn’t as comfortable or air-conditioned as the 356.

Children under 5 years old travel free.

How to get from Cairo Airport to the city by bus (no. 356)

The 356 bus from Cairo Airport to the city center is the fastest service available. It follows the same route as the 400 bus (mentioned in the previous section) but has fewer stops. It takes just 35 minutes to get to downtown Cairo.

Therefore, before you decide whether to take the 400 or the 356, we recommend checking your favorite map app to see which will get you closest to your destination.

The 356 bus runs from 07:00 to 23:00 every day and departs every hour. Given that this bus is more comfortable and air-conditioned than the 400, it can be quite crowded during peak times. Space for luggage is also limited to bear that in mind.

How much is a bus from Cairo Airport to the city?

The Cairo Airport to city center bus costs €0.18 (EGP 10) per person. The 356 is more expensive because it is an express service in a more modern vehicle. You can purchase your ticket from the driver. You must have cash in Egyptian Pounds to pay for it as bus drivers do not carry card machines.

Cost

€0.18 (EGP 10)

Trip Duration

35 Min.

Wait time for the 356 bus from Cairo Airport is up to 60 minutes.

Convenience

Safety

Value for money

This service runs from 07:00 to 23:00 every day.

Where do I get a bus from?

You can find the 356 bus stop outside of the Arrivals Hall at Terminal 1. If you’ve landed at one of the other terminals, you’ll need to make your way to T1 to locate the buses. The stop is well signposted but there are plenty of staff on hand to help if you need help.

Convenience

Out of all of the buses from Cairo Airport to the city center, the 356 is the most convenient as the journey is roughly 15 minutes shorter. That said, it’s still a longer journey than taking a taxi or transfer. Plus, you may struggle with seating and luggage space during peak times.

Editor’s Note

If you’re arriving at Cairo Airport after 23:00, you’ll need to find another mode of transportation as the 356 service will no longer be running.

Useful Tips

The 356 bus has free WiFi and air-conditioning on board.

This bus service may be more crowded than the 400 because it’s more popular with travelers.

You must carry change in the local currency to pay to ride to public bus.

The 356 bus timetable does not change regardless of the day of the week.

How to get from Cairo Airport to the city by bus (no. 1138)

Finally, if you’re staying in the residential area of Cairo, the 1138 bus may be a better fit. The route is 1 hour and 22 minutes long, covering 40 stops and terminating in Al Mazallaat (Shubra). It spans most of northern Cairo and passes Cairo Train Station as well as other prominent metro stops.

You can catch the 1138 between 05:24 and 10:54 every day. This regular service departs every 30 minutes and tends to be less crowded than the other two public buses.

How much is a bus from Cairo Airport to the city?

The 1138 costs €0.09 (EGP 5) per person. You must purchase your ticket from the bus driver as you climb on board. The only acceptable payment method is cash in Egyptian Pounds.

Cost

€0.09 (EGP 5)

Trip Duration

1 Hr.

The 1138 departs every 30 minutes from Cairo Airport.

Convenience

Safety

Value for money

This service runs from 05:00 to 23:00 every day.

Where do I get a bus from?

Cairo Airport Bus Station is located outside of the Terminal 1 building. As you leave the main exit, it’s a short walk from the Arrivals Hall. Each bus is signposted with the corresponding number. If in doubt, ask the driver.

Convenience

The 1138 bus could be the most convenient public transportation option for you if you’re staying in the residential area of downtown Cairo. It also passes several major metro stations which could get you closer to your destination. However, this is one of the longest routes to Cairo city center as it takes almost triple the time that a taxi ride would. Moreover, the 1138 has limited space for luggage so the ride can be quite cumbersome.

Editor’s Note

Check on your favorite map app which stop will bring you closest to your destination before you start your journey.

Useful Tips

Public buses in Cairo can be quite overwhelming and noisy. Bear this in mind if you are traveling with small children.

The 1138 has free WiFi on board. Connect and track your journey on a map app so you don’t miss your stop.

If you need to travel from Cairo Airport before 05:00 or after 23:00, consider getting a taxi or transfer instead.

The 1138 bus has air conditioning, however it can still feel stuffy on hot days.

How to get from Cairo Airport to the city by private transfer

Taking a private Cairo Airport transfer from Cairo Airport to the city center has all of the benefits of taking a taxi plus extra comfort and convenience. Instead of waiting in the hot sun for a taxi at the airport taxi stand, your pre-selected professional driver will greet you. Therefore, there’ll be no wait times or delays.

Private transfer companies like Welcome Pickups offer a bespoke service that revolves around you. You can expect benefits such as:

Meet and greets
Trained English-speaking drivers
Flight monitoring
Guaranteed fixed fares
24/7 customer support
Flexible cancellation

Best of all, you can book your Cairo Airport transfer in advance, so there’s zero wait or fuss on the day. Your driver will also give you a mini tour of the city to help you get your bearings.

How much is a private transfer from Cairo Airport to the city?

When planning your transport from Cairo Airport to the city, the last thing you want to be stressing over is the budget. Fortunately, booking a private transfer means you can book and pay for your transport in advance. That means you can relax knowing you won’t need to haggle with your taxi driver or hold your breath as the taximeter climbs during your journey.

You can expect your private transfer from Cairo Airport to Cairo City to cost €23 for a four-seater sedan. If you require a minivan of up to eight passengers, the trip will cost €32.

Booking is simple via our online portal or mobile app (App Store || Google Play). All you need to do is enter your name, email address, flight number, number of passengers and pickup time to get your personalized quote. The quote you’ll see is fixed and final, including any airport tolls and other surcharges. So no matter what, you can rest assured that your price will remain the same.

Cost

€23

Trip Duration

25 Min.

*Booking your private transfer in advance is the best way to ensure a seamless experience.

Convenience

Safety

Value for money

Private transfers are available 24/7 from Cairo Airport.

Where do I get a private transfer from?

Your professional, friendly English-speaking driver will meet you in the Arrivals Hall when you touch down at Cairo Airport. To make things easier, we’ll send you an email 24 hours before your flight with your driver’s name, contact details and photo. This is to help you identify your driver in the crowd when you get to the Arrivals Hall.

If you have any delays, don’t worry! We’ll update your driver on your behalf to ensure they will be there on time to collect you.

Convenience

Taking a private transfer taxi from Cairo Airport to downtown is the most convenient and smooth way to start your adventure. The meet and greet and fixed rates make traveling to a new city much easier than navigating local transport. By booking a private transfer, you’re guaranteed a personalized service for you and your loved ones to travel in comfort and ease.

Editor’s Note

We suggest booking your pickup time from Cairo Airport at least 30-40 minutes after your flight arrival to allow you time to get through baggage reclaim.

Useful Tips

Sedans can seat up to four passengers whereas minivans are available for groups of up to eight passengers.

You are welcome to tip your Cairo private transfer driver via our app.

If you need a child booster or baby seat, you can request one on the online form while booking.

You’ll receive your driver’s WhatsApp number before your journey in case you need to contact them.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Cairo. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost from Cairo Airport to downtown?

The Cairo Airport to downtown taxi fare is around €3 (EGP 155) for an official white taxi. Depending on how well you negotiate, it may cost less for black and white cab. Yellow Cairo taxis are the most expensive.

How far is Cairo Airport from the city?

The Cairo Airport to city center distance is 21 km. If you take a taxi or private transfer, the journey will take around 25 minutes. By bus, it’ll take around 45 minutes.

How do I get from Cairo Airport to center?

To get from Cairo Airport, you can take a taxi, private transfer or public bus to the city center. Cairo taxis vary in price, depending on whether you take an old black and white taxi, a mid-range white taxi or a modern, high-end yellow taxi. Your taxi fare will be around €3 (EGP 155). A public bus is the cheapest option costing around €0.09 (EGP 5) per person. The 400, 356 and 1138 will take you to the city center. So far, the only public transportation option is the bus, though a metro from Cairo Airport to downtown is expected to be ready in 2025.

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