Getting Around Cairo

Cairo traffic is legendary, so plan accordingly. The Cairo Metro is by far the fastest way to cross the city, with three lines covering major areas including downtown, Giza, and now the airport via Line 3. Rides cost just a few Egyptian pounds and trains run from 5 AM until midnight. For everything the metro does not reach, Uber and Careem are the go-to options and save you from negotiating with street taxi drivers. If you do take a white taxi, always insist the meter is running before the car moves.

Intercity Travel Tips

For the classic Nile Valley route from Cairo to Luxor and Aswan, you have two main choices: overnight sleeper trains or domestic flights. EgyptAir operates frequent flights that cost surprisingly little when booked in advance. If you prefer the scenic route, the first-class train carriages on Egyptian National Railways are comfortable and affordable. For the Red Sea coast destinations like Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh, Go Bus and Superjet run modern air-conditioned coaches daily from Cairo.

Practical Advice

Egypt is extremely affordable for international visitors. Street food like koshari and ful medames costs under EGP 30, and even sit-down restaurant meals rarely exceed EGP 200-300. Carry small bills in Egyptian pounds for tips and minor purchases as many places do not accept cards. Bargaining is expected at markets and with independent taxi drivers but never at shops with fixed prices. Summers are brutally hot, especially in Upper Egypt, so plan temple visits for early morning and stay hydrated throughout the day.