Step into the heartbeat of Cairo, EG, where public transport pulses through the city like lifeblood. Ticket barriers beep rhythmically as locals and tourists alike swipe through, commuters gather on bustling platforms with chatter in half-a-dozen tongues, and the clatter of tram bells breaks through the street noise. Above, the metro hums continuously, an underground river ferrying millions daily beneath Egypt’s sprawling capital. Whether you’re weaving through crowded buses, hopping on a ferry alongside the Nile’s gentle waters, or cycling through buzzing bike-share lanes, every journey here is a dive into the city’s vibrant mosaic — a true sensory experience you don’t want to miss.
If you’re wondering how to get around Cairo, EG efficiently and sustainably, public transport is your best friend. For one, it’s cost-effective. A single metro ride or bus ticket costs just EGP 7, which stretches your travel budget far more than taxis or private cars (Tourism Board, March 2025). I remember the first time I took the metro — stepping off at Sadat station right in the heart of downtown felt like slipping into the city’s pulse with ease and affordability.
Electric-powered metro lines slice through traffic jams that are infamous here, saving you precious time during peak hours. Especially during Ramadan evenings or holiday rushes, hopping on Cairo’s metro means bypassing the maze of cars crawling along the Corniche.
On the environment front, choosing public transport reduces your carbon footprint remarkably. The green benefits are visible in the city’s slow but growing efforts to modernise fleets and promote bike-shares, easing pollution in congested districts like Maadi and Heliopolis. For travellers keen on experiences, public modes offer a glimpse into local life — overhearing a street vendor’s pitch from a tram or sharing a ferry deck with locals commuting at sunset adds layers to your urban journey.
| Mode | Lines | Peak Frequency | Night Service |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro | 3 (Red, Yellow, Green) | Every 3–5 minutes | No |
| Tram | 1 main heritage route | Every 15 minutes | No |
| Bus | 100+ city routes | Every 5–10 minutes | Limited (key routes) |
| Ferry | 3 cross-Nile lines | Every 20 minutes | No |
| Bike-share | Multiple docking stations | Available 24/7 | Available 24/7 |
Cairo’s public transport network is a colourful patchwork designed for all types of travellers. Metro lines zoom underground across the city’s core, complemented by buses that reach into suburban veins unseen by tube. The city’s lone historic tram route offers a scenic coastal ride worth savouring. Ferries provide a delightful break from road traffic, connecting districts along the Nile. Meanwhile, bike-shares add a fresh wind to short trips, especially on cooler mornings.
Rush hours in Cairo typically hit around 7:00–9:00 AM and 5:00–7:30 PM, where you’ll experience packed metros and buses crammed with office workers and students. During these times, it’s best to allow extra time for journeys — the crowded platforms and packed vehicles can test even the most seasoned traveller’s patience.
Off-peak travel, usually between late morning and early afternoon or late evening, is much more relaxed. If you can schedule sightseeing into these windows, you can enjoy spacious carriages and faster boarding times. Plus, some buses run less frequently off-peak, so planning ahead makes for a smoother trip.
Cairo’s newer metro stations feature ramps and elevators, although some older ones still require assistance. Trams and buses vary in accessibility; if in doubt, ask station staff — they’re usually keen to help.
Navigating with prams can be tricky on busy metros. Foldable models are best to ease boarding. Some buses allow prams, but crowding during rush times might require waiting for a less busy vehicle.
Traveling to or from Cairo International Airport? The metro’s Line 3 is your friend, with ample space for large suitcases. Always keep an eye on your belongings, as crowded conditions can invite pickpocketing.
Some central metro stations offer free Wi-Fi, but it’s generally unavailable on trains themselves. Using mobile data is recommended.
Single-ride tickets are usually mode-specific, but unlimited-ride passes cover buses, metro, and sometimes ferries across the city.
Taxis provide flexibility but can be expensive and caught in traffic jams. Public transport offers predictable pricing and faster travel during peak hours.
Some bus routes run late but metro night service is limited. Exercise usual travel safety precautions; opt for ridesharing or taxis when public transport ends.
Now that you’re armed with everything about public transport in Cairo, EG, it’s time to dive into the city’s vibrant streets with confidence. Have questions, tips, or unforgettable moments from your journeys? Share them below — and why not join our newsletter for fresh travel insights every month? Trust me, when I first climbed the cathedral tower and caught a tram back under the stars, it felt like the city was revealing its secrets just to me.
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