Transportation in Cairo

# Getting Around Cairo Cairo's transportation is a study in contrasts — ancient chaos meets modern metro efficiency. The **Cairo Metro** is your secret weapon: three air-conditioned lines that cut through traffic at a fraction of street-level time, with fares in the budget category regardless of distance. Line 1 (red) runs from northern suburbs through Tahrir Square to Old Cairo; Line 2 (yellow) connects Giza to the airport area; Line 3 (green) reaches the Cairo International Airport directly. Women traveling alone should note the dedicated women-only cars during rush hours (first two cars of each train). The metro runs frequently throughout the day, though avoid peak commute times if you're carrying luggage. For surface transport, **Uber and Careem** dominate and are essential downloads — they eliminate fare haggling and work reliably across the city. Traditional taxis exist but require negotiation skills most visitors lack. The white-and-blue airport taxis operate on fixed zones but check current rates through official channels before accepting. **Microbuses** (white minivans) are the local's choice and incredibly cheap, but routes are unmarked and drivers assume you know the system — skip these unless you're with a local guide. **From Cairo International Airport**: The metro connection via Line 3 offers the most economical option with frequent service, though you'll need to manage stairs with luggage. Ride-hailing apps provide door-to-door comfort at mid-range pricing — book through the app before exiting arrivals to avoid unofficial drivers. The airport is well-connected, but Cairo traffic is legendary, so allow extra time for any surface route during daylight hours. What NOT to do: accept rides from unofficial taxi touts in the arrivals hall, or assume Google Maps transit directions work reliably for buses — stick to the metro for predictable timing.

Download Uber or Careem app before arrival as they're the most reliable way to book rides in Cairo

Cairo Metro Line 3 connects Cairo Airport to the city center - look for signs to the metro station from Terminal 3

Always insist taxi drivers use the meter or agree on a fare before starting your journey to avoid disputes

The metro system has women-only cars during peak hours, typically the first two cars of each train