Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Alexandria gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from ALY to the city takes roughly 60 minutes by Taxi, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at ALY:
First, verify that you can enter Egypt — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi takes about 60 minutes into Alexandria, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — EGP is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EGP in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Exploring Alexandria on a Layover
For a layover visit to Alexandria, we’d suggest Bibliotheca Alexandrina and Citadel of Qaitbay. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
If you’d rather stay inside ALY — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- El Nouzha Airport Lounge
- Airport Duty-Free Shop
Food & Dining Options
For food in Alexandria, local travelers recommend Balbaa Village. If you have time for a second stop, Mohamed Ahmed Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at ALY, Airport Cafe & Snacks is the go-to. Local Eatery Express rounds out your in-terminal options.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from El Nouzha Airport into town:
- Taxi: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Alexandria, budget roughly $22 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $7 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Alexandria, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Bag Storage Near ALY
Luggage storage options at ALY can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Alexandria for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at ALY for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Alexandria or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Taking a Break at ALY
Long overnight layover? Your options at ALY include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Egypt also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Alexandria is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Alexandria.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.