Car Hire Alexandria Airport
Landing at Alexandria’s Borg El Arab Airport gives you the perfect starting point for exploring Egypt’s Mediterranean coast. While taxis and shuttles are available, they can be unpredictable and the costs add up quickly if you’re planning to explore beyond the city. Renting a car here puts you in control of your schedule, whether you’re heading straight to a beach resort, visiting ancient sites, or exploring the vibrant streets of Alexandria itself.
Don’t let concerns about driving in Egypt put you off – having your own vehicle opens up so much more of this fascinating region. From the stunning beaches of the North Coast to historic landmarks scattered throughout the delta, you’ll discover places that most tourists never reach. The airport location makes pickup and dropoff incredibly convenient, and you’ll avoid the hassle of negotiating fares with local taxi drivers or waiting for crowded buses.
Picking Up Your Rental Car in Alexandria Airport
Borg El Arab Airport is located about 45 kilometers southwest of Alexandria’s city center, which means you’ll want a car pretty much immediately upon arrival. The good news is that several major car rental companies operate desks right in the terminal building, including both international brands and local providers. You’ll find the rental counters in the arrivals hall after you’ve cleared customs and collected your luggage.
Make sure you bring all the necessary documentation with you. You’ll need your valid driving license from your home country – most rental companies accept licenses in English, but if yours is in another language, an International Driving Permit is essential. Your passport and the credit card used for booking must also be presented. It’s worth noting that some companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, and drivers under 25 might face additional young driver surcharges.
Before driving off, take a few minutes to thoroughly inspect the vehicle and document any existing damage with photos. Egyptian roads can be tough on cars, and you don’t want to be held responsible for scratches or dents that weren’t your fault. Check that the spare tire and jack are present, and make sure you understand the fuel policy – most rentals operate on a full-to-full basis.
Where to Go with Your Rental Car in Alexandria Airport
Alexandria itself deserves at least a couple of days of exploration. Drive into the city to see the stunning Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern tribute to the ancient library that was once the largest in the world. The Citadel of Qaitbay, built on the site of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria, offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Don’t miss the Roman catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa – they’re among the most impressive ancient sites in the region.
For beach lovers, the North Coast stretches west from Alexandria with beautiful resorts and beaches. Marsa Matruh, about 290 kilometers west, offers some of Egypt’s most stunning Mediterranean beaches with crystal-clear waters. Closer to Alexandria, the beaches at Agami and Sidi Abdel Rahman are popular weekend spots for locals and visitors alike.
History enthusiasts should consider a day trip to the ancient ruins of Abu Mena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site about 50 kilometers from the airport. If you have more time, the war cemeteries at El Alamein, site of the famous World War II battle, make for a moving and educational excursion about 100 kilometers west along the coast road.
Tips for Driving in Egypt
Driving in Egypt can be an adventure, and it’s different from what you might be used to at home. Traffic in Alexandria is busy but generally more manageable than Cairo, and the highway connecting the airport to the city is well-maintained and clearly marked. Keep your wits about you, stay alert, and expect the unexpected – from pedestrians stepping into the road to animals wandering across highways.
Speed limits are posted but not always followed by local drivers, and traffic rules can seem more like suggestions. Defensive driving is your best approach. Don’t assume other drivers will use indicators, and be prepared for vehicles to change lanes without warning. Horns are used constantly in Egypt – it’s not necessarily aggressive, just a way of communicating presence and intention.
Navigation apps like Google Maps work well in urban areas, though you might lose signal in more remote regions. Consider downloading offline maps before you travel. Fuel stations are plentiful on major routes, but if you’re heading off the beaten path, fill up beforehand. Parking in Alexandria can be challenging in the city center – look for attended parking lots where your car will be watched for a small fee.
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