Cairo to Luxor by Train: Classes, Seats, Safety & Booking Tips

How to plan Egypt train Cairo to Luxor first class (Step-by-step)

Decide whether you want a day train (for Nile Valley views) or an overnight sleeper (to save a hotel night), because they can depart from different Cairo stations and follow different booking rules.
Pick your preferred departure window and build in delay “buffer time,” since express trains in Egypt can arrive 1–2 hours late on longer routes to Upper Egypt.
Choose your comfort level: “First Class AC” is a reserved-seat air-conditioned service on many Cairo–Luxor trains, while sleepers are a separate product with compartments and bedding.
Set a budget range using today’s typical posted fares for the route (for example, Egypt Trains lists First Class AC prices on Cairo–Luxor trains from about 315 EGP up to 800 EGP depending on the train).
Confirm the correct station in Cairo (Ramses vs Bashtil/Upper Egypt) on your specific ticket or schedule, because a new Cairo station at Bashtil (Upper Egypt station) opened in October 2024 and sleeper trains to/from Luxor/Aswan already use it.
Decide your booking method early (station office vs agency vs online/app options), since online booking options and “foreigner fare” rules can affect what you can pay and where.

Quick planning facts (times, duration, frequency)

Egypt Trains currently shows many departures on the Cairo–Luxor route (it lists 31 trains available on its schedule page).
On that same listing, the first departure shown is 12:05 AM and the last departure shown is 11:15 PM, which is useful for planning early-morning or late-night arrivals.
The fastest listed travel time on the route is about 8h 40m, but real-world arrival time can be later, so it’s smart not to schedule a tight connection in Luxor.

Practical rule for itineraries: if your hotel check-in, a tour pickup, or a Nile cruise boarding time matters, plan as if your train could arrive 1–2 hours after the timetable—especially on longer Upper Egypt runs.

Which Cairo station to use (Ramses vs Bashtil)

Cairo has more than one major rail departure point, and the “right” station depends on your train type and ticket—so confirming the station name is a key step in planning.

Ramses (Cairo Main Station)

Seat 61 describes Cairo’s main station (often called Ramses) as the traditional hub, with security screening (bags X-rayed) at entry and services like food options inside.
Seat 61 also notes that automatic ticket gates were installed at Cairo Ramses station, so you generally need a valid ticket to access platforms.

Bashtil (Cairo Upper Egypt station)

A large new station called Bashtil (also referred to as “Upper Egypt station”) opened in October 2024 about 7 km west of Cairo Ramses, and Seat 61 reports the sleeper trains to/from Luxor/Aswan already use this station.
Seat 61 advises that other Upper Egypt services may follow in 2025, so it’s important to check carefully which station your specific train uses before you head out.

Planning tip: screenshot your ticket (or schedule confirmation) showing the station name in English/Arabic, because “Cairo” alone can be ambiguous when multiple stations serve Upper Egypt routes.

Budget planning for Egypt train Cairo to Luxor first class

For a planning baseline, Egypt Trains lists “First Class AC” on Cairo–Luxor services with example prices such as 315 EGP on some trains and up to 800 EGP on others, with “Second Class AC” commonly shown around 215 EGP on several departures.

Seat 61 also warns that, since 15 December 2022, non-Egyptians may be charged special “foreigner prices” (stated as a major increase) and that these fares are in USD, though payment may be possible in USD/Euros and (at least in Cairo’s foreigner office) by credit card.

Simple cost plan (useful for itineraries)

“Base fare” estimate (posted local listings): roughly 315–800 EGP for First Class AC depending on train type and time.
“Foreigner fare” reality check: some routes apply USD-priced tickets for non-Egyptians, so carry clean USD/EUR notes (and keep a card as backup in Cairo).
Timing cost: an 8h 40m fastest timetable can still become a long travel day if delays hit, so plan meals/snacks and a flexible arrival evening in Luxor.

In the next part, the focus shifts from planning to comfort decisions: how Cairo–Luxor classes differ (including what to expect from Egypt train Cairo to Luxor first class seats), and how to pick the best seat for your priorities (view, quiet, legroom, or easy exits).

Once you’ve planned your departure, the biggest decision for your Egypt train Cairo to Luxor first class trip is choosing the right carriage. The difference between “First Class” and “Second Class” isn’t just price—it affects your legroom, seat width, and ability to sleep on a long journey.

This section breaks down the specific seat configurations you’ll find on the main train types (Spanish, VIP, and Talgo) so you can book the comfort level that matches your needs.

Seat Types: First Class vs. Second Class

On most Egyptian express trains, both classes are air-conditioned and reserved, but the physical space differs significantly. First Class typically uses a 2+1 or spacious 2+2 layout with wider seats, while Second Class is a standard 2+2 or 3+2 layout with less shoulder room.

First Class (The "Business" Choice)

Configuration: Usually 3 seats across the aisle (2 on one side, 1 on the other) in older Spanish trains, or a spacious 2+2 in newer Talgo and VIP trains.
Legroom: Generous. You can often stretch your legs fully, and the recline is deep—ideal for trying to sleep on an overnight sitting train.
Atmosphere: Generally quieter, with fewer passengers per carriage and often cleaner facilities compared to Second Class.

Second Class (The Budget Choice)

Configuration: 4 seats across (2+2), meaning less elbow room if the train is full.
Comfort: Seats are still padded and air-conditioned, but they have less recline and legroom. It’s perfectly adequate for day trips (like Cairo–Alexandria) but can be tiring for the 9+ hour haul to Luxor.

Train Models: Talgo vs. VIP vs. Spanish

Not all "First Class" tickets are created equal. The actual train model determines the quality of your experience.

Train Type	Comfort Level	Key Features	Best For
Talgo	High (Modern)	Newest trains, airplane-style seats, very smooth ride, clean toilets, effective AC.	Travelers wanting modern European standards.
VIP Express	Medium-High	Stainless steel coaches, good AC, decent legroom, faster than older trains.	A solid balance of speed and comfort.
Spanish (Speed AC)	Standard	Older carriages, wider 2+1 First Class seats (very comfy but worn), slower/bumpier ride.	Budget travelers who still want a wide seat.

Which Seat Should You Pick?

For Solo Travelers: If booking a "Spanish" train, try to request a solo seat (the "1" side of the 2+1 layout) for maximum privacy and window access.
For Couples: The 2-seat side in First Class is perfect. In VIP or Talgo trains (2+2), any row works well.
For Sleeping (Sitting Train): First Class is mandatory. The extra recline makes a huge difference over 10 hours. Bring a neck pillow and a light blanket/jacket, as the AC is often very strong.

Now that you know where you’ll be sitting, the next step is securing that ticket without hassle. Part 3 will cover Booking Methods: how to navigate the “foreigner pricing” rules, using the official website vs. station counters, and paying in foreign currency.

Securing your Egypt train Cairo to Luxor first class ticket can be tricky because the booking rules for foreigners differ from those for Egyptians. As of late 2025, non-Egyptians generally must pay designated "foreigner fares" (often in USD or EUR equivalent), and the official online system for these specific tickets has historically been "under construction" or inconsistent.

This section explains the three main ways to book—official counters, agency websites, and the sleeper-specific portal—so you can choose the method that fits your travel style.

Method 1: In-Person at the Station (Most Reliable for Day Trains)

For standard "First Class" sitting trains (Talgo, VIP, Spanish), buying in person is often the most direct way to ensure you get the correct price and seat without online glitches.

Where to go: At Cairo Ramses Station, head to the dedicated "Foreigners’ Reservation Office." It is typically located on the mezzanine floor (up the escalator from the main hall) or near the main ticket windows—look for signs in English.
What to bring: You must have your original passport.
Currency: You can pay in USD or Euros (crisp, new notes are best) or by credit card at this specific foreigner office. Egyptian Pounds (EGP) are often not accepted for foreigner tickets unless you have residency, though policies can vary by agent.
Timing: Try to buy at least 24–48 hours in advance, especially for the popular morning Talgo trains.

Method 2: Official Sleeper Website (For Overnight Beds Only)

If you are booking the Watania / Abela Sleeper Train (which is separate from the day trains), you can easily book online.

Website: The service is managed by Abela Trains (formerly Watania). You can book directly on their official site.
Process: Select "Cairo" to "Luxor," choose your date, and pay via credit card. You do not need to be in Egypt to do this.
Ticket: You will receive an e-ticket (PDF/QR code). Save this on your phone to show the conductor; printing is rarely required but good as a backup.

Method 3: Third-Party Agencies (For Stress-Free Day Trains)

Since the official ENR website often blocks foreigners from booking standard day trains (requiring a National ID), third-party agencies are a good workaround if you want everything sorted before you arrive.

How it works: Sites like Bookaway or dedicated Egypt train agencies allow you to pay online in your home currency.
Cost: Expect a markup (service fee) above the official station price, but this saves you the hassle of going to the station twice (once to buy, once to travel).
Delivery: They typically email you a QR code or a PDF ticket that you present at the station or on the train.

Summary of Booking Options

Train Type	Best Booking Method	Payment Accepted	Notes
Sleeper (Abela)	Official Abela Website	Credit Card (Online)	Easiest option; book weeks ahead.
Talgo / VIP / Spanish	Station "Foreigner Office"	USD / EUR / Card	Cheapest direct price; requires station visit.
Talgo / VIP / Spanish	Agency (e.g., Bookaway)	Credit Card (Online)	Higher cost, but saves time and hassle.