Egypt Trains Guide: Cairo to Luxor, Aswan & Alexandria

Egypt's national railway (ENR) connects Cairo to the Nile Valley, the Delta and Alexandria. Trains are the most comfortable long-distance option for tourists — safer than road travel and more scenic than flying.

Popular tourist routes

• Cairo → Alexandria — 2h20 on the fast Talgo/Español train.
• Cairo → Luxor — 9–10h daytime, or overnight in a sleeper cabin.
• Cairo → Aswan — 12–14h; the sleeper is the classic tourist choice.
• Luxor → Aswan — 3–4h scenic Nile Valley ride.

Train classes

First class (air-conditioned, reserved) is comfortable and affordable. VIP/Talgo trains between Cairo and Alexandria are a step up. The Ernst sleeper train (Watania) offers private cabins with meals for the Cairo–Luxor and Cairo–Aswan overnight routes.

Booking tickets

Tourist tickets can be booked online at ENR's website, via the Watania Sleeping Trains site for the overnight service, or through your hotel. Book 2–3 days ahead in peak season. Bring your passport when travelling — random ID checks are common.

Safety and comfort

Egyptian trains are safe and monitored. Stick to first class and reserved-seat services. Bring water, snacks and a power bank. Wi-Fi is not reliable — a mobile eSIM is essential if you want to work or navigate.