Routes and stations
Most mainline trains use Cairo Ramses station in the city centre. It sits next to Al-Shohadaa metro station on lines 1 and 2.
Cairo Upper Egypt station, also called Bashtil, opened in October 2024 about 7 km west of Ramses. There is no metro nearby, so use a taxi or a ride-hailing app.
All trains between Cairo, Luxor and Aswan call at Giza. In Alexandria the main stops are Sidi Gaber and Misr station.
Classes and train types
Talgo trains are the top tier. They have first and second class, a café counter, screens and an accessible carriage. The first Talgo ran Cairo–Alexandria in late 2022, and Talgos now also run to Upper Egypt.
VIP Express and Express trains have air-conditioned first (AC1) and second (AC2) class with reserved seats. Newer Russian-built trains include AC1, AC2, AC3 and economy cars. Ordinary trains are slow, without air conditioning, and have unreserved third class.
Tickets and fares
Egyptians pay low fares in Egyptian pounds. Since December 2022, non-Egyptian passengers pay separate foreigner prices set in US dollars.
As a guide, agency listings for Cairo–Aswan range from about US$65 in economy to about US$117 in Talgo first class. Fares change often, so check before you travel.
How to book
The ENR website and app sell tickets at Egyptian prices to Egyptian citizens. Booking opens about two weeks before departure.
Visitors can buy at the station. In Cairo, go to the Arab and Foreign Reservation Office upstairs at Ramses. It accepts US dollars, euros or a card. Agencies such as 12Go and Bookaway also sell e-tickets.
Tips for travellers
Cairo–Alexandria is usually easy to buy on the day. Book Luxor and Aswan trips a few days ahead.
Luggage goes on the racks above your seat and is not weighed. Air conditioning can be very cold, so bring a layer. Carry your passport when buying tickets.
Last checked: October 2026. Fares and timetables change, so confirm on the official website before you travel.
