How to Book Train Travel From Alexandria to Cairo, Egypt
Known as the land of the stately pyramids and the mighty river Nile, Egypt has much to offer travelers who enjoy historic, exotic locales. Those hoping to book train travel from Alexandria to Cairo should know that this route is rich with the sights and scenery of this ancient land. Follow these steps to start planning your trip.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
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Book Tickets for Train Travel from Alexandria to Cairo
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Avoid the lines and book your tickets ahead of time by reserving them online at the Egyptian National Railways Web site (see Resources below).
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Book via telephone by contacting the Cairo office of Egyptian National Railways at 011 (+20) 575 3555.
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Trains leave Alexandria about once every hour, between the hours of 5 a.m. and 10 p.m.
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With express trains, the journey can take as long as 3 hours. If you take a "Turbotrain," you'll arrive in Cairo in just over 2 hours.
Pick a Train for Travel From Alexandria to Cairo
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Get there quickly and in style by choosing the Turbotrain. This is the fastest and most luxurious train available. It has amenities like air conditioning and refreshments.
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Be budget-conscious and book a ticket on the express train. This more affordable alternative is slower and less plush than the Turbotrain, but it offers comfortable accommodations and air-conditioning.
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Steer clear of discomfort by avoiding the ordinary trains. The cheap fares may make them seem like a bargain; but they have no air conditioning. Their cabins are basic at best.
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Budget your trip. If you're traveling with kids, children aged 3 and younger ride for free. Children between 4 and 9 travel at half fare. Kids aged 10 and over pay the full fare.
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Tips & Warnings
Phone numbers include the United States international prefix "011." When calling internationally from outside the United States, check which international dialing prefix to use. All country codes are within parentheses and begin with a "+" sign.
Egypt's main language is Arabic. However, many Egyptians are also fluent in English and French.
It's a good idea to learn how to read Arabic numbers. Train stations show arrival and departure times in Arabic.
Americans will need a visa to enter Egypt. You may buy one upon arrival, provided you plan on staying for less than a month.
Some Egyptian travel agencies are notoriously slow to respond to email bookings. Many travelers have reported a quicker response by contacting them via fax.
With some agencies, those traveling in a party of less than 15 will have to pay 25 percent of their total bill by credit card once the reservation is confirmed. If your group consists of 15 people or more, you'll have to pay 35 percent.
