Day Trips to Luxor from Cairo

Luxor is a captivating Egyptian city, with a variety of things not to be missed. Its rich culture, architecture and history make it a popular destination. After visiting the mosques, temples, ancient tombs and enjoying the hot air balloon rides, you may want to venture to Cairo. This is Egypt's capital, where modern skyscrapers merge with medieval monuments and mysterious attractions.

There are many ways to get to Cairo from Luxor, and if you don't want to worry about anything, an organised tour is the most practical option. On the other hand, the fastest way is by plane, which gets you to your destination in two hours, and you can get good prices if you book in advance. Here are the best options for this trip!

If you plan to travel by plane, be prepared to get to Cairo in record time. The best airline to fly with is usually Egyptair, which has up to four routes a day. Alternatively, fly with Nile Air or Air Cairo. To get to Luxor Airport, I suggest securing private transfers for convenience and to arrive on time for your flight.

The airport is a short distance from the centre, but there are no buses connecting to this area. Taxis are also available for as little as 3 euros, just make sure you set a price before you start your journey, as taxis are not used in the city.

On the other hand, when you arrive at Cairo International Airport you can hire a private transfer or take a taxi to get to the city centre or to your accommodation. If you have enough time and not much luggage, you can take a bus, which works quite well here and costs around 1 euro. Note that the best months to fly are June and November, as the city is less crowded and flights are cheaper.

Useful information

• Price: If you buy in advance you can find flights from 58 euros, but bear in mind that a few hours beforehand the price can rise considerably. The cost can also vary depending on the time of day, the season and the airline.
• Travel time: between one hour and two and a half hours, depending on the airline. Also, from Cairo Airport to the city centre usually takes between ten and thirty minutes.
• Advantages: more comfort and speed, ideal if you have little time and don't want to waste it on the roads connecting the two locations.
• Disadvantages: It's an expensive option for those on a tight budget.

Travelling from Luxor to Cairo is one of the best things to do in the city during your stay. Of course, some people prefer to travel by private car, to save on internal transfers. This option is flexible and offers more freedom. For this trip, make sure you rent from a reliable agency, as well as having the necessary permits. There are companies that allow you to drop off at a different branch, if you plan to end your trip in the capital.

It is also possible to arrange for a driver, who can guide you and make recommendations to facilitate your visit. The advantage is that he or she is someone who knows the Egyptian roads as well as the local driving regulations. Adventurous people often sign up for motorbike tours, although you'll need more licences. You may want to stop for a break or lunch, as it's a long ride.

Useful information

• Price: Car hire starts at 80 euros per day, although there are cheaper companies, it is advisable to go for the more well-known ones such as Sixt and Europcar. In addition, to cover the journey you will spend more than 35 euros in fuel.
• Journey time: you will spend around eight hours behind the wheel.
• Advantages: You can split the cost of the rental between several people, as there are cars for families and groups.
• Disadvantages: It can be very tiring, and it's not a viable option if you have a short itinerary because you'll spend a lot of time on the road.

For travel to Cairo from Luxor, there are options to suit all tastes and needs. In the case of the bus, it is a versatile means of transport in terms of timetables. It is especially recommended for travelling at night to save time. Blue Bus and Go Bus stand out as the most comfortable companies, which is very important for a long journey.

You will find different classes from standard to VIP and Super Deluxe. Breakfast may be included, although there are often options to buy food on board. In addition, amenities such as en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning and reclining seats are usually included in most categories. Locals may recommend the minibus, but think twice as it is a less safe and somewhat rudimentary mode of transport.

Useful information

• Price: from 8 euros, depending on the company.
• Journeytime: approximately eight hours.
• Advantages: it is an economical option, which can be bought even at the last minute.
• Disadvantages: Some don't usually make stops, so make sure you have everything you need on board. The views are pretty poor, as most travel through the desert and for miles all you'll see is sand and dust.

Trains between Luxor and Cairo operate daily and are the most popular mode of transport. As well as being economical, they offer the best views for most of the journey. Be aware that the regular train can take up to ten hours, especially if you have connections. They are older and operate every three hours, which is a great advantage if you're planning a last-minute getaway. Generally, the last train leaves before 10:00 p.m.

The company in charge of the trips is Egyptian Railways and you can book online for convenience. In addition, there are night trains with all the necessary equipment to make you feel like you're in a hotel and have a good night's sleep. There are also more modern and faster trains. The main thing for long distances is to book spacious seats and get up every so often to stretch out.

Useful information

• Price: from 2 euros.
• Journeytime: between eight and ten hours, depending on the company and type of train.
• Advantages: offers a variety of timetables at a lower price.
• Disadvantages: some may take longer, due to age or number of stops, so be sure to check before booking.

In case you are determined to travel by night, then you can opt for the Watania Sleeper Train. It departs from 8:00 p.m. and is the best option for not getting so exhausted during the journey. You'll arrive in Cairo at around 6am, ready to start exploring the city.

It is a cabin that can be shared between a maximum of two people, although there are also individual options. It has an en-suite bathroom and a small sleeping area, ideal if you 're looking for privacy. To return to Luxor, make your way back to Ramses Train Station at the same time. Note that discounts of up to 15% are often available for children.

Useful Information

• Price: from 80 euros for a shared cabin. If you are travelling as a couple it is ideal, as you can split the cabin, however if you are travelling alone you will be allocated a companion and it is better to rent a single cabin for approximately 120 euros.
• Journeytime: at least eight hours.
• Advantages: Breakfast and dinner are usually included, but you can bring snacks in your luggage.
• Disadvantages: If you book a regular train, you can't opt for the sleeper train at the last minute, so think carefully before making a choice.

Taxis are one of the most expensive options, so it's advisable to take a taxi with a verified company or hire a private transfer. Taxi drivers roaming the streets may charge additional fees, to the point where you may end up paying more than you would for a plane ticket. Be sure to negotiate the fare before leaving Luxor, as Egypt does not use a taximeter.

You'll also find a taxi hybrid, which is a cross between a minibus, bus and taxi. They almost look like minivans, but are often shared with other travellers and, like the minibus, are not highly recommended. You can opt for A1 Taxis Luxor, as it is the most recognised taxi line in the city. To move in Cairo you can hire your trips in UBER Egypt.

Useful information

• Price: from 65 euros, but does not include the costs of tolls, extra charges for inconveniences on the road and fuel.
• Journeytime: around 8 hours.
• Advantages: While it can be expensive, it's a good option if you're travelling in a group, as you can split the costs.
• Disadvantages: Egypt does not use a taximeter, so the price can be a nasty surprise if you don't know how to negotiate.

For a romantic getaway, or simply to experience the country from a different perspective, I recommend the best cruises from Luxor. You can cruise the Nile for approximately twelve days, stopping in both cities. Of course, it's an experience of a lifetime, but it's much more expensive. You'll be in a floating hotel, as it usually includes all the amenities such as meals, evening events, entrance to monuments, quick stops and more.

The frequency of departures depends on the company, usually once a month in spring and autumn. So if you travel between February and June or September and November, you can take advantage of this activity. Mövenpick usually has cruises from Luxor to Cairo that have everything you need to spend some time.

There are also shorter cruises that don't stray too far from the city, which usually go to Aswan and stop at Egyptian temples.

Useful info

• Price: from 600 euros.
• Travel time: 10-12 days.
• Advantages: it is a very complete tour, perfect for getting to know Cairo and other cities or locations in the surrounding area.
• Disadvantages: Not suitable for short itineraries, as you will spend more than a week travelling at sea.

If you prefer absolute comfort, the most comprehensive option is to join an organised tour from Luxor. This is the most convenient way to visit Cairo, especially if you are a first-time visitor to Egypt. This type of experience lasts a minimum of one day, so you'll be able to see all the major sights. You'll have to get up early, as the journey is usually by plane and takes approximately two hours.

The capital is a very complete destination where you'll find museums, temples, traditional bazaars, Egyptian pyramids and typical Middle Eastern mosques. Some of the locations you may have the opportunity to visit include:

• The Pyramids of Giza: where I recommend you to take a tour of the Pyramids of Giza, as they are a construction of the Ancient Kingdom of Egypt, therefore they are an authentic local relic that you cannot miss. Note that it houses three pyramids known as Cheops or the Great Pyramid, Chephren and Mykerinos. Admission to the site starts at 7 euros, but does not include access to the pyramids, which costs around 20 euros.
• The Citadel of Saladin: is a medieval fortification, which was a mini-city in the middle of Cairo. It offers panoramic views and you can find tickets from 6 euros. Here you can stop by the Carriage Museum which has architectural portraits, as well as 40 exhibits of Egyptian carriages and vehicles.

Useful Information

• Price: from 270 euros per person.
• Journey time: you'll find 1-day trips for short itineraries, and even more comprehensive getaways of up to 5 days. It all depends on your time, budget and the places you want to visit. These types of experiences often explore iconic Egyptian locations such as the Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, Valley Temple, Egyptian Museum and Khan Khalili Bazaar.
• Benefits: The best tours of Luxor usually include all transfers, entrance fees to certain monuments and some meals. In addition, you may be accompanied by English-speaking Egyptologist guides who can introduce you to the history of each stop.
• Disadvantages: While this is a safe and comprehensive option, it offers less freedom than travelling on your own, as it tends to have a regular itinerary for groups.

• Luxor Airport does not have access to public transport, so the most viable option is to hire a taxi or shuttle service. Cairo Airport, on the other hand, is better connected in terms of public and private transport.
• There are no taxi meters in the city, so it's important to set a price before you start your journey to avoid overcharging.
• Avoid booking excursions or tours in Egypt with unofficial guides- they're usually people who lurk in the streets and scam tourists.
• Local police do not recommend that women travel alone in Egypt; if they do, it's best to book tours with an agency or stay in safe areas.
• You should carry your ID at all times, as there are police checkpoints on the streets to keep tourists safe.
• Dronesare not allowed to be used without permission.
• In Cairo and other Egyptian cities, you'll find tuk tuks and vehicles pulled by camels and horses.