Quick Answer
The fastest and most convenient way for most travelers to get from Luxor Airport (LXR) to Luxor Railway Station is by pre-booked private transfer or taxi, taking about 20-30 minutes and costing between 150-300 EGP ($5-$10 USD). The cheapest way is to take the local minibus (servis) for under 10 EGP ($0.30 USD), but it requires a short walk from the airport and is less comfortable. There is no direct public bus service.
1. Taxi & Private Airport Transfer (Recommended for Convenience)
This is the most straightforward door-to-door option. Upon exiting the arrivals hall at Luxor Airport, you will find the official “Airport Taxi” desk. This is a fixed-price, pre-paid system, which is highly recommended to avoid scams and haggling.
Official Pre-Paid Taxi Process & 2024 Prices
- Go to the desk inside the terminal (ignore touts outside).
- Tell them your destination: “Luxor Railway Station” (Mahattat al-Qitar).
- You will be given a fixed-price receipt. Current rates are approximately:
- Daytime (6 AM - 10 PM): 200-250 EGP (~$6.50-$8 USD)
- Nighttime (10 PM - 6 AM): 250-300 EGP (~$8-$10 USD)
- A driver will be assigned to take you directly to the station entrance.
Alternative: Pre-Booked Private Transfer
For maximum ease, book a transfer online in advance via a reputable service like Viator or GetYourGuide. A private car with a sign will meet you. Prices are similar (~$10-$15 USD) but offer peace of mind.
2. Local Minibus (Servis) – The Budget Choice
For the truly adventurous and budget-conscious, local minibuses (called servis) are the standard transport for Egyptians. There is no stop directly at the airport terminal.
Step-by-Step Guide to Take the Minibus
- Walk to the Main Road: Exit the airport and walk left (south) for about 10-15 minutes to the main highway (Luxor - Qena Road).
- Flag Down a Minibus: Look for white or beige minibuses. Shout “Midan al-Mahatta!” (Station Square) or “Mahattat al-Qitar!” (Railway Station).
- Pay Onboard: The fare is typically 5-10 EGP (less than $0.35 USD). Have small change ready.
- Get Off at the Station: The driver will drop you at or near the large roundabout (Midan al-Mahatta) in front of the station.
Important Notes: Minibuses are often crowded, have no dedicated luggage space, and don’t run on a fixed schedule (they leave when full). Not recommended for travelers with lots of luggage, after dark, or if you’re in a hurry.
3. Hotel & Airline Shuttles (Limited Availability)
Some luxury hotels or pre-arranged tour packages include a complimentary airport transfer. Check with your hotel directly. If they offer it, they may drop you at the railway station upon request, but this is not guaranteed.
Most economy hotels and airlines (like EgyptAir) do not provide a free shuttle service for independent travelers to the train station.
4. Cost & Time Comparison: Luxor Airport to Train Station
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (2024) | Travel Time | Best For | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Paid Airport Taxi | 200-300 EGP ($6-$10 USD) | 20-30 min | Most travelers, families, first-timers | Official desk inside terminal. No haggling. |
| Pre-Booked Private Transfer | $10-$15 USD | 20-30 min | Peace of mind, groups of 3-4 | Meet & greet service. Book online. |
| Local Minibus (Servis) | 5-10 EGP ($0.15-$0.30 USD) | 30-45+ min | Solo backpackers, extreme budget travel | Walk to main road. No luggage space. Arabic helpful. |
| Hotel Shuttle | Free (if offered) | 20-40 min | Guests of specific luxury hotels | Must be pre-arranged. Not reliable for non-guests. |
Verdict: For 95% of visitors, the extra $6-$8 for an official pre-paid taxi is worth the convenience, safety, and time saved over the minibus.
5. Traveler Tips & What to Avoid
Essential Tips for a Smooth Transfer
- Ignore the Touts: Politely say “La, shukran” (No, thank you) and walk directly to the official taxi desk inside the arrivals hall.
- Have Egyptian Pounds: While taxi drivers sometimes accept USD or EUR, you’ll get a better rate paying in local currency. Use the ATM at the airport.
- Confirm “Luxor Railway Station”: To avoid confusion, show the driver the Arabic: محطة القطار الأقصر (Mahattat al-Qitar al-Uqsur).
- Check Your Train Time: Egyptian trains can be delayed. Allow a minimum 2-hour buffer between your flight arrival and train departure.
- Luggage Tip: If you have heavy bags and are taking a taxi, confirm the trunk opens easily before paying at the desk.
Common Scams to Avoid
- The “Closed Station” Scam: A driver may claim the railway station is closed and offer to take you to a “tourist office” or a different (more expensive) transport. It’s almost certainly not true.
- The Meter “Doesn’t Work”: Only use the pre-paid desk. If you get into a non-official taxi and they say this, the final price will be inflated.
FAQs: Luxor Airport to Railway Station
Is there a direct bus from Luxor Airport to the train station?
No. There is no public bus service connecting Luxor International Airport (LXR) directly to Luxor Railway Station. The only direct options are taxi/private transfer or walking to the main road for a local minibus.
How far is Luxor Airport from the Railway Station?
The distance is approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles). The drive via Airport Rd and Khalid Ibn Al Walid Rd takes 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.
Is it safe to take a taxi from Luxor Airport at night?
Yes, using the official pre-paid taxi desk inside the terminal is safe at any time. Avoid negotiating with individual drivers outside, especially at night.
Can I walk from Luxor Airport to the train station?
It is not recommended. The 10km walk would take over 2 hours along roads with uneven or non-existent sidewalks and heavy traffic. It is not safe or practical.
What if my flight arrives late and I miss my train?
Go to the railway station anyway. You can often exchange your ticket for the next available train for a small fee. For long-distance sleeper trains to Cairo (Watania), contact the Watania Sleeping Trains office at the station for rebooking options.
Is Uber or Careem available at Luxor Airport?
Uber and Careem do not operate pickups from Luxor Airport due to local regulations. They can drop off at the airport, but you cannot be picked up there. Use the official pre-paid taxis instead.
What is the cheapest possible way to make this trip?
The absolute cheapest way is the local minibus (servis) for 5-10 EGP. This requires a 10-15 minute walk from the airport to the main road and some familiarity with the local transport system.
Are there luggage carts at Luxor Airport and the Railway Station?
Yes, luggage carts are available at Luxor Airport (free). Luxor Railway Station also has porters (for a tip) and some carts, but they can be scarce. Be prepared to carry your bags.