What is Bashtil Station?
Bashtil Station, officially known as Upper Egypt Station, is the departure point in Cairo for all overnight sleeper trains to Luxor and Aswan. It is located in the Imbaba area on the west bank of the Nile in Cairo.
In October 2024, Egypt Railways moved all sleeper train departures from the famous Ramses Station (in central Cairo) to Bashtil. Despite this change, the vast majority of travel guides and booking websites still direct travellers to Ramses Station.
Don't go to Ramses Station. If you go to Ramses expecting to board a sleeper train to Luxor or Aswan, you will miss your train. All sleeper departures are now from Bashtil Station.
Where is Bashtil Station?
Bashtil Station is located in the Imbaba district, on the west side of Cairo, approximately 8–12 kilometres from central Cairo and the main tourist areas such as Zamalek, Downtown and Garden City.
Bashtil Station, Imbaba, Cairo
Open in Google Maps →How to get to Bashtil Station
Uber or Careem (recommended)
The easiest way to reach Bashtil Station is by Uber or Careem. Search for "Bashtil Station" or "Upper Egypt Station". Both apps work well in Cairo and are the most reliable way to ensure you arrive at the correct station.
Open Uber or Careem
Both apps are widely used in Cairo. Make sure you have one installed and your account set up before you travel.
Search for "Bashtil Station" or "Upper Egypt Station"
Type either name into the destination field. The station should appear as a recognised location.
Allow plenty of time
Cairo traffic can be heavy, especially in the evenings when most sleeper trains depart. Allow at least 60 minutes from central Cairo, more during rush hour.
Arrive 45 minutes before departure
Allow time to find your platform, show your ticket at the entrance gate, and get settled in your cabin before the train departs.
By taxi
Regular taxis can also take you to Bashtil Station. Use Google Maps on your phone and search for Bashtil Station or Upper Egypt Station, show the driver your phone. Agree a price before getting in or use the meter.
Travel times from key Cairo areas
- Downtown Cairo / Tahrir Square: 30–50 minutes
- Zamalek: 25–45 minutes
- Garden City: 35–55 minutes
- Giza / Pyramids area: 40–60 minutes
- Cairo International Airport: 45–70 minutes
Always add extra time during evening rush hour (5pm–8pm), which coincides with most sleeper train departures.
What to expect at the station
- Show your ticket (PDF on phone) at the entrance gate, staff will check your name and let you through
- Once inside, look for the departure boards or ask any member of staff to point you to your platform
- Find your carriage number on your ticket, printed on the booking confirmation
- Walk along the platform until you find your carriage. If you start at the wrong end, it's a short walk, don't worry
- Your cabin attendant will be at the carriage door, will show you to your cabin, and will take your meal order shortly after departure
- Trains generally depart on time, don't cut it close
Frequently asked questions
Can I still use Ramses Station for any trains?
Ramses Station still handles some daytime regional trains, but all overnight sleeper trains to Luxor and Aswan now depart from Bashtil. Do not go to Ramses for a sleeper.
Is there somewhere to eat near Bashtil Station?
There are local food vendors and small cafes near the station. Meals are served on board the train, dinner in the evening and breakfast in the morning, so you don't need to eat before you board.
Is it safe to travel to Bashtil Station at night?
Yes. Uber and Careem are safe and well-lit. The station itself is staffed and busy with travellers. Imbaba is a busy residential area and perfectly safe to pass through at night.