The Best Egypt Travel Itinerary: How To See The Best Of Egypt

Egypt is a destination like no other – a land where ancient wonders meet vibrant culture. Egypt is a symphony of ancient whispers – stone-carved mysteries of pharaohs, gods, and kingdoms long past. It’s here, along the winding ribbon of the Nile, that history was written in hieroglyphics and marvels were built to defy time. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a lover of unique travel experiences, this five-day itinerary will immerse you in the best of Egypt.

Egypt is a place where history feels alive.

Here’s the best Egypt travel itinerary & guide for a whirlwind trip from Cairo to Luxor, including cultural gems, breathtaking landmarks, and luxurious accommodations.

Day 1: Arrival in Cairo

Start your Egyptian adventure in Cairo, the heart of the country’s history and culture.

Where to Stay:

Le Méridien Cairo Airport
A convenient and comfortable choice to recover from your flight and prepare for the days ahead. The taxi situation is hectic in Cairo, so being able to just walk over to this hotel was so nice & definitely the best decision especially since our flights got in late and left early. Book by clicking here for the best deal.
If you are staying for a few days and want to stay at a hotel with a view of the pyramids, this is a great option.

What to Do:

Khan El Khalili Market
Stroll through Cairo’s iconic bazaar, a treasure trove of traditional crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs. Don’t miss Naguib Mahfouz Coffee Shop, a cozy spot for dinner.
Sherry Vinyl Shop and Velvet Thrift Store
Explore Cairo’s unique thrift and vinyl scene for rare finds and vintage treasures.
Or order room service like we did because we were tired from traveling and wanted to rest for our next day of adventure.

Day 2: Exploring the Pyramids and More

Dive into ancient Egypt and its awe-inspiring monuments. I hired a tour guide & driver for the whole day since it was my first time to Egypt and I’m so glad we did. They let us customize our day so we went to the Grand Egyptian Museum, a parfumerie, a papyrus art store, a tour & photoshoot at the pyramids, the sphinx, and then back to the hotel. You can book a similar tour here.

Morning to Afternoon (9 AM – 5 PM):

Grand Egyptian Museum
Marvel at priceless artifacts, including treasures from King Tutankhamun’s tomb.

Great Pyramid of Giza, Giza Plateau, and Sphinx
My best advice is to book all of your tours ahead of time because Egypt is one of the most hectic places I’ve experienced and you will definitely want a tour guide taking care of you. Your pre-booked tour ensures seamless access to these world wonders and any side quests you want to embark on.

Evening:

Zamalek Island
Unwind at this upscale district, home to art cafes, the Cairo Opera House, and embassies. Enjoy a leisurely evening in a chic setting.

Day 3: Journey to Aswan and Nile Cruise

Time to leave Cairo behind and experience southern Egypt.

Morning:

Flight to Aswan
Catch an early flight and prepare for a new adventure.

Breakfast at Sofitel Legend Old Cataract in Aswan

The Sofitel in Aswan is a masterpiece of luxury and history, perched majestically along the banks of the Nile. This iconic hotel, with its Victorian elegance and Nubian-inspired design, has hosted royalty, writers, and travelers for decades, offering breathtaking views of the river and timeless charm.

Mid-Morning:

Nile Cruise Departure
Join your two-night Nile cruise, a luxurious experience starting with a pickup from Sofitel at 10:30 AM. We booked this tour and it was such a great adventure because they let you customize your experience.

A Nile River Cruise is a journey through time, where each bend of the river reveals ancient temples, golden deserts, and lush green banks. As you sail between Aswan and Luxor, the gentle rhythm of the water sets the pace for exploring Egypt’s iconic landmarks, all while enjoying the luxury of panoramic views, a rooftop pool, delicious cuisine, a bar, an Egyptian party where we learned more about the culture, and the timeless beauty of the Nile. This cruise offers unparalleled convenience, as every detail of your journey is taken care of for you. From guided tours of iconic temples to seamless transportation between historic sites, the cruise ensures you can fully immerse yourself in Egypt’s wonders without worrying about logistics.

Day 4: Kom Ombo and Edfu Temples

Enjoy the tranquility of the river as you journey through history. Sail along the Nile, stopping at these remarkable sites.

Kom Ombo is a stunning temple dedicated to both the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon god Horus, located on the banks of the Nile. With its symmetrical design and well-preserved relics, the temple offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Egyptian religious practices and architectural ingenuity. There is also a crocodile museum where they have mummified crocodiles on display…

Edfu Temple, dedicated to the falcon god Horus, is one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, showcasing the grandeur of ancient Ptolemaic architecture. Its towering columns, intricate carvings, and monumental entrance make it a must-visit site that transports you to the heart of ancient Egyptian worship and mythology.

Day 5: Luxor’s Ancient Wonders and Departure

Conclude your Egyptian adventure in Luxor, the heart of the ancient world. Luxor, often called the “world’s greatest open-air museum,” is a treasure trove of ancient wonders on the east and west banks of the Nile. From the grandeur of Karnak and Luxor Temples to the beauty of the Valley of the Kings, this city offers an unparalleled glimpse into Egypt’s rich history and architectural genius. Explore these iconic landmarks, each offering unique insights into Egypt’s golden age.

Morning:

Hot Air Balloon Ride over the Nile River

A hot air balloon ride over the Nile River offers a breathtaking perspective of Egypt’s ancient wonders, as you float gently above the Nile and its temples at sunrise. The panoramic views of the Balley of Kings and the sprawling desert landscape create an unforgettable experience that blends natural beauty with historical awe.

Luxor Highlights
- Valley of the Kings
- Valley of Queens
- Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut
- Luxor Temple

Evening:

Flight to Cairo
Fly back to Cairo and check into Le Méridien Cairo Airport again for a restful night before flying home.

Additional Tips for Your Egypt Trip

Dress Comfortably: Pack breathable clothing and comfortable shoes for long days of walking.
Stay Hydrated: The desert climate can be intense, so always carry water.
Book Tours in Advance: Secure your spots for major attractions to avoid last-minute stress.
Please tip your tour guides! Tipping your tour guides is a thoughtful way to show appreciation for their expertise, effort, and the personalized experiences they provide.
Egypt’s government has faced significant criticism for its handling of stray animal populations, particularly dogs. In an attempt to control the number of stray dogs, reports have surfaced about mass poisonings, which are not only inhumane but also raise serious ethical and public health concerns. I fed as many as I could while traveling, but the government and communities need to take action. You will also encounter horses and camels that are used for tourism under harsh conditions – I don’t recommend partaking in any of those activities.
As a woman I feel it is necessary to say that traveling alone in Egypt is not something I would advise to other women. This is the only country I have ever been to where I was harassed and followed by men multiple times. Thankfully I was traveling with my friend and we had guides most of the time, but be careful and avoid being outside after dark.