In this Egypt 7-day itinerary, we’ll dive into the heart of this mesmerizing country, exploring majestic sights, bustling bazaars, and stunning beaches. From the pyramids of Giza to the colorful chaos of Cairo’s streets, Egypt is a gem.
This 7-day Egypt itinerary is designed for first-time visitors who want to see Egypt’s most iconic sites without feeling rushed. It works especially well if you love history, want expert context at major sites, and prefer having logistics handled rather than negotiating transport every day.
If your goal is slow travel or staying in one place for a full week, this itinerary will feel too packed. If you want to experience Egypt’s highlights efficiently, while still leaving space for personal exploration, this 7 day Egypt itinerary guide is built for you.
(Updated January 2026)
How to Travel Egypt: Flights vs Nile Cruise
There are two realistic ways to travel in Egypt within a limited timeframe.
If you’re short on time and want flexibility, domestic flights are the fastest way to move between Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor. Flights save hours on the road and allow you to customize your itinerary and book tours selectively.
A Nile cruise, on the other hand, is ideal if you want a slower pace with fewer logistics to manage. Cruises bundle transport, accommodation, and guided visits into one experience, making them especially appealing if you prefer everything arranged in advance. The trade-off is less flexibility and fixed schedules.
I chose a mix of flights and guided tours to maximize time at the major sites. If you prefer a more relaxed experience with minimal planning, a Nile cruise between Aswan and Luxor can be a great alternative.
Egypt Itinerary Map
Egypt 7 Day Itinerary & The Best Things You Need to See
Cairo (1 Day)
Cairo, the bustling capital of Egypt, is one of the largest cities in Africa with a population of over 20 million people. It’s a vibrant metropolis that blends ancient history with modern living, marking the beginning of your 7 day Egypt itinerary.
If you book one guided experience in Cairo, make it a private Cairo Giza Pyramid & Egyptian Museum tour. The scale of the pyramids and the complexity of Egypt’s history are hard to grasp without context, and having a knowledgeable guide saves hours of navigating crowds and entrances. This is the easiest way to experience Cairo’s highlights in one focused day.
Its streets might be chaotic, yet it boasts vibrant markets and lively cafes – a truly authentic glimpse into daily life. In the neighborhood of you’ll find countless photo opportunities and a vibe that’s hard to come by. With its vibrant energy and unparalleled historical significance, Cairo is a must-visit destination if you want to explore the wonders of ancient Egypt.
Where to Stay in Cairo for City Exploring
Cairo is massive, chaotic, and traffic alone can easily eat up half your day. Downtown Cairo is a bustling hub of activity, with plenty of hotels, restaurants, and shops to explore. For a more upscale experience, Zamalek is a popular neighborhood located on Gezira Island, offering stunning views of the Nile River and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Wake up with direct views of the Pyramids of Giza and reach the site early before the crowds arrive. The Marriott Mena House is ideal if the pyramids are your main priority and you want a memorable first experience in Egypt.
A calm, refined retreat away from the city’s busiest areas. Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski works well if you’re booking guided day tours and want a quiet, comfortable place to return to after long sightseeing days
Houseboat65 – if you’re looking for something truly unique, consider staying in a houseboat along the Nile. Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of the river and enjoying breakfast on your private terrace as you watch life on the Nile float by. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that you won’t soon forget.
Book The Top Cairo City Hotels
Activities To Do in Cairo
The Great Pyramids of Giza
No trip to Egypt is complete without a visit to the iconic pyramids, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. These majestic structures, built over 4,500 years ago, have to be your first stop on this Egypt 7 day itinerary.
You cannot help but marvel at the sheer magnitude of these ancient structures and ponder the mysteries that still surround them.
I recommend visiting as early in the day as possible, literally by the time they open!
The Sphinx
The Sphinx is another iconic symbol of ancient Egypt and just one of the most unique sights you can visit. With the body of a lion and the head of a human, it’s magnificent! Carved from a single piece of limestone, it measures around 73 meters long and stands 20 meters tall.
The Egyptian Museum
The Egyptian Museum is like a time capsule of Egypt’s incredible past and a great place to end your day. It’s packed with artifacts that tell stories dating back over 5,000 years. Imagine wandering through massive halls filled with treasures like the golden mask of Tutankhamun or the mummy of Ramses II.
Even if you’re not a fan of museums, this one will make you love them. From mummies to golden sarcophagi, each exhibit is like its own journey through ancient Egyptian civilization.
Khan El Khalili Bazaar
The Khan El Khalili Bazaar is a vibrant marketplace in Cairo, offering you an authentic taste of Egyptian culture. It’s Cairo’s oldest souk, known for its labyrinthine alleys filled with bustling stalls selling. Wandering through its narrow lanes, you’ll find everything from traditional handicrafts to spices and textiles. It’s the ideal place to bargain for souvenirs, enjoy a sweet mint tea or sugarcane juice, and soak up the lively atmosphere.
How To Get From Cairo to Aswan
Flight: Fastest and easiest. Around 1.5 hours. Best if you’re short on time.
Train: You can take an overnight train from Cairo to Aswan. Slower but comfortable and good if you want to save a hotel night and experience train travel in Egypt.
Aswan (1 Day)
Let’s continue your Egypt 7-day itinerary with a flight to Aswan. As a picturesque city nestled on the banks of the Nile River, Aswan is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The vibe is totally different, making it a more tranquil escape than buzzing Cairo.
Where to Stay in Aswan for Day Trips & Unwinding
Aswan is slower, calmer, and more intimate than Cairo or Luxor. Where you stay shapes that feeling. The best stays are either on Elephantine Island for peace and views, or inside a Nubian village if you want culture over convenience. Staying central is less important here. Atmosphere matters more than proximity.
Eco Nubia is for travelers who want to slow down and stay somewhere that feels intentional. Set inside a Nubian village, this eco-focused stay blends simple comfort with strong values. It’s a good fit if you care about sustainability and want your stay to support the local community rather than just pass through it.
This is a stay for people who want a deeper connection to place. Nala Narty combines a Nubian guesthouse with an organic farm, so your experience goes beyond sleeping and sightseeing. You’ll eat fresh, local food, wake up to farm life, and spend time in a setting that feels personal and grounded
The Mango Guest House on Elephantine Island in Aswan is an affordable, cozy guesthouse with comfortable rooms. The hosts make you feel super welcome, and the breakfast was one of the best I had in all of Egypt. Ideal if you’re on a budget but want a great and tranquil stay.
Aswan Things To Do
Nubian Village
One highlight of Aswan and a must-see on this Egypt 7-day itinerary is a visit to the Nubian Village. Booking a guided Nubian Village and Philae Temple tour lets you glide along the Nile by boat, visit one of Egypt’s most beautiful temples, and then spend time inside a Nubian village with context and access you won’t get on your own.
It turns Aswan from “pretty” into meaningful, especially if you’re short on time and want to understand the culture, not just photograph it. The boat ride in the morning is just magical!
Crocodile Museum
One unique aspect of the village is its Crocodile Museum, where you can see preserved crocodile mummies and learn about their significance in ancient Egyptian and Nubian culture. In ancient Egyptian and Nubian cultures, crocodiles held significant religious and cultural importance. They were revered as sacred animals, associated with various deities and believed to possess protective powers.
Stop at the colourful Kato Waidi Nubian House for a true Egyptian breakfast, one of the best I’ve had! Afterwards, head out to explore the colorful streets, shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs at the local market.
Philae Temple
Sail across the shimmering waters of Lake Nasser to Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. It’s a popular tour that allows you to admire the temple’s beautifully preserved reliefs and hieroglyphics.
Elephantine Island
Elephantine Island is a picturesque island located in the Nile River in Aswan, Egypt. It’s renowned for its rich history and archaeological sites dating back thousands of years. The island was also once an important trading hub and strategic location, with evidence of human habitation dating back to prehistoric times.
Abu Simbel (Day Tour)
Abu Simbel, situated roughly 280 kilometers southwest of Aswan, houses one of Egypt’s most breathtaking archaeological marvels: the temples of Abu Simbel. Carved into the rock during the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses II in the 13th century BCE, these temples are popular because of their magnificence and historical importance.
Abu Simbel is one experience where booking with an official, well-reviewed operator matters. The distance, early departure, and remote location make guided transport the safest and most reliable option. A private Abu Simbel tour with a guide allows you to travel comfortably and focus on the experience rather than logistics.
Alternatively, you can opt for a scenic flight from Aswan to Abu Simbel, to be on the safe side. Lean back and enjoy stunning aerial views of the Nile and surrounding desert landscapes.
How to Get From Aswan to Luxor
Train: The most popular option is to take the train. The journey from Aswan to Luxor by train takes around 3 to 4 hours.
Buses and private transfers take about 4 to 5 hours. Hiring a private car is the better choice if you want comfort, flexibility, and fewer stops.
The most memorable option. A Nile cruise turns the transfer into part of the journey, with slow sailing, temple stops like Kom Ombo and Edfu, and all logistics handled. A 2-night Nile Cruise is perfect if you want ease, atmosphere, and a calmer pace before Luxor.
Luxor – Gateway to the Valley of the Kings (2 Days)
Luxor, often dubbed the “world’s greatest open-air museum,” boasts a rich mix of history and ancient wonders. Situated on the east bank of the Nile River it served as the epicenter of political, religious, and cultural affairs in ancient Egypt.
Where to Stay in Luxor for City Tours
Luxor is split between the East Bank and West Bank, and where you stay really matters on how you experience the city. East Bank hotels are ideal if you want easy access to temples, restaurants, and evening walks along the Nile. West Bank stays are quieter and closer to the Valley of the Kings, perfect if you prefer calm mornings and fewer crowds.
Sofitel Winter Palace is a true classic on the East Bank. This historic hotel sits right by Luxor Temple and the Nile, making it ideal if you want to step straight into the city after sightseeing. Elegant gardens, old-world charm, and a sense of history you can actually feel.
A relaxed resort-style stay directly on the Nile. The Steigenberger Resort Achti has spacious rooms, a large pool area, and river views, making it a great balance between comfort and location. You still have easy access to Luxor’s main sites, but with more space to unwind at the end of the day.
The Mesala Hotel is a charming, affordable hotel in Luxor, offering stunning views of the Nile River. Its rooftop terrace is a highlight, especially at sunset, and the location makes an early Valley of the Kings starts easy. Simple, personal, and well-located for exploring Luxor’s archaeological sites.
Book The Best Luxor Hotels Here
Best Things to See in Luxor
Luxor is one place where a guide truly makes a difference. The Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple are overwhelming without explanation, and the stories behind the tombs bring everything to life. Booking a full-day guided tour covering both the East and West Banks is the most efficient way to see Luxor without missing key details.
Karnak Temple
In Luxor, one of the most iconic landmarks is the Karnak Temple Complex, a vast religious site dedicated to the god Amun-Ra.
As you wander through these ancient columns, each one beautifully decorated and carved, you’re transported into a different time. For the best experience, consider visiting either very early or during the hotter times of the day to avoid the crowds.
The highlight is The Great Hypostyle, renowned for its forest of colossal columns. The hall contains a total of 134 massive columns, adorned with elaborate reliefs and inscriptions.
Temple of Luxor
Another must-see in Luxor is the Temple of Luxor, a magnificent temple complex located in the heart of the city. Built over several centuries, the temple is dedicated to the god Amun and was used for religious ceremonies, festivals, and processions.
Before you leave, stop at the Avenue of the Sphinxes. It’s an ancient ceremonial pathway that connects the temples of Luxor and Karnak.
Valley of the Kings
One of the most spectacular places you can visit on this 7 day Egypt itinerary is Luxor’s necropolis – the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens. This is the area where numerous pharaohs, queens, and nobles found their final resting places in ornate tombs.
Among the tombs in the Valley of the Kings, the tomb of Tutankhamun is perhaps the most famous and intriguing. Although it is smaller compared to other royal tombs, Tutankhamun’s tomb is renowned for its remarkable state of preservation and the treasures found within, including his iconic golden mask.
Ramesseum
The Ramesseum is a great next stop after you’ve been to the tombs. The walls of the Ramesseum are decorated with reliefs depicting scenes from his military campaigns, victories in battle, offerings to the gods, and divine ceremonies. It’s one of the lesser-known sites and is perfect for taking photos of the columns!
Air Balloon Luxor Egypt
Embarking on a hot air balloon ride over Luxor is undeniably one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in Egypt. The balloons typically take off in the early morning, starting near the Valley of the Kings. If you’ve never done it, why not book a Hot Air Balloon tour and finally check it off your list?
How to Get from Luxor to Hurghada
To finish your 7 day Egypt itinerary, I recommend booking a private driver for your journey from Luxor to Hurghada.
Hurghada (1-2 Days)
Your last stop on this 7 day Egypt itinerary will be Hurghada. This vibrant resort town on the Red Sea coast of Egypt is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lively nightlife. It’s a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, ideal for scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, and kiteboarding.
Where to Stay in Hurghada for Beaches
Hurghada is not about sightseeing; it’s about how you want to end this trip. This is where you slow down after temples, long drives, and early mornings. Choosing the right hotel decides whether Hurghada feels like a forgettable resort stop or the perfect reset by the Red Sea.
Tawila Island is a true escape. Located on a private island in the Red Sea, this is barefoot luxury at its best, white sand, clear water, and nothing to distract you except the sea. It feels worlds away from mainland Hurghada and is ideal if you want privacy, snorkeling straight from the beach, and a castaway-style ending to your itinerary.
Casa Cook is about design, atmosphere, and ease. Set in El Gouna, it blends boho aesthetics with a laid-back, adults-only vibe. Think pools, spa time, great food, and easy access to beaches and kite spots. It’s social without being loud and stylish without feeling forced.
Redcon Suites in Hurghada is a modern hotel with comfortable rooms, and a lovely rooftop overlooking the ocean. It’s a fantastic choice if you are on a budget but still want to be in the heart of the city.
Book The Top Beach Hotels in Hurghada
Stroll Through Hurghada
The town also boasts a bustling promenade lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, as well as luxury resorts and hotels. With its year-round sunshine and warm waters, Hurghada is the perfect destination for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous aquatic getaway.
Go Diving in Hurghada
If you have a few extra day and love diving, make sure to reserve a spot on this Full Day Diving Tour with Lunch. The Red Sea is one of the prime diving spots in the Middle East and you even get a little ocean safari in while cruising from dive site to dive site.
Optional Siwa Oasis Extension: 2-3 Days of Desert Magic
Siwa is one of these magical places you wouldn’t believe existed. The oasis town is located in the Western Desert of Egypt, near the border with Libya. This optional 2-3 day add-on is best for those with extra time and a sense of adventure, offering a completely different pace from busy Cairo, Luxor, and Hurghada
The indigenous Berber population of Siwa, known as the Siwans, has preserved its unique cultural traditions and practices over the centuries. It is home to several archaeological sites, including the Temple of the Oracle, where ancient Greeks traveled to consult the famous Oracle of Amun.
Reserving this 4-day all-inclusive Siwa tour is the easiest way to see the best of Siwa without worrying about logistics. Travel from Cairo or Giza in comfort while your accommodations, meals, and guided excursions are all taken care of. Ideal for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a seamless desert adventure.
Siwa Oasis (2-3 Days)
Siwa Oasis is a hidden gem in Egypt’s Western Desert, perfect for travelers looking to extend their trip beyond the classic route. Explore mudbrick towns, salt lakes, and the stunning desert landscape.
Where to Stay in Siwa Oasis for Berber Vibes & Desert Adventures
Siwa is a peaceful desert escape, so choosing the right place to stay is key. Eco-lodges and boutique hotels put you right in the heart of the oasis while keeping you close to the sights.
Albabenshal Lodge Siwa is one of the most unique hotels in Siwa Oasis, offering an authentic and traditional experience. It’s beautifully furnished and decorated with colorful Bedouin carpets and part of the fortress wall! Stay here if you value a central location and love a rooftop terrace for the best views of the city.
La Siwa offers a cozy, authentic desert stay with charming rooms, a peaceful atmosphere, and easy access to Siwa’s top sights. Perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring the oasis.
Alexander Lodge is a 4-star hotel that features an outdoor pool, garden, shared lounge, and terrace in Siwa. It’s one of the more upscale places and ideally located in the middle of town.
Check available Desert Hotels in Siwa
Shali Fortress
Shali Fortress is an ancient mud-brick citadel located in the heart of Siwa’s old town. It served as a defensive stronghold for the local Berber population for centuries. The fortress is made entirely of mud and salt and is a wonderful place to explore. I recommend you to climb to the top of the fortress for sunset to catch incredible views of the surrounding oasis and desert landscape.
Cleopatra’s Bath
Cleopatra’s Bath is a natural spring located near Siwa Oasis. People believe that the legendary Egyptian queen herself frequently visited. The spring’s warm, mineral-rich waters are said to have therapeutic properties and are popular with locals. As part of a full-day desert excursion, this is a popular site to visit. Furthermore, there is a charming little store and a beautiful restaurant with a rooftop cafe where you’d sit on the ground.
Fatnas Island
Fatnas Island or Fantasy Island, is a picturesque island located in the middle of Lake Siwa, just a short distance from the town center. The island is a relaxing place to go for sunset and to take a paddleboat out on the lake. Order a traditional mint tea and pick one of the cosy seating arrangements made with palm trees and carpets.
Siwa Salt Pools
Visiting the Siwa salt pools has to be top of your 10 Days in Egypt Itinerary. For its unique location, these salt pools make for some incredible photos and let you experience being buoyant at the same time. Located about 20 minutes outside of Siwa, you’d need to take a local tuk-tuk taxi to bring you.
Since these salt pools are part of an ongoing salt extraction process, a place that locals have been visiting for many years. Make sure the guide has a bucket of water with him, as you need to rinse your hair as soon as you leave the pools to avoid damaging it.
Siwa Market
Siwa Market is a place you can hardly miss. Right in the middle of the old mud-brick town, this bustling hub is perfect for buying anything fresh produce and spices to handmade crafts and souvenirs. Get lost in the narrow alleyways of the market, haggle with vendors, and sample local delicacies such as dates, olives, and honey.
Desert Safari
One of the best excursions you can go on in Siwa is to embark on a 4×4 desert safari. As part of a half-day desert trip, you’ll venture off into the actual Sahara Desert.
Part of this included the exhilarating Sand Dune Driving. This is where you need to hold on tight as your Jeep climbs steep sand dunes up and down, making it quite a rollercoaster-like ride.
The desert excursion also includes a stop at a nearby desert camp where you can relax with some homemade mint tea and snack on local dates.
Loved exploring Siwa? If you’re craving more desert and seaside adventures, check out my guide to Dahab next – it’s another hidden gem along the Red Sea.
Egypt is unforgettable, from the timeless pyramids of Cairo to the Nile’s serene beauty and the desert magic of Siwa. Whether you’re looking for adventure, history, or a luxurious retreat, this itinerary gives you the essentials and optional add-ons to make your trip seamless.
Book your flights, hotels, and tours in advance to secure your spots—these experiences fill up fast! Check my recommended hotels, day tours, and optional Siwa extension to start planning your ultimate 2026 Egyptian adventure
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