7 Day Egypt Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide To Ancient Wonders

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 splendid pyramids of Giza to the colorful chaos of Cairo’s streets, get ready for an unforgettable journey through Egypt’s timeless treasures.

Whether you’re a history lover, an adventure seeker, or simply craving some sun-soaked escapades, Egypt has it all! While I’ll mainly focus on a 7 day itinerary to Egypt, I’ll also share a 10 days Egypt itinerary for you who want to extend your trip!

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.

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.

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. This had to be my first stop on this Egypt 7 day itinerary and will make an absolute highlight!

You cannot help but marvel at the sheer magnitude of these ancient structures and ponder the mysteries that still surround them.

These majestic structures, built over 4,500 years ago, include the Great Pyramid of Khufu (Cheops), the Pyramid of Khafre (Chephren), and the Pyramid of Menkaure (Mycerinus), along with the enigmatic Sphinx.

I recommend visiting as early in the day as possible, literally by the time they open. Leave the pyramids for later and head to the Sphinx first for the best photo opportunities!

How to get to the Pyramids of Giza

The easiest way to get to the Pyramids of Giza from Cairo is by taxi or ride-sharing services like Uber or Careem. It’s about a 30-minute drive, depending on traffic.

Entrance Fee

Entry to the Pyramids complex costs around 560 Egyptian pounds ($10 US) for foreigners and is typically open from 8 AM to 4 PM

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 (240 feet) long and stands 20 meters (66 feet) tall.

Once you enter the grounds, make your way straight towards the Sphinx and you’ll have the site to yourself! From there, wander through the nearby Valley Temple of Khafre. It is believed to have been used for various rituals associated with the burial of Pharaoh Khafre.

This stunning temple is made of massive blocks of limestone and is known for its well-preserved granite columns and alabaster flooring.

If you’re up for a tour to explore the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, check out this half-day tour without waiting in line!

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.

I’d recommend coming here after you visit the Pyramids of Giza.

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.

Book this 2-hour guided tour to learn all about The Egyptian Museum’s secrets and hidden gems!

Accommodation in Cairo

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Cairo, there are a few areas that stand out. 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.

Houseboat65 – if you’re looking for something truly unique, consider staying in a houseboat along the Nile. Houseboat65 is one such option, providing a cozy and intimate setting with all the comforts of home. 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.

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.

How To Get From Cairo to Aswan

Flight: The fastest option is to take a domestic flight from Cairo International Airport to Aswan International Airport. Several airlines operate daily flights between the two cities, and the flight duration is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Train: You can take an overnight train from Cairo to Aswan. The journey takes about 10 to 12 hours, and there are both sleeper and seated options available. The train departs from Cairo’s Ramses Station and arrives at Aswan Station.

Bus: The journey by bus takes longer than the train or flight, typically around 12 to 14 hours, depending on the route and stops.

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. You can plan it as a half-day trip, where you’ll take a boat in the morning. The boat ride in the morning is just magical! Once you arrive, take a stroll through the village and visit traditional Nubian homes to learn about their way of life.

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 had! Afterwards, head out to explore the colorful streets, shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs at the local market.

How to get to the Nubian Village in Aswan

You can hire a local boat and go independently whenever you decide. The boat and captain will take you there and wait for you to return, so it’s a great half-day trip. If you prefer a more guided tour, I recommend this shared half-day tour to explore the Nubian Village as a group!

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.

Unfinished Obelisk

Another must-see in Aswan is the Unfinished Obelisk, an ancient monument that offers insight into the process of ancient Egyptian stone carving. It’s hard to fathom the sheer size of this colossal structure. If you have enough time, definitely learn about the fascinating history behind its creation.

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.

I recommend this area to stay in when you visit Aswan as it’s way less busy.

Best Hotels in Aswan

The Mango Guest House on Elephantine Island in Aswan is an affordable, cozy guesthouse with comfortable rooms ideal location. The hosts make you feel super welcome, and the breakfast was one of the best I had in all of Egypt. I can only recommend this place and that you book in advance, it’s usually fully occupied!

For a taste of authentic Nubian culture, check out the Aswan Nubian House in the Nubian Village. This is a wonderful authentic place, where you can enjoy traditional cuisine and immerse yourself in the local community.

Abu Simbel

1 Day

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.

You can reach Abu Simbel from Aswan, with a guided tour or arrange a private trip with your personal driver and transportation. Since our car had a terrible accident due to reckless driving, I can only urge you to take a private car where you have more control over the driver. Only go with official operators, don’t contact your guesthouse for it and don’t go with any company that you aren’t familiar with. Sadly, many tourists die on the road from Aswan to Abu Simbel every year.

Alternatively, you can opt for a scenic flight from Aswan to Abu Simbel, to be on the safe side and enjoy stunning aerial views of the Nile and surrounding desert landscapes.

What many don’t know is that the temples were relocated in the 1960s to save them from submersion following the construction of the Aswan High Dam. This monumental relocation effort, led by UNESCO, luckily preserved these ancient treasures for future generations

Entry Abu Simbel

The general entry ticket to Abu Simbel costs about 260EGP ($8,50 US) or 300 EGP ($10 US) for a photography ticket – which I highly recommend.

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, Luxor held the prestigious title of the capital of the New Kingdom. It served as the epicenter of political, religious, and cultural affairs in ancient Egypt.

What sets Luxor apart is its unparalleled abundance of archaeological sites and monuments. Here, history comes to life through impeccably preserved temples, tombs, and ruins, drawing in history aficionados and enthusiasts of ancient civilizations from around the globe.

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. There are both daytime and overnight trains available.

Bus: Another option is to take a bus which operates regularly between Aswan and Luxor, taking around 4 to 5 hours.

For a more scenic and leisurely journey, you can consider taking a Nile River cruise from Aswan to Luxor. These cruises usually take several days and include stops at various attractions along the way, such as Kom Ombo and Edfu temples.

If you prefer more flexibility and privacy, you can hire a private car or taxi for the journey.

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. This sprawling complex features a series of temples, chapels, pylons, and obelisks.

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. Furthermore, they depict scenes from Egyptian mythology, religious rituals, and the reigns of various pharaohs.

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 during the New Kingdom period.

Before you leave, you also need to visit The Avenue of the Sphinxes. It’s an ancient ceremonial pathway that connects the temples of Luxor and Karnak. Lined with majestic sphinx statues, this sacred avenue served religious processions. Today, you can stroll along the 2 km-long alley, imagining the grandeur of the past. Combining this walk with a visit to the Temple of Luxor is a great thing to do in the afternoon!

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. Exploring these ancient burial grounds is a fantastic experience where you can admire the intricate artwork and hieroglyphics adorning the walls of the 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.

Other beautiful tombs in the Valley of the Kings include those of Ramses III, Ramses IV, and Seti I. Your ticket will allow you to visit 3 tombs out of the available ones to choose from.

If you want to dive deeper into the history of both the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens, check out this combined guided tour . You can also explore the Valley of the Kings independently by hiring a driver for half a day. Your hotel surely knows someone and you can haggle for the price.

Ramesseum

The Ramesseum is a great next stop after you’ve been to the tombs. The temple was built during the 19th Dynasty by Pharaoh Ramesses II, also known as Ramesses the Great as a mortuary temple dedicated to the god Amun. The walls of the Ramesseum are decorated with beautiful, intricate reliefs and inscriptions that glorify the reign of the pharao. These reliefs depict scenes from his military campaigns, victories in battle, offerings to the gods, and divine ceremonies. It’s one of the lesser-known sites and perfect for taking photos of the columns.

The entry is 180 EGP ($3,60 US) for foreigners which you can pre-book here or buy at the site itself.

Medinet Habu

Medinet Habu is another impressive ancient Egyptian temple complex located on the west bank of the Nile River in Luxor It served as a mortuary temple for Pharaoh Ramesses III, where rituals and offerings were performed to honor the deceased king. Like the Ramesseum, Medinet Habu was buried under sand and debris for centuries until it was excavated and partially restored in the 19th century.

I found it to be more popular with tourist groups than the Ramesseum yet still fascinating. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit place on your Luxur and 7 day Egypt itinerary!

If you want to learn more about Medinet Habu and the Valley of the Queens, you can book this private guided tour.

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 from the West Bank of the Nile River, near the Valley of the Kings. From there, you’ll soar over Luxor’s iconic landmarks, including the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon. If you’ve never done it, why not book a Hot Air Balloon tour and finally check it off your list?

Best Hotels in Luxor

The Mesala Hotel is a charming affordable hotel in Luxor, offering stunning views of the Nile River. With its cozy rooms and friendly staff, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the city’s ancient wonders. I loved them for their spacious rooftop terrace, free room upgrade and ideal location.

The New Memnon Hotel is another gem in Luxor, recently renovated with modern amenities. Situated near the Valley of the Kings, it offers convenient access to Luxor’s archaeological treasures.

Hurghada

1 Day

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.

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.

Best Hotels in Hurghada

Pickalbatros Aqua Blu Hurghada is a fabulous upscale resort in Hurghada, offering luxury, entertainment, and relaxation by the beach. With spacious rooms, an exciting water park, and various dining options, it’s perfect for families and couples.

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.

Alternative: 10 Days Egypt Itinerary with Siwa Oasis Town

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. Since it’s a bit out of the typical circle it’s ideal for longer strays and a fantastic option to extend this 7-day Egypt itinerary. 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.

Siwa Oasis

1 Day

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 time 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 Egypt Itinerary. For its unique location, these salt pools make 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 TukTuk taxi to bring you.

Since these salt pools are part of an ongoing salt extraction process, a place that locals 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.

Day 2

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. stops at scenic viewpoints where you can witness breathtaking sunsets or sunrises over the desert horizon.

As the last stop, you’ll be visiting a few smaller dunes that make it perfect to try sandboarding. It’s one of these fun activities that you can do seated or standing depending on your skills. Since it will be time for sunset, soak in this mesmerizing landscape and the sound of the desert.

Hotels in Siwa Oasis

Albabenshal Lodge Siwa is a charming and affordable accommodation located near the ancient ruins of the Shali fortress, a 13th-century citadel in the heart of Siwa. This is one of the most unique hotels in Siwa Oasis, offering an authentic and traditional experience. Its beautifully furnished and decorated with colorful Bedouin carpets and part of the fortress wall! The location is just perfect and from the rooftop terrace, you’ll have a wonderful view of the city.

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.

These are the top things I recommend you to see and do when in Siwa Oasis. Since it’s such a special place, it’s so worth extending your Egypt 7 day itinerary to see it!

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