The Ultimate Egypt Itinerary: Best Places to Visit in Egypt

Travelling to Egypt is a dream for anyone eager to explore diverse cultures and ancient wonders. Egypt possesses a unique charm, preserving fragments of its ancient civilization amidst its vibrant modern culture. In this guide, I’ll help you discover the best places to visit in Egypt, from the timeless burial sites in the Valley of the Kings to the breathtaking marine life of the Red Sea.

A well-planned itinerary ensures you make the most of your trip. This guide is based on my own journey to Egypt in late 2023, so you can trust it will help you have an unforgettable experience. Feel free to adapt it to your preferences, whether you seek a relaxed holiday or an adventurous Indiana Jones-style expedition.

Day 1: Fly into Cairo

For finding flights to Egypt, I recommend using Skyscanner. Once you arrive at Cairo Airport, the process is usually seamless. I highly recommend purchasing your visa upon arrival (more on this later).

The primary goal for your stay in Cairo is to visit the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. However, if you have extra time, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo is also worth a visit.

For accommodation, I suggest staying near the Pyramids of Giza. Waking up with a view of these ancient structures is an incredible way to start your trip. I stayed at the ‘Horus Guest House Pyramids View,’ which provided complimentary breakfast and helped arrange transportation from the airport.

Throughout your time in Egypt, you’ll find that Egyptians are incredibly hospitable. They go out of their way to ensure you have a pleasant stay, from organizing tours to remembering your favourite coffee in the morning.

Feel free to deviate from this guide if you prefer. For now, get some rest and prepare for the exciting day ahead.

Day 2: Visiting the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx

Wake up and enjoy your breakfast overlooking one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Having a tour pre-organised will make your day much easier. A Google search and TripAdvisor can help you find tours for as little as £20 per person, but your hotel may also offer good deals.

A private tour will provide you with access to the Pyramids and extensive knowledge of Egyptian history. These tours are typically well-organised and the personal attention offers great value for money.

You can pay extra to go inside one of the Pyramids, which I highly recommend. Navigating the tight corridor to the centre of the Pyramid is a truly fascinating experience.

Depending on the tour you choose, you may have the opportunity to ride a camel near the Pyramids. Check reviews online to see if it’s worth the money. I didn’t partake in this during my visit.

The Sphinx is only a short drive away from the Pyramids. Once you navigate the market stalls, you’ll encounter one of the most famous structures on the planet. The Sphinx is 4500 years old, so try not to judge it for its slightly deteriorated state 😉!

After spending a good portion of the day visiting these structures, some tours will take you to various perfume shops or paper-making stores to give you more insight into Egyptian culture. Remember, you don’t need to purchase anything. Egyptians are expert salespeople, so it’s good to know when to say no.

In the evening, explore the restaurants around Giza to get your first taste of Egyptian cuisine. Instead of using Google, ask locals (especially your tour guide) for recommendations based on what you’re looking for.

For Brits, you can get a meal for as little as £5, thanks to the current exchange rate. Americans and other Europeans will benefit from this too.

Get some rest tonight, as tomorrow will be a longer day!

Day 3: Travel to Aswan

Aswan serves as a crucial stop in this itinerary, and getting there is relatively straightforward. I took an internal flight with Nile Air, which was quick and efficient, costing around £40 – £60. Alternatively, you can travel by bus or train.

Overnight sleeper trains are a popular option in Egypt. Instead of staying an extra night in Giza, you could opt for a 12-hour overnight train to Aswan, which is slightly more expensive. This eco-friendly option comes with a caveat—sleeping can be challenging due to various noises along the way. Look into services by companies like Egyptian National Railways for reliable options.

Overnight coaches are another reasonable choice, taking a similar time as trains and typically being the cheapest of the three. Prices can be as low as £18, and a quick Google search will provide numerous options. Go Bus is a well-known company offering comfortable rides.

Aswan itself is a beautiful city located on the banks of the Nile, known for its serene atmosphere and historical significance. It’s a gateway to some of Egypt’s most impressive sites, including the Philae Temple and the Aswan High Dam.

I recommend staying one night in Aswan if you’re up for a packed schedule. I highly endorse a host named Mustafa, who runs the ‘City Center Guest House and Hostel‘. Mustafa played a key role in organising a significant part of my trip.

Upon arriving in Aswan, we met Mustafa, who outlined the plans for the next day, ensured we were settled, and let us rest ahead of an early start. There are many restaurants along the River Nile for an evening meal, and it’s hard to go wrong with your choices.

If you have the energy, consider taking a short evening stroll along the Nile or visiting a local market to soak in the atmosphere. This can be a relaxing way to end your day and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Day 4: Abu Simbel Temples, Nile Cruise & Kom Ombo Temples

4 am. If you choose to stay with Mustafa and he organises your trip similarly to mine, this is the time you’ll be getting up to start the day.

Please note that this isn’t a mandatory part of a great Egyptian trip; we simply wanted to make the most of our time there.

Shortly after 4 am, you’ll be picked up by a minibus for a 3-hour ride to the very south of the country to visit the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel Temples. These temples are in exceptional condition, showcasing some of the most refined aspects of ancient Egyptian history, making them one of the best places to visit in Egypt.

After the 3-hour drive back to Aswan, it’s time to embark on a Nile Cruise for the next couple of nights.

Thanks to Mustafa’s hospitality, I didn’t need to book via a website, but there are many options available on Google should you need to book one yourself. There are comprehensive lists of the best cruises from Aswan to Luxor online.

The Nile cruise will depart sometime after lunchtime, allowing you to relax for a few hours before the evening tour. Various Nile cruises offer different packages and tours as part of the price. This is usually something you can negotiate once you’re on board.

Towards the evening, you may have the opportunity to visit the Temple of Kom Ombo. This temple is in excellent condition, allowing you to appreciate the intricate Egyptian inscriptions on the walls. Nile cruises typically provide a tour guide for this experience, and it’s well worth the visit.

Spend the evening relaxing after a long day. You’ll need the rest to prepare for the surprises that await you tomorrow.

Day 5: Temple of Horus and Chill En-Route to Luxor

Hopefully, you had a restful night’s sleep on the cruise! While opinions vary, I found sleeping on the Nile to be quite pleasant and undisturbed.

Depending on your arrangement, you might wake up early to visit the Temple of Horus. I highly recommend visiting this temple if you have the chance. The architecture is in phenomenal condition and stands as a testament to Ancient Egypt’s grand wealth and craftsmanship.

Many visitors ride horseback to and from the temple from the Nile boat but don’t feel obligated to do this if it’s not your preference. The standard of animal welfare can be poor in Egypt, so taking a short taxi ride to the temple is perfectly fine.

The rest of the day can be spent relaxing onboard the boat as it travels north. There are plenty of beautiful sights to see as your captain navigates the Nile locks, and you may have another opportunity to visit additional temples along the way.

Meals provided by these cruises tend to be buffeted featuring various cuisines. There is always something for every diet, although you won’t find pig-based meat due to local Islamic customs. However, you’ll likely encounter beef or chicken versions of familiar items like bacon and sausages, though they may be an acquired taste.

Towards the evening, you’ll arrive at a dock near Luxor, where you’ll spend the next few nights. I stayed that night on the cruise before moving to new accommodation in Luxor the next morning.

Day 6: Luxor and the Karnak Temple

Luxor is renowned for being home to some of the oldest sites from ancient Egypt, offering a wealth of historical treasures in a compact area.

There are numerous opportunities for historical exploration in Luxor, but I’ll guide you on how to make the most of your time in this city, especially given all you’ve seen so far.

I can’t recommend staying at the ‘Al Boaairat Hotel‘ enough. The rooms are unique, the beds are wonderfully comfortable, the service is excellent, and they offer a complimentary boat service across the River Nile! Located on the west side of the Nile, this hotel is an ideal starting point for your Luxor adventures.

Spend the morning of Day 6 disembarking the Nile Cruise and heading to the hotel at a leisurely pace. The hotel boat will likely offer you a ride if you’re on the east side of the Nile, but you can also take an Uber/Kareem at a very reasonable price.

Once you’re settled, I recommend spending the afternoon at the Karnak Temple. This complex of ruins is one of the most extensive in all of Egypt, providing a fascinating glimpse into what life might have been like thousands of years ago.

While a tour guide can enhance your experience, it isn’t strictly necessary. The extensive nature of the Karnak Temples allows you to explore at your own pace, soaking in the grandeur of the structures.

After you’ve had your fill of ancient civilisation for the day, take a taxi back to the hotel boat.

Spend the evening relaxing and enjoying the view of the River Nile, which once served as a bustling trade route for this region of Africa.

Day 7: Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings, a famous canyon hosting the burial sites of numerous Pharaohs, is an unmissable part of your Egypt itinerary. After a well-deserved rest following the past few days’ adventures, take a taxi or Uber to the Valley of the Kings.

As of writing this, a ticket grants you access to three tombs on the site. These tombs are incredibly well-preserved, making the Valley of the Kings one of the best places to visit in Egypt. For an additional fee, you can also visit the tomb of the infamous Tutankhamun and see his mummy.

The sheer and possibly morbid fascination of viewing a mummy from thousands of years ago makes Tutankhamun’s tomb a must-visit. The array of tombs on offer is impressive, but this one stands out for its historical significance.

When visiting the Valley of the Kings, especially more than other areas, ensure you have plenty of water to last the day. The sun can be particularly intense here, and staying hydrated is crucial, especially during the middle of the year.

Savour this last encounter with ancient Egyptian history, as it marks the final historical highlight of this itinerary.

Day 8-10: Hurghada

Your historical adventure may be over, but that doesn’t mean the end of your trip! Make your way to Hurghada for a few relaxing days by the Red Sea.

The Go Bus is the cheapest way to get from Luxor to Hurghada. Tickets can be as low as £4 (roughly $5) for the journey. It’s a comfortable and cost-effective option for the trip.

In Hurghada, you have a plethora of options along the Red Sea. Some hotels cater to specific nationalities, so it’s worth doing a quick Google search to find the best fit for your preferences. Rest assured, Hurghada is the perfect way to end your trip.

Whether you prefer water activities or beach relaxation, Hurghada has it all. Boat trips are available all along the coast, offering snorkelling, scuba diving, paragliding, dolphin swimming, and more.

The picturesque coastal city offers waterparks and off-road adventures such as quad biking if you prefer land-based activities. Quad biking excursions often include visits to small villages in the desert, giving you a glimpse of local Egyptian life.

Ultimately, how you spend the final days of your trip is up to you. After exploring so many historical sites, you may want a full week of relaxation. Others may prefer a couple of days to wind down before heading home or elsewhere.

While Hurghada may not be rich in historical significance, it’s undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Egypt to enjoy the Red Sea.

Travel Tips.

Budgeting:

During the itinerary, I kept pricing comparisons to a minimum as your trip will vary with the type of budget you have. While this guide provides you with a solid plan on paper, please make sure you do your research before arriving in Egypt.

For every expensive tour, accommodation, or transportation option you find, you’ll likely be able to find a cheaper version with just as great value somewhere on the internet.

I recommend starting your searches on well-known websites such as Booking.com and TripAdvisor where you’ll find many reviews that can aid you in making a decision.

Lastly, the Egyptian Pound has been quite weak against Western currencies in the last few years, but the locals are well aware of this. This leads me to my next point.

Local Customs:

Locals in Egypt are very compassionate towards their tourist counterparts, but you still shouldn’t let your guard down.

Don’t feel obligated to buy things from street markets just because sellers are persistent and insist that you’ll love their products. Egyptians are by far the best cold sellers I’ve ever encountered.

Through an itinerary similar to mine, you’ll visit the best places in Egypt and likely meet people from all walks of life. Tipping is generally expected for meals and good service, but there can sometimes be an over-expectation for tips for even the smallest acts of kindness.

For the most part, you’ll meet fantastic locals who will add to the charm of your trip, but make sure to maintain your common sense throughout your interactions in Egypt.

Health and Packing Essentials:

Be sure to check with your government websites regarding vaccinations you may need prior to visiting Egypt. For British travellers, you’ll likely have everything you need, but if this is something you’re worried about, please do your research.

Egypt is notoriously warm, especially during the summer. Luxor and Aswan easily average 40°C during the hottest summer months, so prepare yourself accordingly with lighter layers and good hats!

That said, certain religious sites, should you visit them, have stricter dress codes, with women needing to cover up more than men. This doesn’t apply to any of the places mentioned in this itinerary, but if you end up on your own side missions, you may need to be aware of local customs.

It’s worth mentioning that the historical sites in Egypt can be vast (cough Karnak Temple Complex cough), so wearing suitable walking shoes and using appropriate sun cream will do you a world of good.

Please also remember that the local tap water is not drinkable.

Mobile Data and Transportation

With the world ever-growing fond of e-sims, it’s always best to check with your local providers. When visiting Egypt, I recommend bringing a small portable Wi-Fi hotspot that uses a local SIM card to provide network access to your devices.

Some of the best places to visit in Egypt are found on TripAdvisor and similar websites, so having data access when you’re out and about is always useful.

Uber is growing in Egypt, and as of writing this, Careem has closed new accounts to phone numbers international to Egypt. Using Uber will always give you a better price than random taxi drivers who see tourists as mobile banks.

An Uber driver can offer you the same distance for a fraction of what a local taxi driver would charge. If there is one thing you remember from this itinerary, it’s to use Uber during your time in Egypt!

Visas

Visas can and should be bought on entry to Egypt. Applying for a visa online can be unreliable, and my family has personally lost money due to the unclear process supplied by the Egyptian government.

Every airport will provide ample opportunity to purchase a visa upon landing at a good price.

Your own government websites will also provide good information on topics like this, for Brits this can be found here.

Conclusion

To conclude, Egypt is an amazing trip for anyone willing to throw themselves out there and give it a go. Egypt is one of, if not my favourite, tourist destinations and a place that holds a special place in my heart.

It’s completely up to you whether you follow my personal itinerary or deviate into an adventure of your own, but whatever you do, have fun!

If there’s anything you’ve read here today you’d like further information on or would like to have a chat about, please send me a message via my Contact Us page to ensure you have the best trip possible!

Safe Travels!