If you are planning your vacation to Egypt and don’t know where to start, read this article until the end, and you will leave with your Egypt Itinerary ready to explore the pharaonic lands – from the grand temples and pyramids to the Red Sea and deserts. This guide will find the best tips for putting together a 5, 7, 8, 10, or 12 days itinerary for Egypt.
Check out the discovered Tutankhamun’s tomb in the Valley of the Kings, visit temples by the Nile River, be amazed by incredible pieces of Ancient Egypt at the Cairo Museum, and get to know this rich civilization from 5,000 up close.
Egypt has many things to offer than just the pyramids. There are the natural wonders of this exotic country, the rich and colorful marine life of the Red Sea, the fascinating desert, and the mighty Nile River are just a few more attractions that you cannot miss out on in your Egypt vacation itinerary.
This article will show you examples of itineraries that take you to the most exciting places and let you do the most fun things. We will tell you what to see and do on your trip to Egypt so you can get the most out of it and remember it best.
Here’re the topics we will cover:
- Why should you travel to Egypt?
- Brief about Egypt help you create an itinerary for Egypt
- Places to visit during your Egypt Itinerary?
- Best itinerary options in Egypt
- How much does a trip to Egypt itinerary cost?
- Why is it safe to book your Egypt vacation with a travel agency?
- What to take on your trip to Egypt tour itinerary?
Why should you travel to Egypt?
Egypt is a dream country. It has constantly stirred the imagination of travelers as it is such an ancient civilization with many imposing buildings to prove its power. How were the pyramids built? How were mummies prepared? What was the life of the pharaohs like? Will you say that you never asked one of these questions yourself?
Planning travel arrangements for Egypt is a joyful experience in and of itself, let alone how fantastic it is to be in the country. From the marvelous mosques of Cairo to the beaches of the Sinai peninsula to the revelation of waking up onboard a traditional Felucca boat on the Nile river.
Get up to 10%Off when booking one of our Egypt Vacation Packages. Check them now!
Brief about Egypt help you create an itinerary for Egypt
Ancient Egyptian civilization grew and was established for almost 3,000 years on the banks of the River Nile – between 3,200 BC and 32 BC. The society of the time was divided into castes, and rural workers provided various types of services in public works for Pharaoh, among them: the construction of pyramids and temples, dykes, irrigation channels, etc.).
The writing was a fundamental part of this society, which through papyrus transmitted knowledge, shared ideas, and helped in communication and tax control. Also, pyramids, temples, and tombs have various texts on their walls about the lives of the pharaohs and prayers to the Egyptian gods.
Places to visit during your Egypt Itinerary?
When setting up your Egypt travel itinerary, divide your trip into three main areas: Cairo, Alexandria, Nile Valley (Luxor / Aswan), and the Red Sea. Planning your days and trips between cities will be much easier. But of course, Egypt does not come down to that. You can also include other areas according to your interests: the Suez Canal, Mount Sinai, the Mediterranean Coast, the Sahara Desert, the White Desert, and the Black Desert.
1- Cairo
Now that you’re in the capital of Egypt, “City of a Thousand Minarets” in Cairo, it is essential to start the visit to the Egyptian Museum of Cairo, one of the most important in the world. This place houses the most extensive collection of objects from Ancient Egypt (more than 150,000!). It is located 1 minute from the famous El – Tahrir Square, but next year it is scheduled to be moved to a new museum built next to the pyramids, “The grand Egyptian museum.”
Other essential visits in Cairo are, without a doubt, the Citadel of Saladin, the Mosque of Mohamed Ali, known as the Alabaster Mosque, or the khan el Khalili market.
Don’t miss reading some of our articles about Cairo attractions:
- Coptic Quarter: The Christian quarter of Cairo; in it, you can find the Church of Santa Barbara or the Hanging Church!
- Khan el-Khalili bazaar: A large market at the mosque’s entrance with many alleys full of souks.
- National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
- The Citadel of Saladin and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali
- Bayt Al Suhaymi in Cairo
- Hanging Church in Cairo
- Cairo Tower
2- Giza
When we talk about pyramids, “the Pyramid of Cheops, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure.” we know that seeing them will be one of the essential parts of your Egypt itinerary. However, did you know that the three iconic Pyramids of Giza are not the only pyramids in the area? Several other pyramids may be found in Saqqara, not far south of Giza. These pyramids include Djoser’s “step” pyramid and the “red” pyramid in Dahshur.
To enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the pyramids, check out our Camel Ride in the Pyramids of Giza, and if you want to enjoy exploring all the pyramids inside that area, check out our Memphis, Saqqara, and Pyramids of Giza Tour.
3- Alexandria
Alexandria City, founded by Alexander the Great a little over 2000 years ago, hides one of the country’s most glorious pasts. Yes, this may sound strange, as Egypt is usually thought of as a history of pharaohs, pyramids, catacombs, and deserts, but the truth is that it is this and much more.
Alexandria is the second largest city in Egypt and is an important economic center. With the lighthouse, which is one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, it is one of the most historic cities; in which there are also many Greco-Roman monuments like:-
- Qaitbay Citadel:-The 15th-century fortress was founded in 1477 by a sultan named Al-Ashraf Sayf El-Din Qaitbay. The citadel is located on the Mediterranean coast on the eastern side of the northern tip of the island of Pharos.
- Royal Jewelry Museum:- This museum of art and history of Zizenia is located in the former palace of Princess Fatma ElZahraa. The museum is filled with a collection of jewelry in the building halls and 19th-century paintings, statues, decorative arts, and much more. The jewelry and artwork belonged to the dynasty of Muhammad Ali and his descendants.
- Alexandrina library:-The Library of Alexandria is also an important cultural center on the shores of the Mediterranean. The library is believed to hold between 200 and 700,000 books but has enough shelf space for eight million books, with the main reading room of 220,000 square feet.
- Montaza Palace Gardens:- Montaza Palace consists of a palace, a museum, and extensive gardens. Salamlek Palace was the first to build Montaza Palace and was built in 1892 by Khedive Abbas II,
- Pompey Column:- Visit the 25-meter high granite column, one of Alexandria’s most famous ancient monuments. The Pompey Column was completed in 292 AD and dedicated to Emperor Diocletian.
- Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue:- Eliyahu Hanavi, one of two remaining synagogues in Alexandria, once there were twelve, is located on Nabi Daniel Street in Alexandria.
- Ancient Roman Amphitheater:- The archaeological site of Kom El Dekka houses an old Roman theater, baths, and a villa with mosaics. The arena represents a double theater and is a semicircular structure. Although the system is now considered a ruin, it was initially an open-air theater with galleries containing spaces for more spectators and arrangements of 700-800 marble seats.
- Underwater excursions:-Last but not least is an activity that is most famous in Alexandria; Underwater excursions. Alexandria is known for its many fun underwater adventures, many of which can include museums that are safely located beneath the coastal waters. For example, Cleopatra’s Palace is one of Alexandria’s submerged monuments, once part of the ancient city of Alexandria.
Read more about Tourist Attractions in Alexandria!
4- Luxor & Aswan
Luxor city is an exciting place. It is the world’s largest open-air museum, showing how Egypt has changed over time. Luxor is a must-see city in Egypt. The Nile flows through the middle of the city. What are the best things to do in Luxor? Luxor is known for the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and the Memorial Temple of Hatshepsut. Luxor was once the ancient, wealthy city of Thebes and the power center of the Pharaohs. The tombs of Ramses I, VI, VII, and IX, Thutmose, and Amenhotep are some of the best. The tomb of King Tutankhamun is also open to visitors. The East Bank has more hotels, shops, and markets. On the other hand, the West Bank is full of tombs and temples.
Aswan is one of southern Egypt’s most significant cities; it has the most famous attractions. And it is the starting or ending point for all Nile cruises. The city is picturesque and has the most beautiful views of the River Nile, which is squeezed between rocks and islands. Points of interest in Aswan: Tombs of Nobles Aswan&Unfinished Obelisk&Qasr Ibrim&Temple of Amada&Temple of Beit El-Wali&Elephantine Island&Temple of Philae and Abu Simbel Temple.
According to statistics from organizations that deal with tourism and archaeological monuments, Luxor city is one of the most important and well-known tourist destinations in Egypt and around the world. The city of Luxor is on the east bank of the Nile, a very famous city in tourism and ancient Egyptian history. It shows the glory of our ancient Egyptian pharaohs and their history, which shows how great Egypt was.
Don’t miss to check out our Nile River Cruises in Egypt & guide to Cruising the River Nile and Luxor Aswan Nile Cruise – Best Nile Cruise Luxor Aswan
5- Siwa oasis
Away from the tourist hustle and bustle of the Nile Valley, Siwa Oasis is a great option to relax and discover rural Egypt. Date plantations, hot and cold springs in the middle of the desert, and an unforgettable sunset are just some of the things you will find there. Points of interest in Siwa: ruins of Qasr ad-Dush and Qasr al-Ghueita, the White Desert, Cleopatra’s Bath, and a camel safari.
Egypt has many beautiful oases that you can spend a happy time in, such as:-
On Egypt Time Travel, We will allow you to experience all desert activities offered through our site. We offer a wide range of safari tours in Egypt to suit any taste. Choose your safari tours based on your interests, budget, needs, and time.
6- The Red Sea
Caves, shipwrecks, blue holes, and an incredible diversity of marine life make the Red Sea the perfect place to dive. Divers from all over the world go there to explore the corals and reefs’ invisibility of no less than 25m. Points of interest in the Red Sea: dive, snorkel, or enjoy the turquoise sea on a boat trip.
In those two articles, Red Sea & Red Sea & Sinai Attractions, you will find more information about the red sea and some places in Sinai
7- Hurghada
Hurghada Located on the coast of the Red Sea, Hurghada is one of Egypt’s main tourist attractions, with plenty of opportunities for water sports such as diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, and kite surfing. Stretching about 36 km (22 miles) along the seashore, the fishing village is filled with resorts, bars, nightclubs, coffee shops, and souks. Encompassed by the magical islands of Sheduan Island, Dishes El-Dhaba, Abu Minqar Island, and Gifton Island, Hurghada is a convenient destination for diving holidays and visiting the sites of Nile Valley.
Make the most of the city’s dramatic landscapes, temperate climate, calm waters, and stunning stretch of beaches along the Red Sea with this great list of things to do in Hurghada, Egypt. Read on to learn more.
Read more about all Hurghada Excursions
8- Dahab
Once upon a time, Dahab was a picturesque fishing community. In modern times, Dahab has evolved into a laid-back beach town that is incredibly well-liked by travelers on a budget searching for a beautiful setting to spend some time and participate in various exciting water activities simultaneously. It would help if you went scuba diving at least once during your time in Dahab.
Aside from that, though, the city also offers a variety of other activities that can spark one’s imagination and serve as an inspiration for creative endeavors. Not only is Dahab a stunning location, but it also has a reputation for being one of the friendliest cities in the world. It is a beautiful location for solo tourists and groups of friends and families. We have compiled a list of things to do in Dahab, Egypt, for your convenience to find out what activities are available quickly. Continue reading to find out more.
9- Marsa Alam
Marsa Alam is the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore virgin coral reefs. It is the trendy diving destination in Egypt and has some beautiful places: Elphinstone Reef, where you can see some rare species, such as the hammerhead and oceanic white shark, and the Dolphin House (home of the dolphins).
10- Taba
It is one of Egypt’s most popular tourist destinations for visitors to the Red Sea. It is, in fact, a favorite seaside resort for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.
Located a few hours from Sharm El Sheik and Dahab, the small town of Taba overlooks the northern extremity of the Gulf of Aqaba and is connected to the Jordanian city by ferries that leave from the port; Taba has breathtaking sea beds. Immersed, you can admire tuna, stingrays, dolphins, turtles, and different varieties of sharks.
11- Sharm El Sheik
Sharm El Sheik is a resort on the Sinai Peninsula, which attracts not only its beautiful beaches. For divers and snorkelers, Sharm el Sheikh is a true paradise, and also, in the desert, exciting excursions await you to make your vacation here a unique event.
Sharm el Sheikh is located at about the same altitude as Hurghada, only on the other side of the Suez Canal on the Sinai Peninsula. The underwater world is fascinating, and there are numerous famous diving spots. And even if you don’t want to be active under, but on the water, there are many possibilities. Kitesurfing, windsurfing, or jet skiing – there are ideal conditions for all these sports in the bays of Sharm el Sheikh.
You are riding through the desert on a camel, drinking tea in a Bedouin tent, admiring the stars over the desert. From Sharm el Sheikh you can do all these excursions and explore the Sinai Peninsula. And if you need a change from the sea and sand, you’ll find plenty of shopping opportunities in town. During a walk through the Old Market, you will see a lot and indeed find great souvenirs and memorabilia.
To enjoy all these activities, check out Sharm El Sheikh Excursions.
Best itinerary options in Egypt
What to do in Egypt? There are so many temples and historical and coastal cities. Not to mention the desert! Therefore, it is difficult to define what will fit the number of days you have available for the trip and what will have to be left out.
So that you can plan in the best possible way, we will list some itinerary ideas that can be easily adapted depending on your travel style.
5 days itinerary Egypt
What to do in Egypt in 5 days? With only five days of travel, we suggest you visit only Cairo and Luxor; that way, you can see the most famous Egyptian monuments and temples, such as the pyramids and the Karnak temple complex.
7 days itinerary in Egypt
What to do in Egypt in 7 days? On a weeklong Egypt tour, you can take the Nile Cruise between the cities of Luxor and Aswan. That way, you will dive deeply into Ancient Egypt. If you’re a diver, I don’t even need to tell you to opt for the Red Sea, right?
8 days itinerary in Egypt
Enjoy every moment this Amazing country has to offer and know the taste & feel of a real vacation on your 8 days trips to Egypt. So we leave you some of the most recommended 8-day trips to Egypt. Book your dream holiday that you have been dreaming about for a lifetime.
- 8 Days Cairo, Alexandria & Fayoum – Classic Tours to Egypt
- 8 Days Cairo & Nile Cruise Tour Package by Train
- 8 Days Alexandria, Cairo & Luxor
- 8 Days Cairo & Nile Cruise Tour Package by Flight
- 8 Days Travel Package Deal to Cairo, Luxor & Hurghada
- 8 Days Cairo, Alexandria & Nile – Classic Egypt Tours
10 days Egypt trip itinerary
What to do in Egypt in 10 days? With ten days of travel, you will have the opportunity to see the Red Sea and the Nile Valley. This, of course, after visiting the famous Egyptian pyramids and chaotic Cairo. If you prefer a desert adventure, replace the Red Sea with Siwa.12-day Egypt travel itinerary
- 10 Days Cairo, Nile Cruise & Hurghada- Top Holiday to Egypt
- 10 Days Cairo, Alex, Luxor, Aswan & Sharm
- 10 Days Cairo, Alexandria & Cruise by Flight
- 10 Days Archaeology Tour to Cairo & Upper Egypt – Classic Holiday
- 10 Days Archaeology Tour to Cairo & Upper Egypt
Don’t miss to check out more Cairo Attractions & Egypt Tours with Nile Cruise for many things to see & do.
How much does a trip to Egypt itinerary cost?
Regarding travel planning, one of the most frequently asked questions is: How much does it cost to travel to a particular country? Here we give you an idea of the average cost of the trip.
An economic trip to Egypt
- Visa: U $ 25
- Hotel: U $ 40 to U $ 70 per day for two people
- Air transportation: U $ 60 to U $ 100 each way from Cairo to any other city in the country
- Road transportation: U $ 5 to U $ 15 each way from Cairo to any other city in the country
- Food: U $ 25 to U $ 40 for a good lunch or dinner for two
- Tours: U $ 50 a 1/2 day tour for two people to the pyramids / U $ 110 per person for a 1-day all-inclusive diving package / U $ 400 per person for the Nile River cruise with entire board / U $ 10 a 1-hour tour aboard a felucca along the Nile River / U $ 100 per person a round trip from Aswan to Abu Simbel
- Souvenirs: between U $ 300 and U $ 500 to bring exceptional items to the house and the whole family.
A luxury trip to Egypt
- visa : $ 25
- Hotel: $ 100 to $ 200 per day for two
- Air transport: $ 60 to $ 100 each Cairo stretch to any other city in the country
- Power: U $ 35 to U $ 50 for a good lunch or dinner for two people
- Tours: U $ 50 a time for two people to the pyramids / U $ 110 per person for a 1-day all-inclusive diving package / U $ 800 to U $ 1000 per person a cruising luxury on the River Nile with entire board / U $ 50 per person a ride on a felucca with lunch on the Nile River
- Souvenirs: between U $ 500 and U $ 800, bring exceptional items to the house and the whole family.
Don’t miss to check our related Luxury Egypt Tours for more tour packages.
Backpacking Egypt
- Visa: $25
- Hotel: $12 to U $ 25 per day for two
- Meals: $35 to U $ 50 for a good lunch or dinner for two
- Tours: $50 for one 2-person time to the pyramids / U $ 20 a day trip to snorkel in Hurghada $10 a 1-hour ride on a felucca along the Nile River
- Road transport: $5 to U $ 15 each way from Cairo to any city in the country
- Souvenirs: between $100 and $200 to bring excellent items to the home and the whole family
For more information about Egypt’s itinerary costs, don’t miss to read our article about How much does a trip to Egypt fees?
After this information and knowing the average cost of the trip to Egypt, you can book one of our pre-customized Egypt vacation packages to visit the most significant temples & pyramids of ancient Egypt.
Get up to 10%Off when booking one of our Egypt Vacation Packages. Check them now!
What to take on your trip to Egypt tour itinerary?
- Swimsuit (I prefer shorts for the beach and a speedo for swimming pools and hotels and swimsuits for women).
- Pair socks because it is usually a rule to take off shoes in mosques.
- Long trousers for mainly cool evenings or rooftops and restaurants with dress codes.
- Tank tops in cotton and technical fabric will keep you cool and light.
- T-shirt in cotton and technical fabric.
- Technical fabric clothing to balance body temperature and always have dry clothes.
- Long-sleeved shirt for cool evenings or desert excursions.
- Lightweight travel scarf. The scarf is one of the most valuable and comfortable garments; it will serve you just in case.
- Hat for rush hour to protect you from the sun.
- Lightweight raincoat if you travel to Egypt in winter.
- Trekking or hiking shoes for desert excursions and long walks on wet ground and slippery stones.
- Rock shoes if you go to the Red Sea and cities like Sharm El Sheik.
- Flip-flops or rubber open shoes are the footwear you will use most.
- Closed and light shoes, especially for evening walks.
- For the winter, bring a jacket, a sweatshirt, and thermal t-shirts if you plan to go on a hike in the desert.
- Padlocks, in case you opt for hostels.
- Packed light sheets always if you sleep in hostels or tents.
- Plastic bags with zipping, you will need to put documents and money inside during the beach days.
- Inflatable pillow and mask, for travel by plane or in trains and minivans (if you can’t stand the noise, pack earplugs too).
- Passport holders with pockets keep documents, money, and credit cards together at all times.
- Headphones to listen to music and isolate yourself when you need it.
- Underwater camera for diving and snorkeling in the Red Sea
- Cables and Power bank adapters.
- Water bottle to always have fresh water.
- A complete first aid kit to treat everyday ailments.
- A credit card to be able to withdraw money and pay.
- An Arabic dictionary to communicate.
Check the full article about what to pack for Egypt.
Why is it safe to book your vacation with a travel agency !!
Our company offers all types of security to tourists, such as providing a professional tour guide who knows the areas by heart and can guide tourists to different places without fear of any danger. Egypt Time Travel is also responsible for introducing a qualified representative who helps, assists, and finalizes everything for you at the airport. So, if you want to have fun, enjoy, meditate, and be safe in Egypt, choose a professional travel agency in Egypt.
In short, you can travel safely to Egypt. Please take the opportunity to book one of our Cairo packages with the Egypt Nile River Cruise to visit the most famous tourist attractions in upper Egypt between Luxor and Aswan at special prices and with expert guides!
We hope this article for the Egypt itinerary has helped you figure out how to plan your trip. If you want your trip to Egypt to go well, don’t miss these essential guides that will help you plan from start to finish:
- Is it safe to travel to Egypt? Safety & Security in Egypt
- Best Time to Travel to Egypt – Your Guide For 2022
- Tipping in Egypt: How to deal with it
- Weather & Climate of Egypt | Temperature in Egypt
- Top 35 Traditional Egyptian Food To Try
- Entry into Egypt – All Documents you need
- Can I apply for an Egypt visa online?
Good trip!
