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Heading to Egypt and wondering how to see it all? Let’s get you started.
Egypt is one of those destinations that truly lives up to the hype—think towering pyramids, ancient temples carved with stories thousands of years old, and the timeless flow of the Nile connecting it all. With so many iconic sights spread across the country, figuring out how to fit everything into one trip can feel overwhelming.
That’s why we designed this unforgettable 7–10 itinerary to showcase the very best of Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor without feeling rushed. Whether you have a full 10 days or need to streamline it into a week, this itinerary strikes the perfect balance between guided sightseeing, scenic travel, and moments to slow down and take it all in.
Ready to explore Egypt the right way? Let’s map out the journey.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Egypt was this Nile River cruise! We spent 3 nights and 4 days floating from Aswan to Luxor, stopping to see the most incredible sights and enjoying river views the entire way.
Itinerary Overview
Landing in Egypt is an experience in itself, and this itinerary is designed to help you explore the country’s most iconic destinations without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Over 7–10 days, you’ll travel through Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor, combining guided sightseeing with slower moments to soak it all in. You’ll take short domestic flights between Cairo and Aswan, and again from Luxor back to Cairo, saving time and keeping travel days simple.
The true highlight of the trip is the Nile River cruise from Aswan to Luxor, where much of the sightseeing is built right into the journey. Instead of constantly packing up and moving hotels, you’ll wake up each day to new temples along the river, guided by expert Egyptologists.
The itinerary is easy to customize, too! If you’re short on time, you can turn this into a 7-day trip by removing one day in Cairo and the final two days in Luxor (we recommend skipping Days 3, 9, and 10 if needed). But if you can stretch it to the full 10 days, the slower pace and extra experiences are absolutely worth it.
Here’s a quick look at how this 7–10 day Egypt itinerary unfolds:
Day 0: Arrive in Cairo, check into your hotel, and keep the evening easy. This buffer night helps you ease into the trip without rushing straight into activities.
Day 1: Explore Old Cairo on a private guided tour visiting the Citadel, Coptic Cairo, and Khan el-Khalili, then wander Al Moez Street before diving into Cairo’s street food scene on a guided food tour.
Day 2: Spend the day with a private guide visiting the Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum, then unwind with riverside dining in Zamalek.
Day 3: Take a half-day private tour to Saqqara, Memphis, and Dahshur to see Egypt’s oldest pyramids, relax at your hotel, and end the night sailing the Nile on a private felucca.
Day 4: Fly to Aswan, ease into the city with museums, Nile walks, or a felucca ride, and enjoy dinner on Elephantine Island overlooking the river.
Day 5: Board your four-day Nile River cruise, visit the Aswan High Dam and Philae Temple, then settle in as you begin sailing north toward Luxor.
Day 6: Wake before dawn for a road trip to the iconic Abu Simbel temples on day two of this Nile cruise, then return to the ship for a relaxed afternoon cruising the Nile toward Edfu.
Day 7: Tour the remarkably preserved Temple of Edfu, then explore Luxor’s East Bank with guided visits to Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple on day three of this Nile cruise.
Day 8: Soar over Luxor at sunrise in a hot air balloon, explore the Valley of the Kings and Temple of Hatshepsut, then disembark the ship and enjoy a quiet evening in Luxor on day four of this Nile cruise.
Day 9: Visit the Luxor Museum, browse the local souks, dine on Egyptian barbecue along the Nile, and cap the night with the Karnak Sound and Light Show.
Day 10: Fly back to Cairo for your international departure, wrapping up an unforgettable seven- to ten-day journey through Egypt.
Day 1
Morning – Visit the Muhammed Ali Mosque, Coptic Cairo, and Khan el-Khalili with a private guide
Cairo can feel chaotic on your first day—the traffic, the endless history, and so many landmarks to choose from. That’s why we suggest easing in with this private tour of Old Cairo and the Citadel. Go for the 9 am to 1 pm option with hotel pick-up included, so you can enjoy breakfast at your hotel and head out stress-free, knowing your guide and driver will handle the rest.
We recommend booking the “best seller” option, which includes a private car, driver, guide, and entrance tickets, making the whole experience seamless. If you want to upgrade, the next step up also includes lunch, which is a great value and one less thing to think about during a busy sightseeing day.
We were lucky to have Eman as our guide, and she made this first day unforgettable! Her knowledge and storytelling brought the city’s history to life as we explored the Hanging Church, the Ben Ezra Synagogue, and the Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church, where it’s believed the Holy Family once took refuge. We also stopped at the Amr ibn al-As Mosque, the oldest mosque in Africa, which felt like stepping back through centuries of Islamic tradition.
The tour continued to the Citadel of Saladin, where we admired the sweeping views of Cairo before visiting the Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali, one of the city’s most impressive landmarks. To finish, we wandered through the bustling Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, shopping for souvenirs and enjoying a casual lunch surrounded by the city’s energy.
Starting with this private tour was the best way to kick off our trip! It’s personalized, stress-free, and full of unforgettable stories. And clearly we aren’t the only ones who loved it—check out HUNDREDS of five-star reviews here to find out why this is a can’t miss in Cairo!
Book this tour here and see Ciaro’s most iconic landmarks!
Afternoon – Explore Al Moez Street
After finishing up at Khan el-Khalili, have your driver drop you off nearby at Al Moez Street, one of the oldest and most fascinating streets in Cairo. Stretching between the gates of the old walled city, this historic thoroughfare dates back to the 10th century and is often described as an open-air museum thanks to the sheer number of mosques, madrasas, and old Islamic buildings packed along it.
It is definitely a bit hectic here—expect crowds of locals shopping, kids running around, and vendors calling out to sell everything from spices and sweets to colorful clothing. That’s all part of the charm! We loved grabbing a quick falafel snack from one of the stalls and just soaking up the atmosphere.
If you’re up for sightseeing, make sure to check out the Bab al-Futuh gate, one of the original entrances into the city, or step inside the Mosque of Al-Muayyad, which towers dramatically at the southern end of the street. But honestly, the best part of Al Moez Street is simply wandering. The narrow alleyways twist and turn, each one filled with architectural details and hidden corners that make you feel like you’ve stepped back centuries.
Plan to spend a couple of hours here—enough time to explore at your own pace without rushing. It’s a lively contrast to the more structured morning tour and gives you a real taste of Cairo’s street life.
Evening – Discover Cairo’s local food scene
After a busy day of sightseeing, there’s no better way to end your first night in Cairo than with this local food tour. Departing at 6 pm from a convenient meeting point near Tahrir Square and finishing around 9 pm, it’s the ideal evening activity after wandering Al Moez Street. Be sure to book the “local Cairo food tour” option—it’s designed for travelers who want to eat as the locals do.
We had such a fun time on this tour and loved every single dish we tried. From sizzling kebabs straight off the grill to crispy falafel and sweet treats like basbousa and knafeh, each stop offered something different and delicious. Walking between spots with our guide, Sarah, was half the experience—she showed us authentic places we never would have found on our own, taking us far away from the typical tourist trail.
For those who prefer a more refined dining experience, there’s also a specialty restaurant option available, which we’re keeping on our list for next time. But honestly, the street food tour was such a highlight for us because it felt like a true window into local life.
Cairo has earned its reputation as the Culinary Capital of the Middle East, and this food tour is the perfect introduction. There’s no wonder it has so many glowing five-star reviews—it’s fun, authentic, and absolutely delicious!
Check availability and book this Cairo food tour here before spots fill up!
Where to stay in Cairo
You’ll spend four nights in Cairo on this itinerary, so choosing the right area to stay makes a big difference. You can base yourself in Downtown Cairo for a bustling, central atmosphere close to major sights, or stay in Giza if being near the pyramids is a priority. Just note that staying in Giza means longer travel times to most city attractions. To help you decide, check out our full breakdown on where to stay in Cairo here.
Luxury – $$$
The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo is a landmark 5-star hotel in Downtown Cairo, offering elegant rooms with views of the Nile and Tahrir Square. Expect polished service, refined decor, multiple dining options, a rooftop lounge, spa, and a serene outdoor pool. Rooms typically start around $260 USD per night, with higher rates for premium views and suites.
Mid-range – $$
Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir Cairo is a reliable mid-range option just steps from the Egyptian Museum and Tahrir Square. Rooms are modern and comfortable, with an outdoor pool, fitness center, and several dining options on-site. Its central location makes sightseeing easy, and rooms typically range from $115–$500 USD per night.
Budget – $
Holy Sheet Plus is a modern, budget-friendly hotel in Downtown Cairo, ideal for groups thanks to its triple and quadruple rooms and family suites. Soundproofed rooms ensure a quiet night despite the central location near Tahrir Square and the Egyptian Museum. Rates typically range from $65–$150 USD per night, depending on season and room type.
Day 2
Full day – See the Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum, and the Great Sphinx with a private guide
No trip to Cairo is complete without visiting the Pyramids of Giza, and we knew our second day had to start here. These are some of the most famous landmarks in the entire world, but visiting on your own can be tricky—it’s busy, hectic, and full of scams if you’re not careful. That’s why we chose this guided full-day tour (9 am to 5 pm), and it made the whole experience stress-free and so much more enjoyable.
Our guide handled everything from tickets to transport, so all we had to do was enjoy the day. Seeing the pyramids up close for the first time is something we’ll never forget. Standing at the base of the Great Pyramid and gazing up at its sheer size was surreal, and the Great Sphinx was just as impressive.
Plus, having a guide meant we got to learn all about the history and mysteries behind these monuments, instead of just snapping photos and moving on.
After exploring Giza, the tour continued to the Egyptian Museum, home to the largest collection of Ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world. Wandering through the exhibits with our guide gave us so much more context, especially in the Tutankhamun galleries, where we saw the world-famous golden mask in person. It felt almost unreal to stand in front of it!
This tour made seeing Egypt’s most iconic sights easy, relaxed, and incredibly memorable. It’s truly a can’t-miss experience and the best way to see Cairo’s most legendary landmarks in just one day!
Check out THOUSANDS of five-star reviews and book this tour here!
Dinner – Luuma
After a long day exploring the pyramids and the Egyptian Museum, you might be tempted to stay close to your hotel for dinner. But since our tour wrapped up just after 5 pm, we decided to freshen up and head out to experience another side of Cairo. For the evening, make your way to Zamalek, the city’s trendiest neighborhood located on Gezira Island in the middle of the Nile.
Here you’ll find Luuma, a chic restaurant right on the river that’s known for its modern Egyptian and Mediterranean cuisine. The relaxed atmosphere and riverside views make it the perfect place to unwind and reflect on your day.
After dinner, spend some time strolling along the Nile. The neighborhood feels worlds away from the chaos of central Cairo, with leafy streets, a lively dining scene, and a more laid-back pace. Watching the boats glide across the water and enjoying the evening air was such a refreshing way to end our second night in the city.
Related Read: Find yourself with extra time? Check out our list of the top things to do in Cairo and add a few more epic activities to this itinerary!
Day 3
Morning – See the pyramids of Memphis, Saqqara, and Dahshur
By our third day in Cairo, we were ready to step away from the busy crowds at Giza, and this private tour was the perfect way to explore some of Egypt’s quieter yet equally fascinating ancient sites. We recommend booking the 8 am option, which includes a private car, guide, entry fees, and lunch. It’s the perfect half-day trip that gets you back to Cairo around 2 pm, leaving the rest of the day free for more exploring.
We were picked up right on time by our guide, Hazem, and driver, Mohammed, who were both so friendly and professional. Our first stop was Saqqara, home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser—the oldest pyramid in Egypt!
From there, we continued to Memphis, Egypt’s ancient capital. Seeing the colossal statue of Ramses II up close was incredible, and the Alabaster Sphinx was another highlight. But my favorite part of the day was visiting Dahshur, where we explored both the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid.
The Bent Pyramid’s unusual angle really shows how the Egyptians perfected their engineering skills through trial and error, while the Red Pyramid is one of the first true smooth-sided pyramids. Both were far less crowded than Giza, which made the visit feel peaceful and authentic.
We ended the tour with a delicious included lunch before heading back to Cairo, feeling like we had uncovered a whole new side of Egypt’s history. This was such a refreshing change of pace, and one of the most fascinating parts of our trip!
Don’t miss out—book this pyramids tour here before it sells out!
Afternoon – Relax at your hotel
After getting back to Cairo around 2 pm, you’ll have a few hours to recharge before your evening plans. We recommend taking this time to relax at your hotel—whether that means enjoying a nap, freshening up, or simply unwinding after a busy morning of sightseeing.
If you’re staying in a central area and still have energy, you could also use this time to explore the neighborhood around your hotel, maybe grab a coffee, or do a little shopping. Just make sure you’re back in time to get ready for your evening Nile cruise, which is one of the best ways to end your time in Cairo.
Evening – Cruise down the Nile River on a private sailboat
There’s no better way to end your trip than by sailing down the Nile on this private felucca cruise. We recommend booking the 6 pm option, which includes hotel pick-up and drop-off. The whole experience lasts about four hours, with two of those spent on the boat, giving you plenty of time to relax and soak in the views.
The luxury felucca itself was beautifully decorated, with elegant furnishings and lots of space to stretch out. Having the boat all to ourselves made it feel like a true VIP experience. As we set sail, we watched the sun dip below the horizon and Cairo’s skyline light up for the evening. It was an unforgettable sight!
Dinner was served as we glided down the river, and it was absolutely delicious. We tried beef koftas and Egyptian bread pudding, but there were plenty of other tasty options like chicken shish kebabs and vegetable moussaka. The food paired perfectly with the peaceful rhythm of the river.
What made the evening even more special was the atmosphere. It felt incredibly romantic, and we loved that extras like cakes and flowers could be arranged for special occasions. Whether you’re celebrating or simply want to treat yourself, this private felucca cruise is one of the most memorable experiences you can have in Cairo!
Secure your spot on this Nile cruise here and enjoy FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Day 4
Morning – Fly to Aswan
The easiest and fastest way to get from Cairo to Aswan is by flying, with flight times of about 1.5 hours. This is a popular domestic route, so there are plenty of flights throughout the day, but we recommend booking a morning flight if possible.
Your Nile River cruise doesn’t begin until tomorrow, and arriving in Aswan a day early gives you a buffer in case of delays while also allowing you to ease into the next part of the trip. One-way flights typically cost $80–$200 USD, depending on the season and airline.
Afternoon/evening – Your Choice!
Once you make your way to Aswan, you can choose how to spend the afternoon and evening. You’ll hit a few of Aswan’s main attractions tomorrow on day one of your cruise, so you can do these other unique sights and activities. The last three days have already been pretty busy, and your next few days will be just as jam-packed! So if you are looking to take it slow, here are some great recommendations:
- Visit the Nubian Museum – One of Egypt’s top-rated archaeology museums, the Nubian Museum offers a fascinating look at Nubian culture, history, and art. It’s well laid out, easy to explore, and open until 5 pm, making it a great first stop after your flight.
- Walk along the Nile Corniche – This scenic waterfront promenade runs alongside the Nile and is perfect for a stress-free stroll. You’ll get beautiful river views, a feel for local life, and a calm introduction to Aswan.
- Grab a drink at the Sofitel Old Cataract Hotel – This historic hotel has welcomed countless famous guests and is often said to be where Agatha Christie wrote Murder on the Nile. You can purchase a voucher to enjoy drinks on the terrace, watch the sunset, and soak in the elegant atmosphere and river views.
Alternatively, if you’re feeling energized and want to keep exploring, here are two more excellent options for your half-day in Aswan:
- Nubian Village tour – Visiting a Nubian village offers a deeper look into Nubian culture, traditions, and daily life along the Nile. These colorful villages are known for their bright homes, warm hospitality, and strong cultural identity. Three-hour guided tours are available at multiple times throughout the day, starting as late as 4 pm, and include boat transport on the Nile, guided walks through the village, and time to visit a local home or shop.
- Nile River Felucca Cruise – If you didn’t have a chance to sail the Nile in Cairo, Aswan is an ideal place to do it. You can book this 2-hour felucca cruise around 4 pm, when the temperature starts to cool, and the light is perfect. It’s a peaceful way to glide past islands and riverbanks while taking in Aswan’s slower pace of life.
Dinner – King Jamaica Restaurant & Café
For dinner, take a short ferry ride across the Nile to Elephantine Island and eat at the popular King Jamaica Restaurant & Café. This laid-back spot is known for its relaxed vibe, friendly service, and riverside setting. The menu features a mix of Egyptian and international dishes, with plenty of flavorful mains and refreshing drinks, making it an easy and enjoyable place to unwind after a travel day. Reservations usually aren’t necessary, but arriving a bit earlier in the evening can help you snag a good riverside table.
The ferry ride is quick and straightforward. You’ll find the departure point near the KFC along the Corniche, and the crossing should cost around 10 EGP (less than $1 USD). Just be aware that this area is known for scammers, so confirm the price before boarding and avoid anyone who seems pushy.
Where to stay in Aswan
You’ll only spend one night in Aswan, so choosing a comfortable and well-located hotel is key. Whether you want a historic luxury stay right on the Nile, a reliable mid-range option close to the city center, or a budget-friendly guesthouse with local charm, Aswan has great choices for every travel style. Below are our top picks for where to stay.
Luxury – $$$
Sofitel Legend Old Cataract is Aswan’s most iconic luxury hotel, set directly on the Nile opposite Elephantine Island. This historic property blends old-world elegance with modern comforts, offering multiple restaurants, bars, pools, and a full-service spa. It’s especially popular with couples, with rooms starting around $850 USD per night and reaching $2,000+ for premium suites.
Mid-range – $$
Obelisk Nile Hotel is a comfortable mid-range option set right on the Nile, just minutes from Aswan’s city center. The hotel offers spacious rooms, a pool, a fitness center, an on-site restaurant, and complimentary breakfast. It’s a convenient and relaxing base for sightseeing, with rooms starting around $100 USD per night, depending on your selections.
Budget – $
Airkela Nuba Dool is a charming, budget-friendly guesthouse set along the Nile with a relaxed, local feel. It offers comfortable rooms, a private beach area, and an on-site restaurant serving African cuisine. Located near the Nubian Museum, it’s especially popular with couples. Rooms typically range from $30–$60 USD per night, making it an excellent value in Aswan.
Day 5
Nile River cruise day 1 – Board the ship and do some sightseeing
Today marks the start of this four-day, three-night Nile River cruise from Aswan to Luxor, which is one of the highlights of this itinerary. This unforgettable cruise departs on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Fridays, so be sure to plan the rest of your trip around one of these sailing days.
Once on board, you’ll travel in small groups for the included excursions, typically with fewer than 20 people, led by an English-speaking Egyptologist. Over the next few days, you’ll visit some of Egypt’s most famous temples while cruising between destinations, allowing you to experience the country’s history at a relaxed pace without the hassle of constantly changing hotels.
On this first day, your guide will pick you up directly from your hotel in Aswan (or the airport if you’re arriving today), with many pickup times available, making it easy to coordinate with your arrival plans. Each day follows a similar rhythm: guided sightseeing during the day, followed by relaxed cruising along the Nile in the afternoon and evening. All meals are included, along with afternoon tea, access to the swimming pool, and the sundeck. Keep in mind that drinks (including water), tips, and entrance fees are paid separately.
After meeting your guide, you’ll begin with visits to the Aswan High Dam and the Temple of Philae, two of Aswan’s most iconic sights. The High Dam is a modern engineering marvel that reshaped Egypt’s economy and created Lake Nasser, while also offering great views over the Nile.
From there, you’ll visit the beautiful Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis and famously relocated stone by stone to save it from flooding. The temple is reached by boat, making the approach just as memorable as the site itself. After sightseeing, you’ll return to the ship, enjoy dinner on board, and set sail as your Nile adventure officially begins.
Book ahead here to ensure your dates line up with this Nile cruise!
Related Read: For even more options, see our blog on the Best Nile River Cruises here!
Day 6
Nile River cruise day 2 – Abu Simbel Temple
Day 2 of this Nile cruise starts early, but it’s for one of the most unforgettable sights in Egypt: the Abu Simbel Temple Complex. Around 4:30 am, you’ll be picked up from the cruise ship and travel by road in a small group to reach Abu Simbel by early morning. The drive is a few hours long and definitely the most demanding part of the day, but arriving early means cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and the chance to experience the temples in a quieter, more awe-inspiring setting.
Located near the Sudanese border along Lake Nasser, Abu Simbel is famous for its massive rock-cut temples built by Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC. The main temple is guarded by four colossal seated statues of Ramses II, and stepping inside reveals impressively preserved carvings and hieroglyphs carved directly into the rock. Keep in mind that admission to Abu Simbel is not included, so be sure to bring cash.
Next door, the smaller temple is dedicated to Queen Nefertari, making it one of the rare sites in Egypt that honors a queen nearly on equal footing with a pharaoh. One of the most remarkable aspects of the site is its modern history—the entire complex was carefully dismantled and relocated in the 1960s to save it from flooding after the construction of the Aswan High Dam, an engineering feat that’s just as impressive as the temples themselves.
After exploring the temples, you’ll head back to the cruise by midday, where lunch awaits on board. The afternoon is intentionally slow-paced, giving you time to unwind on the sundeck, cool off in the pool, and enjoy sweeping Nile views as the ship sails toward Kom Ombo and continues on to Edfu, where you’ll spend the night.
Reserve here to lock in this iconic cruise day two stop!
Day 7
Nile River cruise day 3 – Edfu and Luxor East Bank
Day three of this Nile cruise begins with a morning visit to the Temple of Edfu (admission not included), one of the best-preserved ancient temples in all of Egypt. Located along the Nile between Aswan and Luxor, this impressive complex is dedicated to Horus, the falcon-headed god of protection and kingship.
Built during the Ptolemaic period, the temple’s massive stone walls, detailed reliefs, and towering entrance pylon are remarkably intact, giving you a rare look at what ancient Egyptian temples once looked like in their prime. Inside, you’ll see carvings that depict the mythical battle between Horus and Seth, along with well-preserved inscriptions that reveal how temples functioned in everyday religious life.
After returning to the ship, you’ll cruise north toward Luxor, enjoying lunch on board and scenic views along the river as you approach what was once the ancient city of Thebes, the religious capital of Egypt for centuries. In the afternoon, you’ll explore Luxor’s East Bank, home to two of the country’s most legendary temple complexes.
Your first stop is Karnak Temple, the largest religious complex ever built. It wasn’t constructed all at once—pharaohs added to it over nearly 2,000 years, which is why it feels more like a small city than a single temple. The highlight is the Great Hypostyle Hall, where 134 massive columns rise overhead, some standing nearly 70 feet (21 meters) tall.
From there, you’ll visit Luxor Temple, beautifully positioned along the Nile and once connected to Karnak by an avenue of sphinxes. Visiting in the late afternoon gives the temple a warm glow and a noticeably different atmosphere from Karnak’s scale and grandeur.
After sightseeing, you’ll return to the cruise ship for dinner and spend the night on board in Luxor, resting up for an early but unforgettable final day on the river.
Don’t miss this temple-filled day on day three of this Nile cruise!
Day 8
Nile River cruise day 4 – Hot air balloon ride, Luxor West Bank, disembark cruise
Day four of this Nile cruise brings another early start, but this one is completely worth it. Before sunrise, you’ll head out for a hot air balloon ride over Luxor, which is included as part of the cruise. As the sun rises, you’ll float quietly above the Nile, patchwork farmland, and temple ruins, watching the West Bank slowly light up below.
After the balloon ride, you’ll return to the ship for breakfast on board before heading out to explore Luxor’s West Bank, one of the most important archaeological areas in the world. The highlight is the Valley of the Kings, where dozens of pharaohs, including Tutankhamun, were buried in richly decorated tombs carved deep into the desert cliffs. Inside, you’ll see vivid wall paintings and hieroglyphs that have survived for thousands of years.
You’ll also visit the impressive Temple of Hatshepsut, dramatically built into the limestone cliffs and dedicated to one of Egypt’s most powerful female pharaohs. The tour wraps up with a stop at the Colossi of Memnon, two towering statues that once stood at the entrance of a massive mortuary temple and remain one of Luxor’s most recognizable landmarks. Please note that admission to these West Bank sights is not included, so be sure to bring extra cash.
By around 2 pm, the cruise officially comes to an end with transportation to the Luxor airport, train station, or your hotel, but the experience stays with you long after you step off the ship. Between the standout guides, thoughtfully paced itinerary, and unforgettable moments packed into a short window, it’s easy to see why this Nile cruise has earned over 2,000 five-star reviews!
Experience this sunrise-to-temples finale on day four of this cruise!
Evening – Enjoy a relaxed evening
After four jam-packed days of early mornings and nonstop sightseeing, tonight is all about taking it easy. Keep plans simple and enjoy a slower pace after wrapping up the Nile cruise.
For dinner, head to Aisha Restaurant Luxor on the East Bank. This popular local spot is known for its classic Egyptian comfort food, including flavorful grilled meats, fresh bread, and traditional mezze dishes, all served in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Reservations usually aren’t necessary, but arriving a bit earlier in the evening can help you avoid a wait, especially during peak travel seasons.
Where to stay in Luxor
You’ll finish your trip with two nights in Luxor, and we recommend staying on the East Bank, the lively heart of the city. This area puts you close to Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, restaurants, shops, and easy transportation, making it ideal for sightseeing and relaxed evenings out. Below are our top hotel picks on the East Bank, and for even more great accommodation options, be sure to check out our detailed guide on where to stay in Luxor here.
Luxury – $$$
Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor is a historic luxury hotel dating back to 1907, known for its elegant colonial style and lush gardens. Rooms are spacious, with views of the Nile or gardens, and the hotel features multiple dining options, a large pool, and refined lounges. Located on the East Bank near Luxor Temple, rates typically range from $250–$2,000 USD per night.
Mid-range – $$
Sonesta St. George Hotel is a cozy mid-range option on Luxor’s East Bank, offering a great mix of style and value. The riverside setting provides Nile views, while spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and multiple on-site restaurants make for a relaxing stay. Its central location is ideal for sightseeing, with rates typically ranging from $150–$300 USD per night, and suites starting around $600 USD.
Budget – $
Steigenberger Resort Achti is a budget-friendly hotel on Luxor’s East Bank, offering great value without sacrificing comfort. Guests can enjoy two outdoor pools, a riverside restaurant, and bright, spacious rooms with plenty of natural light. The Nile-facing location adds to the appeal, with rooms typically ranging from $50–$200 USD per night, and meal plans available.
Day 9
Morning – Visit the Luxor Museum
Start your day with a visit to the Luxor Museum, located on the East Bank. It’s open from 9 am to 2 pm, and we recommend arriving around 10 am and spending 1–2 hours here. Be sure to grab breakfast at your hotel beforehand, as there aren’t many food options near the museum.
The Luxor Museum is small but exceptionally well curated, making it an easy and rewarding stop. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection that includes two royal mummies, beautifully preserved pottery and jewelry, and a striking statue of Amenhotep III alongside the crocodile god Sobek. The exhibits are thoughtfully laid out, with clear explanations that add helpful context without feeling overwhelming.
Admission costs 400 EGP (about $8.50 USD). If you’re staying on the West Bank, plan for about a 30-minute drive to reach the museum. It’s a relaxed, informative way to start your final full day in Luxor before heading into the afternoon.
Lunch – Al Sahaby Lane Restaurant
After your visit to the Luxor Museum, make your way to Al Sahaby Lane Restaurant for lunch. It’s about a 15-minute walk or a quick 5-minute taxi ride from the museum and is well worth the short trip. This popular spot serves fresh, hearty Egyptian dishes and offers great views over Luxor and the Nile. Adventurous eaters can try camel, but the honey and cream cheese fatira bread and the mezze platter are standout lunchtime options.
Afternoon – Check out the local souk
For a glimpse of everyday life in Luxor, spend some time wandering the city’s local souks. These lively markets are filled with spices, textiles, souvenirs, and plenty of friendly chaos. As you walk through, you’ll smell incense drifting through the air and hear shopkeepers calling out their best deals. It can feel a bit overwhelming at first, but that’s all part of the experience—and it’s also what makes the souks so memorable.
Head to El-Souk, Luxor’s main market, which is just a 5-minute walk from Al Sahaby Lane Restaurant. This is a great place to pick up any last-minute souvenirs, from scarves and spices to small handmade gifts. Keep in mind that haggling is expected, so don’t be shy about negotiating and never accept the first price offered.
It will likely be quite warm in the afternoon, so take your time and explore at your own pace. Once you’ve had your fill, head back to your hotel to relax during the hottest part of the day. If your hotel has a pool, this is the perfect time to cool off and recharge before heading out again in the evening.
Dinner – Restaurant El-Kababgy Luxor
If you’ve never tried Egyptian barbecue, tonight is the perfect chance. Head to Restaurant El-Kababgy Luxor and enjoy some of the best grilled meats right along the Nile. There are also plenty of tasty vegetarian options on the menu, including baba ghanoush, eggplant casserole, and fata, so everyone is well covered.
It’s essentially a feast of classic Egyptian dishes served in a beautiful riverside setting, making it a perfect way to wrap up an adventure-filled day on the East Bank. Reservations aren’t always necessary, but it’s a good idea to book ahead in the evening if you want a riverside table.
If you have some time before or after dinner, take a stroll along the Nile Corniche—the river is especially gorgeous at this time of day and adds a relaxing end to the evening.
Evening – See a sound and light show at the Karnak Temple Complex
End the day with the Karnak Temple Sound and Light Show, a memorable way to experience one of Egypt’s most famous sites after dark. From around 8 pm, the vast temple complex is illuminated in shifting colors while dramatic music and narration guide you through its history. The show tells the story of ancient Thebes and the powerful pharaohs who shaped it, bringing the site to life in a completely different way.
Even if you explored Karnak earlier in the day, seeing it lit up at night feels entirely different and is well worth the visit. This is a popular evening activity, so we recommend booking tickets online in advance, which typically cost around $20 USD.
Day 10
Travel back to Cairo
Use your final day as a travel day back to Cairo, keeping things flexible depending on the timing of your international flight. If you’re flying home the same day, you may want to head straight to the airport. Otherwise, this is a good chance to enjoy a relaxed morning before traveling.
Similar to your flight from Cairo, the easiest and most efficient way to get from Luxor to Cairo is by flying. The flight takes about one hour, and prices are usually quite reasonable, typically ranging from $80–$200 USD, depending on the airline and season. Flights run frequently throughout the day, making it easy to coordinate with your onward travel plans and bring this unforgettable Egypt itinerary to a smooth close.
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Thanks for reading!
Ready for an unforgettable trip to Egypt? This historic country is full of amazing sights, and spending a week or ten days sinking into the thousands of years of history, stunning scenery, and local culture is nothing short of incredible. This itinerary will help you navigate Egypt like a pro – just be sure to book things early, as it’s a popular destination!
Check out the rest of our Egypt blogs before you take off! Whether you’re traveling even longer or already planning a return trip, we have more resources to help you out. Here are a few related blogs to inspire your next adventure – cheers!
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