Welcome to Egypt! Start your journey in Cairo, the bustling capital city. In the morning, visit the magnificent Giza Plateau and marvel at the iconic Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. In the afternoon, explore the Egyptian Museum, home to an extensive collection of ancient artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll along the Nile Corniche and enjoy the beautiful sunset.
Giza Plateau: Cost estimate - $10, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Suprême, located just a few minutes from the Giza Plateau. Enjoy a variety of freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 80 EGP per person.
For lunch, head over to Nefertari Restaurant, situated near the Egyptian Museum. Indulge in traditional Egyptian cuisine, including mouthwatering kebabs and flavorful falafel. Average cost for a meal is about 150 EGP per person.
As night falls, experience the vibrant atmosphere of El Fishawy Restaurant. This cozy eatery is famous for its authentic Egyptian dishes, such as grilled lamb and stuffed vine leaves. Average cost for a meal is about 200 EGP per person.
Tuesday, August 22: Luxor and the Valley of the Kings
Take a flight to Luxor, known as the world's greatest open-air museum. In the morning, explore the Valley of the Kings, the burial site of numerous pharaohs. Visit the famous tombs, including the tomb of Tutankhamun. In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Karnak Temple Complex, dedicated to the worship of Amun-Ra. As the evening sets in, enjoy a relaxing felucca boat ride along the Nile River.
Valley of the Kings: Cost estimate - $20, Time spent - 3-4 hours
For breakfast, head to Nile View Restaurant, which offers a picturesque view of the Nile River. Enjoy a traditional Egyptian breakfast of ful medames and falafel. The average cost for a meal is about 50 EGP per person.
For lunch, try Ayadina Restaurant, known for its delicious Egyptian cuisine. Feast on authentic dishes like koshari and grilled kebabs. The average cost for a meal is about 100 EGP per person.
For dinner, dine at El Khalili Restaurant, located in the heart of Luxor's old market. Indulge in a variety of Middle Eastern dishes, including kebabs, mezze platters, and freshly baked bread. The average cost for a meal is about 150 EGP per person.
Wednesday, August 23: Abu Simbel and Aswan
Embark on an early morning excursion to Abu Simbel. Marvel at the awe-inspiring temples built by Ramses II and learn about their relocation due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam. After returning to Aswan, enjoy a relaxing felucca ride around Elephantine Island in the afternoon. In the evening, explore the vibrant local market known as the Aswan Souq.
Abu Simbel: Cost estimate - $60, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Nile View Restaurant, offering stunning views of the Nile River. The average cost for a meal is about 75 EGP per person.
Enjoy a satisfying lunch at Bet El Kerem Restaurant, known for its traditional Egyptian cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about 100 EGP per person.
For dinner, indulge in a delightful Mediterranean feast at Kebdet El Prince Restaurant, known for its grilled seafood and Egyptian specialties. The average cost for a meal is about 150 EGP per person.
Thursday, August 24: Nile Cruise to Kom Ombo and Edfu
Embark on a Nile cruise and sail to Kom Ombo, where you can visit the unique temple dedicated to the gods Sobek and Horus. In the afternoon, continue sailing to Edfu and explore the well-preserved Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Egypt. Enjoy the scenic views along the Nile during the cruise.
Temple of Kom Ombo: Cost estimate - $10, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Temple of Horus in Edfu: Cost estimate - $10, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Nile Cruise: Cost estimate - $200 (3-night cruise), Time spent - 24 hours
Friday, August 25: Luxor's West Bank
Return to Luxor and explore the West Bank, home to the Colossi of Memnon, the Valley of the Queens, and the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut. Immerse yourself in the fascinating history of ancient Egypt as you visit these impressive archaeological sites. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Egyptian dinner and a captivating sound and light show at the Karnak Temple.
Colossi of Memnon: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Valley of the Queens: Cost estimate - $10, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut: Cost estimate - $10, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Sound and light show at Karnak Temple: Cost estimate - $20, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Saturday, August 26: Alexandria's Mediterranean Charm
Take a day trip to the enchanting city of Alexandria. Explore the ancient catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, visit the impressive Qaitbay Citadel, and stroll along the Corniche, enjoying the refreshing Mediterranean breeze. Don't forget to sample some local seafood specialties before returning to Cairo in the evening.
Kom El Shoqafa Catacombs: Cost estimate - $10, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Start your day with a delicious Egyptian breakfast at Arabesque Cafe. This cozy cafe offers a variety of traditional breakfast dishes such as ful medames and taameya. The average cost for a meal is about 50 EGP per person.
For lunch, head to Fish Market Restaurant and indulge in the freshest seafood in Alexandria. Choose from a wide selection of grilled or fried fish, prawns, and calamari. The average cost for a meal is about 150 EGP per person.
Enjoy a fine dining experience at Abou Tarek Restaurant for dinner. Known for their mouthwatering koshary, this restaurant offers a unique blend of Egyptian flavors. The average cost for a meal is about 80 EGP per person.
Sunday, August 27: Departure from Cairo
On your last day, take some time to explore Cairo further. Visit the medieval Islamic Cairo district, home to mosques, bazaars, and historic landmarks like the Citadel of Saladin and the Ibn Tulun Mosque. Enjoy a delicious Egyptian lunch before departing from Cairo and bidding farewell to this incredible country.
Islamic Cairo: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Lunch: Cost estimate - $15, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious traditional Egyptian breakfast at Felfela. This popular restaurant offers a variety of breakfast dishes such as foul medames, taameya, and freshly baked bread. The average cost for a meal is about 50 EGP per person.
For lunch, head to Naguib Mahfouz Cafe located in the heart of Islamic Cairo. Enjoy authentic Egyptian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, with dishes like koshari, mulukhiyah, and grilled meats. The average cost for a meal is about 100 EGP per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Sequoia. This stunning restaurant is situated on the banks of the Nile River and offers a wide range of international and Egyptian dishes. Enjoy panoramic views of Cairo while savoring dishes like grilled seafood and Egyptian tagines. The average cost for a meal is about 250 EGP per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While in Cairo, don't miss the opportunity to visit Al-Azhar Park, a beautiful green space offering panoramic views of the city and a peaceful escape from the bustling streets. Another hidden gem is the Coptic Cairo neighborhood, where you can explore ancient churches and visit the fascinating Coptic Museum. Locals love taking a sunset felucca ride on the Nile, offering a serene and romantic experience.
For an authentic culinary experience, head to Khan El Khalili, Cairo's oldest and most famous bazaar. Indulge in traditional Egyptian street food like falafel, koshary, and freshly squeezed juices. Don't forget to haggle with the friendly vendors for unique souvenirs and handicrafts.
We hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your trip to Egypt! Enjoy your adventure!