Start your trip in Cairo, Egypt's bustling capital. In the morning, visit the awe-inspiring Giza Necropolis to see the Great Pyramids and the iconic Sphinx. Explore the Egyptian Museum in the afternoon, home to a vast collection of ancient artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Nile Corniche, enjoying the beautiful river views.
Giza Necropolis: Estimated cost - $10, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
Nile Corniche: Free, Recommended for an evening walk
Day 2: Tuesday, September 5 - Luxor
Take a flight to Luxor, known as the world's greatest open-air museum. Begin your day by exploring the Karnak Temple Complex, a vast ancient Egyptian temple. In the afternoon, visit the Valley of the Kings, where you can explore the fascinating tombs of pharaohs. Wrap up your day with a relaxing felucca boat ride on the Nile River.
Valley of the Kings: Estimated cost - $20, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
Nile Felucca Ride: Estimated cost - $15, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Breakfast: Enjoy a delicious Egyptian breakfast at Al-Sahaby Lane, located near the Karnak Temple Complex. They offer a variety of traditional dishes such as ful medames and taameya. Average cost for a meal is about 70 EGP per person.
Lunch: For a quick and tasty lunch, head to Abou El Sid in Luxor. This restaurant serves authentic Egyptian cuisine, including koshari, grilled meats, and delicious desserts. Average cost for a meal is about 120 EGP per person.
Dinner: Indulge in a memorable dining experience at Sofra, located on the Nile River bank. This restaurant offers a stunning view and serves a variety of Egyptian and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 EGP per person.
Day 3: Wednesday, September 6 - Hurghada
Travel to Hurghada, a popular beach resort city on the Red Sea. Spend the morning exploring the vibrant marine life by snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, relax on the sandy beaches, bask in the sun, and take part in water sports activities. In the evening, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants.
Snorkeling or Diving: Estimated cost - $40, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
Sultan Garden Resort: Enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet at Sultan Garden Resort. They offer a variety of options including traditional Egyptian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Abou Tarek: For lunch, head to Abou Tarek and try their famous Koshary dish, a traditional Egyptian street food. It is a combination of rice, lentils, pasta, and fried onions. The average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
The Red Sea Restaurant: For dinner, indulge in fresh seafood at The Red Sea Restaurant. They offer a wide variety of seafood options including grilled fish, shrimp, and lobster. The average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Day 4: Thursday, September 7 - Aswan
Head to Aswan, a charming city located on the banks of the Nile River. Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Take a boat trip to the stunning Elephantine Island in the afternoon and explore its archaeological sites. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful walk along the Nile Corniche, admiring the scenic views.
Boat Trip to Elephantine Island: Estimated cost - $20, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
Nile Corniche: Free, Recommended for an evening walk
Day 5: Friday, September 8 - Alexandria
Take a day trip to Alexandria, a coastal city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Start your day by visiting the magnificent Qaitbay Citadel, a medieval fortress overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Explore the Alexandria National Museum in the afternoon, which houses a vast collection of ancient artifacts. End your day by strolling along the scenic Corniche and enjoying fresh seafood at a local restaurant.
Alexandria National Museum: Estimated cost - $10, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Corniche: Free, Recommended for an evening walk
Day 6: Saturday, September 9 - Sharm El Sheikh
Travel to Sharm El Sheikh, a popular resort town located on the Red Sea coast. Spend the morning exploring Ras Mohammed National Park, known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Relax on the beautiful beaches in the afternoon and enjoy water sports activities such as snorkeling or parasailing. In the evening, savor a delicious Middle Eastern dinner at a local restaurant.
Ras Mohammed National Park: Estimated cost - $10, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
Return to Cairo for your last day in Egypt. Start your day by exploring the historic Islamic Cairo district, home to stunning mosques and bustling bazaars. Visit the famous Khan El Khalili market in the afternoon to shop for souvenirs and experience the vibrant atmosphere. End your trip by enjoying a traditional Egyptian dinner and a mesmerizing sound and light show at the Pyramids of Giza.
Islamic Cairo District: Free, Recommended time spent - 3 hours
Khan El Khalili Market: Estimated cost - $10, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Sound and Light Show at Pyramids of Giza: Estimated cost - $20, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a family-friendly adventure off the beaten path, consider exploring the stunning White Desert, located near Farafra Oasis. Its unique rock formations and white sand dunes create a surreal landscape that kids will love. Another hidden gem is the Siwa Oasis, known for its natural springs and ancient ruins. Take a dip in the Cleopatra Spring and explore the Temple of the Oracle for an unforgettable experience.