One Week in Egypt Itinerary: 7-Day Guide (2026) | Cairo, Luxor & Aswan

One Week in Egypt: The Ultimate 7-Day Itinerary

Visiting Egypt for the first time is an immersive journey into the cradle of ancient civilization, where the timeless wonders of the Pharaohs unfold against a backdrop of mystique and grandeur. From the iconic pyramids of Giza, standing as a testament to human ingenuity, to the ancient temples of Luxor and the bustling markets of Cairo, every step unveils layers of history, culture, and the vibrant tapestry of daily life along the Nile.

This comprehensive 7-day Egypt itinerary will guide you through the country's must-see destinations, from Cairo's chaotic energy to Aswan's tranquil Nubian villages. Whether you're marveling at the Sphinx, cruising the Nile, or exploring the Valley of the Kings, Egypt casts a spell on first-time visitors, inviting them to uncover the mysteries of an unparalleled historical legacy.

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Quick Trip Overview

• Best Time to Visit: October to April (cooler weather, ideal for exploring)

• Daily Budget: $50-150/day (mid-range traveler)

• Visa: E-visa ($25) or visa on arrival

• Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP) - 1 USD ≈ 31 EGP

• Time Zone: EET (UTC+2)

• Language: Arabic (English widely spoken in tourist areas)

What You'll See: Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, Luxor Temple, Karnak Temple, Valley of the Kings, Philae Temple, Nubian Village

Book your tours in Egypt with GetYourGuide

Essential Pre-Trip Planning

Booking Your Flights

Most international travelers fly into Cairo International Airport (CAI). I recommend booking flights 2-3 months in advance for the best prices.

Find the cheapest flights to Cairo on Expedia

Getting Your Visa

Egypt offers e-visas that you can apply for online before your trip, or you can purchase a visa on arrival at Cairo Airport for $25 USD. The e-visa process is straightforward and takes about 5-7 business days.

Travel Insurance

Don't skip travel insurance for Egypt. I recommend having coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. The medical facilities outside major cities can be limited, so proper coverage is essential.

Get a quote from VisitorsCoverage

Staying Connected

Stay connected throughout your trip with an eSIM. No need to hunt for local SIM cards at the airport.

Get your Egypt eSIM from Saily

What to Pack for Egypt

Essential Items:

• Modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees for temple visits)

• Comfortable walking shoes (you'll be doing a LOT of walking)

• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen

• Light scarf (for women visiting mosques)

• Reusable water bottle with filter

• Power adapter (Type C/F, 220V)

• Portable charger

• Cash in small denominations

Photography Gear:

• Camera with a wide-angle lens

• Extra batteries and memory cards

• Tripod (sunrise/sunset shots at temples)

• Dust protection for equipment

Complete 7-Day Egypt Itinerary

Days 1-2: Cairo - Ancient Wonders & Modern Energy

Cairo, the bustling metropolis on the banks of the Nile, is where ancient wonders coexist with the vibrancy of contemporary life. If you're like many travelers arriving in Egypt, you'll likely fly into Cairo for the start of your trip. The city can be overwhelming at first—it's hectic with lots of people bustling about throughout the day and evening. I love cities with energy, but my first few hours walking around Cairo took some getting used to. Give yourself time to acclimate!

Where to Stay in Cairo

My Recommendation: Madina Hostel- Perfect location in downtown Cairo, close to the Egyptian Museum and Tahrir Square. Budget-friendly with clean rooms and helpful staff.

Other Great Options:

• Budget: Cecilia Hotel Cairo

• Mid-Range: Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir OR Viaje Hotel Downtown Cairo

• Luxury: Four Seasons Cairo at Nile Plaza OR Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis

Compare all Cairo hotels on Expedia

Day 1: Arriving in Cairo

Morning: After arriving at Cairo Airport, take a pre-arranged airport transfer to your hotel (much easier than negotiating with taxi drivers after a long flight).

Book your Cairo airport transfer in advance

Check into your hotel and take a few hours to rest and adjust to the time difference.

Afternoon: Head to Zamalek, an upscale island district in the heart of Cairo. This area exudes sophistication with tree-lined streets, elegant villas, and a blend of cultural institutions and chic boutiques. It's the perfect place to ease into Cairo's energy without being completely overwhelmed.

Walk along the Nile Corniche and grab lunch at one of the waterfront cafes.

Evening: Visit Cairo Tower for sunset. This soaring landmark offers panoramic views of Cairo's historic treasures, from the ancient pyramids to the bustling metropolis below.

Pro Tip: One floor below the top viewpoint, there's a cafe where you can grab a sandwich and coffee while admiring the sweeping views of Cairo. Much more comfortable than standing at the outdoor viewpoint!

Where to Eat:

• Lunch: Sequoia (Zamalek) - Mediterranean cuisine with Nile views

• Dinner: Abou El Sid - Traditional Egyptian food in a beautiful setting

Cost Breakdown Day 1: $60-100 (accommodation, meals, Cairo Tower ticket)

Day 2: Pyramids of Giza & Cairo Museums

This is the big day! I highly recommend booking a guided tour for the pyramids. Even with plenty of time in Egypt, having a guide takes the hassle out of getting around and provides invaluable historical context.

My Experience: I did a private full-day tour that included hotel pickup and drop-off, an Egyptologist tour guide, visits to the Pyramids, Sphinx, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, lunch, and the Egyptian Museum.

BOOK HERE: Great Pyramids of Giza Guided Tour

Important Tip: Start your tour at 7 AM! By starting an hour earlier, we were 45 minutes to an hour ahead of most big tour groups at each location. It made the day feel more relaxed, and at times, we felt like we had the pyramids to ourselves.

Morning: Giza Plateau The Great Pyramid of Giza dominates the landscape, inviting awe and contemplation as you marvel at the precision and grandeur achieved by ancient architects. You'll visit all three pyramids (Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure) and the enigmatic Sphinx.

Optional: You can go inside the Great Pyramid, but be prepared for narrow, claustrophobic passages. It costs an additional fee and requires a separate ticket.

Pro Tips for the Pyramids:

• Dress modestly and comfortably

• Bring cash for tips (bathroom attendants, photo opportunities)

• Be firm but polite with vendors

• Stay hydrated

• The best photo spot is at the panoramic viewpoint behind the pyramids

Afternoon: Egyptian Museum, Home to over 120,000 artifacts, including the famous treasures of Tutankhamun. The golden mask alone is worth the visit. Plan for at least 2-3 hours here. Your guide will show you the highlights, but you could easily spend an entire day exploring.

If your pyramids tour doesn’t include this museum, you can book a separate private showing.

Late Afternoon: Khan El Khalili Bazaar. This historic bazaar and souk in the heart of Cairo is where I did most of my souvenir shopping. There are many stalls where you can bargain to get the best price. Don't accept the first price—negotiate! Start at 30-40% of the asking price.

Same for this bazaar, you can book a street tour separately.

This area is also near Al Moez Ldin Allah Al Fatmi, the oldest street in Cairo. Take a walk through this historic area before sunset.

Evening: If you still have energy, visit Al-Azhar Park for sunset. This might not be on many travel blogs, but it was one of my favorite places in Cairo. It's a quiet, beautiful park that gives you peace amid the bustling metropolis. You get grand views of the Mohamed Ali Mosque and other neighborhoods of Cairo.

Where to Eat:

• Lunch: Included in tour at local restaurant

• Dinner: Naguib Mahfouz Cafe (Khan El Khalili) - Traditional Egyptian cuisine in a historic setting

Cost Breakdown Day 2: $70-120 (tour, entrance fees, meals, souvenirs)

For more detailed Cairo recommendations, check out my in-depth Cairo travel guide

Days 3-4: Luxor - The World's Greatest Open-Air Museum

Luxor, often called the "world's greatest open-air museum," showcases the remnants of ancient Thebes. The city unfolds as a living testament to the grandeur of Pharaonic architecture with its awe-inspiring temples and elaborate royal tombs.

Getting to Luxor from Cairo

Option 1: Fly (Recommended for 7-day itinerary) One-hour flight from Cairo to Luxor. Costs around $60-100 USD per person. This saves you valuable time.

Find the cheapest flights to Luxor on Expedia

Option 2: Overnight Train More affordable at around $30-40 USD for a first-class sleeper, but takes 10-12 hours. We heard mixed reviews about comfort and cleanliness, but it's certainly budget-friendly.

Option 3: Nile Cruise If you have 10+ days, consider a multi-day Nile cruise from Cairo to Luxor (or vice versa), stopping at temples along the way.

Browse Nile Cruise options

Where to Stay in Luxor

My Recommendation: Hotel Pavillon Winter Luxor - This hotel shares grounds and pool with the famous Winter Palace Luxor, which has hosted Winston Churchill, Jackie Kennedy, Prince Charles, Princess Diana, and Agatha Christie (who wrote Death on the Nile here!). The gardens are breathtaking and the pool is perfect after long days of exploring. I'd absolutely stay here again.

Other Options:

• Budget: Bob Marley Peace Hotel

• Luxury: Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa

Compare all Luxor hotels

Day 3: Luxor West Bank

Start early to catch the magical sunrise hot air balloon spectacle over Luxor. Even if you don't ride in one, wake up early to watch them from your hotel or the Corniche. The sight of dozens of colorful balloons floating over ancient temples as the sun illuminates the valley is unforgettable.

Want to ride in a hot air balloon? Book your sunrise balloon ride here

Morning West Bank Tour: I highly recommend hiring a guide for the West Bank. The sites are spread out (45 minutes from central Luxor), and having an Egyptologist explain the history makes it so much more meaningful.

Book a West Bank Tour with an Egyptologist Guide

Sites You'll Visit:

Valley of the Kings: The elaborate underground tombs of Egyptian pharaohs. Your ticket includes entry to three tombs. King Tut's tomb requires a separate ticket. The tomb of Ramses VI is stunning and less crowded than Tut's tomb.

Valley of the Queens: Home to the tombs of queens and royal children. The Tomb of Nefertari is the most famous, but requires a separate (expensive) ticket and advance booking.

Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut: This stunning temple, built into the cliffside, honors Egypt's most successful female pharaoh.

Colossi of Memnon: Two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. Quick photo stop.

Optional Add-ons:

• Medinet Habu - Well-preserved mortuary temple

• Deir el-Medina - Village of the workers who built the tombs

Afternoon: Return to your hotel for lunch and a swim. The midday heat can be intense, so taking a break is smart.

Evening: Stroll the Luxor Corniche at sunset. The promenade along the Nile comes alive in the evening with locals and tourists alike.

Where to Eat:

• Lunch: Hotel restaurant or pool bar

• Dinner: Sofra Restaurant - Excellent traditional Egyptian food, make reservations

Cost Breakdown Day 3: $80-140 (accommodation, tour, entrance fees, meals)

Day 4: Luxor East Bank

Morning: Visit Karnak Temple at opening time (7 AM if possible). This massive temple complex is one of the largest religious sites ever built. The Great Hypostyle Hall, with its 134 massive column,s is absolutely awe-inspiring.

Pro Tip: Starting early means you'll have the temple nearly to ourselves for golden hour photography. We arrived at 7:30 AM, and only a handful of tourists (and a film crew from Channel 4 London) were there!

Plan for 2-3 hours exploring Karnak. Hire a guide at the entrance or book one in advance.

Book a Karnak Temple Guided Tour

Late Morning: Walk or take a short taxi ride to Luxor Temple (about 3km from Karnak). This temple is right in the heart of Luxor city and is beautifully illuminated at night, so you might want to return after dark for photos.

Luxor Temple is smaller than Karnak but incredibly well-preserved. The Avenue of Sphinxes connecting Karnak and Luxor Temple has been recently restored.

Afternoon: Visit the Luxor Museum. Often overlooked, this modern museum has an excellent collection of artifacts found in the Luxor area, including items from Tutankhamun's tomb.

Free time for shopping or relaxing by the pool.

Evening: Return to Luxor Temple after dark to see it illuminated. The lighting creates a magical atmosphere.

Consider a felucca ride on the Nile at sunset—a peaceful way to end your time in Luxor.

Book a sunset felucca sailing trip

Where to Eat:

• Lunch: Gerda's Garden - Beautiful garden setting, German-Egyptian cuisine

• Dinner: 1886 Restaurant at Winter Palace - Splurge on your last night in Luxor

Cost Breakdown Day 4: $70-120 (entrance fees, tours, meals)

Read my complete Luxor travel guide for more tips

Days 5-6: Aswan - Nubian Culture & Nile Serenity

Aswan, a serene city along the Nile in southern Egypt, offers a more relaxed pace than Cairo or Luxor while still providing plenty of historical sites. The Nubian culture, colorful markets, and stunning Nile scenery make Aswan a highlight of any Egypt trip.

Getting to Aswan from Luxor

Option 1: Train We took the train to save money—it cost about $2 USD per ticket! The journey takes 3 hours, BUT trains in Egypt are notorious for delays. We waited an hour and a half past the scheduled departure time. Bring snacks, water, and patience.

Option 2: Private Car Costs $75-200 USD but gets you there in 3-4 hours in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Worth it if you're traveling with 3-4 people.

Book a private transfer from Luxor to Aswan

Option 3: Cruise Multi-day Nile cruises stop at Kom Ombo and Edfu between Luxor and Aswan.

Browse Nile Cruise options

Where to Stay in Aswan

My Recommendations:

• Budget: Wanees Hostel

• Mid-Range: Movenpick Resort Aswan OR Basma Hotel Aswan

  Luxury: Sofitel Legend Old Cataract

Compare all Aswan hotels

Day 5: Aswan Highlights

Early Morning: Watch the sunrise over the Nile from your hotel or the Corniche. Aswan sunrises are spectacular.

Morning: Visit Philae Temple (my absolute favorite temple in Egypt!). Located on an island in the Nile, you can only reach it by boat, which adds to the magical experience. The temple was relocated piece by piece from another island in 1971 when water levels rose due to the High Dam.

The temple is dedicated to the goddess Isis and features beautiful hieroglyphics and well-preserved structures. Morning light is perfect for photography.

Book a Philae Temple Tour with Boat Transfer

Late Morning: Stop at the Unfinished Obelisk on your way back from Philae. This massive obelisk, still attached to the bedrock, shows the ancient stone-cutting techniques.

Afternoon: Visit the Aswan High Dam, an impressive modern engineering feat. The views of Lake Nasser are stunning.

This tour has both the Unfinished Obelisk & Aswan High Dam

Take a felucca ride on the Nile to Elephantine Island or just cruise around. The felucca captains are skilled and the experience is peaceful and relaxing.

Book a felucca sailing trip with hotel pickup

Late Afternoon: Visit the Aswan Botanical Garden on Kitchener's Island. This peaceful garden features exotic plants from around the world and provides a lovely escape from temple-hopping.

Evening: Head to the Desert Nile Aswan viewpoint for sunset. This elevated spot gives you panoramic views of the Nile, the city, and the surrounding desert. Bring your camera!

Where to Eat:

• Lunch: Panorama Restaurant - Nile views, Egyptian and international food

• Dinner: Nubian House - Traditional Nubian cuisine, beautiful atmosphere

Cost Breakdown Day 5: $70-110 (accommodation, tours, entrance fees, meals, felucca ride)

Day 6: Nubian Village & Optional Abu Simbel

Morning Option 1: Nubian Village Take a motorboat to a traditional Nubian Village across the Nile. The villages are painted with bright colors and inhabited by Nubians who speak their own language and maintain unique traditions different from the rest of Egypt. Their origin traces back to Sudan, and they traveled to southern Egypt for farming around the Nile.

A guided visit includes:

• Walking through the colorful village

• Learning about Nubian culture and traditions

• Visiting a Nubian home

• Meeting friendly crocodiles (they keep them as pets!)

• Shopping for handmade Nubian crafts

Book a Nubian Village Tour with a Guide

Morning Option 2: Abu Simbel Day Trip If you have the energy and budget, take a day trip to Abu Simbel (3 hours each way). These massive temples carved into a mountainside by Ramses II are UNESCO World Heritage sites and absolutely stunning.

Most tours depart around 4 AM to arrive for sunrise—worth the early wake-up!

Book an Abu Simbel Day Trip from Aswan

Afternoon: If you did the Nubian Village in the morning, spend the afternoon relaxing at your hotel or exploring the Aswan souq (market). The Aswan market is less touristy than Khan El Khalili in Cairo and great for spices, textiles, and authentic souvenirs.

Evening: Enjoy a final dinner overlooking the Nile. Aswan has a romantic, peaceful energy perfect for reflecting on your Egyptian adventure.

Consider a Sound and Light Show at Philae Temple if you're interested in another perspective on the site.

Where to Eat:

• Lunch: Aswan Moon - Rooftop restaurant, Nubian and Egyptian dishes

• Dinner: 1902 Restaurant at Old Cataract - Splurge-worthy with historic ambiance

Cost Breakdown Day 6: $80-200 (depending on whether you do Abu Simbel, accommodation, tours, meals)

Read my complete Aswan travel guide

Day 7: Return to Cairo & Departure

Most international flights depart from Cairo, so you'll need to return to the capital.

Getting Back to Cairo from Aswan

Option 1: Fly 1-hour flight from Aswan to Cairo. Most convenient for same-day departures.

Find the cheapest flights to Cairo from Aswan on Expedia

Option 2: Overnight Train If your flight isn't until the evening, you could take a morning/afternoon train.

Timing Your Return: If your flight is in the evening, you could spend a few hours in Cairo revisiting favorites or seeing anything you missed:

• Citadel of Cairo and Mohamed Ali Mosque

• Coptic Cairo (Hanging Church, Coptic Museum)

• Islamic Cairo neighborhoods

• Last-minute shopping at Khan El Khalili

If you have an extra day or two, I highly recommend it! There's so much more to see in Cairo.

Beyond the Main Itinerary: Other Destinations Worth Visiting

If you have more than 7 days in Egypt, consider adding these destinations:

Alexandria (2 days) Egypt's Mediterranean coastal city with a blend of Greek, Roman, and Egyptian history. Home to the modern Library of Alexandria and beautiful beaches. If you only have one day, they do offer one-day trips from Cairo.

Dahab (3-4 days) Red Sea beach town perfect for diving, snorkeling, and relaxation. Much more laid-back than Sharm El-Sheikh.

Sharm El-Sheikh (3-4 days) Popular Red Sea resort destination with world-class diving and snorkeling. More info to book here.

White Desert (2 days) Otherworldly limestone formations. Best experienced on an overnight camping trip.

Money-Saving Tips for Egypt

1. Book tours in advance online - Usually cheaper than booking through hotels

2. Eat where locals eat - Street food and local restaurants are delicious and cheap

3. Take the train - Domestic flights are convenient, but trains are much cheaper

4. Bargain at markets - Start at 30-40% of the asking price

5. Use ride-sharing apps - Uber and Careem are cheaper than hotel taxis

6. Visit free sites - Al-Azhar Park, Nile Corniche walks, markets

7. Travel during shoulder season - October-November or February-March for better prices

Sample Budget Breakdown (7 Days)

Budget Traveler: $350-500 total

• Accommodation: $10-20/night (hostels)

• Food: $10-15/day (street food, local restaurants)

• Transportation: Trains and local transport

• Tours: Group tours, some self-guided

Mid-Range Traveler: $700-1,050 total

• Accommodation: $40-60/night (3-star hotels)

• Food: $20-30/day (mix of local and tourist restaurants)

• Transportation: Trains + one domestic flight

• Tours: Mix of group and private tours

Luxury Traveler: $1,500-2,500+ total

• Accommodation: $100-200+/night (4-5 star hotels)

• Food: $40-60/day (upscale restaurants)

• Transportation: Domestic flights, private transfers

• Tours: All private tours with expert guides

Important Travel Tips for Egypt

Safety & Scams

Egypt is generally safe for tourists, but be aware of common scams:

• Papyrus sellers - Only buy from reputable shops; street vendors often sell fake papyrus

• Pyramid guides - Unofficial "guides" who demand payment; stick with licensed guides

• Taxi drivers - Always negotiate the price before getting in, or use Uber

• "Free" help - Nothing is free; people offering help will expect a tip

Cultural Etiquette

• Dress modestly - Cover shoulders and knees, especially at religious sites

• Remove shoes - When entering mosques

• Ask before photographing - Especially people and inside tombs

• Use right hand - For eating and greeting (left hand is considered unclean)

• Bargaining is expected - At markets and with taxi drivers

Photography Guidelines

• Photography fees - Some sites charge extra for cameras

• No flash in tombs - Damages ancient paintings

• Some tombs prohibit photos - Respect the rules

• Best times - Early morning (7-9 AM) and late afternoon (4-6 PM) for lighting

Health & Safety

• Don't drink tap water - Stick to bottled water

• Be cautious with street food - Choose busy stalls with high turnover

• Bring toilet paper - Not always provided

• Sun protection - The sun is intense; use high SPF

• Travel insurance - Don't skip it!

Tipping Culture (Baksheesh)

Tipping is expected in Egypt:

• Restaurant servers: 10-15% (check if service charge included)

• Tour guides: $5-10/day

• Drivers: $3-5/day

• Hotel staff: $1-2 for services

• Bathroom attendants: 5-10 EGP

What to Know Before You Go

Ramadan Travel If visiting during Ramadan (dates change yearly based on the Islamic calendar), be aware:

• Many restaurants closed during day

• Some sites have reduced hours

• Beautiful evening festivities and special foods

• More respectful to not eat/drink in public during fasting hours

Best Time to Visit Egypt

• October to April: Best weather (20-30°C/68-86°F)

• May to September: Very hot (35-45°C/95-113°F) but fewer crowds and lower prices

• Avoid holidays: Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha (Islamic holidays), Coptic Christmas (January 7)

Language Tips Most people in tourist areas speak some English, but learning basic Arabic phrases helps:

• Hello: Salam alaikum

• Thank you: Shukran

• How much?: Bikam?

• No thank you: La shukran

• Please: Min fadlak

Electricity Egypt uses Type C and Type F outlets (220V, 50Hz). Bring an adapter if your devices use different plugs.

Final Thoughts

Egypt exceeded all my expectations. From standing before the Great Pyramids to sailing on a felucca down the Nile, every moment felt like stepping back in time. Yes, it can be hectic and overwhelming, especially in Cairo, but that energy is part of what makes Egypt so captivating.

This 7-day itinerary hits the highlights while still allowing for some relaxation and spontaneous exploration. Egypt deserves more time if you can spare it—10 to 14 days would allow you to visit the Red Sea, explore Alexandria, or add a Nile cruise.

My biggest piece of advice? Embrace the chaos, bargain with a smile, hire good guides, and keep an open mind. Egypt will challenge you and reward you in equal measure.

Safe travels, and I hope this guide helps you create your own Egyptian adventure!

Helpful Resources

My Other Egypt Guides:

• First-Timer's Guide to Cairo

• Complete Luxor Travel Guide

• 10 Must-See Attractions in Aswan

• Discovering Egypt: 15 Destinations for your Bucket List

Book Your Egypt Trip:

• Find flights to Egypt

• Compare hotels across Egypt

• Book tours and activities

• Get travel insurance

• Egypt eSIM for data

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