The Perfect Egypt Itinerary for 9 Days
Egypt has an exhilarating mix of ancient history and modern hustle. Whether you're exploring timeless treasures or getting swept up in the vibrant street life, there’s always something to keep you on your toes.
Even for the most experienced of travelers, I'd highly recommend traveling with a tour group or being escorted by an Egyptologist English speaking tour guide to safely enjoy all the sites and learn as much about the rich history as you can.
Ready to explore Egypt? Here’s my ultimate nine-day itinerary to the country!
Day 1: Cairo
There's no better way to kick off your Egyptian adventure than at the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities. Bursting with ancient treasures, including King Tut’s famous golden mask, you’ll get a good base history for the rest of your trip to build upon.
While you’re in the city, get lost in the vibrant, maze-like Khan El-Khalili Bazaar. Haggle for spices, jewelry, rugs, perfumes, lanterns, souvenirs and so much more. It’s a sensory overload, but in the best way possible!
Check out my guide on how to get the best price for your goods.
Day 2: Cairo + Travel to Aswan
Start the day at the Giza Plateau. Marvel at the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the majestic Sphinx.
It’s a bucket-list moment so live it up & give yourself plenty of time to roam around the grounds and even tour the inside of the pyramids if you’d like!
Afterward head to where it all began, Sakkara, to explore the impressive Step Pyramid and ancient Pharaonic tombs.
Now this is a perfect time to catch a domestic flight from Cairo to Aswan— although the train can be an experience all on its own, the flight will get you there much faster giving you more time to explore other attractions!
How to get from Cairo to Aswan:
- By Flight: The daily flights from Cairo to Aswan (just 1.5 hours) are the fastest option to get across the country and the best way to maximize sightseeing.
- By Train: The overnight sleeper train is a scenic and budget-friendly option (taking around 12-14 hours). You'll get a private cabin and save on accommodation for the night.
Day 3: Aswan
Wake up in Aswan and visit the High Dam where you'll learn how important the dam is in protecting the region from the flooding Nile.
Many of the major sites in Egypt are located right along the river and you'll even have to take a boat to your next site, the stunning Philae Temple. Located on an island, it stands as a dedication to the goddess Isis.
You can choose to take a trip to Kalabsha Temple—unfortunately, I wasn't able to make it on my tour.
At this point you can take the opportunity to sail down the Nile, and soak up the peaceful river views at sunset.
There's nothing in the world like the colors of the sun setting off the Nile River.
For a unique cultural experience end the day with dinner in a local, colorful Nubian Village.
The food was absolutely delicious & the family we visited had a pet crocodile!
READ MORE: 50 Photos to Inspire you to Visit Egypt
Day 4: Aswan + Felucca Cruise
Start the day by stopping at Abu Simbel, home to the jaw-dropping temples built by Ramses II, before getting on a felucca for the day to sail overnight towards Luxor.
You'll spend the rest of the day and night soaking up sun and taking in the peaceful river views.
Sleeping on a felucca under the stars is the peace I never knew I needed!
Day 5: Cruise to Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor
Hop off the felucca to visit Kom Ombo Temple, a fascinating site dedicated to two gods—plus, you don't have to go too far since it's right on the Nile!
Before you arrive in Luxor there is Edfu Temple, one of Egypt’s best-preserved temples and my personal favorite. The interior and the halls of this temple complex are exhilerating and filled with energy! The hieroglyphics seemed to pop right out at you like they were carved just yesterday!
Do not miss this temple
End the day at the magical Luxor Temple after the sun sets for a fresh way to see ancient architecture.
Day 6: Luxor to Hurghada, Red Sea
**Opt for a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Luxor if you’re feeling adventurous—no better way to see the ancient city than from above!
The Temple of Hatshepsut at Al-Deir Al-Bahari stands out with its bold, tiered design carved right into the cliffs and it's a great way to start the day.
Then head to the Valley of the Kings, hidden tombs tucked into the rugged mountains that once housed Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs.
At Karnak Temple, walk through some of the largest and most intricate columns ever built, a testament to the grand scale of ancient Egyptian temple complexes.
You've saved the grandest temple complex for last, and now it's time for the beach! Take a bus to Hurghada for a little more sun & sand but water, too!
Day 7: Hurghada, Red Sea
After soaking in all that history, it’s time to relax at a beachside resort on the refreshing Red Sea!
Enjoy a leisurely day to tailor to your preferences. Whether it's snorkeling, swimming, sun-tanning, scuba diving, or relishing in delightful food and beverages at a poolside day party, you'll really enjoy the water after your journey through the desert,
I decided to scuba dive in the Red Sea and it was an unforgettable experience. I'll admit that I was a little nervous as an inexperienced diver (having only ever gone once befeore in the Caribbean) but after a bit of research, going to the office and checking in, I felt comfortable and safe with the instructors and divers. I felt confident that I would enjoy my second time scuba diving in the Red Sea.
Day 8: Hurghada, Red Sea to Cairo
Take your time and hop on the bus from Hurghada to Cairo for your final leg and some reflection on all the amazing experiences you've had!
Day 9: Cairo or Alexandria Day Trip
I wasn't able to make the trip up north, but if you’ve got an extra day or several hours once you’re back in Cairo, then take a day tour to Alexandria. You can see the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, explore the catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, and stroll along the Corniche for Mediterranean views. A perfect way to wrap up your Egyptian adventure!
And if you choose to use the day for a deeper exploration of Cairo, check out the Cairo Tower, the Citadel of Cairo, and all of the incredible shopping, delicious fine dining restaurants and wonderful resorts.
This 9-day Egypt itinerary offers a perfect blend of iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, and leisurely escapes. From exploring the majestic Pyramids of Giza and sailing on a traditional felucca down the Nile, to diving into the refreshing waters of the Red Sea and even soaring over Luxor in a hot air balloon ride, you'll experience Egypt’s rich history and natural beauty at every turn. Egypt has everything to make your trip unforgettable!
Which part of this epic Egypt adventure is at the top of your bucket list??