Egypt Itinerary 7 Days

Top Highlights and Experiences in a 7-Day Egypt Itinerary

A 7-day itinerary in Egypt is just the right amount of time to discover the country’s most iconic treasures—from the Giza Pyramids and the Nile River temples to the White Desert landscapes and the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea. In just one unforgettable week, you can uncover ancient history, thrilling desert adventures, and world-class beach escapes.

Let’s guide you through how to make the most of your 7-day Egypt itinerary, with flexible options for combining Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, the Western Desert, and the Red Sea.

Explore the Timeless Wonders of Cairo

Cairo is this bustling capital packed with historical gems, including the iconic Giza Pyramids, posed with the Great Sphinx, and the world’s largest archaeological museum—the Grand Egyptian Museum, home to the full Tutankhamun collection.

It is also where you can stroll through Old Cairo and visit the Hanging Church, besides the vibrant Khan El Khalili Bazaar and El Moez Street, for a unique shopping experience amid the Fatimid atmosphere.

Explore the true origins of pyramid building by visiting Saqqara with the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest pyramid in Egypt, and Dahshur, marveling at the Bent Pyramid and Red Pyramid, early attempts at perfecting the pyramid shape. 

You can also wrap up your ancient circuit at Memphis, the first capital of ancient Egypt, where a massive statue of Ramses II stands tall.

 Escape to the Roman and Greek world on the Mediterranean Sea at Alexandria. Just a few hours away, explore catacombs, coastal fortresses, and the iconic Bibliotheca Alexandrina in a relaxed seaside setting.

Sail Through Ancient Time with a River Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan (or Vice Versa)

A Nile cruise journey is one of the most magical ways to experience Egypt’s ancient wonders. Sailing between Luxor and Aswan, you’ll glide along the lifeline of Egypt—the Nile River—just as the pharaohs once did. The cruise combines luxury, comfort, and culture, with stops at Egypt’s most breathtaking temples and tombs. A Nile cruise is more than transportation—it’s a moving experience through Egypt’s timeless legacy.

From the towering columns of Karnak Temple and the royal tombs in the Valley of the Kings to the well-preserved Edfu Temple, the unique double temple of Kom Ombo, and Aswan, where the graceful Philae Temple awaits on its own island, every day brings a new chapter of history to life. You can even add an optional trip to Abu Simbel, carved into a cliff by Ramses II. 

Explore Luxor & Aswan by Land: A Journey Beyond the Nile Cruise

You don’t need to take a cruise to experience the majesty of Luxor and Aswan—these two cities are open-air museums filled with wonders waiting to be explored by land through AC vehicles. Wandering through this world’s greatest open-air museum, Thebes, Luxor, which was once the capital of ancient Egypt, is an experience in itself.

A short drive takes you to Aswan; the pace slows down as you visit the serene Philae Temple on Agilkia Island, stroll through colorful Nubian villages, and relax by the peaceful Nile banks. Whether by car or plane, exploring Luxor and Aswan overland allows for a flexible, in-depth look at ancient Egypt—without the need to sail.

Choose the Desert or the Sea—Or Experience Both in One Red Sea Adventure

You can also add the magic of witnessing Egypt’s otherworldly White and Black Deserts by venturing deep into Bahariya Oasis, crossing through surreal chalk rock formations, exploring ancient landscapes by 4×4, and camping beneath a blanket of stars. But the desert magic doesn’t end there—alternatively, you can visit the remote and mystical Siwa Oasis, which is famous for its salt lakes, hot springs, and the Temple of the Oracle of Amun, once visited by Alexander the Great. Siwa offers a peaceful, culturally rich contrast to the raw wilderness of the White Desert.

You have another option: flying to Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh to relax on sun-drenched beaches, snorkel among coral reefs, or dive into some of the best underwater spots on Earth. Ideal for couples and families alike.

With one week in Egypt, you can check off the top must-see sites, enjoy authentic cultural experiences, and balance adventure with relaxation. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, Egypt offers unbeatable diversity and history in every corner.