Egypt Itinerary 9 Days

Visit Cairo & Giza—From Golden Pyramids to Bustling Bazaars

Cairo is where you marvel at the legendary Giza Pyramids and the timeless Sphinx and dive deep into the treasures of the Grand Egyptian Museum, home to the full collection of Tutankhamun's golden artifacts and other unique antiques from various eras from prehistory up to Roman and Greek times.

Wander through the bustling lanes of Khan El Khalili Bazaar and El Moez Street, teeming with handicrafts and jewelry while keeping the historical atmosphere of the magical east; visit the panoramic Citadel of Saladin over ancient Cairo; and don’t miss the stunning Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Want to dig even deeper into history? Add a side trip to Saqqara and Dahshur, where Egypt’s earliest pyramids mark the first steps in pyramid-building evolution.

You can also add a quick visit to Alexandria, Egypt’s Mediterranean gem, for a coastal escape rich in Greco-Roman charm.

Explore Luxor (On Land) —Egypt’s Open-Air Museum.

Take a domestic flight to Luxor, home to a third of the world’s ancient monuments. Explore the legendary Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs—including Tutankhamun—rest in richly decorated tombs. Visit the majestic Temple of Hatshepsut and the imposing Colossi of Memnon on the West Bank.

Cross to the East Bank to experience the vast Karnak Temple, with its towering columns and sacred avenues, then end your day at Luxor Temple, beautifully lit by night. You can even upgrade your stay with a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Nile for an unforgettable aerial view of ancient Thebes.

Ready to elevate your experience? Book your balloon ride in advance—slots fill up quickly!

Discover Aswan (On Land)—Tranquility Meets Ancient Power

Arrive in Aswan, Egypt’s laid-back southern city where desert, river, and culture merge. Explore the stunning island Temple of Philae, accessible only by boat, and visit the monumental Aswan High Dam. Enjoy a peaceful felucca ride on the Nile, or wander through the vibrant Nubian villages.

For a breathtaking optional trip, head south to Abu Simbel, where colossal statues of Ramses II stand guard over one of Egypt’s most impressive temples—carved directly into rock and rescued from rising waters.

Nile Cruise—Sail Through Living History

Board a luxury Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan (or vice versa) and relax as Egypt’s timeless beauty unfolds instead of visiting the giant temples and majestictombs on land. Visit the impressive Temple of Luxor and Aswan, stopping at Edfu, the most well-preserved temple in ancient Egypt, and the unique double temple at Kom Ombo, devoted to two gods—Sobek and Horus the Elder.

While sailing, enjoy top-tier onboard amenities, from comfortable suites and fine dining to sun decks and evening entertainment. There’s no better way to travel between ancient cities than by floating down the river that gave life to them all.

From Dunes of the Desert to Deep Blue of the Red Sea—Experience It All

After exploring the heart of ancient Egypt, it’s time to relax or go wild—your choice! Head to the Red Sea in Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, or Marsa Alam for white-sand beaches, colorful coral reefs, and world-class diving and snorkeling. You’ll find everything from luxury resorts to water sports and island-hopping excursions.

Prefer sand dunes to sea waves? Opt for a White Desert safari, where surreal landscapes, chalk rock formations, and starlit campsites offer an adventure like no other. You can even explore the remote beauty of Siwa Oasis, with its salt lakes, hot springs, and rich Berber culture. You can also combine both—Egypt lets you end your journey with a thrill and a chill.