Egypt Travel Guide: Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan Itinerary

Are you planning a trip to Egypt and wondering how to make the most of your time in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan? This detailed Egypt travel guide is based on our first-hand experience exploring the top attractions in Egypt over five unforgettable days. From ancient pyramids and temples to Nile River cruises and hidden gems, here’s everything you need to plan your Egypt itinerary. It’s a travel blueprint you can save, use, and follow as if you were right there with us.

Where to stay in Cairo: Kempinski Nile Hotel Cairo – centrally located in Garden City with Nile views and a rooftop pool.

Morning: Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx
Start your Egypt trip with a visit to the Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Arrive by 9:00 AM to avoid large crowds. The complex includes the Great Pyramid (you can go inside), the Pyramid of Khafre, the Pyramid of Menkaure, and the Great Sphinx. Allocate 2–3 hours for your visit.

Midday: Traditional Egyptian Lunch
After visiting the pyramids, head to Felfela Restaurant Cairo, located 20 minutes away, for authentic Egyptian dishes such as falafel, grilled meats, and lentil soup.

Afternoon: Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square
Explore the Egyptian Museum, home to over 120,000 artifacts including the treasures of King Tutankhamun. Spend 1.5–2 hours here. Consider hiring a licensed guide or using a mobile audio guide app for context.

Evening: Al-Azhar Park and Khan El Khalili Bazaar
Relax at Al-Azhar Park with panoramic views of Cairo. Then head to Khan El Khalili, Cairo’s most famous market, for souvenirs, spices, and local crafts. Don’t miss a traditional tea at El Fishawy Café.

Want to pre-book a guided tour of the pyramids? Check out this link here.

How to get to Luxor from Cairo: Take a one-hour domestic flight.

Where to stay in Luxor: Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa – located along the east bank of the Nile with excellent amenities.

Morning: Karnak Temple Complex
Start your Luxor itinerary with a visit to Karnak Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in the world. Key highlights include the Great Hypostyle Hall, obelisks, and the sacred lake. Visit early to avoid midday heat.

Midday: Avenue of Sphinxes and Luxor Temple
Walk or drive down the Avenue of Sphinxes connecting Karnak to Luxor Temple. This temple, dating back to 1400 BCE, is especially beautiful in the evening when illuminated.

Evening: Relax by the Nile
Enjoy a Nile-side dinner at the hotel or explore local restaurants like the Pavillon Winter Luxor. Take a short walk along the Luxor Corniche for views of the West Bank at sunset.

Morning: Valley of the Kings
Take an early morning transfer (by car or boat) to the West Bank of Luxor. Start with the Valley of the Kings, the burial site of many pharaohs including Tutankhamun. Entry includes access to several tombs – Ramses IV and Tutankhamun are highly recommended.

Midday: Temple of Hatshepsut
Visit the Temple of Hatshepsut, a stunning structure built into the cliffs. It honors one of Egypt’s few female pharaohs. Spend around 45 minutes here.

Quick Stop: Colossi of Memnon
On the way back, stop at the Colossi of Memnon, two giant statues dating back to the 14th century BCE.

Afternoon: Rest and Shopping
Return to your hotel to cool off, then explore local shops for handmade souvenirs and traditional Egyptian crafts along the Nile promenade.

How to get to Aswan from Luxor: Take a 3.5-hour scenic train ride or a short flight.

Where to stay in Aswan: Sofitel Legend Old Cataract – a luxury hotel on the Nile River with historical charm.

Morning: Philae Temple on Agilkia Island
Take a short boat ride to the Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis. The temple was relocated to this island after the construction of the Aswan High Dam. Budget 1–2 hours.

Midday: Unfinished Obelisk
Visit the Unfinished Obelisk at the ancient granite quarries to understand how massive monuments were carved from stone.

Evening: Sunset by the Nile
Enjoy a quiet evening at your hotel terrace or take a felucca (traditional sailboat) ride on the Nile. For dinner, the Mövenpick Resort Aswan has one of the best rooftop dining experiences in the city.

Looking to travel around Europe to your next trip? Our blogs covers the best itinerary on budget options! Check out here.

How to get to Abu Simbel: Join a group tour or hire a private driver for the 3-hour drive each way. Tours typically leave around 4:30 AM.

Morning: Explore Abu Simbel Temples
Visit the majestic Abu Simbel Temples, built by Ramses II. These rock-cut temples were relocated in the 1960s to prevent submersion by Lake Nasser. Allow 2 hours to explore both temples, especially the Temple of Nefertari with its impressive carvings.

Afternoon: Return to Aswan
Arrive back in Aswan by 3:00 PM. Enjoy a relaxing farewell dinner overlooking the river or on Elephantine Island.

You may want to book your Abu Simbel day tour with this provider in advance here.

• Best time to visit Egypt: October to April for pleasant weather. 
• Visa requirements: Many nationalities can apply online for an Egypt eVisa. 
• Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP). Cash is preferred in many local places. 
• Transportation: Use Uber in Cairo; book trains/flights between cities in advance. 

Dress code: Light, breathable clothes; modest attire for temple visits.

Egypt is a dream destination for history lovers, culture seekers, and adventure travelers. Whether you're marveling at the Pyramids of Giza, exploring hidden tombs in the Valley of the Kings, or cruising the Nile under golden sunsets, this country delivers unforgettable experiences every step of the way. Use this Cairo–Luxor–Aswan itinerary as your essential guide to travel through Egypt efficiently, comfortably, and meaningfully.

 As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own.

Angie xoxo