Egypt's Ancient Wonders: Pyramids & Nile Cruise Adventure

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1 — Cairo, Egypt

   7 activities

   • 14:00 - 15:00Exploration

     Hotel Check-in and Relaxation

     Arrive at Ramses Hilton, complete check-in procedures, and take some time to refresh after your journey. Settle into your room and enjoy the views of the bustling city or the tranquil Nile.

     Ramses Hilton, 1115 Corniche El Nil, Cairo
     AccommodationArrival
   • 15:45 - 18:30Sightseeing

     Explore the Giza Pyramids and Sphinx

     Witness the awe-inspiring Great Pyramids of Giza, the last remaining wonder of the ancient world. Stand before the colossal Sphinx, guardian of these timeless tombs, and marvel at the ingenuity of ancient Egyptian civilization.

     Giza Necropolis, Al Haram, Giza Governorate~$30
     Ancient HistoryLandmarkIconic
   • 19:00 - 20:30Eating

     Dinner at Abu Shakra

     Savor authentic Egyptian cuisine at Abu Shakra, a renowned restaurant near the pyramids. Enjoy grilled meats, traditional mezze, and local specialties in a vibrant setting, perfect for your first evening in Cairo.

     11 El Haram St, Giza~$30
     Local CuisineDinner
   • 21:00 - 22:00Exploration

     Return to Hotel & Rest

     Head back to the Ramses Hilton for a well-deserved rest. Reflect on the day's incredible sights and prepare for more adventures tomorrow.

     Ramses Hilton, 1115 Corniche El Nil, Cairo
     Relaxation
2. 2

   Day 2 — Cairo, Egypt

   11 activities

   • 08:00 - 09:00Eating

     Breakfast at Hotel

     Enjoy a delicious breakfast spread at your hotel, offering a variety of international and local options to energize you for a day of historical exploration.

     Ramses Hilton, 1115 Corniche El Nil, Cairo
     Breakfast
   • 09:45 - 12:30Sightseeing

     Explore Saqqara and the Step Pyramid

     Journey to Saqqara, the ancient necropolis home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the world's oldest stone building. Explore the vast complex, including mastabas with intricate carvings, offering a deeper insight into early Egyptian burial practices.

     Saqqara, Giza Governorate~$20
     Ancient HistoryArchaeologyPyramids
   • 12:45 - 14:00Sightseeing

     Visit Memphis, Ancient Capital of Egypt

     Discover the ruins of Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt, founded by King Menes. See the colossal statue of Ramesses II and the alabaster Sphinx, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of this once-mighty city.

     Memphis, Mit Rahina, Giza Governorate~$10
     Ancient HistoryCapital CityStatues
   • 14:45 - 15:45Eating

     Lunch at Felfela

     Enjoy a casual and authentic Egyptian lunch at Felfela, a famous downtown restaurant known for its falafel, foul medames, and other traditional street food dishes. It's a beloved local institution.

     15 Hoda Shaarawy, Bab Al Louk, Downtown Cairo~$20
     Local CuisineLunchCasual
   • 16:00 - 19:30Exploration

     Visit the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)

     Immerse yourself in the world's largest archaeological museum dedicated to a single civilization. Explore the stunning collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the complete Tutankhamun treasures, in its magnificent new home overlooking the Giza Pyramids.

     El Remaya, Giza Governorate~$40
     MuseumArchaeologyTutankhamun
   • 20:00 - 21:30Eating

     Dinner near Hotel

     Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants within or near the Ramses Hilton, offering a variety of cuisines. This provides a relaxing end to a day filled with extensive historical exploration.

     Ramses Hilton area, Cairo~$40
     DinnerConvenience
3. 3

   Day 3 — Cairo, Egypt

   11 activities

   • 08:00 - 09:00Eating

     Breakfast at Hotel

     Start your day with a satisfying breakfast at the hotel, preparing you for a journey through Cairo's rich Islamic and Coptic heritage.

     Ramses Hilton, 1115 Corniche El Nil, Cairo
     Breakfast
   • 09:30 - 12:00Sightseeing

     Visit the Saladin Citadel and Mosque of Muhammad Ali

     Explore the medieval Islamic fortification of the Saladin Citadel, offering panoramic views of Cairo. Marvel at the stunning Mosque of Muhammad Ali, an Ottoman-style mosque with its distinctive domes and minarets.

     Al Abageyah, El Khalifa, Cairo Governorate~$20
     Islamic HistoryArchitectureViewpoint
   • 12:15 - 14:00Exploration

     Explore Khan el-Khalili Bazaar

     Wander through the labyrinthine alleys of Khan el-Khalili, a historic souk dating back to the 14th century. Browse for spices, jewelry, souvenirs, and traditional crafts, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this ancient marketplace.

     El-Gamaleya, El Gamaliya, Cairo Governorate~$30
     ShoppingCultureMarket
   • 14:00 - 15:00Eating

     Lunch at Naguib Mahfouz Cafe

     Enjoy lunch in the heart of Khan el-Khalili at Naguib Mahfouz Cafe, named after the Nobel laureate. Experience traditional Egyptian hospitality and cuisine amidst a beautifully decorated, historic setting.

     El-Gamaleya, El Gamaliya, Cairo Governorate~$25
     Local CuisineLunchHistoric Cafe
   • 15:30 - 17:30Sightseeing

     Discover Coptic Cairo

     Step back in time in Coptic Cairo, one of the oldest parts of the city. Visit the Hanging Church, the Church of St. Sergius (where the Holy Family is said to have rested), and the Ben Ezra Synagogue, showcasing Cairo's rich religious diversity.

     Coptic Cairo, Kom Ghorab, Old Cairo~$10
     Religious SitesHistoryCulture
   • 18:00 - 19:30Exploration

     Relax at Hotel

     Enjoy some leisure time at the hotel. You might choose to relax by the pool, enjoy a drink at the hotel bar, or simply unwind in your room after a full day of sightseeing.

     Ramses Hilton, 1115 Corniche El Nil, Cairo
     RelaxationHotel Amenities
   • 20:00 - 21:30Eating

     Dinner at a Nile-side Restaurant

     Indulge in a delightful dinner at a restaurant along the Nile Corniche. Enjoy delicious food with picturesque views of the Nile River at night, a perfect way to conclude your Cairo exploration.

     Nile Corniche area, Cairo~$50
     DinnerNile ViewRomantic
4. 4

   Day 4 — Luxor, Egypt

   10 activities

   • 06:00 - 07:00Eating

     Early Morning Breakfast & Hotel Check-out

     Have an early breakfast at the hotel before checking out. Prepare for your transfer to Cairo International Airport for your domestic flight to Luxor.

     Ramses Hilton, 1115 Corniche El Nil, Cairo
     BreakfastCheck-out
   • 07:45 - 11:30Travel

     Travel to Luxor & Board Nile Cruise

     Fly from Cairo to Luxor. Upon arrival at Luxor International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your luxurious Nile cruise ship. Complete check-in and settle into your cabin, ready for your river adventure.

     Cairo International Airport (CAI) to Luxor International Airport (LXR) & Cruise Dock, Luxor
     FlightCruiseArrival
   • 12:00 - 13:00Eating

     Lunch on Board Cruise Ship

     Enjoy your first delicious lunch on board the Movenpick MS Hamees Nile Cruise. Savor a variety of international and local dishes as you begin your journey along the historic Nile River.

     Movenpick MS Hamees Nile Cruise, Luxor
     LunchCruise
   • 14:30 - 17:00Sightseeing

     Explore Karnak Temple Complex

     Visit the magnificent Karnak Temple Complex, the largest ancient religious site in the world. Walk through the Avenue of Sphinxes, marvel at the towering obelisks, and explore the vast hypostyle hall with its massive columns.

     Karnak, Luxor, Luxor Governorate~$20
     Ancient HistoryTempleArchitecture
   • 17:15 - 19:00Sightseeing

     Visit Luxor Temple

     Discover the beautiful Luxor Temple, dedicated to the Theban Triad. Best visited in the late afternoon or evening as the sun sets, when the temple's illuminated statues and columns create a magical atmosphere.

     Luxor Temple, Luxor City, Luxor Governorate~$15
     Ancient HistoryTempleEvening
   • 19:30 - 21:00Eating

     Dinner on Board Cruise Ship

     Return to your cruise ship for a delightful dinner. Enjoy the evening entertainment or relax on the deck, preparing for more explorations on the West Bank tomorrow.

     Movenpick MS Hamees Nile Cruise, Luxor
     DinnerCruise
5. 5

   Day 5 — Luxor, Egypt

   11 activities

   • 07:00 - 08:00Eating

     Breakfast on Board

     Enjoy a hearty breakfast on the cruise ship before heading out to explore the wonders of Luxor's West Bank, the ancient 'City of the Dead'.

     Movenpick MS Hamees Nile Cruise, Luxor
     BreakfastCruise
   • 08:30 - 11:30Exploration

     Explore the Valley of the Kings

     Venture into the Valley of the Kings, the burial ground of pharaohs and nobles of the New Kingdom. Descend into several elaborately decorated tombs, including that of Tutankhamun (optional extra ticket), and marvel at the vibrant hieroglyphs.

     Valley of the Kings, Luxor, Luxor Governorate~$30
     Ancient HistoryTombsArchaeology
   • 11:45 - 13:15Sightseeing

     Visit the Temple of Hatshepsut

     Discover the Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a stunning example of ancient Egyptian architecture built into the cliff face. Admire its unique terraced design and learn about the powerful female pharaoh.

     Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, Luxor, Luxor Governorate~$15
     Ancient HistoryTempleArchitecture
   • 13:30 - 14:00Sightseeing

     See the Colossi of Memnon

     Stop to admire the colossal statues of Amenhotep III, known as the Colossi of Memnon. These massive stone figures once guarded the entrance to Amenhotep III's mortuary temple, which has long since vanished.

     Colossi of Memnon, Luxor, Luxor Governorate
     Ancient HistoryStatuesLandmark
   • 14:30 - 15:30Eating

     Lunch on Board & Sail to Edfu

     Return to the cruise ship for lunch as your vessel begins its scenic journey south towards Edfu. Enjoy the shifting landscapes of the Nile River from the sun deck.

     Movenpick MS Hamees Nile Cruise
     LunchCruiseSailing
   • 15:30 - 19:00Exploration

     Relaxing Afternoon of Sailing

     Spend the afternoon relaxing on the sundeck, enjoying the views of the Nile River and the surrounding countryside as the cruise sails towards Edfu. Take advantage of the onboard amenities.

     Movenpick MS Hamees Nile Cruise
     RelaxationSailingScenery
   • 19:30 - 21:00Eating

     Dinner on Board Cruise Ship

     Enjoy a delicious dinner on board as the cruise continues its journey. Participate in the evening entertainment or simply relax with fellow travelers.

     Movenpick MS Hamees Nile Cruise
     DinnerCruise
6. 6

   Day 6 — Luxor, Egypt

   9 activities

   • 07:00 - 08:00Eating

     Breakfast on Board

     Enjoy breakfast on the cruise ship before disembarking to visit the well-preserved Temple of Horus in Edfu.

     Movenpick MS Hamees Nile Cruise, Edfu
     BreakfastCruise
   • 08:30 - 10:30Sightseeing

     Visit Edfu Temple (Temple of Horus)

     Explore the magnificent Temple of Horus in Edfu, one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Egypt. Marvel at its towering pylons, intricate hieroglyphs, and detailed reliefs depicting mythical scenes.

     Edfu Temple, Edfu, Aswan Governorate~$15
     Ancient HistoryTemplePreserved
   • 11:00 - 13:00Eating

     Sail to Kom Ombo & Lunch on Board

     Return to the cruise ship and enjoy a relaxing sail towards Kom Ombo. Lunch will be served on board as you take in the picturesque views of the Nile.

     Movenpick MS Hamees Nile Cruise
     SailingLunchCruise
   • 13:30 - 15:30Sightseeing

     Visit Kom Ombo Temple

     Explore the unique double temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to two deities: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus the Elder. Admire its symmetrical design and the fascinating Nilometer used to measure the Nile's flood levels.

     Kom Ombo Temple, Kom Ombo, Aswan Governorate~$10
     Ancient HistoryTempleUnique Design
   • 16:00 - 19:00Exploration

     Sail to Aswan & Afternoon Tea

     Continue sailing towards Aswan, enjoying the serene beauty of the Nile River. Afternoon tea will be served on the sun deck, offering a delightful break amidst the stunning scenery.

     Movenpick MS Hamees Nile Cruise
     SailingRelaxationScenery
   • 19:30 - 21:00Eating

     Dinner on Board Cruise Ship

     Enjoy a final dinner on board as the cruise ship docks in Aswan. Prepare for a full day of exploration in Aswan tomorrow.

     Movenpick MS Hamees Nile Cruise, Aswan
     DinnerCruise
7. 7

   Day 7 — Luxor, Egypt

   11 activities

   • 07:00 - 08:00Eating

     Breakfast on Board

     Enjoy breakfast on the cruise ship before embarking on a morning tour of Aswan's key attractions.

     Movenpick MS Hamees Nile Cruise, Aswan
     BreakfastCruise
   • 08:30 - 09:30Sightseeing

     Visit the Aswan High Dam

     See the engineering marvel of the Aswan High Dam, an embankment dam built across the Nile River. Learn about its significant impact on Egypt's economy and agriculture, and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Nasser.

     Aswan High Dam, Aswan Governorate~$5
     Modern EngineeringLandmark
   • 10:00 - 11:30Exploration

     Explore the Unfinished Obelisk

     Discover the Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan's ancient granite quarries. Witness the colossal scale of this abandoned monument, offering unique insights into ancient Egyptian stone-cutting techniques and the challenges faced by artisans.

     Unfinished Obelisk, Aswan, Aswan Governorate~$10
     Ancient HistoryArchaeologyCraftsmanship
   • 12:00 - 14:00Sightseeing

     Visit Philae Temple

     Take a motorboat to the beautiful Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Relocated to Agilkia Island to save it from flooding, this temple is renowned for its stunning architecture and picturesque setting.

     Philae Temple, Agilkia Island, Aswan Governorate~$20
     Ancient HistoryTempleIsland
   • 14:30 - 15:30Eating

     Lunch on Board Cruise Ship

     Return to the cruise ship for a delicious lunch. Enjoy the last moments of your full board experience on the Nile.

     Movenpick MS Hamees Nile Cruise, Aswan
     LunchCruise
   • 16:00 - 18:00Exploration

     Felucca Ride on the Nile

     Enjoy a traditional felucca ride on the tranquil waters of the Nile around Aswan. Relax and soak in the beautiful scenery, passing by Elephantine Island and the Aga Khan Mausoleum, a perfect end to your cruise experience.

     Nile River, Aswan~$25
     RelaxationNileBoat Ride
   • 19:00 - 20:30Eating

     Farewell Dinner on Board Cruise Ship

     Enjoy a special farewell dinner on board the cruise ship, reflecting on your incredible journey along the Nile. There might be a final evening entertainment program.

     Movenpick MS Hamees Nile Cruise, Aswan
     DinnerCruiseFarewell
8. 8

   Day 8 — Cairo, Egypt

   7 activities

   • 08:00 - 09:00Eating

     Breakfast on Board & Cruise Check-out

     Enjoy your last breakfast on the Nile cruise ship before completing check-out procedures. Prepare for your transfer to Aswan International Airport.

     Movenpick MS Hamees Nile Cruise, Aswan
     BreakfastCheck-out
   • 09:30 - 13:00Travel

     Flight from Aswan to Cairo

     Transfer to Aswan International Airport for your domestic flight back to Cairo. Enjoy the aerial views as you return to the capital city.

     Aswan International Airport (ASW) to Cairo International Airport (CAI)
     FlightDomestic Travel
   • 13:45 - 14:45Eating

     Hotel Check-in & Lunch

     Check back into the Ramses Hilton in Cairo. After settling in, enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the hotel's restaurants or a nearby eatery.

     Ramses Hilton, 1115 Corniche El Nil, Cairo~$30
     Check-inLunch
   • 15:00 - 18:00Exploration

     Relaxation and Leisure

     Spend the afternoon relaxing at the hotel after your flight. You might want to use the hotel's amenities, go for a swim, or simply unwind in your room.

     Ramses Hilton, 1115 Corniche El Nil, Cairo
     RelaxationLeisure
   • 19:30 - 21:00Eating

     Dinner and Evening Entertainment (Optional)

     Enjoy dinner at a restaurant of your choice in Cairo. Consider an optional evening activity such as a Nile dinner cruise with belly dancing and Sufi shows for a memorable experience.

     Cairo City Center / Nile River~$60
     DinnerEntertainmentNile Cruise
9. 9

   Day 9 — Cairo, Egypt

   10 activities

   • 08:00 - 09:00Eating

     Breakfast at Hotel

     Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the Ramses Hilton, preparing for a day dedicated to exploring more of Cairo's diverse historical and cultural neighborhoods.

     Ramses Hilton, 1115 Corniche El Nil, Cairo
     Breakfast
   • 09:30 - 12:30Exploration

     Explore Islamic Cairo

     Delve into the vibrant streets of Islamic Cairo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Al-Azhar Mosque, the historic Al-Hakim Mosque, and wander through medieval gates and ancient city walls, experiencing centuries of Islamic art and architecture.

     Islamic Cairo, Al-Darb Al-Ahmar, Cairo Governorate~$10
     Islamic HistoryArchitectureCulture
   • 12:45 - 13:45Eating

     Lunch at El Azhar Area

     Enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch at a local restaurant in the bustling Al-Azhar area. Savor authentic dishes like koshary, molokhia, or grilled kebabs in a lively, local setting.

     Near Al-Azhar Mosque, Islamic Cairo~$20
     Local CuisineLunch
   • 14:30 - 17:30Exploration

     Modern Cairo Shopping or Museum Visit

     Choose between exploring modern shopping centers like City Stars Mall for international brands, or revisiting a museum for deeper insights, such as the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) to see the Royal Mummies.

     City Stars Mall (30.0964, 31.3653) OR NMEC (30.0071, 31.2366)~$40
     ShoppingModern CultureMuseum
   • 18:00 - 19:30Exploration

     Relaxation at Hotel

     Enjoy some final leisure time at the hotel, perhaps enjoying a drink at the bar or simply relaxing in your room after a day of diverse exploration.

     Ramses Hilton, 1115 Corniche El Nil, Cairo
     Relaxation
   • 20:00 - 21:30Eating

     Farewell Dinner at Sequoia

     Enjoy a farewell dinner at Sequoia, a highly-rated, chic restaurant on Zamalek Island known for its beautiful Nile views, fresh Mediterranean cuisine, and relaxed ambiance.

     53 Abou El Feda, Zamalek, Cairo~$60
     DinnerFine DiningNile View
10. 10

    Day 10 — Cairo, Egypt

    5 activities

    • 08:00 - 09:00Eating

      Breakfast at Hotel

      Enjoy your final Egyptian breakfast at the hotel, savoring the last moments of your trip before preparing for departure.

      Ramses Hilton, 1115 Corniche El Nil, Cairo
      Breakfast
    • 09:00 - 10:30Exploration

      Last-minute Souvenir Shopping / Packing

      Use this time for any last-minute souvenir shopping near the hotel or to finalize your packing. Ensure all your precious finds are securely stored for your journey home.

      Ramses Hilton area, Cairo~$40
      ShoppingPreparation
    • 11:00 - 12:00Exploration

      Hotel Check-out

      Complete the check-out process at the Ramses Hilton. Ensure all your belongings are accounted for and settle any remaining balances.

      Ramses Hilton, 1115 Corniche El Nil, Cairo
      Check-out
    • 12:45 - 15:00Travel

      Departure from Cairo International Airport (CAI)

      Transfer to Cairo International Airport for your departure flight, concluding your unforgettable 10-day journey through the ancient wonders of Egypt.

      Cairo International Airport (CAI)
      DepartureAirport

Where to Stay

• Cairo, Egypt

  Ramses Hilton

  $120.0 / night3 nights4.5
  Central location with Nile viewsReputable international brandEasy access to major attractions
• Luxor, Egypt

  Movenpick MS Hamees Nile Cruise

  $250.0 / night3 nights4.7
  Highly-rated luxury cruise shipExcellent service and amenitiesConvenient way to see multiple sites
• Cairo, Egypt

  Ramses Hilton

  $120.0 / night2 nights4.5
  Familiar and comfortable baseCentral location for final explorationEasy access to airport