10 Days Egypt Itinerary: Ancient Wonders & Local Treasures
If you’re dreaming of the Pyramids of Giza, Vibrant Culture and golden deserts, this 10-day Egypt itinerary is perfect! It covers the most famous destinations like the Pyramids of Giza, Valley of the Kings, Luxor and the scenic ride across the river Nile. I’ve also included some local tips and hidden gems that made our trip truly unforgettable!
Day 1 – Travel Day
This travel day sets the stage for your Egypt adventure giving you time to settle in, adjust, and prepare for two weeks of historic exploration and local experiences.
Travel Tip: Keep all important documents (passport, visa, travel insurance) in an easy-access spot when arriving in Egypt.
Day 2 – Arrival in Cairo, Egyptian Museum & Khan El-Khalili
Today covers Egypt’s best intro — world-famous museums, ancient artifacts, local markets, and iconic cuisine.
We arrived in Cairo early in the morning. After going through immigration and collecting our luggage, we headed straight to our hotel, located just steps away from the Giza Plateau. The highlight of this hotel was definitely the rooftop. It offered stunning views of the pyramids especially beautiful during sunset.
After a quick rest and freshening up, we booked an Uber (which we used throughout our time in Cairo. It was much safer and easier than local taxis) and made our way to the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square. I almost skipped the Egyptian Museum because of the crowds, but I’m so glad we didn’t. It ended up being one of my favorite stops in Cairo. It holds over 120,000 artifacts, including some of the most iconic treasures from Ancient Egypt.
💡 Tip: If possible, check opening hours before you go and aim to arrive right when it opens to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
Some of the highlights in the museum were the golden mask of Tutankhamun, ancient jewelry, massive statues, scrolls made of papyrus and the Royal Mummies Hall. The Royal Mummies Hall has the preserved remains of pharaohs on display. You can easily spend a couple of hours exploring the museum. It can get quite warm inside, so it’s a good idea to bring water and maybe a portable fan.
In the evening, we went to Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, one of the oldest and liveliest markets in the Middle East. It’s been around since the 14th century and is full of narrow alleys and colorful shops selling everything from spices and lanterns to perfumes, jewelry and souvenirs. The atmosphere is lively with so much to see and experience.
Travel Tip: Bargaining is expected here! Carry small cash and embrace the local custom for better prices.
For dinner, we ate at the famous Naguib Mahfouz Café, right in the heart of the market. The café is named after Egypt’s Nobel Prize-winning author and is known for its traditional Egyptian food and elegant setting. We tried Koshari, one of Egypt’s most popular street foods. It’s a flavorful mix of macaroni, rice, lentils, chickpeas and crispy onions, all topped with a tangy tomato sauce and garlic vinegar. Super delicious and very filling!
💡 Travel Tip: Bargaining is common in the bazaar, so don’t be afraid to haggle a bit. But if you prefer fixed prices, visit Jordi, a great store for souvenirs. Also, make sure to carry cash since many shops don’t accept cards.
Day 3 – Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, Saqqara & Memphis
Today is the heart of ancient Egypt — from the iconic Pyramids of Giza to the historic Step Pyramid of Saqqara and the ruins of Memphis.
We started our day early with a local guide to explore Cairo’s most iconic sites. Our first stop was the legendary Giza Plateau. Giza Plateau is home to the Great Pyramids of Giza, one of the most famous landmarks in the world. These pyramids were built more than 4,500 years ago as tombs for the ancient pharaohs and remain the only surviving wonder of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Standing in front of the pyramids felt unreal—photos truly don’t prepare you for how massive they are. I remember going completely quiet for a moment because it didn’t feel real.
💡 Tip: Best times to visit the Giza Plateau are early morning or late afternoon to beat both heat and crowds — especially during peak months.
Our next stop was the most famous Great Sphinx of Giza located right next to the pyramids. The Great Sphinx of Giza is a massive statue carved out of limestone with the body of a lion and the face of a pharaoh, believed to represent King Khafre. Seeing it up close, guarding the plateau as it has for millennia, made it easy to understand why it remains such a powerful symbol of ancient Egyptian strength and wisdom.
Sphinx
Giza Pyramids
Giza Pyramids
Ramses the Great
Saqqara
After soaking in the views at Giza, we continued our journey to Saqqara, one of the oldest and most important archaeological sites in Egypt. This is where you’ll find the Step Pyramid of Djoser, built in the 27th century BC and considered the world’s very first pyramid. Unlike the smooth-sided pyramids at Giza, this one has a stepped design, showing how pyramid architecture evolved over time.
Quick Context: The Step Pyramid at Saqqara is the oldest large pyramid ever built in Egypt, a milestone in architectural evolution.
Saqqara is more than just pyramids, it’s full of hidden tombs, many of which are open to visitors. We explored some of these tombs and were amazed by the incredibly well-preserved hieroglyphics and colorful wall carvings showing scenes from everyday life, offerings to gods, and ancient rituals. It felt like stepping back in time.
Our last stop was Memphis, the first capital of ancient Egypt and only a short drive away. Today it’s basically an open‑air museum, scattered with statues and ruins. The star of the place is a huge fallen statue of Ramses II, lying on its back inside a pavilion. Seeing it up close gives you a sense of how massive these rulers wanted their images to be. There’s also an alabaster sphinx — smaller than the one at Giza, but beautifully carved and almost glowing in the light.
💡 Travel Tip: Start early to beat the heat and the crowds. Comfortable walking shoes, sunblock, water, and a hat are a must for a full day exploring under the Egyptian sun.
Day 4 – Flight to Aswan, Philae Temple & Nubian Village
This day blends Egypt’s rich history with local culture, highlighted by the serene Philae Temple and a visit to a vibrant Nubian village.
We had an early start with a 6 AM flight to Aswan, a peaceful city in southern Egypt known for its beautiful Nile views and relaxed pace. After arriving, we checked into our Airbnb – Nile View Apartment. The place had a stunning view of the river, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a travel day.
That morning, we met our private driver, whom we had booked for the rest of our Upper Egypt trip. Having a dedicated driver made exploring much easier and more comfortable, especially when we visited places slightly off the main tourist path.
Philae Temple
Our first stop was the magical Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. We took a short boat ride to Agilkia Island, where the temple now stands. Originally, the temple stood on Philae Island, but authorities moved it block by block to protect it from flooding after the construction of the Aswan High Dam. Water beautifully surrounds the temple, and its peaceful setting makes the experience even more special.
Inside, we explored tall stone columns, detailed carvings, and ancient hieroglyphics. Visitors also recognize Philae as the last temple where scribes ever wrote hieroglyphs, marking the end of an era in ancient Egyptian history.
Travel Tip: Engineers relocated Philae Temple from Philae Island to Agilkia Island to protect it from flooding after the Aswan High Dam’s construction — a UNESCO-recognized architectural achievement.
Nubian Village
In the afternoon, we took a relaxing boat ride to the Nubian Village, one of the most colorful and culturally rich places we visited in Egypt. As we arrived, we noticed the brightly painted houses and the warm, welcoming atmosphere. The people here were incredibly friendly and happy to share their traditions with visitors.
Cultural Tip: Bring small bills for souvenirs and consider tipping your boat driver or local host! It’s appreciated and part of the local economy.
We saw a large crocodile and a smaller crocodile in a local Nubian home. In Nubian culture, crocodiles are considered very sacred and bring good luck. They’re often kept as symbols of protection and strength, and it was fascinating to hear the stories behind this tradition.
Our hosts at the Nubian house offered us traditional tea and welcomed us like family. We explored the village, saw small shops selling local handicrafts, like handmade jewelry, spices, and textiles. For lunch, we enjoyed a delicious homemade Nubian meal – fresh, flavorful, and cooked with so much love. The food was simple yet full of flavor, with traditional dishes you won’t find in tourist restaurants.We ended the day with a beautiful sunset by the Nile. It was the perfect, peaceful way to close out an incredible day in Aswan.
💡 Travel Tip: The boat ride to the Nubian Village is worth it for the views alone. Visiting the Nubian Village is a great way to support local communities and learn about a culture that’s very different from mainstream Egypt. Don’t forget to bring small cash for souvenirs, and consider tipping your boat driver or local host.
Day 5 – Abu Simbel
Today is dedicated to Abu Simbel — one of Egypt’s most awe-inspiring temple complexes, best visited early to beat heat and crowds.
We started our day very early, before sunrise, for a road trip from Aswan to Abu Simbel, one of the most famous temple complexes in all of Egypt. Because of the long journey, the drive took about three hours each way through the desert. Fortunately, our private driver handled everything, including securing the travel permit required for this route.
Abu Simbel is home to two massive rock-cut temples that Pharaoh Ramses II built in the 13th century BC. Craftsmen carved the temples directly into the mountainside to showcase the power and glory of the pharaoh. In the 1960s, engineers moved both temples to higher ground, block by block, to save them from flooding after the construction of the Aswan High Dam. This effort became one of the largest archaeological rescue projects in the world.
💡 Important: Most tours leave before sunrise due to security rules on desert roads so plan ahead.
💦 Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and shade gear; shade is limited at the temple site.
The main temple honors Ramses II himself. At the entrance, four giant statues of the pharaoh rise over 20 meters tall. Inside, the temple features massive stone columns, detailed wall carvings, and dramatic statues of gods and Ramses shown in battle scenes. At the back, in the inner sanctuary, four seated statues await. Twice a year, on February 22 and October 22, sunlight streams through the entrance and illuminates these statues—an incredible example of ancient Egyptian science and architectural precision.
Next to it stands the smaller temple, dedicated to Queen Nefertari, Ramses’ wife. The temple’s façade displays six statues—four of Ramses and two of Nefertari. Inside, intricate carvings show Nefertari presenting offerings to the gods. This temple stands out as one of the few where artists portrayed a queen as equal to the king, making it even more remarkable.
Both temples feel incredibly powerful and rich in history. Seeing them up close truly feels like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Towering statues, detailed carvings, and the serene setting near Lake Nasser create an unforgettable atmosphere.
The heat felt intense, even in the morning. Therefore, be sure to carry water, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Additionally, the site offers basic restrooms and a small café. However, shade is limited, so come prepared.
💡 Travel Tip: If you’re traveling between cities in southern Egypt, such as Aswan to Abu Simbel or Aswan to Luxor, you will need a permit to pass through the desert. Fortunately, your driver or tour guide will arrange it in advance. Additionally, keep in mind that private cars cannot travel after 6 PM due to security rules. As a result, most trips to Abu Simbel leave very early in the morning and return before evening.
Day 6 – Luxor East Bank (Karnak & Luxor Temples)
Explore Luxor’s historic East Bank, where Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple showcase ancient Theban spirituality and architectural scale.
We left Aswan in the morning and drove to Luxor, a city filled with history and often called the world’s greatest open-air museum. The drive took about 4 hours, passing through peaceful desert landscapes.
Once we arrived, we checked into our Airbnb, located on the West Bank of Luxor. The home was cozy, surrounded by greenery, and hosted by a kind local family. After getting freshened up, we headed out to explore the East Bank of Luxor.
Our first stop was the stunning Karnak Temple, one of the largest and most impressive temple complexes in all of Egypt. Built over more than 2,000 years by different pharaohs, it was the main religious center of ancient Thebes. The site is massive, you can walk through different temple sections, pylons, and chapels. The most famous part is the Great Hypostyle Hall, with 134 giant stone columns that seem to stretch endlessly toward the sky. It’s truly breathtaking. We also walked around the Sacred Lake, once used for religious rituals, and stopped at the scarab beetle statue where we walked around it counter-clockwise for good luck, just as ancient Egyptians believed.
After exploring Karnak for about 3 hours, we headed to Paris Restaurant for lunch. It’s a well-known local spot, and their food did not disappoint. We had tagin, a slow-cooked Egyptian dish served in a clay pot. It was packed with flavor and probably one of the best local meals we had on the trip.
In the late afternoon, our driver took us to a charming local place called Om Kulthum Café. It was a small, laid-back café with a cozy vibe, and they served the freshest mango and guava juice perfect for cooling down after a hot afternoon.
As the weather cooled down, we visited Luxor Temple, located in the heart of the city. Unlike Karnak, which served primarily religious ceremonies, Luxor Temple focused more on celebrating kingship and royal power. Pharaoh Amenhotep III originally built the temple, and Ramses II later expanded it, with contributions from other rulers, including Alexander the Great. One of the most unique aspects of Luxor Temple is how it brings together multiple layers of history in one place. You’ll see ancient Egyptian carvings, Roman-era additions, and even an active mosque built directly into the temple walls.
We also explored the Avenue of the Sphinxes, a historic pathway lined with hundreds of human-headed lion statues. This grand avenue once connected Karnak Temple to Luxor Temple and stretched over 2.7 kilometers. Ancient Egyptians used it for major religious processions and festivals, especially during the Opet Festival, when priests carried statues of the gods from Karnak to Luxor. Standing along the path today, it’s incredible to imagine the ceremonies that unfolded here thousands of years ago.
Quick Context: Karnak Temple was developed over 2,000+ years by dozens of pharaohs and is one of the largest religious complexes ever built.
If you want a deeper breakdown of Egypt’s most iconic temples, including historical context, visiting tips, and what makes each site unique, check out my Best Temples to Visit in Egypt guide.
Day 7 – Hot Air Balloon Over Luxor & West Bank Exploration
Experience a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over Luxor at sunrise, followed by visits to West Bank highlights like the Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut Temple.
We woke up in the early hours of the morning before the sun even peeked over the horizon. Our day began at 4 AM with something we had been dreaming about for months: a hot air balloon ride over Luxor. Our kind Airbnb host had arranged everything for us, and the balloon company picked us up right from our doorstep.
As we floated into the sky in near silence, the sun began to rise over the Nile, casting a golden glow on the green farmlands, desert hills, and ancient temples below. From above, we saw the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s Temple, and the grand pillars of Medinet Habu. The entire experience felt like a dream peaceful, slow, and awe-inspiring. It’s one of those moments that stays with you long after the trip ends.
Once we landed safely, we returned to our Airbnb, got freshened up, had breakfast, and set off to explore Luxor’s West Bank, home to some of the most significant archaeological sites in Egypt.
Our first stop was the Valley of the Kings, and it quickly became one of our favorite places in Egypt. The valley, surrounded by tall desert cliffs, served as the royal burial ground for New Kingdom pharaohs like Tutankhamun, Ramses II, and many others. The general ticket gives you access to three tombs, and on the day we visited, we chose the tombs of Ramses III, Merneptah, and the joint tomb of Tausert and Setnakht. Each one was unique in layout and decoration. The walls were covered in detailed carvings and ancient texts, with beautifully painted ceilings full of stars and gods guiding the pharaohs through the afterlife. The artwork has survived thousands of years, and it still bursts with color and life.
We also bought extra tickets to visit the tombs of Ramses VI and Ramses VII, as our driver recommended. We’re so glad we did. These tombs felt quieter and far less crowded than the main ones. The level of detail inside Ramses VI’s tomb completely blew us away.
Artists painted the ceiling with a massive scene from the Book of the Day and the Book of the Night. Constellations and symbols of the afterlife fill every inch. Walking through the tomb felt like stepping inside a sacred work of art.
This extra ticket is 100% worth it. Don’t skip it if you’re visiting.
After soaking in the magic of the tombs, we took a lunch break at a small local restaurant nearby. The simple, delicious food gave us exactly what we needed after hours of walking through ancient chambers.
Next, we made our way to the grand Temple of Hatshepsut, one of Egypt’s most iconic structures. Carved directly into the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari, the temple stands out with its wide terraces and clean, straight lines. Builders dedicated the temple to Queen Hatshepsut, Egypt’s first female pharaoh, who ruled with strength and vision. The temple tells her story—from her divine birth to her ambitious trading expeditions—and rewards visitors with panoramic desert views below. The site feels powerful, with architecture that leaves a lasting impression.
We then visited one of Luxor’s most underrated sites: Medinet Habu, the mortuary temple of Ramses III. This temple completely amazed us. Massive stone walls, towering columns, and vibrant reliefs surrounded us from the moment we entered. Despite their age, the colors still looked striking. The scenes show the king defeating enemies, presenting offerings to the gods, and celebrating military victories. Compared to more famous temples, Medinet Habu felt calm and uncrowded. That quiet atmosphere gave us time to truly appreciate its beauty.
On the way to our next stop, we paused at the Colossi of Memnon. These two enormous statues depict Pharaoh Amenhotep III and once guarded the entrance to a now-lost temple. Time has weathered them, but the statues still stand tall and proud on the West Bank. It’s a quick stop, but it gives you a sense of how grand these temple complexes once were.
Finally, our last site of the day was Deir el-Medina, also known as the Worker’s Village. Here, visitors get a rare glimpse into the lives of the artisans who actually built the royal tombs. The homes are small, and the streets are narrow; moreover, the tombs, though much smaller, are filled with vivid, personal artwork. In contrast to the grand tombs of kings, the ones here often show daily life, family scenes, and heartfelt prayers to the gods. Overall, it’s a deeply human and touching place.
As the sun set and the temperature cooled, we made our way to the Karnak Sound & Light Show. Sitting under the stars while the ruins of Karnak Temple lit up with glowing lights and a dramatic narration echoing through the columns was the perfect end to our day. It brought the stories of the pharaohs to life and gave us a deeper appreciation for everything we had seen.
We returned to our Airbnb full of wonder, tired in the best way possible, and grateful for such a powerful, history-filled day.
Travel Tip: The general ticket usually includes three tombs, but buying extra tickets (e.g., Ramses VI & VII) often rewards quieter and more intricate chambers.
Day 8 – Drive to Hurghada & A Relaxing Day by the Red Sea
Today’s shift to Hurghada brings a slower pace — from desert roads to crystal-blue Red Sea beaches and leisure time.
After two incredible days filled with temples, tombs, and ancient history in Luxor, we were ready for a change of pace. In the morning, we began our drive to Hurghada, a beautiful coastal town on the Red Sea known for its clear waters and laid-back vibe. The drive took about four hours. Parts of it were beautiful, but honestly, some stretches felt endless, especially after an early start.
Once we arrived in Hurghada, our first stop was the stunning Al Mina Mosque, located near the harbor. With its tall white minarets and intricate architecture, this mosque is one of the most beautiful in the region. It felt calm and peaceful inside, and the craftsmanship was truly impressive.
After visiting the mosque, we checked into our hotel, which was perfectly located right by the marina. The hotel had a modern, relaxing vibe and offered easy access to the sea, restaurants, and shops nearby. We had lunch at the hotel, and to our surprise, they gave us complimentary access to the Blue Beach Club, just a short walk away.
We spent the afternoon at the beach club, lounging by the turquoise water, soaking up the sun, and just unwinding after our busy travel days. The atmosphere was quiet and peaceful exactly what we needed.In the evening, we took a leisurely walk around the marina, where we found small boutiques, cafes, and boats gently bobbing in the water. The sunset over the Red Sea was beautiful, and the breeze made it even better. We ended the day with dinner at a restaurant along the marina, enjoying fresh seafood and the relaxing coastal vibe.
Practical Tip: Hurghada’s coastline gets busy in peak season — booking beach club access or tours in advance ensures entry.
Day 9 – Giftun Island Tour & Return to Cairo
Today focuses on a beach escape to Giftun Island with snorkeling and relaxation before heading back toward Cairo.
Our final adventure before heading home was a full-day tour to Giftun Island, also known as Orange Bay. We booked the boat trip in advance, and the tour began at 8 AM from the Hurghada marina.
The boat ride to the island took about an hour and was absolutely beautiful. Once we reached Giftun Island, we were blown away by how clear and blue the water was. It honestly looked like something out of the Maldives. The soft white sand, floating hammocks, overwater swings, and shaded cabanas made it the perfect beach escape.
We had plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and relax on the island. In addition, coral reefs were not far from the shore, so we saw colorful fish and other underwater life while snorkeling. The vibe was incredibly chill: no crowds, just the sound of waves and the sun shining down. After a few hours on the island, we returned by boat around 4 PM.
Later, after freshening up, we packed our bags and headed to the airport for our evening flight back to Cairo. Since our return flight was scheduled for the next morning, we stayed at a nearby Airbnb for our final night.
💡 Booking Tip: Book your Giftun Island tour in advance for best timings and boat options.
DAY 10 – Fly back home
This final day wraps up your whirlwind Egyptian adventure — make time for last-minute photos, souvenirs, or a casual Egyptian meal before departure. Tired but full of memories, we ended our journey with our hearts full.
If ancient history and architecture are a big part of why you’re visiting Egypt, you may want to prioritize certain sites based on time and interest. I’ve listed the 7 Best Temples to Visit in Egypt to help you decide which ones are truly worth adding to your trip.
💡 Optional Add-On Itineraries
🌊 Sharm El Sheikh (1-2 Day Getaway)
For beach lovers and divers:
- Snorkel at Ras Umm Sid
- Walk the Old Market, visit Al Sahaba Mosque
- Relax at Farsha Café
- Chill at Naama Bay
🏛️ Alexandria (1 Day Trip)
If you have an extra day, take a train or drive to Alexandria. Explore:
- The Library of Alexandria (modern tribute to the ancient wonder)
- Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa
- Citadel of Qaitbay
- Eat fresh seafood at Greek Club or Fish Market
🌊 Siwa Oasis (1 Day Trip)
If you’re up for a long day adventure, head to the serene Siwa Oasis. Discover:
- Salt Lakes – float effortlessly and enjoy stunning views
- Sunset at Fatnas Island – a magical end to your day
- The Temple of the Oracle (where Alexander the Great once stood)
- Sip fresh juice and try local dates at a traditional café
💵Estimated Costs for 10 Days in Egypt
- Food & drinks: $100-$150
- Accommodation (mid-range): $50/day average
- Internal flights or train tickets: $50 one way average
- Site entry fees: Under $100
🧳 What to Pack + Tips
- Cash is king. Keep small bills for tips
- Use Uber or Careem. Avoid local taxis
- Sunblock, hats, fans, mosquito spray are essential
- Cover shoulders/knees at temples and mosques
- Drink bottled water only!
- Don’t forget a pashmina (multi-purpose: sun, modesty, sand storms!)
- Always bargain in markets
- Egyptian Arabic basics:
- Hello = Salaam Alaikum
- Thank you = Shukran
- How much = Kam althaman?
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