Your 7-Day Cairo & Luxor Trip: Great Pyramid of Giza & Beyond

Walking Tour of Downtown Cairo Architecture · Al-Azhar Mosque · Al-Azhar Park Views · Transit to Giza Pyramids · Great Pyramid of Giza and Sphinx Complex · Camel Ride at Giza Pyramids
7-day Egypt trip — Cairo to Luxor. Day-by-day route, attractions & food.
Part one
Is this trip for you?
Cairo and Luxor offer access to ancient Egypt, from the Pyramids of Giza to Luxor's vast temple complexes. Unlike a trip focusing on Alexandria, which offers Greco-Roman sites and a Mediterranean feel, this route prioritizes the monumental pharaonic legacy and the rich layers of Islamic Cairo. It delivers a direct encounter with millennia of history, spiritual depth and cultural immersion. This trip is built for grand history, spiritual sites and immersive culture over beaches or modern city breaks.
Your itinerary covers 7 must-have experiences
Historic Islamic Architecture & Markets
✓ Day 1: Khan el-Khalili Market

Ancient Egyptian Pyramids & Sphinx
✓ Day 2: Great Pyramid of Giza and Sphinx Complex
A Desert Adventure with Quad Bikes or Camel Trek
✓ Day 2: Camel Ride at Giza Pyramids

Ancient Egyptian Artifacts Museum
✓ Day 4: Luxor Museum
Grand Temple Complexes of Luxor East Bank
✓ Day 4: Karnak Temple

Nile River Felucca Ride
✓ Day 5: Felucca Ride on the Nile

Royal Tombs & Mortuary Temples of the West Bank
✓ Day 5: Valley of the Kings
Photos from Wikimedia Commons, used under Creative Commons licenses. Individual credits shown on each photo.
📅 Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Cairo and Luxor is during the cooler, dry winter months from October to April. Daytime temperatures range from 20-30°C (68-86°F), making sightseeing comfortable. December to February is peak season, leading to more crowds and higher prices. Summers (May-September) are intensely hot, often exceeding 40°C (104°F), which can make outdoor activities very challenging.
Part two
The plan, day by day
7-day trip
The plan opens with Cairo for three intense nights, letting you tackle the monumental Pyramids of Giza and the sprawling Islamic Cairo while fresh. The midpoint transfer to Luxor splits the journey, turning a travel day into a welcome reset. Luxor then takes the back half with four nights.
This allows deeper exploration of its West and East Bank temple complexes without rushing, culminating in a packed final day before departure. This sequence builds the experience, starting big and then allowing for more focused exploration of Luxor's distinct zones. This itinerary prioritizes the core historical sites of ancient Egypt and the rich cultural fabric of Cairo and Luxor, covering major pharaonic temples, tombs, and Islamic heritage.
It does not include the Red Sea's dive sites and beach resorts like Sharm el Sheikh or Hurghada. You will also skip the serene monasteries of Wadi el Natrun, known for their ancient Coptic Christian heritage and desert solitude. This trip is the right cut if you came for monumental history and cultural immersion; it is not for those seeking extensive desert adventures or coastal relaxation.
To extend your adventure, add two extra nights for a trip to Aswan. There you can visit the Philae Temple, saved from the rising Nile, and take a felucca ride on the river, experiencing Nubian culture.
- Morning
08:00 AM - Arrive at Cairo International Airport (CAI) & Hotel Transfer· 2 hrs
USD 22 (~EGP 682)
Alensha (CC BY-SA 4.0Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport (CAI), proceed through immigration and customs. Transfer to your hotel in Downtown Cairo via taxi. Estimated taxi cost is $20-25 and duration around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
10:00 AM - Hotel Check-in & Freshen Up· 30 min
FREECheck into your accommodation in Downtown Cairo and take some time to refresh after your international flight. Settle in before starting your exploration of the city.
10:30 AM - Walking Tour of Downtown Cairo Architecture· 2 hrs
FREEEmbark on a guided or self-guided walking tour through the elegant streets of Downtown Cairo, admiring the Belle Époque architecture, historic buildings, and bustling squares. Discover the European-influenced charm of Khedivial Cairo.
- Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Koshary in Downtown Cairo· 1 hr
USD 8 (~EGP 248)Savor a traditional Koshary, Egypt's beloved vegetarian dish featuring a hearty mix of rice, macaroni, lentils, chickpeas, and a tangy tomato sauce, topped with crispy fried onions.
- 🕐 Monday: 9:30 AM – 12:00 AM; Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 12:00 AM; Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 12:00 AMConfirm hours on Maps
01:50 PM - Khan el-Khalili Market· 1 hr
FREE - 🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
04:20 PM - Al-Azhar Park Views· 1 hr 30 min
USD 5 (~EGP 155) - Evening
07:00 PM - Dinner: Traditional Egyptian Cuisine in Islamic Cairo· 1 hr
USD 18 (~EGP 558)Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring traditional Egyptian dishes like Mahshi (stuffed vegetables) or Mulukhiyah in a local eatery within the charming area of Islamic Cairo.
Downtown Cairo
Centrally located with excellent access to The Egyptian Museum, Tahrir Square, and convenient metro/taxi connections to other key areas like Islamic Cairo and Giza. Offers a wide range of restaurants and amenities.
- Morning
07:30 AM - Transit to Giza Pyramids· 1 hr
USD 20 (~EGP 620)
Ricardo Liberato (CC BY-SA 2.0)An early morning private transfer to the Giza plateau to beat the crowds and enjoy the ancient wonders in cooler temperatures.
- 🕐 Monday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
08:30 AM - Great Pyramid of Giza and Sphinx Complex· 4 hrs
USD 20 (~EGP 620) - Afternoon
12:30 PM - Camel Ride at Giza Pyramids· 1 hr 30 min
USD 25 (~EGP 775)
Simon Matzinger (CC BY 3.0)Embark on a traditional camel ride across the Giza plateau, providing unique photo opportunities and an unforgettable adventure experience with the pyramids as a stunning backdrop.
02:00 PM - Lunch: Ta'ameya (Egyptian Falafel) in Giza· 1 hr
USD 18 (~EGP 558)Enjoy authentic Ta'ameya, Egypt's distinctive fava bean falafel, served fresh from a local eatery near Giza.
03:15 PM - Transit to Gezira Island/Zamalek· 1 hr
USD 10 (~EGP 310)Travel back from Giza to the central island neighborhood of Gezira, home to the Cairo Tower.
- 🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 AM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 AM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 AMConfirm hours on Maps
04:15 PM - Cairo Tower· 1 hr 30 min
USD 10 (~EGP 310) - Evening
07:00 PM - Dinner: Molokhia in Zamalek· 1 hr
USD 18 (~EGP 558)Experience the unique taste of Molokhia, a traditional Egyptian green soup, often served with chicken or rabbit and rice, in the upscale island neighborhood of Zamalek.
Downtown Cairo
Central to many attractions, including the Egyptian Museum, with easy access to the Nile and various dining options. Good public transport connections to other parts of the city.
- Morning🕐 Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PMConfirm hours on Maps
08:30 AM - Saladin Citadel· 3 hrs
USD 15 (~EGP 465) - 🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
11:30 AM - Mosque-Madrasa of Sultan Hassan· 1 hr 30 min
USD 5 (~EGP 155) - Afternoon
01:00 PM - Lunch: Mahshi in Islamic Cairo· 1 hr
USD 18 (~EGP 558)Savor a traditional Egyptian meal of Mahshi (stuffed vegetables) at a local eatery in the historic Islamic Cairo district, experiencing authentic local flavors.
- Closes 5 PM · 3h here🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
02:00 PM - Gayer-Anderson Museum· 1 hr
USD 5 (~EGP 155) - Closes 5 PM · 2h here🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
03:00 PM - Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo· 1 hr 20 min
USD 8 (~EGP 248) - Evening
07:30 PM - Dinner: Shawarma in Mohandessin· 1 hr
USD 18 (~EGP 558)Enjoy delicious Shawarma, a classic Egyptian street food, at a lively restaurant in the bustling Mohandessin district, offering a different evening ambiance.
Downtown Cairo
Central location offering easy access to historical sites, a wide range of dining options, and good public transport connections for exploring the city.
- Morning
08:00 AM - Hotel Check-out & Transfer to Cairo International Airport (CAI)· 1 hr 30 min
USD 10 (~EGP 310)Check out from your Cairo hotel and transfer to Cairo International Airport for your domestic flight to Luxor.
09:30 AM - Cairo International Airport Check-in & Security· 2 hrs
FREEAllow ample time for check-in and security procedures at Cairo International Airport before your flight.
11:30 AM - Flight from Cairo to Luxor· 1 hr 30 min
USD 70 (~EGP 2,170)Enjoy a domestic flight from Cairo to Luxor, transitioning from the bustling capital to the ancient city of pharaohs.
- Afternoon
01:00 PM - Arrive Luxor Airport & Transfer to East Bank· 30 min
FREEUpon arrival at Luxor International Airport, transfer to your hotel or directly to the East Bank for lunch.
01:30 PM - Lunch: Hawawshi in Luxor's East Bank· 1 hr
USD 18 (~EGP 558)Enjoy a hearty lunch featuring Hawawshi, spiced minced meat baked inside traditional Egyptian bread, at a local eatery in the East Bank area.
- Closes 5 PM · 2.5h here🕐 Monday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
02:30 PM - Karnak Temple· 2 hrs 30 min
USD 15 (~EGP 465) - Evening
05:00 PM - Hotel Check-in in Luxor· 1 hr
FREECheck into your hotel on Luxor's East Bank and freshen up after your journey and initial sightseeing.
- 🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
06:00 PM - Luxor Museum· 2 hrs
USD 10 (~EGP 310) 08:00 PM - Dinner: Mulukhiyah in Luxor City Center· 1 hr
USD 18 (~EGP 558)Savor a traditional Egyptian dinner with Mulukhiyah, a savory green soup made from jute mallow leaves, typically served with rice and chicken, at a local restaurant in Luxor's city center.
East Bank
The East Bank of Luxor is the modern city hub, offering easy access to the train station, most hotels, restaurants, and the iconic Luxor Temple and Luxor Museum. It also serves as a convenient base for trips to the West Bank attractions.
- Morning
07:30 AM - Cross the Nile to the West Bank· 30 min
USD 2 (~EGP 62)
Valerian Guillot from Cambridge, United Kingdom (CC BY 2.0)Board a local ferry or motorboat to cross the Nile River, enjoying views of Luxor from the water as you head towards the West Bank.
- 🕐 Monday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
08:00 AM - Valley of the Kings· 3 hrs
USD 10 (~EGP 310) - 🕐 Monday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
11:30 AM - Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut· 2 hrs
USD 8 (~EGP 248) - Afternoon
01:30 PM - Lunch: Feteer Meshaltet on West Bank· 1 hr
USD 8 (~EGP 248)Enjoy a traditional Feteer Meshaltet, a flaky Egyptian pastry, served with honey, cheese, or as a savory dish at a local eatery on Luxor's West Bank.
- Confirm hours on Maps
03:00 PM - Mortuary Temple of Ramesses III (Medinet Habu)· 2 hrs
USD 5 (~EGP 155) - Evening
05:30 PM - Felucca Ride on the Nile· 1 hr 30 min
USD 15 (~EGP 465)
Vyacheslav Argenberg (CC BY 4.0)Enjoy a relaxing and traditional felucca (sailboat) ride on the Nile River, taking in the serene landscape, local life along the banks, and the beautiful sunset over the desert.
07:30 PM - Dinner: Egyptian Cuisine on Luxor's Corniche· 1 hr
USD 18 (~EGP 558)Savor authentic Egyptian dishes at a restaurant along the Corniche on the East Bank, enjoying the evening breeze and Nile views. Try local specialties like kofta or kebabs.
East Bank
The East Bank provides easy access to Luxor Temple, Luxor Museum, and the Corniche. It is also the main hub for hotels, restaurants, and transport to the West Bank and airport.
- Morning
07:00 AM - Nile Kayaking Experience· 3 hrs
USD 25 (~EGP 775)Embark on an invigorating kayaking adventure on the majestic Nile River, paddling past lush banks and observing local life from a unique perspective. This active experience offers a refreshing way to connect with Luxor's natural beauty.
- 🕐 Monday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
10:00 AM - Walk along the Avenue of Sphinxes· 2 hrs
FREE - Afternoon
12:00 PM - Lunch: Ful Medames in East Bank· 1 hr
USD 8 (~EGP 248)Savor a traditional and hearty Egyptian lunch featuring Ful Medames, a dish of slow-cooked fava beans, at a local eatery on Luxor's East Bank. A staple of Egyptian cuisine.
- 🕐 Monday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AMConfirm hours on Maps
01:00 PM - Explore Luxor Souk· 2 hrs
FREE - Evening
07:30 PM - Dinner: Roz bi Laban & Egyptian Cuisine in El-Ramla· 1 hr
USD 18 (~EGP 558)Enjoy a delicious Egyptian dinner in the El-Ramla area, a local neighborhood known for its authentic eateries, culminating with the comforting sweetness of Roz bi Laban, a traditional Egyptian rice pudding.
East Bank
Continues to offer convenient access to Luxor Temple, the Avenue of Sphinxes, and a variety of dining options, while also being a central point for Nile activities and general city exploration.
- Morning🕐 Monday: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
06:30 AM - Luxor Temple· 3 hrs
USD 15 (~EGP 465) - Closes 2 PM · 4h here🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 9:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
10:00 AM - Mummification Museum· 2 hrs
USD 8 (~EGP 248) - Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Traditional Egyptian Foul Medames· 1 hr
USD 10 (~EGP 310)Savor a traditional Egyptian lunch with Foul Medames, a hearty and classic fava bean dish, served with bread and fresh accompaniments at a local eatery in Luxor Center.
01:30 PM - Horse-drawn Carriage Ride through Luxor City· 1 hr 30 min
USD 15 (~EGP 465)Enjoy a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride through the bustling streets of Luxor's East Bank. This cultural experience offers a charming way to observe local life, passing by vibrant markets, traditional homes, and scenic views along the Nile Corniche.
03:00 PM - Relaxed Souvenir Pick-up near hotel· 1 hr
FREESpend a relaxed hour near your hotel to pick up any last-minute souvenirs from local shops or simply enjoy a final observation of daily life on the East Bank before heading to the airport.
04:00 PM - Hotel Checkout & Luggage Collection· 30 min
FREECheck out from your hotel and collect your luggage, preparing for your transfer to Luxor International Airport (LXR).
- 🕐 Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hoursConfirm hours on Maps
04:30 PM - Depart from Luxor International Airport (LXR)· 4 hrs 30 min
FREE
Part three
Food, shopping & festivals
Top 10 dishes to try
Foul Medames
📍 Any street cart or 'foul' restaurant
Ta'ameya (Egyptian Falafel)
Deep-fried fritters made from crushed fava beans and fresh herbs, distinct from Levantine chickpea falafel, typically served in a'ish baladi for a cheap, satisfying bite.
📍 Any street cart or local bakery
Ful Medames
📍 East Bank local eateries

Koshary
📍 Any busy Koshary restaurant
Shawarma
📍 Any kebab/shawarma restaurant
Mulukhiyah
📍 Traditional Egyptian restaurants
Molokhia
Cairo
📍 Traditional Egyptian restaurants
Mahshi (Stuffed Vegetables)
Cairo
📍 Traditional Egyptian restaurants or home-style eateries

Hawawshi
📍 Local bakeries or street food stalls
Roz bi Laban
📍 Dessert shops or traditional restaurants
Markets & neighborhoods
Local eateries, street food stalls for Koshary, Ful Medames, and Ta'ameya, and small shops selling fresh produce and spices.
A range of street stalls serving fast food, and a cluster of local fish and seafood cafeterias.
Pre-arranged meals (often grilled fish, chicken, rice, salads) enjoyed during a traditional sailboat trip, providing a unique dining experience on the river.
Traditional Egyptian street food, late-night eateries, and local cafes amidst historic monuments.
An upper-middle to high-class area offering a selection of good restaurants and modern dining experiences.
Good to Know
Top 10 souvenirs

Karkadeh (Hibiscus) Tea
Luxor
📍 Luxor Souk (El-Souk) at spice vendor stalls; often found pre-packaged in larger stores too.

Gourmet Spices & Karkadeh (Hibiscus Tea)
Cairo
📍 Khan el-Khalili spice section (El Attarine Street), or local spice shops in Darb El Barabra.
Concentrated Perfume Oils
Luxor
📍 Abdullah Perfumes or any reputable perfume oil shop within the Luxor Souk.

Hand-carved Alabaster Stone Crafts
Luxor
📍 Alabaster Factory or artisan workshops on the West Bank near the Valley of the Kings.
Hand-blown Glassware
Cairo
📍 Khan el-Khalili, particularly within the smaller alleys and dedicated artisan shops.
Copper & Brassware
Cairo
📍 Khan el-Khalili, especially within the coppersmiths' section (Souq an-Nahhasin).
Egyptian Cotton Linens or Garments
Cairo
📍 Wekalet El Balah for fabric by the meter; reputable department stores in Mohandiseen like Rivoli for finished goods.
Pure Egyptian Cotton Textiles
Luxor
Egypt produces some of the finest long-staple cotton in the world, renowned for its softness and durability in sheets, towels, and clothing.
📍 Abdullah & Sons Cotton Shop on Sharia el-Karnak or reputable textile stores along the Corniche.
Authentic Hand-painted Papyrus Scrolls
Luxor
📍 Hassan Papyrus Gallery (near Luxor Temple) or dedicated papyrus institutes that demonstrate the making process.
Silver Cartouche Jewelry
Cairo
📍 Khan el-Khalili, specialized jewelry shops like Gold & Silver Bazaar or specific workshops.
Markets & districts
Alabaster statues, vases, bowls, and other hand-carved items directly from the artisans.
Less hectic than the main souk, these workshops offer a chance to see the carving process, with more measured sales pitches and often better-quality goods.
Modern fashion, electronics, international brands, and Egyptian cotton boutiques.
An upscale, modern commercial street offering a fixed-price shopping experience with contemporary cafes and restaurants, a stark contrast to traditional bazaars.
Spices, karkadeh tea, perfume oils, silver jewelry, galabeyas, and general handicrafts.
A bustling, vibrant market where vendors actively call out to passersby; bargaining is absolutely essential, and it can be quite crowded.
Good to Know
Ramadan Fanous Lanterns in Egypt
رمضان في القاهرة
Sham el-Nessim
شم النسيم
Apr 13
Egypt's ancient spring festival (since ~2700 BCE), the day after Coptic Easter Monday. Families picnic in parks eating fesikh (salted fermented fish), eggs, and spring onions. A rare fully secular national holiday.
Ramadan in Cairo
Ramadan
Feb 17
Experience Ramadan's spiritual atmosphere in historic Cairo.

Egypt Revolution Day
ثورة 23 يوليو
Jul 23
July 23 commemorates the 1952 revolution that ended the monarchy. Main parades on the October 6 Bridge, speeches at Tahrir Square, and evening fireworks over the Cairo Citadel.
Moulid en-Nabi (Prophet's Birthday)
Aug 25
National Islamic holiday celebrating the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. Markets sell colorful arouset el moulid sugar dolls and halawet el moulid sweets. Sufi brotherhoods hold zikr processions.
Part four
Costs & booking
- Total for a couple — 7 days mid-range trip, excludes international flights
- Accommodation assumes 1 shared room
- Rough estimates — actual prices vary by season and availability
Local Transport
Accommodation
AI estimated based on typical hotel costs
Food
Activities
Budget-friendly overall, expect $60-100/night for decent hotels and $5-15 for sit-down meals for two, but major tours/guides can quickly add up. Always use bottled water; be firm but polite with persistent street vendors and touts for tours.
Prioritize 1-2 major sites per city to stay within the $90 activity budget. For instance, combine Giza Pyramids (360 EGP/~$12 USD pp) with a free walk through Khan el-Khalili bazaar in Cairo, and focus on Karnak Temple (400 EGP/~$13 USD pp) in Luxor, skipping other paid sites.
Stretch your $280 food budget by embracing local staples like koshary or fuul for lunch (often $1-3 per person) and saving your dinner budget for modest sit-down restaurants. A simple local dinner for two can be found for $15-25, avoiding overpriced tourist eateries.
Utilize ride-sharing apps like Uber or Careem in Cairo for predictable fares, typically 50-150 EGP ($2-5 USD) for most city trips, which can be more reliable than negotiating with street taxis. For Luxor, agree on taxi fares upfront, or consider a felucca ride for around 200-300 EGP ($7-10 USD) for an hour.
While tempting, comprehensive guided tours are likely out of budget given the $90 activities allocation; instead, hire a reputable local guide for 2-3 hours for a single key site like the Valley of the Kings (expect $30-50 USD for a half-day guide) to maximize understanding without overspending.
Egypt E-Visa applicationDay 1
Book 1 month ahead — Secure your E-Visa via visa2egypt.gov.eg before departure to avoid delays on arrival. Some nationalities qualify for visa on arrival, but E-Visa is recommended for smoother entry.
Domestic flight from Cairo International Airport (CAI) to Luxor International Airport (LXR)Day 3
Book 1-2 months ahead — Domestic flights between Cairo and Luxor can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Booking early secures better prices and preferred times for this essential transfer.
Private or small-group guided tour for Great Pyramid of Giza and Sphinx ComplexDay 2
Book 2 weeks ahead — While site tickets are available on-site, a pre-booked guided tour provides crucial historical context, helps navigate the large complex efficiently, and minimizes interactions with persistent touts mentioned in safety advisories.
Private or small-group guided tour for Valley of the Kings & Mortuary Temple of HatshepsutDay 5
Book 2 weeks ahead — Essential for understanding the sites' significance and efficiently managing the spread-out West Bank attractions. A pre-arranged guide also helps navigate the area and avoid solicitations from numerous touts.
Part five
Before you go
Cairo has metro; taxis and ride-hailing for other transport
Use Uber/Careem in Cairo for metered rides. Book trains via Egyptian Railways app.
- If someone approaches you on the street in Cairo or Luxor, especially around major sites or markets, politely ignore them and keep walking; they are almost certainly trying a scam like 'your site is closed'.
- Never attempt to climb the Giza Pyramids; it is strictly illegal, incredibly dangerous, and carries severe penalties.
- When crossing roads, particularly around Tahrir Square in Cairo, assume motorists will not stop and be extremely cautious; traffic rules are often disregarded by local drivers.
- Carry a powerful flashlight (torch) when visiting tombs in Luxor's West Bank (Valley of the Kings, Queens), as lighting can be unreliable or completely absent in many chambers.
- Always carry at least 2 liters of water, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and apply high-SPF sunscreen for visits to Luxor's West Bank sites, as you will be outdoors for extended periods in intense sun.
- Decline 'assistance' from self-proclaimed guides or touts inside temples or ticket areas in Luxor; official guides are identifiable, and others expect payment for unsolicited 'tours'.
- Be wary of anyone telling you a famous site is closed (e.g., 'Pyramids closed today, come see my friend's shop'); this is a common scam, always proceed directly to the official entrance.
- When booking tours in Downtown Cairo, always compare prices from multiple reputable agencies or your hotel, as street vendors often overcharge significantly for identical experiences.
0 / 37 packed
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
Stay connected abroad
Get a local eSIM — no swapping physical SIMs
Visa & Entry Requirements
US, UK, EU, Australian, and Canadian citizens can obtain a visa on arrival at major Egyptian airports for $25 USD, valid for 30 days. An e-Visa (visa2egypt.gov.eg) is also available and recommended for all nationalities to avoid queues. Indian citizens generally require an e-Visa in advance. All travelers need a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended departure date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Cairo International Airport (CAI) arrival hall, official Vodafone stores in Cairo and Luxor.
📍 Cairo International Airport (CAI) arrival hall, official Orange stores in Cairo and Luxor.
Reliable free Wi-Fi is common in most hotels and higher-end restaurants in Cairo and Luxor. Smaller cafes or street vendors may not offer it. Mobile data is generally fast and widely available in urban areas but expect zero coverage in desert regions.
Useful Apps
Purchase SIM cards only from official stores at the airport or established city branches; avoid street vendors who may sell non-functional or overpriced SIMs. Be aware that mobile data coverage drops significantly to zero once you venture into desert areas away from towns, especially in remote oases.
Electric Socket Guide(220V · 50Hz)
Socket Types
Two round pins (most of Europe, South America)
Two round pins + side earth clips (Germany, Europe)
Tipping Etiquette
10–15%; service charge often included but tip additionally
Round up or EGP 10–20
EGP 20–50 per bag
Safety & Travel Advisories
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
122
123
180
126
Tourist police (126) speaks English and is helpful
Payments
Cash is king — especially at bazaars and small shops
Accepted at hotels and upscale restaurants
Limited
Carry Egyptian pounds in small denominations for baksheesh. ATMs widely available.
Most major nationalities, including US, UK, EU, Australian, and Canadian citizens, can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival at Egyptian airports for $25 USD. An e-Visa is also available online and highly recommended to streamline your entry. Indian citizens typically require an e-Visa in advance. All travelers need a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended departure.
Egypt is generally safe, but solo female travelers may experience increased attention, particularly from touts. Dressing modestly and confidently ignoring unwanted advances is key. Stick to reputable tour operators and avoid walking alone in poorly lit or isolated areas at night. Using ride-sharing apps like Careem in Cairo is safer for transport.
The most convenient option is a pre-booked taxi or using ride-hailing apps like Careem (Uber acquired) which offer fixed, transparent prices. Expect fares around EGP 150-250 depending on your destination in central Cairo or Giza. Official airport taxis are also available, but confirm the price before starting your journey. Public buses are available but can be complex for first-time visitors with luggage.
The most common and efficient way is by domestic flight, which takes about an hour. Egyptian Railways offers overnight sleeper trains, a popular option for tourists, taking approximately 10-12 hours with private cabins. Day trains are also available but are generally less comfortable. Buses are the most economical but also the longest option.
When visiting mosques, women should cover their heads, shoulders, and knees; men should ensure knees and shoulders are covered. Some mosques may provide scarves. For ancient temples, while less strict, respectful attire (shoulders and knees covered) is advisable to protect from the sun and for cultural sensitivity. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are essential for walking around sites.
Yes, haggling is very much expected and part of the shopping culture in markets (souks) like Khan el-Khalili in Cairo or Luxor's Souk. Start with an offer of 40-50% of the initial asking price and be prepared to negotiate firmly but politely. For items with clearly marked prices in supermarkets or modern stores, haggling is not expected.
Egypt has a reasonably modern mobile service with four main providers: Vodafone, Orange, Etisalat, and We, all offering good 4G speeds in urban areas. You can purchase SIM cards easily at airports or official stores. Wi-Fi is generally available in hotels and many restaurants. However, expect mobile signal and internet connectivity to be non-existent in remote desert areas or while cruising on the Nile.
Yes, common scams include unsolicited 'guides' at sites demanding payment, vendors telling you a site is closed to direct you to their shop, and 'free' camel/horse rides that end with an exorbitant fee. The best defense is to politely but firmly decline all unsolicited offers and assistance, and to avoid engaging in conversation with persistent touts.
These 7 experiences didn't make it into this itinerary

👯Traditional Egyptian Performance
e.g., Al-Ghouri Mausoleum (Al Tanura Troupe), Wekalet El Ghouri Arts Center

𓋹Iconic Ptolemaic Temples (Nile Day Trip)
e.g., Temple of Hathor (Dendera), Temple of Horus (Edfu)

🎈Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Flight
e.g., Hod Hod Soliman Balloons, Magic Horizon Balloons

⛵Traditional Felucca Sail on the Nile
e.g., Luxor Public Marina, Luxor Felucca Sailing
🗿Exploring Ancient Necropolises and Capitals
e.g., Saqqara, Memphis (Colossus of Ramses II)

⛪A Glimpse into Early Christian History in Coptic Cairo
e.g., The Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary's Church), Church of Abu Serga (Saints Sergius and Bacchus)

🍽️An Authentic Egyptian Culinary Journey
e.g., Abou Shakra (Giza Branch), Felfela (Downtown Cairo)
Create Your Custom Version
Download this Cairo, Egypt; Luxor, Egypt itinerary — day-by-day plan, maps, budget, and more.
You Might Also Like

Bali, Indonesia
Indonesia
7 days across Bali's diverse landscapes and culture: 4 nights in Ubud (Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Tegallalang Rice Terraces, Balinese cooking class), then a transfer to Seminyak for 3 nights (Seminyak Beach, Pura Luhur Uluwatu). A packed pace with daily cultural and nature activities,...

La Paz, Bolivia; Quime, Bolivia
Bolivia
This packed 7-day journey explores the high-altitude urban culture of La Paz and the rugged Andean nature of Quime for two people. Begin with 4 days in La Paz, experiencing the Witches' Market, riding the Mi Teleférico system for panoramic city views, and exploring the historic Sagarnaga Street....

Sarria, Portomarin, Arzua, and Santiago de Compostela, Spain
Spain
7 days walking the final stretch of the Camino Frances through Sarria, Portomarin, Arzua, and Santiago de Compostela. Highlights include the gothic Convento da Magdalena, reservoir views in Portomarin, local Arzua-Ulloa cheese tastings, and the arrival at the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral....

Dubrovnik and Split, Croatia
Croatia
This packed 7-day trip explores Croatia's Dalmatian Coast, starting with 3 nights in Dubrovnik's Old Town, featuring walks on its historic city walls and a sea kayaking adventure to Lokrum Island. A scenic bus transfer leads to Split for 4 nights, where you'll discover Diocletian's Palace and...
Prefer to plan it yourself?
Start from a free, no-signup travel itinerary template. The Excel and Google Sheets versions auto-total the budget and split costs by who paid.