Embark on a captivating 9-day cultural journey through Egypt for four, designed for moderate-pace exploration of ancient wonders and vibrant local life. This trip balances iconic cultural sites, museums, and photography spots with leisurely nature walks, bustling markets, and relaxing cafes, all while enjoying local cuisine and comfortable mid-range hotels, avoiding extreme adventure or heavy nightlife.

Arrive at Cairo International Airport (CAI), clear customs, and transfer to your hotel in Giza.
Take some time to settle in and relax after your flight.
Ensure you have your visa sorted before arrival or be prepared to purchase a visa on arrival if eligible.
Private airport transfer recommended for convenience. Journey from airport to Giza hotels typically takes 45-90 minutes depending on traffic.
Check into your accommodation in Giza, conveniently located near the pyramids.
Settle in, unpack, and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant with views of the Giza Pyramids, offering an unforgettable introduction to Egypt.
Many restaurants in the Giza area offer rooftop or terrace seating with pyramid views. Ask your hotel for recommendations.
Embark on a private, all-inclusive tour that covers the iconic Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, the ancient capital of Memphis, and the Step Pyramid of Saqqara.
Includes main entrance tickets, a delicious local lunch, and a memorable camel ride at Giza. This tour provides a comprehensive overview of ancient Egyptian history.
Your private guide will ensure a personalized experience. Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection.
Enjoy some free time back at your hotel or take a leisurely stroll around the immediate Giza area.
Perhaps grab a coffee or tea at a local cafe.
This allows for a break before the evening activity, or simply downtime if preferred.
Capture unforgettable memories with a professional photoshoot at the pyramids.
Your photographer will guide you to the best spots, ensuring stunning individual and group photos as a unique souvenir of Egypt.
This session typically takes place around sunset or evening for dramatic lighting. Coordinate meeting point with the photographer.
Enjoy a private guided tour focusing on the magnificent Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), home to an unparalleled collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun.
Afterward, immerse yourselves in the bustling atmosphere of Khan El Khalili Bazaar for shopping and a taste of local life.
The guide is also a skilled photographer! Be prepared to haggle at the bazaar. Entry to GEM tickets are not included in the Viator tour price. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Savor authentic Egyptian cuisine at a local restaurant.
Explore dishes like Koshary, Fatta, or Molokhia for a true taste of Egypt.
Ask your guide for recommendations on highly-rated local eateries serving traditional Egyptian food.
Enjoy a comfortable, worry-free private guided day tour to Sakkara, home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the ancient capital of Memphis, and the Dahshur Pyramids, including the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid.
Discover the evolution of pyramid building with your expert guide.
This tour offers a deeper dive into early pyramid construction techniques. Lunch and ATV ride are optional extras not included in the base price.
Experience a serene sunset felucca (traditional sailboat) ride on the Nile River.
Relax and enjoy panoramic views of Cairo and Giza from the water as the sun dips below the horizon.
Bring a light jacket as it can get breezy on the river. Snacks and drinks can often be arranged onboard.
Enjoy a final dinner in Cairo, reflecting on the historical wonders you've explored.
Choose a restaurant with views of the Nile or a lively local spot.
Consider trying a new dish or revisiting a favorite from earlier in the trip.
Visit the historic district of Islamic Cairo, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Explore stunning mosques like the Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha at the Citadel, wander through ancient gates, and soak in the rich medieval architecture.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees covered for both men and women; women may need a headscarf).
Enjoy a quick lunch in the vibrant surroundings of Islamic Cairo or near your next activity.
Try a local street food experience or a traditional cafe.
Enjoy some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or to revisit a favorite spot.
Alternatively, use this time for relaxation or preparing for the next leg of your journey.
Consider picking up any gifts or items you may have spotted earlier.
After your flight from Cairo, check into your accommodation in Luxor and settle in.
Ensure your hotel is centrally located for easy access to the Nile and local attractions.
Enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch at a local restaurant near your hotel.
Explore the massive open-air museum of Karnak, a sprawling complex of sanctuaries, kiosks, pylons, and obelisks dedicated to the Theban triad.
Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking. Consider hiring a local guide at the entrance for deeper insights.
Savor dinner at a restaurant offering views of the Nile River.
Embark on a private guided tour to explore the wonders of Luxor's West Bank, including the Valley of the Kings (tombs of pharaohs), the mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon.
This tour also includes an Egyptian lunch. (While the tour covers both banks, we'll focus on West Bank highlights for today after visiting Karnak yesterday.)
Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen. The tour is private, so you can tailor the pace with your guide. Includes entrance tickets and lunch.
Enjoy a peaceful and traditional felucca (sail boat) ride on the Nile River, offering stunning views of the sunset over the West Bank.
A relaxing way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Bargain for the best price with the felucca captains.
Dine at a local restaurant to taste authentic Egyptian cuisine.
Explore the magnificent Luxor Temple, a large ancient Egyptian temple complex located on the east bank of the Nile River.
It was dedicated to the rejuvenation of kingship.
Visit in the morning to avoid the midday heat. The avenue of sphinxes connecting Luxor Temple to Karnak is also worth seeing.
Discover a beautifully curated collection of ancient artifacts from Luxor and the surrounding area, offering a deeper understanding of the region's rich history.
The museum is well-maintained and provides excellent context for the sites you've visited.
Explore the local markets for souvenirs, spices, and traditional crafts to bring home.
Haggle respectfully for prices. Look for papyrus, alabaster, and handcrafted jewelry.
Enjoy a farewell dinner in Luxor, reflecting on your incredible journey through ancient Egypt.
Enjoy a final Egyptian breakfast at your hotel before preparing for departure.
Complete check-out procedures and gather your luggage for the journey home.
This 9-day itinerary for Cairo, Egypt can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.