The Best of Egypt in 7 Days

Morning

Depending on when your flight arrives (mine was at 11 pm the previous night), check into your hotel and start your day with a traditional breakfast of ful — a dish made from fava beans cooked in oil, served with an egg on top — and enjoy a cup of Egyptian-style Turkish coffee called “Awah.” Head to the pyramids as early as possible to avoid the crowds. Spend time exploring the pyramids and the Sphinx.

Afternoon

Next, visit the Khan el-Khalili Market for a walking history tour of the area, followed by souvenir shopping. Be ready to haggle! My favorite find was a shop with oil paintings by a local painter named Farid. Have lunch at the Khan el-Khalili Restaurant and Coffee Shop, known for its amazing traditional food options and shisha.

Evening

Take a taxi to the Zamalek Art Gallery, located in a popular area for locals. Then, head to the Sufi Bookstore and Cafe for dinner, a unique spot with a collection of Egyptian books and art. They serve traditional foods and have live music in the evenings. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere before returning to your hotel for an early night to prepare for your next day's flight.

Morning

Catch an early morning flight from Cairo to Aswan. Drop your bags at your hotel before heading out for the day.

Afternoon

Depending on your hotel's location, take a scenic boat ride to the Nubian Village or opt to stay in one of the Nubian-style hotels nearby. Spend a few hours learning about Nubian history and culture. Explore vendors and shop for crafts, local teas and spices at the market. Enjoy lunch at Kato Waidi Nubian House, a hotel with a restaurant open to the public, offering beautiful views of the Nile.

Evening

After checking into your hotel, have a sunset dinner on a traditional felucca.

Morning

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before being collected by your taxi and taken to start your Nile cruise. I chose Sail the Nile for a more intimate cruise experience, appreciating the company's commitment to supporting the local community and culture.

Afternoon

The first stop is Kom Ombo Temple, where you will have a guided tour and a fascinating lesson in reading hieroglyphics. Return to the boat for lunch and relaxation, taking in the views of the Nile shore. Next, tour the historic site of Gebel El Silsila.

Evening

Return to the boat for dinner and watch the sunset before heading to bed.

Morning & afternoon

Start your day with breakfast on the boat before disembarking to Edfu, where your taxi will take you to Edfu Temple. After touring the temple, enjoy some shopping for souvenirs. Return to the boat for lunch and relaxation. You can play board games provided on board or unwind in the hammock on the main deck while admiring the scenery.

Evening

Arrive in Esna, where the boat will dock for the night. Have dinner on the boat, then join your guide for a visit to the lively Esna night market. This market is not well-known among tourists, offering an authentic glimpse into Egyptian culture and daily life.

Morning

Have your final breakfast on board and arrive in Luxor by noon. Check into your hotel and head straight to Luxor Market, where you can spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs, antiques and accessories.

Afternoon

Enjoy lunch at one of the many local cafes, then take a leisurely walk to Luxor Temple, followed by a sunset stroll along the promenade.

Evening

Return to your hotel for dinner and get an early night’s sleep in preparation for an early start the next morning.

Morning & afternoon

Get collected from your hotel at 4 am and enjoy a boat ride across the Nile, followed by a quick car trip to the launch site. Experience a stunning 30-40 minute hot air balloon ride with views of Luxor city and the Valley of the Kings. After landing, take a guided tour of the Valley of the Kings before returning to Luxor for a late breakfast or early lunch.

Evening

Return to your hotel to collect your belongings, then head to the airport for your flight back to Cairo.

Morning & afternoon

Start your day at a relaxed pace following a busy day. Begin with breakfast at the hotel, then take a 20-minute taxi ride to the pottery village, an undiscovered market for homeware shopping. The village is filled with local potters offering their unique pieces at great prices, making it a unique shopping experience. Afterward, take a taxi back to your hotel in Cairo.

Evening

For your final dinner, visit Andrea Mariouteya. Enjoy the outdoor seating, traditional food and beautiful views.