Egypt Itinerary 8 Days

Egypt's Highlights in 8 Days Journey

During an Egypt 8-day itinerary, you will experience many of the top sites in Egypt. You will visit one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, tour the Egyptian Museum, and cruise along the Nile. Sample delicious Egyptian food, learn about Egypt's ancient history, and experience a desert safari in Egypt's Sahara.

Egypt is home to many ancient attractions that could give you an exceptional traveling experience. You can visit the Hanging Church, which was built in the first century. It is a unique structure that consists of 110 icons. It is located on the remains of a Roman fortress gate.

You will also have the chance to see the Solar Boat of King Khufu, considered the oldest intact ship in the world. This ship dates back about 4,500 years. It is also a fantastic example of advanced navigation.

The Valley of the Kings is a site of 62 ancient Pharaoh tombs. The tombs contain decorations and treasures from the ancient world. You can also visit the Colossi of Memnon, a remnant of Amenhotep III's mortuary temple.

Your 8-day Egypt itinerary will also include a stop at the Ibn Tulun Mosque, the oldest mosque in Cairo. This mosque is a unique building in design and offers a breathtaking view of Cairo.

Coastal Getaways: Beach Holidays in the Red Sea and Sinai

Travel to the beautiful coastal city of Alexandria, known for its stunning beaches and fantastic scenery. This city is also home to a famous museum, the Library of Alexandria. The Library of Alexandria is the most extensive in the world and contains tremendous knowledge.

Pay a visit to the Aswan High Dam, built in the 1960s, to control the flooding of the Nile. It also helped Egypt reach its highest level of electric production. This engineering feat has been the most crucial achievement in the country in the last century.

You will also have the opportunity to do the optional add-on tour to the Fayoum Oasis, a full-day trip from Cairo that includes lunch and dinner at a local restaurant. The ride takes about an hour in an air-conditioned coach.

Tailored Experiences: Crafting Your Perfect Eight-Day Egyptian Adventure

Here's below a guide to the perfect 8 days in Egypt starting from Cairo, including adventure programs to Egypt's Western Desert and sightseeing tours to top ancient Egypt attractions in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel.

8-day Nile cruise itineraries are also listed from standard Nile cruise Luxor Aswan itinerary to small boat Dahabiya cruise, or Lake Nasser cruises Aswan Abu Simbel. Pick one of the ready-made itineraries or contact us to get your free quote for any other custom 8-day tour in Egypt you would love. Here's a suggested Egypt in 8 days itinerary for exploring Cairo and the Nile River via a cruise:

Day 1: Arrival in Cairo – Welcome to the Land of Pharaohs

Upon your arrival at Cairo International Airport, a private transfer will take you to your hotel in the heart of the bustling capital. As you make your way through the city, you’ll catch glimpses of Cairo’s vibrant streets, where ancient history meets modern life. After check-in, take the rest of the day to relax and recover from your journey. If you feel up to it, a short walk around your hotel’s surroundings will allow you to soak in the atmosphere of this dynamic metropolis, perhaps stopping by a café to enjoy a refreshing glass of karkadeh (hibiscus tea) as you anticipate the wonders ahead.

Day 2: The Timeless Marvels of Giza – Pyramids, Sphinx, and Egyptian Museum

Today, you will visit one of the world’s most legendary archaeological sites—the Giza Plateau. Stand in awe before the colossal Great Pyramid of Cheops, along with the pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure, testaments to the incredible engineering of ancient Egypt. A short walk leads you to the enigmatic Sphinx, its gaze fixed on eternity, guarding these mighty tombs for millennia. The journey continues to the Solar Boat Museum, where a remarkably preserved wooden boat, believed to have belonged to Pharaoh Cheops, is displayed. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vast collection of treasures at the Egyptian Museum, home to the glittering artifacts of Tutankhamun and countless relics that reveal the secrets of Egypt’s glorious past.

Day 3: Cairo’s Rich Heritage – Islamic and Coptic Wonders

Delve into the spiritual heart of Cairo with a visit to the Citadel of Saladin, a historic fortress that once defended the city against invaders. Inside its walls stands the magnificent Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali, its grand domes and intricate decorations making it one of the most beautiful mosques in Egypt. Next, venture into Coptic Cairo, where history and faith intertwine. Walk through the atmospheric alleys to discover the Hanging Church, one of the oldest Christian churches in the country, and the Monastery of St. Sergius, believed to have sheltered the Holy Family during their flight into Egypt. The day ends at the legendary Khan El Khalili Bazaar, a treasure trove of handcrafted goods, exotic spices, and glittering jewelry, where you can haggle like a local and take home a piece of Egypt’s charm.

Day 4: Journey to Aswan – Nile Cruise Adventure Begins

Early in the morning, board a short flight to Aswan, the gateway to the majestic Nile. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your luxurious Nile cruise ship, your home for the next few days as you sail through the heart of Egypt. After a delightful lunch onboard, embark on an afternoon excursion to the Aswan High Dam, a modern engineering marvel that tamed the Nile’s floodwaters. Then, take a scenic boat ride to Philae Temple, a breathtaking island sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Isis. As the sun sets over the Nile, return to your cruise for an elegant dinner under the stars, with the gentle river breeze setting the perfect mood.

Day 5: Majestic Abu Simbel and the Temple of Kom Ombo

Before dawn, embark on an unforgettable journey to Abu Simbel, one of the most awe-inspiring temples in Egypt. The colossal statues of Ramses II, carved into the rock, greet you as the morning sun bathes them in golden light. The intricate interiors, adorned with battle scenes and sacred hieroglyphics, narrate the pharaoh’s legacy. After returning to Aswan, rejoin your cruise and sail towards Kom Ombo, where an extraordinary double temple awaits. Dedicated to both the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon god Horus, this unique site offers fascinating insight into ancient Egyptian beliefs. As night falls, enjoy a peaceful evening on board, with traditional music and entertainment adding to the magic of your journey.

Day 6: Edfu’s Hidden Gem and the Splendor of Luxor

Begin your day with a visit to Edfu’s Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, where towering columns and intricate carvings depict the eternal struggle between good and evil. As your cruise continues towards Luxor, soak in the breathtaking scenery along the Nile, watching farmers tend to their lush fields as they have for centuries. Upon reaching Luxor, step into the grandeur of Karnak Temple, an immense complex of towering pylons, majestic statues, and the iconic Hypostyle Hall, where 134 massive columns rise toward the sky. As dusk approaches, explore the ethereal Luxor Temple, beautifully illuminated and steeped in millennia of history, making for an unforgettable evening experience.

Day 7: The Secrets of the West Bank – Valley of the Kings and Hatshepsut’s Legacy

Cross the Nile to the legendary West Bank of Luxor, where the tombs of ancient pharaohs lie hidden beneath the golden sands. The Valley of the Kings, a necropolis of royal tombs, reveals breathtakingly decorated chambers, including the famous tomb of Tutankhamun. Next, visit the stunning Temple of Hatshepsut, a masterpiece of architecture built into the cliffs, honoring Egypt’s most powerful female pharaoh. As you return to your cruise, stop by the Colossi of Memnon, two towering statues that have silently watched over Luxor for centuries. Spend your final evening on the Nile enjoying the serenity of the river and reflecting on the wonders you’ve witnessed.

Day 8: Return to Cairo and Farewell to Egypt

After breakfast, bid farewell to the Nile and take a short flight back to Cairo. Depending on your departure schedule, you may have time to explore more of the city, visiting cultural sites, browsing elegant boutiques, or indulging in a final taste of Egyptian cuisine. A private transfer will take you to Cairo International Airport, where you’ll board your flight home, carrying with you cherished memories of an extraordinary journey through the land of the pharaohs.

This itinerary can be tailored to suit your preferences, ensuring a personalized and seamless experience throughout your Egyptian adventure.