Seven to nine days is the most popular trip length for Egypt travelers interested in visiting Cairo, especially when also including another location like Aswan, Luxor, Edfu, Esna, or Kom Ombo. If you’re only headed to Cairo, you can enjoy a comfortably paced trip in four to five days. For the best itineraries including Cairo, keep reading below.
## How Many Days Do You Need in Cairo?
Most travelers find that a fulfilling experience in Cairo requires approximately four to five days. This timeframe allows for a comprehensive exploration of the city’s most iconic landmarks and cultural treasures. However, for those with a deeper interest in Egyptian history and culture, or those seeking a more relaxed pace, extending your stay to six days or more can be highly rewarding.
With six or more days at your disposal, many travelers opt to expand their Egyptian adventure beyond Cairo. The allure of ancient sites and captivating landscapes further south beckons, leading to popular extensions of the trip. These extensions often include destinations such as Aswan, Luxor, Edfu, Esna, and Kom Ombo, each offering a unique glimpse into Egypt’s rich past and vibrant present. Exploring these destinations allows you to immerse yourself further in the wonders of this ancient civilization. Consider the possibilities these locations hold for your extended Egyptian journey.
## Recommended Itineraries for Cairo
### Recommended Itinerary for 4 Days
Spend quality time at the renovated Egyptian Museum. This itinerary provides a perfect introduction to the wonders of Cairo and its surrounding areas.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| :—- | :—————————————— | :——– |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Cairo | Cairo |
| Day 2 | Visit the Egyptian Museum & Cairo Tower | Cairo |
| Day 3 | Old Cairo Day Tour | Cairo |
| Day 4 | Visit Alexandria, Depart Cairo | Cairo |
This four-day tour is a whirlwind adventure that showcases the best of Cairo and the nearby city of Alexandria. You’ll be immersed in history and culture from the moment you arrive. The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize your time and ensure you experience the most significant landmarks.
Over the course of these four days, you will have the opportunity to witness the grandeur of the Pyramids and Sphinx, marvel at the extensive collection of artifacts housed within the Egyptian Museum, and enjoy panoramic views of the sprawling metropolis from the Cairo Tower. A day trip to Alexandria will reveal remnants of the ancient world, offering a fascinating contrast to the bustling atmosphere of Cairo. You will experience the heart of Egypt’s history, culture, and beauty. Every day will be filled with new discoveries.
### Recommended Itinerary for 5 Days
See the Pyramids during a guided tour of Giza. This itinerary expands upon the four-day trip, offering a more in-depth exploration of Cairo and its surroundings.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| :—- | :—————————————————————————— | :——– |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Cairo, Self-Guided Exploration | Cairo |
| Day 2 | See the Pyramids on a Tour of Giza, Visit the Egyptian Museum, Sound & Light Show | Cairo |
| Day 3 | View Precious Antiquities in Alexandria | Cairo |
| Day 4 | Guided Tour of Islamic Cairo, Dinner Cruise on the Nile | Cairo |
| Day 5 | Depart Cairo | |
This five-day itinerary serves as an excellent introduction to Egypt’s cultural treasures, with Cairo as your central base. The itinerary allows you to experience the major attractions in a comprehensive manner. It provides a blend of guided tours and independent exploration.
Your journey begins with an exploration of the Egyptian Museum, where you will have the opportunity to view the treasures of King Tutankhamun. From there, you will venture to Giza to witness the iconic pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx, symbols of ancient Egypt’s power and ingenuity. A day trip to Alexandria will provide a glimpse into the city’s rich history and its connection to the Roman Empire. Back in Cairo, you will delve into the city’s Islamic heritage and enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise on the majestic Nile River, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views. This immersive experience will connect you with the ancient and modern aspects of Egypt. You’ll carry unforgettable memories of the city’s rich history.
## Extended Itineraries
### 1-Week Itinerary Including Aswan & Luxor
Take a scenic cruise on the Nile River. This itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of Egypt, combining the highlights of Cairo with a captivating Nile River cruise.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| :—- | :————————————————- | :——– |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Cairo | Cairo |
| Day 2 | Cairo: Pyramids of Giza, Memphis, Saqqara | Cairo |
| Day 3 | Cairo: Egyptian Museum & Islamic Cairo | Cairo |
| Day 4 | Fly to Aswan, Board Nile Cruise | Aswan |
| Day 5 | Travel by Boat to the Temples of Edfu & Kom Ombo | Luxor |
| Day 6 | Explore the Temple of Luxor | Luxor |
| Day 7 | Fly to Cairo, Depart | |
This weeklong adventure allows you to experience the best of Egypt, from the bustling streets of Cairo to the ancient wonders along the Nile River. The itinerary provides a diverse range of experiences, including cultural immersion, historical exploration, and relaxation.
You will begin your journey in Cairo, where you will explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including the pyramids of Giza, the ancient capital of Memphis, and the necropolis of Saqqara. You’ll also have the chance to delve into Egyptian history at the Egyptian Museum and explore the city’s Islamic heritage. From Cairo, you will embark on a scenic Nile River cruise, where you will visit the magnificent Luxor Temple, explore the Valley of the Kings, and marvel at the grandeur of Karnak Temple. Your adventure will conclude with a return to Cairo, leaving you with unforgettable memories of your Egyptian journey. Each day brings new cultural and historical experiences.
### 8-Day Itinerary Including Aswan, Luxor & Edfu
Visit Egypt’s ancient sites like the Luxor Temple complex. This itinerary expands upon the previous one, providing a more immersive Nile River cruise experience and a deeper exploration of ancient Egyptian sites.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| :—- | :—————————————— | :——– |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Cairo, Self-Guided Exploration | Cairo |
| Day 2 | Visit the Giza Pyramids & Sphinx | Cairo |
| Day 3 | Fly to Luxor, Board Nile Cruise (Day 1) | Luxor |
| Day 4 | Nile Cruise (Day 2) | Edfu |
| Day 5 | Nile Cruise (Day 3) | Edfu |
| Day 6 | Nile Cruise (Day 4) | Aswan |
| Day 7 | Fly to Cairo, Free Time | Cairo |
| Day 8 | Depart Cairo | |
This eight-day itinerary takes you on a captivating journey down the Nile River, allowing you to witness some of the ancient world’s most impressive structures and delve into the rich history of ancient Egypt. The trip offers a deep connection to the historical and cultural landmarks of the region.
You will begin your adventure with a visit to the Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx, iconic symbols of ancient Egypt. From there, you will fly to Luxor to board a Nile River cruise, where you will explore the magnificent temples of Karnak and Luxor, visit the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel, and immerse yourself in the ancient Egyptian world. A city tour of Cairo and a visit to the Aswan Dam will provide insights into Egypt’s present, offering a balanced perspective on the country’s past and present. This journey offers a comprehensive view of Egypt’s rich history and culture.
### 9-Day Itinerary Including Aswan, Luxor, Esna & Kom Ombo
Get up close to the awe-inspiring columns at the Temple of Kom Ombo. This itinerary offers an even more comprehensive exploration of Egypt, with a focus on the Nile River cruise and the ancient sites along its banks.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| :—- | :————————————————————————- | :——– |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Cairo | Cairo |
| Day 2 | Tour the Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo & Khan El Khalili Bazaar | Cairo |
| Day 3 | Discover the Great Pyramids: Giza & Memphis | Cairo |
| Day 4 | Fly to Luxor, Board Nile River Cruise, Tour the Temples of Luxor & Karnak | Luxor |
| Day 5 | Explore the Valley of the Kings, Cruise to Esna | Esna |
| Day 6 | Cruise to Kom Ombo via the Temple of Edfu | Kom Ombo |
| Day 7 | Cruise to Aswan, Visit the Temple of Philae, Aswan Dam & Unfinished Obelisk | Aswan |
| Day 8 | Disembark from Nile River Cruise, Fly to Cairo | Cairo |
| Day 9 | Depart Cairo | |
This nine-day itinerary is perfect for those seeking a relaxed and immersive experience in Egypt, with a focus on the Nile River and its ancient treasures. The itinerary is carefully crafted to provide a balance of exploration and relaxation.
After exploring the many charms of Cairo, including the Great Pyramids and the bustling Khan El Khalili Bazaar, you will embark on an unforgettable Nile River cruise towards Aswan. You will discover ancient sites and antiquities by day, while falling asleep to the gentle rhythms of the river by night. Along the way, you will visit the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Edfu, the Temple of Kom Ombo, the Temple of Philae, and the Aswan Dam, immersing yourself in the wonders of ancient Egypt. This journey offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
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