Egypt is a dream bucket-list vacation for many people. I know for myself, I dreamed of visiting Egypt to see the Ancient sites from the time I learned about them in early Elementary School. This one-week Egypt itinerary will feature all the main sites you cannot miss in Egypt, and it will definitely leave you wanting to explore more of the country.
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TripAdvisor is a great place to start your hotel search. Check out the best hotels in Egypt here!
Table of Contents
History of Egypt
The history of Egypt spans many millennia but began in 3100 BC along the banks of the Nile River. Over the years, Egypt saw the construction of the monumental pyramids, the invention of hieroglyphic writing, and the establishment of religious and government systems centered around the pharaohs.
Through the Old, Middle, and New Kingdoms, Egypt witnessed territorial expansion and cultural achievement. Egypt saw the invasion of various powers including the Persians, Greeks, and Romans. Christianity transformed Egypt’s landscape followed by a period of Islamic conquest where Egypt became the center of Islamic learning.
Present-day, Egypt has blended its rich ancient heritage with modern developments that has attracted millions of visitors a year. It is a cultural hub with a population known for its hospitality. With a one-week Egypt itinerary, you can cover many of the historical sites in Egypt.
Upper vs. Lower Egypt
Egypt had been divided into two main regions during the ancient times: Upper and Lower Egypt. The division is both geographical and symbolic, as the two areas had cultural and political differences prior to their unification into one empire.
Lower Egypt is the northern part of the country from the Nile Delta to the Nile Valley that is made up of present-day Cairo. Its symbol is the red crown or Deshret. Upper Egypt, located in the south, includes the Nile Valley from Cairo to Aswan. Its symbol is the white crown or Hedjet. Both areas offer a ton of sites to visit with different examples of Egyptian culture.
Best Time to Visit Egypt
Cairo is a destination that gets very hot temperatures in the summertime. It can be very hot and dry, so you will want to avoid visiting during this time if you do not like the heat. Alternatively, the winter season brings nicer weather but also the massive amounts of crowds.
Therefore, the best time to use this one-week Egypt itinerary is during the shoulder seasons: fall and spring. During this time, the weather will be slightly cooler and less crowded. Prices for hotels will also be cheaper.
How to Get to Egypt
The main international airport in Egypt is Cairo International Airport. You can catch flights here from all over the world. From the United States, plan on spending $700+ for a round-trip ticket, depending on the season. However, you can also visit Egypt using points to save some money on airfare.
Currency in Egypt
Egypt uses the Egyptian pound. You can get some from the easily accessible ATMs throughout the country. Most hotels have ATMs inside of them. At the time of this post, 31 Egyptian Pounds is about $1USD. You will need some cash in Egypt to pay for meals, but many places, including the temples and historical sites, take credit card. You can also buy your tickets online ahead of time.
Visa for Egypt
In order to visit Egypt as a US Citizen (and many other countries), you need a visa to enter. I recommend buying one through iVisa prior to visiting so it will be one less thing you have to worry about.
Alternatively, you can buy a visa on arrival at the Cairo Airport. Once you reach the arrivals hall before customs, there are a ton of bank windows with signs pointing to them that say “visa.” You can buy a visa at any of these. It costs $25USD.
Transportation Around Egypt
There are various methods of getting around Egypt for this one-week Egypt itinerary. We opted to fly places and booked a private guide and driver through George Transportation during our stay in Upper Egypt.
Alternatively, you can book group tours in each individual city (I recommend booking through GetYourGuide). Finally, you could opt for a Nile River Cruise that includes transportation around Upper Egypt. In Cairo, Uber is widely available, so that is an easy way to get around.
Where to Stay in Egypt
TripAdvisor is a great place to start your hotel search. Search for the best Egypt hotels here! There are the hotels I recommend for each city:
- Cairo: Le Meridien Cairo Airport, Marriott Mena House, Ramses Hilton, or Marriott Hotel
- Luxor: Hilton Luxor Resort and Spa
- Aswan: Basma Hotel Aswan or Movenpick Resort Aswan
One Week Egypt Itinerary
Day 0: Arrival in Egypt
Hotel Option: Le Meridien Cairo Airport
Today, you will arrive in Egypt. Many flights get in during the late evening, so I recommend staying at the airport. Take time to relax and get acclimated to the time zone. If you get in earlier in the day, you can always head into Cairo to explore.
Day 1: Aswan and Abu Simbel
Hotel Options: Basma Hotel Aswan or Movenpick Resort Aswan
For your first official day on this one-week Egypt itinerary, catch an early morning flight to Aswan or Abu Simbel. Today will be spent exploring one of the most amazing temples in Egypt: Abu Simbel, located in Southern Egypt near the Sudan border.
If you opt to visit from Aswan, it is about a 2 hour drive each way. You can opt to take a group tour or hire a driver. I highly recommend having some sort of guide with you, so you understand the background and context of the temple. If you fly into the Aswan airport, you can grab a taxi at the airport or book transportation from there.
Abu Simbel is an archaeological site that is known for its massive rock-cut temple built in the 1200s by Ramses II. The site contains two temples: one dedicated to Rameses II and a smaller one for his wife, Queen Nefertari. It is most well-known for its 20-meter-tall colossal statues of Ramses II.
The temple almost flooded in the 1960s with the construction of the Aswan High Dam, but they relocated it to higher ground. Today, about 300,000 people visit this architectural marvel each year. You will want at least an hour to wander around and explore the complex.
Day 2: Aswan
Hotel Option: Basma Hotel Aswan or Movenpick Resort Aswan
Today, you will spend the day exploring Aswan, once one of the most important trading posts in Africa. Much of the stone for the Egyptian monuments and pyramids comes from Aswan.
First, you will want to start out the day with a visit to the Aswan High Dam. This dam was built in the 1960s to help control flooding. It took ten years to build and is one of the world’s largest dams. It will cost $6.50 to visit this site as part of your one-week Egypt itinerary.
Next, plan to visit the Philae Temple. This complex will be the highlight of your day in Aswan. It was built in the 300s BC for the Goddess Isis. This temple is unique because it lives on an island. You must hire a boat in order to access it. Also, the Philae Temple is the site of the last known carved Hieroglyphic, so make sure not to miss that! It will cost $14.50 to get into the temple plus the boat transportation.
The Unfinished Obelisk is the largest known obelisk despite it being unfinished. Hatshepsut ordered this obelisk to be built, but for unknown reasons, then abandoned the project. It will cost $6.50 for you to visit.
Then, end your day with a visit to the Nubian Museum. This is the perfect stop for people interested in history and culture as there are over 3000 pieces in the museum. If you have the time, you can also squeeze in a Felucca Ride on the Nile or a visit to a Nubian Village. Alternatively, you can check out the evening Philae Temple light show.
Day 3: Aswan to Luxor
Hotel Options: Hilton Luxor Resort and Spa
Today on this one-week Egypt itinerary, visitors will head from Aswan to Luxor via several temples. You can opt to book a Edfu and Kom Ombo with Luxor transfer that will drive you between Aswan and Luxor. Alternatively, you can fly from Aswan to Luxor and catch a tour from there. This tour also includes a felucca ride.
Kom Ombo
First up, you will stop at the Kom Ombo temple. This temple is located near Aswan and is dedicated to two sets of deities: Horus (falcon god) and Sobek (crocodile god). It was constructed in 180-47 BC and is known for its double temple and symmetrical design. It is located along the Nile River and provides views of the area.
In addition, it has a ton of preserved hieroglyphs and mummified crocodiles. The temple emphasizes Sobek’s significance to the Egyptians and gives a glimpse into their religious practices.
Edfu
Edfu is located between Luxor and Aswan along the banks of the Nile River. It is one of the best-preserved temples from Ancient Egypt and is dedicated to the falcon god Horus. It was built between 237 and 57 BC.
The temple is huge with towering pylons and lots of carved relics that tell the story of Horus and Seth. Visitors will want to make sure to see the Hypostyle Hall, which is filled with detailed hieroglyphics.
Luxor Temple
Your next stop, Luxor Temple, is located in Luxor along the east bank of the Nile River. Constructed in the 1400s BC during the New Kingdom, it is dedicated to several kings of the time period. The temple complex was primarily built by Ramses II and features many statues, columns, and intricate carvings.
It is connected to Karnak Temple by the Avenue of the Sphinx. During the evening hours, you can see the temple lit up. You will want at least a couple of hours here and I recommend having a guide.
Day 4: Luxor
Hotel Options: Hilton Luxor Resort and Spa
Today, you will spend the day exploring the amazing city of Luxor. To start out the day, you may want to go on a hot air balloon ride.
Valley of the Kings
The number one site to visit in Egypt after the pyramids of Giza is the Valley of the Kings. The Valley of the Kings is located on the west bank of the Nile River near Luxor. This site served as the burial groups for many of the pharaohs in Egypt.
Present-day, there are 63 tombs that have been found. These tombs protect the mummified bodies and their treasures in the afterlife. One of the most famous tombs of the area is that of King Tutankhamun. This tomb, discovered in 1922, became infamous due to being untouched, with its intricate hieroglyphics, as well as the massive amount of artifacts and gold found in its discovery.
Visitors can easily spend an entire day here visiting the various tombs. You pay one price to enter and then a couple of the tombs (like King Tut) are an added fee. I recommend adding King Tut and Ramses V/VI to your ticket. Note that the only mummy you will see in the Valley of the Kings is King Tut’s. The rest of the mummies are at the National Museum of Egyption Civilization in Cairo.
Karnak Temple
Karnak Temple is one of the largest ancient religious complexes in the world. It is dedicated to the god Amun-Ra. The complex took over 2,000 years to construct the series of temples, chapels, pylons, and other buildings.
It is most well-known for the Hypostyle Hall and the Sacred Lake. Plan to spend a couple of hours wandering the ruins and massive complex. Make sure to walk around the sacred scarab for good luck.
It is connected to Luxor Temple by the Avenue of the Sphinx. During the evening hours, you can see the temple lit up and enter for an extra cost. Plan to spend at least a couple of hours here and you will want a guide.
Day 5: Luxor to Cairo
Hotel Options: Marriott Mena House, Ramses Hilton, or Marriott Hotel
You have two options for today on this one-week Egypt itinerary. Some of these activities could be crammed into other days if you want to have busier days during your Egypt trip (this is what we did).
First, you can spend this extra day exploring more of what Luxor has to offer. This way, you can catch an evening flight out of Luxor. Option two is to take an early morning flight to Cairo. This allows you to have an extra day in Cairo. Due to the amount of time we had, we flew to Cairo early in the morning and used this as one of our two days in Cairo.
Luxor
If you spend the extra day in Luxor, check out these tour options for how to spend your day. You can also visit Luxor and Karnak Temple today instead of on the other day.
- Hot Air Balloon Ride: A hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings is a fun activity when spending time in Luxor. The view from above can’t be missed. This activity will take a couple of hours.
- Valley of the Queens: This is where the Ancient Egyptians buried all of the Queens. In total there are about 75 tombs discovered, but the most significant is the tomb of Nefertari.
- Valley of the Nobles: These tombs were where workers, foremen, priests, soldiers, officials, et cetera were buried. This is where anyone who could have afforded to be mummified is buried.
- Temple of Hatsheput: This complex is a huge temple built during the reign of Pharaoh Hatshepsut and also where she is buried.
- Dendera Temple: Dendera Temple, built by Ptolemy IX SoterII, is another fun place to add to this one-week Egypt itinerary. Here visitors can see the ruins from the period of Roman rule.
- Felucca ride with lunch: Feluccas are traditional Egyptian sailboats that are commonly used in the Mediterranean, so sailing on one while eating lunch is a fun activity.
- Mummification Museum: This museum goes over the mummification process and teaches visitors about the purpose of mummification. The museum has a ton of artifacts related to mummification.
- Luxor Museum: This archeological museum has a ton of Egyptian Artifacts similar to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. It has two mummies on display.
- The Carter House: The house of Howard Carter, discoverer of King Tut’s tomb, is now a museum dedicated to his time in Egypt.
Cairo
If you spend the extra day in Cairo, check out these tour options as they are all perfect ways to spend the day.
- Pyramids and Egyptian Museum tour: If you do not want to visit Memphis and Saqqara, this tour gives a good overview of Ancient Egypt.
- Alexandria day tour: Alexandria shows the Roman influence in Egypt and is a fantastic day trip option from Cairo.
- Snorkeling Cruise: For those who like snorkeling, you may enjoy this snorkel tour.
- GEM and King Tut exhibit: The Grand Egyptian Museum has more artifacts than the Egyptian Museum and has a bridge that takes you directly to the pyramids. It also includes an exhibit on King Tut.
- Felucca ride on the Nile: A felucca is a popular boat to head out on the Nile on.
- Dinner cruise on the Nile: If you want an easy way to grab dinner and a cruise down the Nile this option is for you!
Day 6: Cairo
Hotel Options: Marriott Mena House, Ramses Hilton, or Marriott Hotel
Cairo has so many options of things to do when you visit, especially if it is your first time to Egypt. These last two days in this one-week Egypt itinerary will be spent exploring some of the best sites Cairo has to offer.
Pyramids of Giza
The first stop and the highlight of any one-week Egypt itinerary is stopping at the Pyramids of Giza. It is very easy to explore the pyramid complex on your own. However, if you want more background information, check out this Pyramids of Giza tour, this Female guided Pyramids tour, or this Pyramids of Giza private tour. You could also book a Pyramids photographer if you want more professional looking photos.
Memphis
Next, head to Memphis, the first capital of Egypt. Memphis was founded in 3100 BC and was the capital of the Old Kingdom. It is home to many temples. Present-day, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an open-air museum. You can book this tour to take you there, or you can Uber or take a taxi there. Plan to spend no more than an hour exploring the complex.
Sakkara
For the final stop of the day, head to the pyramids of Sakkara. This ancient burial ground is where the people from Memphis were buried. The most well-known pyramid here is the Step Pyramid of Djoser, built in 2600 BC. Visitors can go inside this pyramid too and it is much cheaper than the Great Pyramid at Giza.
If you have more time, take this Sakkara, Memphis, and Dahshur tour.
Day 7: Cairo
Hotel Options: Marriott Mena House, Ramses Hilton, or Marriott Hotel
Today will be spent exploring Old Cairo and some of the best museums about Egypt. You can opt to go on a fantastic tour like this one, or Uber around and see the sites on your own. Either way is very easy.
Egyptian Museum
The Egyptian Museum is a must visit during a one-week Egypt itinerary. It is home to many ancient artifacts that span over 5000 years of Egyptian history. It opened in 1902 and contains over 120,000 artifacts on display. Most of the items are not labeled and do not include a placard with information, so hiring a private guide is helpful if you want to learn a more in-depth background.
National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization is where you should go if you want to see a ton of mummies during your one-week Egypt itinerary. This museum opened in 2021 and is home to over 20 mummies from all different periods in Egypt. It also has a variety of artifacts from across the Egyptian periods. If you want a more in-depth experience, plan on hiring a private guide to enhance your experience.
The Old Citadel
Next head to the Old Citadel, a historic fortress atop a hill that overlooks Cairo. Built in the 1100s, the citadel served as a stronghold and symbol of Islamic power. Today, visitors can see the remains of various cultural and architectural landmarks, such as the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, or visit one of the museums in the area. If you are interested in shopping, check out this Citadel and Bazar tour.
Day 8: Depart Cairo
Today, catch a departing flight from Cairo to head home or to your next destination. We opted to visit Salzburg and Munich after our one-week Egypt itinerary. Other people head to countries like Jordan.
If you have more time to spend than a one-week Egypt itinerary, you can head to places like Alexandria, Sharm El Sheikh, or Hurghada.
Total Costs for One Week Egypt Itinerary
We opted to book our Egypt trip using points, so it cost a lot less than paying cash for everything. Here is the breakdown of what we paid versus actual costs.
- Hotel: 87,000 Marriott Points (or two free night certificates and 17,000 points) and 60,000 Hilton Points
- Airfare: 85,500 points plus $339/person or 171,000 points plus $678 total, plus $156 total for fees not covered by the Venture X credit ($834 total for airfare)
- Transportation: $265/person or $530 total
- Activities: $235/person or $470 total
- Food: $50/person or $100 total
- Visa Cost: $25/person or $50 total
- Total Cost Out of Pocket $992/person, or $1984 total
Final Thoughts on a One Week Egypt Itinerary
Egypt is an amazing country to visit. This one-week Egypt itinerary just gives you a taste of what the country has to offer and is a good introduction to the sites. If you have more time for a one-week Egypt itinerary, make sure to take some time to explore areas such as Alexandria and Hurghada. Alternatively, you can base yourself in Cairo and spend time taking one of the many amazing day trips from Cairo.
