7-Day Egypt Itinerary: Cairo, Luxor, Nile Cruise, and Aswan

If you’re planning a 7-day Egypt itinerary, you can cover Egypt’s biggest highlights without rushing: the Pyramids in Cairo, the temples and tombs in Luxor, a Nile cruise experience, and Aswan with an optional Abu Simbel trip. This 7-day Egypt itinerary is designed for first-time visitors who want history, culture, and smooth logistics in one week.

7-Day Egypt Itinerary Overview

This 7-day Egypt itinerary focuses on the classic route:

• Days 1–2: Cairo & Giza

• Days 3–4: Luxor (temples + West Bank tombs)

• Days 5–6: Nile cruise route + Aswan highlights

• Day 7: Abu Simbel option or return day

Best time for this 7-day Egypt itinerary: October to April for easier sightseeing.

Day 1: Arrive in Cairo + Giza Pyramids

Morning

• Arrive in Cairo, check in, rest, and settle.

Afternoon

• Head straight to the Giza Plateau for the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.

• Optional: short camel/horse ride for photos.

Evening

• Dinner at a Nile-view restaurant or a quick walk through Khan El Khalili for souvenirs.

Tip: For a smoother 7-day Egypt itinerary, place the pyramids late afternoon only if you arrive early; otherwise, shift pyramids to the next morning.

Day 2: Cairo Museum + Islamic Cairo

Morning

• Visit the Egyptian Museum (major collections and famous artifacts).

Afternoon

• Explore Islamic Cairo, including:

  • Citadel of Saladin

  • Mohamed Ali Mosque

  • Historic streets and viewpoints

Evening (Optional)

• Sound/light show at the pyramids if you want a relaxed night activity.

Tip: A licensed guide helps you move faster, which keeps your 7-day Egypt itinerary efficient.

Day 3: Travel to Luxor + Luxor Temple at Night

Morning

• Travel from Cairo to Luxor by flight or sleeper train.

Afternoon

• Check in and take a short rest (Luxor days start early).

Evening

• Visit Luxor Temple—the nighttime lighting makes it unforgettable.

• Walk the Nile Corniche and have dinner.

Tip: This timing works well in an Egypt itinerary 7 days plan because you save daylight for the West Bank the next morning.

Day 4: Luxor West Bank (Valley of the Kings + Hatshepsut)

Morning

• Visit the Valley of the Kings early to avoid crowds and heat.

Afternoon

• Continue with:

  • Temple of Hatshepsut

  • Colossi of Memnon

Evening (Optional)

• Consider a hot air balloon (usually sunrise—confirm schedule and pickup clearly).

Tip: Starting early is one of the best upgrades you can make to any 7-day Egypt itinerary.

Day 5: Nile Cruise Route + Edfu & Kom Ombo Stops

Morning

• Board your cruise route day (or structured transfer day) toward Aswan.

• Many itineraries include Edfu and Kom Ombo along the way.

Afternoon

• Relax on deck and enjoy Nile scenery: farmland, villages, and desert horizons.

Evening

• Dinner and entertainment onboard.

Tip: In a 7-day Egypt itinerary, choose reputable operators so temple stops and transfers feel smooth.

Day 6: Aswan Highlights + Felucca at Sunset

Morning

• Visit Philae Temple (scenic island setting).

Afternoon

• Add:

  • Unfinished Obelisk

  • Aswan High Dam

Evening

• Optional but highly recommended: felucca sail at sunset for calm views and photos.

Tip: Aswan is the “slow breath” in your 7-day Egypt itinerary, so don’t overpack this day.

Day 7: Abu Simbel Option or Return to Cairo

Option A: Abu Simbel Day Trip (Big Finale)

• Early morning departure to Abu Simbel.

• Return to Aswan and fly back to Cairo for departure (or overnight if needed).

Option B: Easy Return Day

• Enjoy a relaxed morning in Aswan.

• Fly back to Cairo for your international flight.

Tip: If your 7-day Egypt itinerary is tight, flights protect your schedule better than long ground transfers.

Comparison Table: Best Transport Choices for This 7-Day Egypt Itinerary

Which 7-Day Egypt Itinerary Version Is Best for You?

Choose based on your travel style:

• Pick Abu Simbel (Day 7 Option A) if you want maximum “wow” moments.

• Pick Option B if you prefer less rushing and more comfort.

• Choose flights if you want more sightseeing time.

• Choose sleeper train if you want a classic travel experience and don’t mind the longer ride.

Extra Planning Notes (Keep This 7-Day Egypt Itinerary Smooth)

• Start early at Giza and the Valley of the Kings.

• Pack smart: walking shoes, hat, sunscreen, light clothing, water bottle.

• Hire guides strategically: most useful in complex sites like Luxor’s temples and tombs.

• Best season: October to April for easier full-day touring.

Conclusion

This 7-day Egypt itinerary gives you a complete first-time route: Cairo and the pyramids, Luxor’s iconic tombs and temples, a Nile journey rhythm, and Aswan’s relaxed scenery—plus the option to finish with Abu Simbel. With early starts and smart transport choices, your 7-day Egypt itinerary stays exciting without feeling exhausting.

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