Egypt Itinerary: Must-See Attractions & Experiences

Egyptian history is rich, captivating, and deeply woven into the fabric of human civilization. The Great Pyramid, one of the last standing wonders of the ancient world, has long been a symbol of architectural genius and historical significance. This journey through Egypt was one of my greatest adventures, showcasing the vastness and diversity of this incredible country.

Day 1: Arrival in Cairo & Immersive Egyptian Culture

Evening: Dinner at Bab El-Sharq
We arrived in Cairo late in the evening, and after checking into our hotel and dropping off our luggage, we set out for dinner at Bab El-Sharq. This lively Middle Eastern restaurant offers an authentic Egyptian dining experience complete with live entertainment. We indulged in chicken shawarma, grilled lamb kebabs, and fresh seafood, all packed with flavor. The atmosphere was electric, with belly dancers moving gracefully between tables and a stage featuring mesmerizing performances. The combination of delicious food, music, and vibrant energy made it the perfect way to kick off our Egyptian adventure.

Day 2: Exploring Ancient Marvels & Luxurious Indulgence

Morning: Breakfast at the Ritz Carlton & Private Giza Pyramids Tour
After an indulgent breakfast at the Ritz Carlton, we headed to the Giza Plateau for a private guided tour of the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. Standing before the monumental pyramids, one can’t help but marvel at their grandeur and mystery. Our guide walked us through the history of the Pyramid of Khufu, the largest and most famous, and the significance of the Sphinx, believed to be a guardian of the pyramids. Riding camels with the pyramids as our backdrop was truly an unforgettable experience.

We also had the option to visit the Egyptian Museum, the oldest archaeological museum in the Middle East, home to artifacts from ancient dynasties, including treasures from King Tutankhamun’s tomb. (Tip: Book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.)

Afternoon: Lunch at Khufu’s & Relaxing Spa Session
Following our exploration, we headed to Khufu’s Restaurant, which offers one of the best views of the pyramids. Dining on an outdoor terrace while savoring authentic Egyptian cuisine was the perfect way to relax after a morning of walking. The staff was incredibly welcoming, and the dishes, including grilled meats and traditional Egyptian mezze, were divine.

After lunch, we returned to our hotel for a 60-minute massage at the Ritz Carlton Spa. After hours of walking through historical sites, this spa session was the ideal way to rejuvenate before heading to our next destination.

Evening: Hotel Switch & Dinner at Saigon
Later that evening, we checked into the Fairmont Nile River Hotel, a luxurious property with stunning views of the Nile. After a brief tour of the property, we got ready for dinner at Saigon, a trendy Asian fusion restaurant inside the Fairmont. The ambiance was chic, and while the food was delicious, the wait time was a bit longer than expected. After dinner, we called it an early night in preparation for our early morning flight to Sharm El Sheikh.

Day 3: Desert Adventure & Red Sea Wonders

Morning: Flight to Sharm El Sheikh & Sinai Desert Safari
We took a 6 AM flight to Sharm El Sheikh, landing at 8 AM, where our tour guide was waiting. Our adventure began with a drive into the Sinai Desert, about 1 hour and 45 minutes from the airport. We kicked off with a camel ride across the golden dunes, followed by a thrilling 30-minute ATV ride. The open desert, surrounded by rugged mountains, became our playground as we raced across the sand, feeling the rush of adventure in every turn.

Midday: Blue Hole National Park & Beach Camp Lunch
Next, we arrived at Blue Hole National Park in Dahab, a world-renowned diving spot along the Red Sea. While some of our group chose to snorkel, we opted to relax at a beach camp, enjoying the tranquil scenery. If you visit during warmer months, snorkeling here is a must! (Tip: The desert can get chilly in the fall, so dress accordingly if visiting in the cooler months.)

Afterward, we convened for lunch at a local beach camp, where we enjoyed fresh seafood and traditional Egyptian dishes with the calming waves of the Red Sea in the background.

Afternoon: Jeep Tour to the Colored Canyon
The adventure continued with a jeep tour to the Colored Canyon, a natural wonder famous for its vibrant rock formations and scenic hiking trails. Walking through the canyon’s narrow pathways, surrounded by walls of layered sandstone in shades of red, orange, and gold, was a surreal experience. If you plan to hike, wear comfortable sneakers and bring a scarf to protect yourself from the desert dust.

Evening: Dinner at Reef Grill & Flight Back to Cairo
To end the day, we dined at Reef Grill at the Four Seasons Sharm El Sheikh, a luxurious seaside restaurant offering breathtaking views of the Red Sea. Although we arrived after sunset and missed the shimmering waters in daylight, the exquisite fine dining experience more than made up for it. After dinner, we headed to the airport for our return flight to Cairo.

Additional Recommendations

  • Luxor – Explore the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Luxor Temple, the heart of ancient Egyptian civilization.

  • Alexandria – Visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Qaitbay Citadel, and the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa for a taste of Egypt’s Greco-Roman history.

  • Nile River Cruise – A multi-day cruise between Luxor and Aswan offers a relaxing way to see temples, villages, and life along the Nile.

  • Visit the Khan El Khalili Bazaar, one of Cairo’s most famous markets, where you can shop for souvenirs, spices, jewelry, and traditional crafts

Final Thoughts

Egypt is a land of timeless wonders, rich history, and thrilling adventures. From exploring the awe-inspiring pyramids to riding ATVs in the desert and experiencing the Red Sea’s beauty, every moment was a testament to the country’s magic. Whether you’re a history lover, an adventure seeker, or a luxury traveler, Egypt offers an unforgettable experience.

📍 Planning your Egypt trip? Let me help you craft the perfect itinerary tailored to your travel style!