Egypt is one of the most magical destinations you will ever visit and it should be the first place to put on your travel bucket list. Ancient Egyptian history has always fascinated travellers all over the world. in this blog we will provide you the best Egypt itinerary 12 days and You will confirm that after travelling to Egypt. 

Explore best of Egypt with our Egypt itinerary 12 days . our guide covers everything you need for an unforgettable Egyptian adventure. it’s more impressive than you could have ever imagined.

sound and light show of the pyramids

 

Before we start our Egypt itinerary 12 Days let’s answer these common questions:

1) When to visit Egypt?

Consider carefully timing your inaugural journey to Egypt, as the country’s climate and cultural events can greatly influence your experience. With scorching temperatures, the observance of peak tourism seasons, and Ramadan occurring at various times throughout the year due to differences between the Muslim and Western calendars.

Optimal visiting times range from March to May, offering pleasant spring weather and the chance to revel in festivities like Sham al Nessim, a joyful Coptic celebration marking the season’s onset.

Alternatively, September to October presents cooler temperatures and budget-friendly options as fall sets in, accompanied by refreshing sea breezes along the Mediterranean coast.

 For those seeking the bustling energy of peak tourism, November to February beckons, with milder winter temperatures drawing crowds to ancient sites and festive events like Coptic Christmas and the revered Abu Simbel Festival, promising a rich cultural experience amidst Egypt’s historical wonders.

2) Where to stay in Cairo?

Top 5 Hotels in Cairo:

  • Marriott Mena House
  • The St. Regis 
  • The Nile Ritz-Carlton
  • Four Seasons Cairo At The First Residence 
  • Kempinski Nile Hotel 

3) Which Nile cruise is the best?

Top 5 Nile cruises:

  • Historia Luxury Nile Cruise
  • Oberoi Zahra Nile Cruise
  • Farah Nile Cruise
  • Movenpick MS Sun Ray Nile Cruise
  • Nebu Nile Cruise

4) Do I need Guides in Egypt?

For any traveler, engaging the services of a knowledgeable tour guide is a wise investment. Not only will a guide lead you to all the must-see attractions, but they’ll also help you maximise your time in the destination, ensuring you don’t miss out on key experiences, especially in countries with deep historical significance like Egypt.

Embracing the expertise of a local guide can truly enhance your journey, providing insights and perspectives that enrich your understanding and appreciation of the cultural tapestry woven throughout the country’s storied past.

Guide

Starting your Egypt Itinerary 12 Days:

Day 1 – Welcome to Egypt Free day

Welcome to Egypt! Meet your guide at Cairo International Airport and get transferred to your hotel for check-in. 

Day 2 – Exploring the Ancient and Cultural Layers of Cairo

Begin your journey through Cairo’s historical tapestry by delving into the vibrant mosaic of Old Cairo and Coptic Cairo.Immerse yourself in the profound significance of these sites, resonating deeply with Egyptian Christian traditions.  

Despite Egypt’s predominant Islamic influence, the city boasts a rich Christian heritage, evident in iconic landmarks such as Abu Serga Church and the Hanging Church.

 

Sphinx with the pyramid

Day 3 – Unveiling the Mysteries of Giza and Saqqara

Embark on an awe-inspiring odyssey to the ancient wonders of Giza and Saqqara, where millennia-old marvels stand as testaments to Egypt’s enduring legacy. Marvel at the enigmatic Sphinx and majestic pyramids, capturing their timeless allure from vantage points that offer unparalleled perspectives.

Venture to Saqqara, home to the inaugural pyramid, and delve into the genesis of Egyptian monumental architecture. As twilight descends, contemplate the day’s revelations against the backdrop of Cairo’s majestic skyline or opt for an enchanting camel ride amidst the sands of Giza.

Day 4 – Immersing in Egypt’s Illustrious Heritage

Enrich your understanding of Egypt’s storied past with a visit to the renowned Egyptian Museum, a treasury of Pharaonic artifacts, and the fabled treasures of King Tutankhamun. Traverse through epochs of history as you marvel at priceless relics that chronicle the nation’s grandeur and intrigue.

Ascend to the citadel of Salah El-Din, a bastion of medieval fortifications, and behold the sublime beauty of the Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha, offering panoramic vistas of Cairo’s bustling heart.

Farah Nile cruise

Day 5 – Exploring the Marvels of Thebes

Begin your journey with a flight to Luxor, the ancient capital of Thebes. Upon arrival, embark on a captivating Nile cruise, starting with a sumptuous onboard lunch. Disembark to delve into the awe-inspiring Temple of Karnak, a testament to the grandeur of Egypt’s pharaohs.

Wander through the majestic Great Hypostyle Hall, marveling at its towering columns reaching skyward. Continue to the striking Temple of Luxor, where the colossal statues of Ramses II stand guard, inviting contemplation of the ingenuity of ancient engineering.

Day 6 – Unveiling the Mysteries of the Afterlife

Venture to the west bank of the Nile to uncover the secrets of the Necropolis of Thebes. Behold the iconic Colossi of Memnon before exploring the monumental Temple of Hatshepsut, a tribute to Egypt’s pioneering female pharaoh.

Journey into the hallowed Valley of the Kings, where the tombs of pharaohs and nobles lay entombed for eternity. Delve into the depths of Seti I’s exquisitely adorned tomb before exploring the ethereal beauty of the Valley of the Queens, culminating in a visit to Queen Nefertari’s lavishly decorated tomb.

valley of kings

Day 7 – Traversing Ancient Temples and Mysteries

Witness the splendor of the Temple of Horus, an architectural marvel dedicated to the falcon-headed god of the sky. Step ashore at Kom Ombo to explore the Greco-Roman temple honoring Haroeris and Sobek, the revered crocodile god.

Encounter the mummified remains of ancient Nile residents, offering a glimpse into Egypt’s mystical past.

Day 8 – A Sojourn Amidst Ancient Marvels

Sail to Aswan and journey to the unfinished obelisk, a testament to ancient stonecraft. Glide across the tranquil waters to the Philae Temple, a sanctuary devoted to the goddess Isis and a harmonious blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences. Conclude your day with a scenic felucca ride around the serene Aswan Islands.

Philae Temple

Day 9 – Icons of Ancient Majesty

Bid farewell to your Nile cruise and venture to Abu Simbel, where the colossal temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari command the desert landscape.

Marvel at the towering statues adorning the façade of Ramses II’s temple, a testament to the pharaoh’s power and legacy. Reflect on the monumental effort to relocate this ancient marvel before returning to Cairo for an evening of relaxation.

Day 10 –Embarking on an Odyssey to Alexandria

Embark on a scenic journey to Alexandria, a coastal gem steeped in Roman heritage and Mediterranean allure. Traverse ancient catacombs, behold the grandeur of temple complexes, and marvel at the towering Pompey’s Pillar, relics of a bygone era that resonate with echoes of antiquity.

Explore the illustrious Library of Alexandria, a beacon of knowledge that has stood the test of time, preserving the legacy of human intellect for millennia.

Library of Alexandria

Day 11 –Al Montazah Palace Alexandria

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at your hotel, followed by a captivating visit to Al Montazah Palace and Gardens. This enchanting destination boasts two palaces, one crafted in 1892 and another in 1932 under the reign of King Faud I, each exuding its own timeless charm.

Meander through the scenic gardens nestled along the coastline, where meticulously manicured landscapes transition seamlessly into pristine sandy beaches.

Indulge in the serenity of this Alexandria day excursion, offering a serene retreat for those yearning for tranquility amidst breathtaking surroundings. After your exploration, return to Cairo and relish a well-deserved moment of relaxation.

Day 12 – Navigating the Labyrinth of Khan el Khalili Souk

Conclude your vacation with a sensory expedition through the labyrinthine alleys of Khan el Khalili Souk. This bustling bazaar epitomizes Cairo’s vibrant pulse. Engage with local artisans and merchants as you peruse an eclectic array of wares, from intricately woven rugs to exquisite papyrus scrolls.

Reflect on the memories forged amidst the souk’s bustling thoroughfares, a testament to the indelible imprint of Egypt’s rich tapestry upon your journey’s conclusion.

Khan el Khalili

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Egypt with this comprehensive 12-day itinerary, guiding you from the bustling streets of Cairo to the timeless wonders of ancient Egypt and beyond! Explore a variety of curated itineraries tailored to different travel styles and preferences like 12 Day Egypt Vacation Cairo, Alexandria, Nile & Oasis.