Planning your dream trip to Egypt? You’ve come to the right place! This comprehensive Egypt itinerary 10 days guide will help you make the most of your Egyptian adventure, whether you’re traveling solo, with family, on a budget, or looking to extend your journey. From the bustling streets of Cairo to a relaxing Nile cruise, this itinerary is designed to suit every type of traveler—whether you’re looking for a luxury Egypt itinerary 10 days with Nile cruise, a family-friendly Egypt itinerary 10 days with kids, or even combining destinations like an Egypt and Jordan itinerary 10 days.
Our expertly crafted Egypt itinerary 10 days covers all the must-see destinations including the iconic Pyramids of Giza, the treasures of the Egyptian Museum, a scenic cruise along the Nile from Luxor to Aswan, and the magnificent temples of Karnak, Edfu, and Abu Simbel. For those short on time, we also highlight what to see in Egypt in 7 days, while travelers with more flexibility can explore options like an Egypt itinerary 12 days or an Egypt itinerary 14 days.
This detailed Egypt travel itinerary 10 days has been designed based on years of experience helping travelers discover the wonders of ancient Egypt while ensuring comfort, safety, and maximum enjoyment throughout your journey. We’ll also touch on practical tips such as the Egypt itinerary 10 days cost breakdown, the best times to travel, and insider advice on making the most of your Cairo Egypt itinerary 10 days. Whether you’re planning from the U.S., Europe, or seeking an Egypt itinerary 10 days from India, this guide will give you everything you need to craft the best Egypt itinerary 10 days tailored to your travel style.
Key Takeaways
- Perfect Duration: Egypt Itinerary 10 days provides the ideal balance between seeing major highlights and experiencing Egyptian culture without feeling rushed
- Essential Destinations: Your journey covers Cairo’s pyramids and Egyptian Museum, a 4-day Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan, Alexandria’s Mediterranean treasures, and flexible Cairo exploration
- Authentic Nile Cruise: Experience the classic 4-day cruise visiting Karnak Temple, Valley of Kings, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, and Aswan’s monuments with all meals included
- Family-Friendly: Easy to adapt for children with shorter temple visits, hot air balloon experiences, and cruise entertainment
- Best Timing: October through April offers optimal weather conditions for sightseeing and Nile cruising
- Extension Options: Can easily extend to 12-14 days with Abu Simbel or combine with Jordan, or compress to 7 days for time-constrained travelers
- Cultural Immersion: Perfect blend of ancient monuments, Nile River life, Mediterranean coastal culture, and modern Egyptian experiences
Why an Egypt Itinerary 10 Days is Perfect?
When travelers ask “what to see in Egypt in 10 days,” the answer is plenty! A 10 days in Egypt journey offers the ideal balance between seeing major highlights and having time to truly absorb the culture. While an Egypt itinerary 7 days can cover the essentials, and an Egypt itinerary 14 days allows for more leisurely exploration, ten days hits the sweet spot for most visitors.
This best 10 day Egypt itinerary with Nile cruise and pyramids will take you through ancient wonders, vibrant markets, and breathtaking landscapes while leaving room for spontaneous discoveries that make travel truly magical.
For those wondering what to see in Egypt in 10 days as a first-time visitor, this comprehensive guide covers all the must-see destinations. Many travelers ask is 10 days enough for Egypt with Nile cruise and Cairo – and the answer is absolutely yes! This timeframe provides the perfect balance for experiencing Egypt’s highlights without feeling rushed.
The Best 10 Day Egypt Itinerary with Nile Cruise and Pyramids
| Day | Destination | Activities & Highlights | Meals | Accommodation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 Cairo Arrival | Cairo | • Airport pickup by private A/C vehicle • Hotel check-in and rest • Welcome to Egypt – start of your Cairo Egypt itinerary 10 days | – | Cairo Hotel |
| Day 2 Pyramids & Egyptian Museum | Cairo | • Visit the Great Pyramids of Giza (Cheops, Chephren, Mycerinus) • See the Great Sphinx of Giza (dating from 2620 BC) • Explore the Egyptian Museum – world’s most important pharaonic collection • Panoramic photo opportunities • Optional: 2-hour Nile dinner cruise in Cairo or Sound & Light show at the Pyramids | Breakfast & Lunch | Cairo Hotel |
| Day 3 Fly to Luxor & East Bank | Luxor | • Flight: Cairo → Luxor • Visit Karnak Temple, the world’s largest open-air museum • Explore Luxor Temple with Ramses II granite statues • Board your Egypt Nile cruise ship and begin your Upper Egypt journey | Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Nile Cruise |
| Day 4 Luxor West Bank | Luxor | • Tour the Valley of the Kings & Valley of the Queens. • Visit the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut • See the Colossi of Memnon • Return to cruise for relaxation • Optional Activity: Hot Air Balloon ride over the Valley of Kings | Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Nile Cruise |
| Day 5 Edfu & Kom Ombo | Nile Cruise | • Visit the Temple of Horus in Edfu (best-preserved temple in Egypt) • Explore Kom Ombo Temple, dedicated to Sobek & Horus • Evening Galabya Party entertainment onboard • Sail along the Nile enjoying views of rural Egypt | Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Nile Cruise |
| Day 6 Aswan Attractions | Aswan | • Visit the Aswan High Dam, an engineering marvel • Explore Philae Temple in Philae Island(Island of Isis) • See the Unfinished Obelisk in its ancient quarry • Enjoy Nubian culture and local atmosphere • Last night aboard your Nile cruise | Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Nile Cruise |
| Day 7 Aswan to Cairo | Aswan→ Cairo | • Disembark Nile cruise • Flight: Aswan → Cairo • Transfer to hotel • Optional tours: Abu Simbel Temple or Nubian Village experience • Evening at leisure | Breakfast | Cairo Hotel |
| Day 8 Alexandria Day Tour | Alexandria | • Pompey’s Pillar (monument to Emperor Diocletian) • Citadel of Qaitbay (ancient lighthouse of Alexandria site) • Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa (largest Roman cemetery) • Visit the Alexandria Library (closed Fridays) • Stroll through Montazah Palace Gardens • 3-hour drive each way from Cairo | Breakfast & Lunch | Cairo Hotel |
| Day 9 Cairo Free Day | Cairo | • Free day to explore Cairo at your own pace • Optional tours: Saqqara Necropolis, Memphis City & Dahshur • Shopping at Khan El Khalili Bazaar • Explore Citadel & Old Cairo • Optional: Evening Nile dinner cruise | Breakfast | Cairo Hotel |
| Day 10 Departure Day | Cairo | • Hotel checkout • Private airport transfer • End of your Egypt itinerary 10 days with Nile cruise and Alexandria | Breakfast | – |
What Makes This Egypt itinerary 10 days with a Nile Cruise Special
This authentic Egypt itinerary 10 days with Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan offers the classic Egyptian experience that travelers dream about. The 10 days Egypt itinerary including Nile cruise and Abu Simbel (as optional tour) provides the perfect blend of ancient wonders and Nile River magic.
Key Highlights of This Itinerary:
- Days 1-2: Essential Cairo exploration including pyramids and Egyptian Museum
- Days 3-6: 4-day Nile cruise experience from Luxor to Aswan with all major temples
- Days 7-9: Return to Cairo with Alexandria Mediterranean coastal excursion
- Day 10: Convenient departure with lasting memories
This Cairo and Nile cruise itinerary 10 days for first time visitors ensures you experience Egypt’s greatest treasures while enjoying the relaxing pace of Nile cruise life. The 10 days Egypt travel itinerary with Cairo pyramids and museums combined with the cruise creates the perfect introduction to Egypt’s ancient civilization.
The cruise portion includes all meals and guided temple visits, making it an excellent value for a luxury Egypt itinerary 10 days with 5 star Nile cruise experience when you choose premium cruise options.
Family-Friendly 10 Days Egypt Nile Cruise Itinerary with Kids
Traveling with children? An Egypt itinerary 10 days with kids including family-friendly tours requires thoughtful adjustments to ensure everyone enjoys the Nile cruise experience. This family friendly 10 days Egypt Nile cruise itinerary with kids works perfectly for families, while a best Egypt itinerary 10 days for families with teenagers might include more adventure activities like hot air ballooning.
Essential Modifications for Families:
- Shorter Temple Visits: Limit each temple visit to 45-60 minutes to prevent fatigue
- Interactive Cruise Activities: Choose ships with swimming pools, evening entertainment, and Galabya parties
- Educational Preparation: Share stories about pharaohs and Nile gods before temple visits
- Flexible Schedule: Build in extra time for rest between Edfu and Kom Ombo visits
- Kid-Friendly Shore Excursions: Camel rides near Aswan, felucca sailing, and traditional market visits
- Cruise Cabin Selection: Book connecting cabins or family suites on the Nile cruise ship
The Egypt with kids 10 days itinerary covering Cairo and Nile cruise is particularly enjoyable for families, as cruise ships offer swimming pools, entertainment, and a relaxed pace between temple destinations. The 7 to 10 days Egypt itinerary with kids and family resorts concept works well when choosing cruise ships with family amenities.
Family Budget Considerations:
When planning your Egypt travel plan 10 days family budget with children, remember that:
- Most Nile cruise ships offer child discounts for ages 2-11
- Family cabins cost less than separate adult cabins
- Temple entrance fees often have child reductions
- Optional activities like hot air balloons have family packages
- Alexandria day trip can be shortened for younger children
Age-Specific Recommendations:
- Ages 5-10: Focus on pyramid climbing, mummy stories, and cruise pool time
- Ages 11-16: Add hot air balloon rides, photography workshops, and cultural interactions
- All Ages: Galabya party on cruise, traditional Egyptian cooking demonstrations
Alternative Itinerary Options: Different Cruise Routes and Extensions
While the main itinerary showcases the classic Egypt itinerary 10 days with Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan experience, many travelers prefer different routing options. Here are the main alternatives to consider:
Reverse Nile Cruise Route
Some travelers prefer an Egypt itinerary 10 days starting in Cairo and ending in Luxor by doing the cruise from Aswan to Luxor instead:
- Days 1-2: Cairo exploration including pyramids and Egyptian Museum
- Days 3-6: Fly to Aswan, then cruise north to Luxor (Aswan → Edfu → Luxor)
- Days 7-8: Alexandria day tour and return to Cairo
- Days 9-10: Final Cairo exploration and departure from Luxor
This Cairo and Nile cruise itinerary 10 days for first time visitors works well for those preferring to end their journey in Upper Egypt.
Extended Abu Simbel Experience
The traditional 10 Days Egypt Itinerary Including Nile Cruise and Abu Simbel can be enhanced by making Abu Simbel a full-day experience rather than optional:
- Replace one free day in Cairo with a dedicated Abu Simbel excursion
- Early morning flight from Aswan to Abu Simbel
- Extended time at both temples with expert guide
- This creates a true 10 days Egypt itinerary including Nile cruise and Abu Simbel experience
Luxury Cruise Upgrade
For discerning travelers, a luxury Egypt itinerary 10 days with 5 star Nile cruise offers premium experiences:
- Spacious suites with private balconies and Nile views
- Gourmet dining and premium beverages included
- Private Egyptologist guides and exclusive shore excursions
- Spa facilities and premium amenities onboard
- Smaller guest capacity for more personalized service
Shortened Cruise Option
The Egypt travel itinerary 10 days Nile cruise and Red Sea extension combines cruise with beach relaxation:
- Days 1-2: Cairo and pyramids exploration
- Days 3-5: 3-day condensed Nile cruise (Luxor → Aswan)
- Days 6-8: Red Sea resort relaxation in Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh
- Days 9-10: Return to Cairo via Alexandria tour and departure
Family-Friendly Modifications
This 10 Day Egypt Itinerary Covering Cairo, Luxor and Aswan can be easily adapted for families:
- Choose cruise ships with family suites and kids’ programs
- Add hot air balloon rides for teenagers seeking adventure
- Include interactive experiences like traditional cooking classes
- Select shore excursions with shorter walking distances
The key is choosing the 10 days Egypt travel itinerary with Cairo pyramids and museums routing that best matches your travel style, family needs, and budget preferences.
Egypt Itinerary 7 Days: The Express Experience
Wondering what to see in Egypt in 7 days for first-time travelers? A condensed Egypt itinerary 7 days including Cairo and Luxor focuses on the highlights:
- Days 1-2: Cairo pyramids and Egyptian Museum
- Days 3-5: 3-day Nile cruise (Luxor to Aswan or vice versa)
- Days 6-7: Return to Cairo and departure
When comparing 7 or 10 days in Egypt – which itinerary is best? – the 7-day option works for time-constrained travelers but misses the Alexandria coastal experience and has less flexibility for optional activities like Abu Simbel.
Egypt Itinerary 12 Days: Extended Discovery
A 12 days Egypt itinerary covering Cairo, Aswan, Luxor and Hurghada allows for additional experiences:
- Add extra days in Cairo for Cairo Egypt itinerary 10 days with day trips to Alexandria and other nearby sites
- Include Red Sea extension for diving and relaxation
- Add Abu Simbel as a dedicated overnight experience rather than day trip
- Visit additional temples like Dendera and Abydos
- More time for shopping in Khan El Khalili and local experiences
Egypt Itinerary 14 Days: The Grand Tour
For the ultimate experience, an Egypt itinerary 14 days with Nile cruise and Red Sea can include:
- Extended Cairo exploration with multiple day trips
- 5-day luxury Nile cruise with additional stops
- Western Desert oasis tours (Siwa or Bahariya)
- Extended Red Sea relaxation with diving courses
- More in-depth cultural experiences and cooking classes
Egypt and Jordan Itinerary 10 Days: Two Ancient Civilizations
Popular with many travelers, an Egypt and Jordan itinerary 10 days including Petra and Nile cruise combines the best of both countries. The best way to spend 10 days in Egypt and Jordan together includes:
- Days 1-3: Cairo pyramids and Egyptian Museum
- Days 4-6: 3-day condensed Nile cruise (Aswan to Luxor )
- Days 7-10: Jordan (Amman, Dead Sea, Petra, Wadi Rum & more top sights in Jordan)
This Egypt and Jordan 10 day itinerary with Petra and Dead Sea requires careful planning but offers incredible diversity. For those wanting more time, an Egypt and Jordan itinerary 12 days including pyramids and Wadi Rum allows for the full 4-day Nile cruise experience plus extended Jordan exploration.
Logistics for Egypt-Jordan Combination:
Many travelers wonder how to combine Egypt and Jordan in a 10 day trip – the key considerations are:
- Fly from Cairo to Amman on Day 7 (short 1-hour flight)
- Skip Alexandria day tour to allow more time for Nile cruise
- Choose Aqaba/Eilat border crossing for easy access to Wadi Rum
- Consider starting in Jordan and ending in Egypt for better flight connections
Accommodation Guide for Your Egypt Itinerary 10 Days
Choosing the right accommodation is crucial for a successful Egypt itinerary 10 days with Nile cruise and tours. Here’s our comprehensive guide to Egypt 10 days itinerary with cost breakdown and tips for different accommodation styles:
Egypt Budget Accommodations :
Cairo & Giza:
- Budget hotels or hostels near the pyramids with basic amenities
- Downtown Cairo hostels for backpackers
- Guesthouse accommodations in Old Cairo
Luxor & Aswan:
- Simple Nile-view hotels with essential facilities
- Budget cruise options or traditional felucca sailing
- Local guesthouses near temple sites
Red Sea (Hurghada/Sharm El Sheikh):
- 3-star beach resorts with pool access
- Budget diving centers with accommodation packages
Perfect for a cheap Egypt itinerary 10 days including Cairo and Luxor while maintaining comfort and safety.
Mid-Range Accommodations:
Cairo & Giza:
- 4-star hotels with pyramid views ( Cairo Pyramids, Swiss Inn Golf Resort, Pyramids Park Resort or similar)
- Boutique hotels in Zamalek and Garden City
- Business hotels near Cairo Airport for convenience
Luxor & Aswan:
- Standard Nile cruise ships with full-board dining
- Riverside hotels with traditional Egyptian décor
Red Sea Resorts:
- 4-star all-inclusive beach resorts
- Diving-focused hotels with PADI centers
- Family-friendly resorts with kids’ clubs
Ideal for couples wondering how much does 10 days in Egypt cost for a couple seeking comfort without luxury pricing.
Egypt Luxury Accommodations:
Cairo & Giza:
- Le Passage Cairo with panoramic city views
- Steigenberger Pyramids Cairo overlooking the pyramids
- Grand Nile Tower for ultimate Cairo luxury
Luxor & Aswan:
- Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor (historic luxury)
- 5-star Nile cruise ships (Jaz Crown Jubilee, Iberotel Crown Emperor, MS Concerto II)
- Old Cataract Aswan (where Agatha Christie wrote)
Red Sea Premium:
- 5-star Red Sea resorts with private beaches
- Luxury diving liveaboards for underwater enthusiasts
- Exclusive desert camp experiences
Perfect for travelers seeking a luxury Egypt itinerary 10 days cost experience with premium amenities.
Nile Cruise Accommodation Options:
Egypt Standard Cruises:
- 4-star ships with traditional décor and Nile views
- Full-board meals including Egyptian and international cuisine
- Guided temple excursions to Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Valley of Kings
- Swimming pools and evening entertainment (Galabya party Nile Cruise)
- Standard cabins with air conditioning and private bathrooms
Egypt Luxury Cruises:
- 5-star ships with spacious suites and premium amenities
- Gourmet dining restaurants and spa facilities onboard
- Private balconies overlooking the Nile River
- Butler service and exclusive shore excursions
- Expert Egyptologists providing in-depth historical commentary
- Smaller guest capacity for more personalized attention
Accommodation Booking Tips for Egypt:
Location Strategy:
- Stay in Giza for pyramid proximity, Downtown Cairo for culture
- Choose East Bank Luxor hotels for temple access
- Aswan corniche hotels offer beautiful Nile views
Seasonal Considerations:
- Book early for peak season (December-February)
- Shoulder season offers better rates (March-April, October-November)
- Summer rates are lowest but weather can be challenging
Special Features to Look For:
- Air conditioning (essential year-round)
- Swimming pools for afternoon relaxation
- Nile or pyramid views for memorable experiences
- On-site restaurants serving international cuisine
- Tour desk services for excursion bookings
Family-Friendly Features:
- Connecting rooms for families with teenagers
- Kids’ clubs and family pools
- Babysitting services for parents’ evening tours
- Child-friendly dining options
This Egypt itinerary 10 days budget-friendly travel guide approach to accommodations ensures you’ll find the perfect balance of comfort, location, and value for your Egyptian adventure, whether you’re planning a budget trip or luxury experience.
Practical Tips for Your Egypt Travel Itinerary 10 Days
Best Time to Visit:
October through April offers the most comfortable weather for both Cairo sightseeing and enjoying a Nile cruise as part of your Egypt itinerary 10 days. December through February is considered the peak travel season in Egypt, when the climate is cooler and ideal for exploring temples, tombs, and ancient landmarks. A Nile cruise in Egypt itinerary 10 days is particularly pleasant during these months, with warm sunny days and cool evenings—perfect for relaxing on deck, dining under the stars, and soaking in the timeless beauty of the Nile Valley.
Essential Packing for Nile Cruise:
- Comfortable walking shoes for temple explorations
- Light, breathable clothing for daytime temple visits
- Elegant evening wear for cruise ship dinners
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) – essential for temple visits
- Light jacket for cool Nile evenings
- Portable charger for long sightseeing days and cruise activities
Health and Safety:
- Drink bottled water (provided on cruise ships)
- Use reputable cruise operators with good safety records
- Carry hand sanitizer for temple visits
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering cruise activities
- Follow cruise safety briefings and temple visit guidelines
Cultural Considerations for Temple Visits:
- Dress modestly, especially at temples like Karnak and Edfu
- Remove shoes when entering mosque areas (like in Alexandria)
- Ask permission before photographing people at markets
- Learn basic Arabic greetings to enhance cultural interactions
- Respect photography restrictions inside certain tombs and temples
- Follow your Egyptologist guide’s instructions during temple visits
Cruise-Specific Tips:
- Book shore excursions through your cruise for guaranteed timing
- Participate in onboard cultural activities like cooking demonstrations
- Enjoy sunset viewing from the cruise deck between Edfu and Kom Ombo
- Pack formal attire for Captain’s dinner on most cruise ships
- Take advantage of early morning deck time for peaceful Nile views
Egypt Itinerary 10 Days from India: Special Considerations
Travelers planning an Egypt itinerary 10 days from India should note:
- Visa on arrival available for Indian passport holders
- Direct flights available from Delhi and Mumbai
- Similar cultural appreciation for ancient history
- Familiar vegetarian food options available
- Consider currency exchange rates when budgeting
Many Indian travelers find Egypt particularly fascinating due to shared appreciation for ancient civilizations and similar cultural values regarding hospitality and family.
How to Plan an Egypt Itinerary 10 Days with Touring in Egypt
Whether you’re following advice from Egypt 10 day itinerary reviews and tips from travelers or dealing with a travel agency to help you in customizing the Best Egypt itinerary 10 days (Like Touring in Egypt) remember that the best Egypt 10 day itinerary for history lovers often comes from balancing structured cruise activities with flexible exploration time.
The beauty of the Nile cruise portion is that it’s all-inclusive and well-organized, allowing you to focus on enjoying the temples of Karnak, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and the Valley of Kings without worrying about logistics. Connect with fellow cruise passengers, try traditional Egyptian dishes during cruise meals, and don’t over-schedule your free day in Cairo.
Egypt’s magic lies not just in its monuments but in the timeless rhythm of life along the Nile River, the warmth of Egyptian hospitality aboard cruise ships, and the unforgettable sunsets viewed from your cruise deck between temple visits.
Conclusion: Your Egypt Itinerary 10 Days Adventure Awaits
This comprehensive Egypt itinerary 10 days guide provides the framework for an incredible journey through one of the world’s most fascinating countries. Whether you choose the classic Egypt itinerary 10 days with Nile cruise experience showcased in our detailed itinerary, adapt it for family travel with an Egypt itinerary 10 days with kids, or extend it into an Egypt and Jordan itinerary 10 days, you’re guaranteed memories to last a lifetime.
The key to a successful best Egypt itinerary 10 days lies in balancing must-see highlights like the Pyramids of Giza and Egyptian Museum with the relaxing rhythm of Nile cruise life, maintaining flexibility for optional activities like Abu Simbel and hot air balloon rides, and embracing the unique cultural experiences from Cairo’s bustling markets to Alexandria’s Mediterranean charm.
From the moment you first glimpse the Giza pyramids to your final sunset over the Nile from your cruise ship deck, Egypt will captivate your imagination and leave you planning your return visit. The ancient pharaohs built for eternity – and their legacy continues to inspire travelers from around the world as they sail past the same temples and monuments that have witnessed 5,000 years of history.
The 4-day Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan, visiting Karnak Temple, Valley of Kings, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo, and Philae Temple, represents the heart of any authentic Egyptian experience. Combined with Cairo’s pyramids and museums, plus Alexandria’s coastal treasures, this Egypt travel itinerary 10 days creates the perfect introduction to Egypt’s ancient civilization.
Ready to turn this Egypt travel itinerary 10 days into reality? Start planning your Egyptian adventure today, and prepare to walk in the footsteps of pharaohs while sailing the legendary Nile River through this timeless land.