18-Day Egypt Explorer Itinerary: 

Cairo, Luxor, River Cruise to Aswan, Abu Simbel, Red Sea Stay (either Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh), Alexandria

Day 1: Arrival in Cairo
You’ll begin your 18-day journey in Cairo, Egypt’s bustling capital, full of history and energy. After arriving at Cairo International Airport, transfer to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you can relax and acclimate to the city, or start exploring. In the evening, a visit to the famous Khan El Khalili Bazaar for some shopping and cultural immersion is an excellent choice.

For accommodation, the Budget option is the Marriott Mena House Hotel, with its historic charm and views of the Pyramids of Giza. If you’re seeking luxury, the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza offers a beautiful, sophisticated setting.

Day 2: Cairo Exploration
Today will be packed with visits to Cairo’s iconic historical sites. Start with the Giza Pyramids and Sphinx, the most famous monuments in Egypt. A guided tour will help you understand the historical and cultural significance of these ancient wonders. In the afternoon, head to the Egyptian Museum to see thousands of artifacts, including the treasures of King Tutankhamun. For a different experience, you can explore the Coptic Cairo area, home to the Hanging Church and the Coptic Museum.

Day 3: Cairo to Luxor
Take an early morning flight or train to Luxor, known as the world’s greatest open-air museum. Arriving in Luxor, check into your hotel. In the afternoon, you’ll begin your exploration with the Luxor Temple, a magnificent temple that is particularly stunning when lit up at night.

The Budget hotel option is Nile Valley Hotel with good service and comfortable rooms. For luxury, you can choose the Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor, offering grandeur and elegance, with views over the Nile.

Day 4: Luxor – The West Bank
Today, you’ll venture to the West Bank of Luxor, home to the most famous temples and tombs of ancient Egypt. Start with the Valley of the Kings, where the tombs of great Pharaohs, including that of Tutankhamun, are located. Visit the Temple of Hatshepsut, an architectural marvel, and Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III. Return to Luxor in the evening for some relaxation.

Day 5: Luxor – The East Bank
Explore the East Bank of Luxor today, starting with the impressive Karnak Temple Complex, the largest temple complex ever built, which was dedicated to the god Amun. From here, head to the Luxor Museum, which showcases some of the finest ancient Egyptian artifacts found in the region.

In the evening, you can enjoy a Nile River Dinner Cruise that offers a stunning view of the city and a traditional Egyptian meal.

Day 6-9: Luxor to Aswan – Nile River Cruise
Start your Nile cruise today. Board your ship and depart Luxor, sailing south to Aswan. Along the way, you’ll stop to visit the Temple of Edfu, dedicated to the falcon god Horus, and the Temple of Kom Ombo, unique in its dual dedication to Sobek and Horus. As you cruise down the Nile, enjoy the incredible scenery and rich history of the river.

On board, enjoy the luxury amenities and exquisite dining options. Budget Nile cruises include the MS Amwaj Living Stone, while a luxury choice would be the Oberoi Philae, which offers supreme service and opulence.  You’ll arrive in Aswan on Day 9, and after disembarking, you can visit the Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, located on an island in Lake Nasser. The High Dam is another must-see site, an engineering marvel that controls the flow of the Nile. If time allows, take a boat trip to Elephantine Island and visit the Nubian Museum.

Stay at the Movenpick Resort Aswan for a comfortable and scenic experience, or for luxury, the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Hotel offers a colonial-style retreat overlooking the Nile.

Day 10: Abu Simbel Day Trip
Today, take an early morning excursion to Abu Simbel, one of Egypt's most famous landmarks. The temples here, built by Ramses II, are spectacular and awe-inspiring, especially the grand Temple of Ramses II with its colossal statues. Return to Aswan in the evening.

Day 11: Aswan to Hurghada/Sharm El Sheikh
After breakfast, travel from Aswan to Hurghada on the Red Sea, known for its pristine beaches and vibrant underwater life. Arrive and check into your resort. Spend the day unwinding and enjoying the beach or engaging in water activities such as snorkeling or diving.

For budget options, the Arabia Azur Resort is a great choice, while the Steigenberger Aqua Magic is a luxurious all-inclusive option, perfect for a relaxing beach getaway.

Day 10-15: Hurghada Relaxation and Water Activities
These next few days are free for you to enjoy the beach and the beautiful Red Sea. You can opt for Hurghada where activities include the option to take a glass-bottom boat tour, go scuba diving, or simply relax by the pool. For a unique experience, visit the Giftun Islands or take a desert safari.

Alternatively spend a few days relaxing in Sharm El Sheikh, another Red Sea resort city known for its world-class diving and vibrant nightlife. Arriving in Sharm, check into your hotel and take a leisurely evening stroll along Naama Bay or relax on the beach. Remember to spend some of yor time over thee next couple of days enjoying the spectacular marine life. Visit Ras Mohammed National Park for some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world. You may also want to experience a boat trip to Tiran Island. Evenings are best spent exploring the local markets or enjoying a meal at one of the seaside restaurants.

Day 16: Transfer to Alexandria
At the end of your Red Sea stay, travel North by car or plane (depending on your departure point) to Alexandria, Egypt’s Mediterranean gem and the only city in the world to hav eplayed host to two of Seven Ancient Wonders. Upon arrival, check into your hotel, then head out to explore. Start with the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern library inspired by the ancient Great Library of Alexandria, followed by a visit to the Qaitbay Citadel, located at the entrance of the harbor.

The Hotel Alexandria offers comfortable accommodations, while the Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria offers a luxurious stay with stunning sea views.

Day 17: Alexandria Exploration
Explore Alexandria further today. Visit the Roman Amphitheater, the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, and the Montaza Palace and Gardens. You may also want to stroll along the Mediterranean corniche or visit the Alexandria National Museum for an insightful look into the city’s history.

Day 18: Return to Cairo
After breakfast, return to Cairo for your final day. Depending on your flight time, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or exploration. Visit the Al-Azhar Mosque or the Islamic Cairo district before heading to the airport for your departure.