Equal parts cultural tour and beach getaway, this eight-day Egyptian escape takes you from the bustling streets of Cairo to the shores of the Sinai Peninsula. Get to know the capital by visiting the ancient wonders of Giza and Memphis, joining a tour of the medieval Salah El-din Citadel, and taking a stroll through the colorful Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. After a quick flight to the coastal resort of Sharm el-Sheikh, the rest of your trip is free to savor the sun-soaked beaches and clear waters of the Red Sea at your own pace.

Highlights

  • Marvel at the Great Pyramids of Giza & Memphis
  • Explore the historic mosques & citadels of Islamic Cairo
  • Shop for souvenirs in the bustling Khan El Khalili Bazaar
  • Spend three days unwinding on the beaches of Sharm El Sheikh
  • Swim, snorkel, or dive in the warm waters of the Red Sea

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Cairo Cairo
Day 2 Great Pyramids Tour: Giza, Memphis & Saqqara Cairo
Day 3 Explore Islamic Cairo & the Khan El Khalili Bazaar Cairo
Day 4 Fly to Sharm El Sheikh Sharm El Sheikh
Days 5-6 Relax by the Red Sea in Sharm El Sheikh Sharm El Sheikh
Day 7 Fly to Cairo Cairo
Day 8 Depart Cairo  

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Cairo

Ancient meets modern in Cairo
Welcome to Egypt! Upon your arrival at Cairo's airport, you'll be met by your guide who will assist you through customs and arrange a transfer to your hotel. Get settled in and rest up for a full day of sightseeing tomorrow.

Day 2: Great Pyramids Tour: Giza, Memphis & Saqqara

Stand in the shadow of the Great Pyramids of Giza

This morning you'll hit the ground running, meeting your Egyptologist guide and setting off for a tour of some of Egypt's most iconic sites. Start at the Great Pyramids of Giza, where you'll explore the pyramid of Cheops, the only survivor of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Built as a tomb, its shape was intended to help the spirit of the dead pharaoh rise to heaven. Continue to the pyramid of Chephren to see the best preserved of the main Giza pyramids, and to Mykerinos, the smallest of the three.

After seeing the magnificent Sphinx up close, it's on to Memphis, the first unified capital of the ancient world. Here you can visit the stepped pyramid of Saqqara, explore its 4,350-year-old tombs, and see the ancient hieroglyphics engraved on its walls. At the end of the day, you'll head back to the city where you can enjoy the rest of the evening in Cairo at your leisure.

Day 3: Explore Islamic Cairo & the Khan El Khalili Bazaar

Stroll through the busy stalls of the Khan El Khalili Bazaar
Today you'll embark on a private tour of Islamic Cairo's historic city streets, starting at the massive medieval Salah El-din Citadel and its enclosed Mohamed Ali alabaster mosque, once a stronghold against the Crusaders. The brilliant domed ceilings, suspended lights, and views of the city from this ancient fortress are sure to captivate. Keep going to the Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan, built during the Mamluk period of the 12th century, and then hunt for treasures in the Khan El Khalili Bazaar, a bustling souk in the historic center where you can find lamps, rugs, jewelry, and more. 

Day 4: Fly to Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh
The Red Sea resort of Sharm El Sheikh
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Transfer to the airport this morning for a quick flight to the coastal resort of Sharm El Sheikh. Located between the Sinai Peninsula and the Red Sea, this area is known for its beautiful beaches and offshore coral reefs surrounded by clear water. After getting settled into your hotel, go for a walk on the beach, take a dip in the ocean, or check out Ras Muhammad National Park, a diving destination that's rich with marine life. In the evening, beachfront restaurants and bars are great places to try fresh seafood prepared Egyptian-style, and surround yourself with a local crowd.

Days 5-6: Relax by the Red Sea in Sharm El Sheikh

Day Free at Leisure in Sharm El Sheikh
Visit the oldest working monastery in the world outside Sharm El Sheikh
The next two days are free for you to relax and enjoy Sharm El Sheikh at your own pace. Walk along the pedestrian promenade in laid-back Naama Bay, book a snorkeling trip to Yolanda Reef, or head down to the harbor for a full-day scuba diving excursion. With warm, crystal clear waters, incredible coral formations, and well-preserved wrecks, the Red Sea around Sharm El Sheikh is considered one of the top diving destinations in the country.
 
If you feel like staying on dry land, don't miss a visit to the ancient St. Catherine's Monastery. Located at the foot of Mt. Sinai, it's the place where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments.

Day 7: Fly to Cairo

Bid the Red Sea farewell today 

After a final leisurely morning on the shores of the Red Sea, your driver will be waiting to take you to the airport to catch the hour's flight back to Cairo. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel and have the remainder of the afternoon free. Visit any highlights you may have missed, pick up some last-minute souvenirs, or enjoy a farewell dinner of Egyptian specialties.

Day 8: Depart Cairo

Palms lining a downtown street in Cairo
After breakfast this morning, it's time to say your goodbyes and transfer to the airport to catch your departing flight. Safe travels!

More Egypt Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Egypt? Check out these other Egypt itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights. 

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Map

Map of Cairo & Sharm El Sheikh - 8 Days
Map of Cairo & Sharm El Sheikh - 8 Days