2 Weeks in Egypt: 2 Itineraries

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Egypt is known for its Great Pyramid of Giza and the Nile River. While those attractions are incredible and definitely must-see, there’s more you can do here during your visit. This is a great destination for those who love history and culture.

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Start the trip in beautiful Cairo, then picture yourself cruising down the Nile like an ancient pharaoh. Finally, finish off by going on a diving trip and exploring the colourful coral reefs.

Many locals, especially those working in the tourism industry, speak great English. Because of this, Egypt is also one of the best places to visit if it’s your first time in this region.

This itinerary of 2 weeks in Egypt will show you how you can explore the country and make sure that you don’t miss out on exploring the top sites, learning about Egyptian culture and cuisine, and relaxing.

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BASIC TRAVEL INFORMATION FOR EGYPT

4 images - top left is the carved statues in Abu Simbel. Top right are the Great Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. Bottom right is the coast line and mountains in Dahab with blue sky. Bottom left is the Nile River surrounded by sand dunes - 2 Weeks in Egypt Itinerary

When you start looking at creating your itinerary for Egypt, the first thing you want to know is the basic information. You will find those below, which highlights when to go, what to pack, the cost, documents, and other travel tips.

When is the best time to travel to Egypt

The best time to visit Egypt is generally from October to April when the weather is cooler but still pleasantly warm. This is considered the peak season, so popular spots like the pyramids and Luxor can get crowded, and prices for flights and accommodations might spike.

Shoulder season falls in the months of May and September; the crowds thin out, and prices dip, but the heat starts to kick in. You’ll still have a great experience if you can handle warmer temperatures.

It’s usually best to avoid June to August; the scorching heat can make outdoor exploration a real challenge, and some coastal areas get uncomfortably humid.

So, if you’re not a fan of intense heat or throngs of tourists, aim for the shoulder season. But if you want the full experience with the most comfortable climate, peak season is your go-to.

Are 2 weeks enough for Egypt

Two weeks in Egypt offer a solid amount of time to explore key highlights without feeling too rushed. You can wander through the bustling streets of Cairo, marvel at the pyramids of Giza, cruise the Nile from Luxor to Aswan, and even sneak in some Red Sea diving in places like Sharm El Sheikh.

While you won’t cover every nook and cranny, you’ll definitely hit the major landmarks and get a good sense of the country’s rich history and culture. 14 days in Egypt will be a good amount of time for first-time visitors.

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How to get around

For long distances, domestic flights are the quickest but also the priciest. They connect major cities like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Trains are an affordable and scenic choice for journeys between Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor, and Aswan.

Buses are your best bet if you’re on a tight budget; they’re cheap and cover vast routes but can be less comfortable. Of course, don’t forget to sign up for a cruise along the Nile River.

The Metro in Cairo is affordable and quick in cities, though it can get crowded. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in big cities and are fairly inexpensive. However, be mindful of hailing a taxi as there are lots of scams going around.

For a more authentic experience, you could opt for tuk-tuks or even horse-drawn carriages in some tourist areas but negotiate the price upfront.

2 images - on the lft are the ancient columns of Karnak Temple. On the right is a camel with colourful fabric draped on its back, the camel is sitting on knees

Language and currency

The official language in Egypt is Arabic. However, English is widely taught in schools and is commonly understood in tourist areas, hotels, and major cities. Many Egyptians working in tourism speak good English, and signs at important landmarks are often bilingual.

The main currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). While USD and other major currencies might be accepted at some tourist-heavy locations, it’s advisable to use local currency for the best rates. ATMs are widely available to withdraw EGP.

Cash is generally preferred, especially in smaller shops, markets, and for tipping. Credit and debit cards are accepted in hotels, upscale restaurants, and larger stores, but having cash on hand is usually more convenient and versatile for everyday transactions.

Visa

Most foreign travellers to Egypt are eligible to get either a visa on arrival or an evisa. I prefer doing an evisa because I could skip the line at the immigration where I had to fill out my information.

There are two options when applying for an evisa, one is a single entry, and the other is multiple entries; both are valid for 90 days with a maximum stay of 30 days.

LOOK AT THE EVISA COST

Visitors from neighbouring countries such as Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Morocco, Tunisia, UAE, Jordan, and Palestine can enter Egypt without a visa. Other countries such as Hong Kong, Macao, Libya, Sudan, South Sudan, Yemen, Afghanistan, Algeria, and Yemen can also enjoy free visas.

Cost of 2 weeks trip in Egypt

Egypt is easily one of the most affordable places I’ve been. What you would normally spend in Europe could turn your vacation into a more luxurious trip. Here are some ideas on the 14-day Egypt holiday cost:

  • Affordable: Budget travellers can expect to spend around $600-$800, excluding international flights. This would cover hostel stays, local transport, and basic meals. Entrance fees to major sights like the Pyramids and Luxor would be extra but still affordable.
  • Mid-Range: For a more comfortable experience, plan on spending $1,500-$2,500. This includes 3-star hotels, some guided tours, and dining at a mix of budget and mid-range restaurants.
  • Luxury: For a high-end experience, costs can go upwards of $5,000. This includes 5-star accommodations, private guided tours, fine dining, and perhaps a luxury Nile cruise.

Keep in mind the cost rises during peak season. Plus, your main flight and insurance are not included here.

Travel arrangement tips

The following websites and services are great tools when booking your accommodation, flights, and tours. Many of them offer free cancellation or for a low fee in case of any plan changes.

HOTELS
VISA
CAR RENT
TOURS
FLIGHTS
BUS (EU/US/CA)
TRAINS (EUROPE)
TRAIN/BUS (ASIA)
BOOKED TOURS
TRAVEL INSURANCE
TOURS (ASIA)
HOSTELS
AIRPORT PICK UP
ESIM
BIKE RENTAL

MAP OF TOP SITES AND ACTIVITIES IN EGYPT

Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

2 WEEKS IN EGYPT ITINERARY

It’s very interesting how common it is for people to forget that Egypt is part of Africa. Due to its language, most people would easily categorise Egypt as a Middle-Eastern country. Although it’s true in many ways, Egypt holds a rich African history, culture, and values.

Egypt is an irresistible vacation spot that captures the imagination like few other places can. With its iconic pyramids, rich history, and mouth-watering cuisine, it’s no surprise that it’s a bucket-list destination for travellers worldwide.

Whether you’re drawn to its remarkable ancient temples, cruising the Nile, or diving into the Red Sea’s vibrant coral reefs, Egypt offers a plethora of experiences for everyone.

Below are 2 travel itineraries for 2 weeks in Egypt. See which one you like the best, or use the information to create and write your own travel itinerary.

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Itinerary #1: First-time (Cairo, Alexandria, Nile River, Luxor, Suez, Abu Simbel/Lake Nasser)

This itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors to Egypt. It highlights the top sites you must visit and the top activities you must do during your trip. Your trip will start and end in Cairo, so that should be easy enough when booking your flights.

This itinerary is actually historical and culture site heavy. Meaning you will be discovering places that have something to do with Egypt’s history and culture. If you want to also do some water activities, check the itinerary #2.

2 images - on the left are the Great Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. On the right are the towers in Al-Azhar in Cairo.

Cairo for 6 days (day trip to Alexandria and Suez)

Cairo is an unmissable destination for the first-timer with a keen interest in history and civilization. The city is your portal to Egypt’s rich ancient culture and iconic landmarks like the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.

It’s not just about ancient relics, though; Cairo itself is a bustling metropolis that features the modern life of an Egyptian. Wandering through the maze-like Khan El Khalili bazaar and enjoy the streets of Zamalek.

Since you have six days in Cairo, you can surely plan a day trip to Alexandria and the Suez Canal to save some time. Arrange a hotel transfer from the airport for a smooth start to your trip, especially if you’re arriving at night.

Luxor for 3 days

If you have 2 weeks in Egypt, you can’t miss the interesting city of Luxor. Also called the world’s largest open-air museum, Luxor features Egypt’s glorious past. Here, monuments like Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings serve as awe-inspiring bookmarks in the long tale of Egyptian civilization.

There are lots of cruises that travel through the Nile River from Cairo to Luxor, but those cruises take 12 to 14 days. I recommend you fly to Luxor from Cairo, and it’s only an hour’s flight. You can travel by land, but it takes 8 hours. You can also book a sleeper train to Luxor and Aswan from Cairo.

Don’t worry, you won’t miss the iconic cruising through the Nile River. You will get to it once you reach Aswan.

Luxor to Aswan to Abu Simbel for 5 days

The Nile River isn’t just a geographical feature; it’s a living narrative of one of the world’s most ancient civilizations. For those who came to Egypt for its history, a cruise along this iconic river is an educational journey through time.

The experience itself is like a floating classroom with scenic views, bringing to life the grandeur of pharaohs and their colossal architectural feats.

Aswan is home to the iconic Aswan High Dam and Philae Temple, adding a modern and ancient counterpoint to your historical exploration. For a dash of adventure, Aswan is a gateway to Abu Simbel, another monumental site.

From Luxor, the cruise down the Nile River to Aswan takes 3 to 4 days. You can book a tour for 4 days. This includes the cruise from Luxor to Aswan, then to Abu Simbel. Some tours even include a hot air balloon ride.

Depending on the tour, some might bring you back to Luxor, if not to Aswan. From there, you can fly back to Cairo to catch your flight home. If you’re flying into or from Aswan, you should consider an airport transfer or a transfer from Aswan to Luxor.

Itinerary #2: Culture, History, Diving (Cairo, Siwa Oasis, Nile River, Hurghada or Dahab)

Egypt is one of the oldest countries in the world that has an organised government. This makes this an exciting destination for those who love history and enjoy learning about civilisation.

Many people don’t know that Egypt has one of the best diving locations in the world as well. The Read Sea is rich in colourful corals and features unique marine life. The famous Blue Hole (one of the hardest spots to dive) is located in Egypt in Dahab.

With history and diving culture, this itinerary is perfect for people who love to learn about history and enjoy water activities during their vacation.

NOTE: You can plan to skip Siwa Oasis if you’re short on time.

2 images - on the left is the coastline of Dahab with a mountain at the end of the coast. On the right is the carved statue in Abu Simbel

Cairo for 5 days (day trip to Alexandria and Suez)

Cairo is the gateway to the timeless wonders of ancient Egypt, making it an irresistible destination for history enthusiasts. But it’s not just about the pyramids and millennia-old artefacts; the city itself is a living museum where tradition and modernity coexist.

From the remarkable Khan El Khalili bazaar to the interesting exhibitions at the Grand Egyptian Museum, Cairo is an eclectic blend of the old and the new. Five days might feel limited, but with good planning, you can definitely maximise your time.

From Cairo, you can take a day trip to Alexandria and the Suez Canal. However, since this itinerary is more jam-packed, you might have to choose between Alexandria and Suez Canal. Doing both means it will take away two days from your 5 days in Cairo.

To avoid a chaotic taxi stand in Cairo, you should consider booking a VIP airport to hotel transfer.

Siwa Oasis for 2 days

For those drawn to Egypt’s historical depth and adventurous spirit, Siwa Oasis is a refreshing plot twist. This isolated spot offers a unique cultural experience amid the vast Sahara, rich with ancient ruins and natural springs. You can also plan some star gazing for a very unique experience.

Siwa is more than just an oasis; it’s a window into the indigenous Berber culture and its ancient Oracle Temple. This is a great place to take a break from historical sites and bustling cities.

Getting here can be a challenge. By land, it’s an 8-hour drive. So, if you decide to visit Siwa Oasis, make sure to have a great transportation plan.

Nile River to Abu Simbel for 4 days

Since you only have four days, you should plan the cruise to depart from Luxor. This cruise will cover Aswan and Abu Simbel. You will fly to Luxor from Cairo and board the cruise there. The journey will stop in Aswan, and it will take you further to Abu Simbel.

Hurghada or Dahab for 3 days

Hurghada and Dahab are two top places when it comes to snorkelling and diving in Egypt. It’s less crowded compared to Southern Europe and Southeast Asia, making it such a nice place to really explore the underwater world without big crowds.

Nestled along the Red Sea coast, both places are a diver’s paradise, offering vibrant coral reefs and a kaleidoscope of marine life.

Choosing between Hurghada and Dahab for diving comes down to what you’re looking for. Hurghada offers a more tourist-centric experience with a variety of dive sites suitable for all levels and vibrant coral gardens.

It’s a great spot if you’re travelling with a diverse group of interests. If you’re concerned about safety, you can get all the information you need on this “is Hurghada safe?” guide.

Dahab, on the other hand, is for the adventurous soul. Known for the infamous Blue Hole, it’s a mecca for experienced divers seeking a challenge. The atmosphere is more laid-back, with a bohemian vibe that resonates with solo travellers and dive enthusiasts.

From Luxor to Hurghada, the travel time by land is around 4 hours. From Aswan to Hurghada is around 7 hours.

To get to Dahab (Sharm El Sheikh International Airport, SSH) from Aswan, you can take a flight, but it connects to Cairo. There is a ferry line between Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, which takes 1 hr and 30 minutes and costs $40. However, it’s currently suspended temporarily.

WHAT TO DO AND SEE IN EGYPT (per city)

2 images - on the left is the coastline of the dessert in Hurghada. On the right are the carved statues of goats in Luxor Temple

Cairo

Alexandria

  • Citadel of Qaitbay and Lighthouse of Alexandria
  • Bibliotheca Alexandria
  • Royal Jewelry Museum
  • Book a city tour – this one or this one or an archaeological day tour
  • Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa
  • Alexandria National Museum
  • Day trip to El Alamein – read the reviews
  • Alexandria Naval Unknown Soldier Memorial
  • Museum of Fine Arts
  • Ancient Roman Theatre

Siwa Oasis

Nile River

  • 4-days/3 nights of River Cruise from Aswan to Luxor and Abu Simbel with hot air ballon – see the price of this tour vs this one
  • Dinner Cruise along the Nile River from Cairo – check the cost

Aswan

Abu Simbel/Lake Nasser

Hurghada

Dahab/Sharm El-Sheikh

LOCAL EGYPTIAN DISHES AND DRINKS TO TRY

3 images - on the left is a bowl of Koshari with corn, lentils, and other vegetables. in the middle is a baked basbousa with an almond in the middle. on teh right is a gllas of jallab which is a juice made of date fruits - 2 Weeks in Egypt Itinerary
  • Koshari: A mix of rice, lentils, and pasta, topped with spicy tomato sauce and crispy onions. It’s comfort food at its finest.
  • Ful Medames: A fava bean stew often garnished with olive oil, garlic, and lemon. A staple breakfast dish.
  • Molokhia: A rich, green soup made from jute leaves, usually served with chicken or rabbit.
  • Mahshi: Grape leaves, zucchinis, or bell peppers stuffed with a fragrant mix of rice, herbs, and sometimes meat.
  • Ta’amiya (Egyptian Falafel): Deep-fried balls of ground fava beans mixed with herbs and spices.
  • Sayadiya: A spiced fish and rice dish often accompanied by a tangy sauce.
  • Shawarma: Although not exclusively Egyptian, this spiced meat – either chicken or beef – served in a wrap or a flatbread is immensely popular.
  • Basbousa: A sweet semolina cake soaked in rosewater or orange flower syrup and topped with almonds.
  • Kunafa: A tantalizing pastry made from shredded phyllo dough, filled with a layer of cheese or cream, and soaked in sugar syrup.
  • Om Ali: A bread pudding dessert loaded with raisins, nuts, and coconut, then drenched in milk and baked.
  • Karkade: A refreshing hibiscus tea often served cold but can also be enjoyed hot.
  • Jallab: A drink made from dates, grape molasses, and rose water, often garnished with pine nuts.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN EGYPT

Cairo

Alexandria

Siwa Oasis

  • Affordable:
  • Mid-range:
  • Luxury:

Nile River (Luxor)

Aswan

Abu Simbel/Lake Nasser

  • Affordable:
  • Mid-range:
  • Luxury:

Hurghada

Dahab

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS IN EGYPT

Egypt is not everyone’s first destination in mind when it comes to spending their 2-week vacation. However, I feel like it deserves more attention. First, it’s affordable and offers a view of the history like no other. Apart from history, you could also explore its cuisine, and check out diving spots.

Second, it’s location is so amazing both for Asia, European, and North American travellers. The flights won’t take too long and you’ll arrive in such exciting destination.

This list of 2 weeks in Egypt itinerary is here to give you some ideas on how to travel around the country. I hope that you found it helpful.

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Egypt is perfect for solo travelers, offering ancient wonders like the Pyramids of Giza and Luxor's temples, vibrant cities like Cairo, and the serene Nile River. Enjoy rich history, diverse culture, and warm hospitality. via @twoweektraveller