Exploring Egypt: A One Week Summer Vacation Through History and Culture

Welcome to Egypt!

Egypt, the land of the ancient pyramids, vast deserts, and the mighty Nile River, is a country where history and culture collide. From the awe-inspiring Great Pyramids of Giza to the bustling streets of Cairo, and the serene waters of the Red Sea, Egypt offers a one-of-a-kind experience that won’t break your budget if planned right.

Day 1-2: Cairo – The Gateway to Ancient Egypt

Morning: Begin your adventure at the Pyramids of Giza (€10 entry), marveling at the iconic Great Pyramid of Khufu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Don't forget to take a camel ride for an unforgettable view of the pyramids at around €10-€20. Be sure to explore the Egyptian Museum (€8 entry) to see the treasures of Tutankhamun and many other fascinating artifacts.

Lunch: Try Felfela for authentic Egyptian dishes such as koshari (a hearty dish of rice, lentils, pasta, and crispy onions) for around €5-€7. This is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Afternoon: Visit Khan El Khalili Bazaar, a bustling market where you can haggle for spices, textiles, and traditional crafts. Spend some time browsing for papyrus art or scarabs, classic Egyptian souvenirs.

Dinner: Head to Sequoia along the Nile for a beautiful evening meal with views of the river. Grilled fish or kofta (minced meat skewers) will cost around €15-€25.

Where to Stay:

• The Pyramids View Inn (starting from €30/night) offers incredible views of the pyramids from your room.

• Hostel Luna (starting from €20/night) is a budget-friendly option in the city center.

• The Nile Ritz-Carlton (starting from €100/night), a luxurious hotel with Nile views, ideal for a more upscale experience.

Day 3-4: Luxor – The Ancient Capital of Egypt

Morning: Fly to Luxor (flights from Cairo cost around €50-€70). Begin by visiting the Valley of the Kings (€10 entry), where you can explore the tombs of ancient pharaohs, including Tutankhamun. Make sure to take a guided tour to get the most out of your visit.

Lunch: Dine at Sofra Restaurant, a cozy spot offering moussaka (eggplant casserole) and molokhia (a green soup) for around €10-€12.

Afternoon: Visit the impressive Karnak Temple (€8 entry), which is the largest religious building ever constructed. Don’t miss the Luxor Temple (€6 entry) in the evening, when it’s beautifully lit up.

Dinner: Enjoy a traditional Egyptian meal at El Hussein Restaurant, known for its shawarma and grilled meats, where you can expect to spend around €12-€15.

Where to Stay:

• Nile Palace Hotel (starting from €40/night) offers comfortable rooms with views of the Nile.

• Oasis Hotel Luxor (starting from €25/night) offers a budget-friendly option with a beautiful garden.

• Steigenberger Nile Palace (starting from €75/night) for those seeking a luxurious experience with stunning Nile views.

Day 5-6: Sharm El Sheikh – The Red Sea Escape

Morning: Fly to Sharm El Sheikh (flights from Cairo cost around €60-€90). Spend the day lounging on the Naama Bay beaches, where you can snorkel in the crystal-clear waters and explore coral reefs.

Lunch: Have a light lunch at Farsha Café, a popular spot for mezze (a platter of small dishes like hummus, baba ghanoush, and falafel) for around €10-€12.

Afternoon: Try Scuba diving or take a glass-bottom boat tour (around €25-€50) to explore the underwater world of the Red Sea.

Dinner: Dine at The Rock Restaurant, a unique spot offering seafood with stunning views. Enjoy a meal of grilled fish or lobster for around €20-€30.

Where to Stay:

• Sharm El Sheikh Hostel (starting from €20/night) for budget-conscious travelers.

• Baron Resort Sharm El Sheikh (starting from €50/night) offers a beautiful resort experience by the sea.

• Four Seasons Resort (starting from €120/night), a luxurious beachside option perfect for relaxation.

Day 7: Alexandria – The Mediterranean Charm

Morning: Take a day trip to Alexandria (around €10-€15 by train). Start at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina (€5 entry), a modern architectural marvel and tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria.

Lunch: Head to Fish Market, where you can enjoy fresh seafood like grilled shrimp or fried calamari for around €12-€18.

Afternoon: Explore the historic Qaitbay Citadel (€5 entry) and stroll along the Corniche for scenic views of the Mediterranean.

Dinner: Enjoy mahshi (stuffed vegetables) and other Egyptian specialties at Abou El Sid for around €10-€15.

Where to Stay:

• Gourmet Hotel Alexandria (starting from €35/night) offers great views and budget-friendly rooms.

• Sheraton Montazah (starting from €60/night) provides a luxurious stay along the beach.

Tips for Your Egypt Trip

1. Currency:

   • The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Cash is often preferred, especially in smaller shops and markets. ATMs are widely available in tourist areas.

   • Tipping is common in Egypt, and a small amount (10-15% of the bill) is appreciated in restaurants.

2. Transportation:

   • Public transport in Cairo, like the metro, is affordable (€0.50 per ride). However, Uber or Careem are reliable options for getting around the city more comfortably.

   • For traveling between cities, trains are a great option (€10-€20), but flights are quicker and may save you time (around €50-€90 from Cairo to Luxor/Sharm El Sheikh).

3. Safety:

   • Egypt is a relatively safe country for tourists, but always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like markets.

   • Stick to well-known tourist areas and avoid less-popular places at night.

4. Weather:

   • Egypt can get extremely hot in the summer, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Make sure to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade when needed.

   • Winter months (November to March) are more comfortable for traveling, with milder temperatures.

5. What to Avoid:

   • Avoid purchasing items from street vendors who are aggressive in trying to sell you items at inflated prices.

   • Stay away from non-licensed taxis and only use reputable transport apps.

Our Picks for Your Egypt Trip

Make your Egypt adventure even easier with these helpful Amazon picks for packing and comfort:

1. Portable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated in Egypt’s hot weather with a Hydro Flask water bottle. SHOP NOW

2. Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun with a high-SPF sunscreen, like Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch. SHOP NOW

3. Travel Adapter: Don’t forget a universal travel adapter to charge your devices. SHOP NOW

4. Lightweight Backpack: Carry The Bange Backpak for ease when exploring the sites. SHOP NOW

5. EGYPT TRAVEL GUIDE: plan your trip with the best insider tips, destinations and itineraries. SHOP NOW

6. Travel pillow: Support your needs for restful sleep, no matter where you are with MLVOC Memory Foam Neck Pillow Shop Now

By selecting affordable options and embracing Egypt’s rich culture, your vacation will be a journey of wonder and discovery. Whether exploring the ancient pyramids of Cairo, diving in the Red Sea, or savoring Egyptian cuisine, we're here to guide you every step of the way. رحلة سعيدة (Safe travels)! 🌍✈️