10-Day Classic Egypt Journey: Pyramids, Temples and a Luxury Nile Cruise
Sail the ancient river, walk among pharaohs and discover Egypt's most iconic wonders in ten thoughtfully crafted days.
This Classic Egypt Nile Cruise brings together the country's most celebrated monuments, from the Pyramids of Giza to the temples of Luxor and Aswan, on a single flowing itinerary designed for travellers who want depth without sacrifice. The journey combines overland exploration in Cairo with a five-star cruise along the Nile, creating a seamless blend of comfort and discovery. Rated easy in difficulty, it suits a wide range of travellers looking for a well-structured, guided experience.
The route unfolds across Egypt's two great centres of antiquity: Cairo in the north, where the last surviving wonder of the ancient world still commands the skyline, and Upper Egypt to the south, where Luxor and Aswan preserve some of the most remarkable temple complexes ever constructed. Overnight sleeper trains connect the destinations, turning transit into part of the experience as the desert landscape rolls past under a canopy of stars.
Onboard a five-star Nile cruiser, guests move between sites at a measured pace, with meals, accommodation and guided excursions integrated into each day. The cruise portion covers the stretch between Luxor and Aswan, calling at Kom Ombo and Edfu along the way. A felucca sailing around Aswan's islands and a visit to the relocated Temple of Philae round out the southern leg before the journey returns to Cairo for a final day of museum visits and bazaar exploration.
The itinerary is structured to minimise unnecessary travel and maximise time at each site. Expert local guides accompany every excursion, providing historical context that transforms ancient stones into living narratives. Whether descending into the Valley of the Kings or watching the sun set over the Nubian hills from the deck of the cruise ship, each moment is designed to leave a lasting impression.
Tour Highlights
Stand before the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx on the legendary Giza Plateau, the only surviving wonder of the ancient world.
Explore the Valley of the Kings on Luxor's West Bank, entering richly decorated royal tombs that have preserved their colours for thousands of years.
Cruise the River Nile aboard a five-star ship between Luxor and Aswan, with all meals and guided shore excursions included.
Walk through the vast temple complexes of Karnak and Luxor, two of the most impressive sacred sites from the age of ancient Thebes.
Visit the double temple of Kom Ombo and the exceptionally well-preserved Temple of Horus at Edfu during scenic Nile sailing days.
Discover the treasures of Tutankhamun and thousands of years of Egyptian history at the world-famous Egyptian Museum in Cairo.
Sail around Aswan's island-studded waters aboard a traditional felucca, taking in the golden dunes and palm-lined Nile riverbanks.
Itinerary Overview
Arrive at Cairo International Airport, where a representative meets you and transfers you to your hotel. The following morning, visit the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx at Giza, then continue to the Step Pyramid of Djoser at Sakkara. Board an overnight sleeper train to Luxor in the evening, with meals served onboard.
Arrive in Luxor and board your five-star Nile cruise. Spend the day on the East Bank exploring Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple, walking the Avenue of Sphinxes between the two great sanctuaries. The next day crosses to the West Bank for the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahri and the Colossi of Memnon, before the cruise sets sail south.
Sail along the Nile with stops at the riverside Temple of Kom Ombo, dedicated to the gods Sobek and Haroeris, and the Temple of Horus at Edfu, one of Egypt's best-preserved ancient monuments. The cruise continues south toward Aswan as the afternoon light falls across the riverbanks.
Spend a morning on a traditional felucca sailing around Aswan's islands before visiting the High Dam, the Temple of Philae and the Unfinished Obelisk. In the evening, board the train back to Cairo, arriving the following morning with a free afternoon to explore markets, local food and the city at your own pace.
Spend the penultimate day at the Egyptian Museum, then visit the Hanging Church in Old Cairo, the Alabaster Mosque at the Citadel and the Khan El Khalili Bazaar. On the final morning, transfer to Cairo Airport for your onward flight.
What is Included
Included
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure
- Hotel accommodation in Cairo (2 nights)
- Five-star Nile cruise accommodation (4 nights)
- Overnight sleeper train tickets (Cairo to Luxor and Aswan to Cairo)
- All meals onboard the Nile cruise
- Meals onboard overnight sleeper trains
- Guided excursions to all listed sites
- English-speaking licensed local guides throughout
- All entrance fees to monuments and temples listed in the itinerary
- Traditional felucca boat ride in Aswan
Not Included
- International flights to and from Cairo
- Travel insurance
- Egyptian visa fees
- Personal spending and souvenirs
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Optional activities not listed in the programme
- Gratuities for guides and drivers
Important Information
Reserve Your Place on Classic Egypt
Spaces on this ten-day itinerary are limited to maintain a quality experience for every traveller. Secure your dates early to avoid disappointment and begin planning your journey through one of the world's great ancient civilisations.
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