5-Day Cairo and Luxor Exploration Itinerary

Start with breakfast at the charming Zooba, serving up local Egyptian street food with a twist. Then, delve into the treasures of the Egyptian Museum (Museum of Egyptian Antiquities), where you'll spend around 3 hours exploring the vast collection of artifacts. Don't miss the famous Tutankhamun exhibit.

For lunch, head to Cairo Kitchen for a modern take on classic Egyptian dishes. Post-lunch, take a walk through Islamic Cairo, visiting the Al-Azhar Mosque and the Sultan Hassan Mosque and Madrassa. Dedicate about 2 hours to experience the rich Islamic heritage and architecture.

Enjoy a sumptuous dinner at Abou El Sid, which offers a traditional Egyptian dining experience. Afterward, stroll through the bustling lanes of Khan El-Khalili, a historic bazaar filled with souvenirs, crafts, and an authentic atmosphere. Spend the rest of your evening here, absorbing the vibrant culture.

Savor breakfast at Maison Thomas, a Cairo institution known for its pizzas and pastries. Then, visit Old Cairo (Misr Al-Qadima), including the Hanging Church (Al-Muallaqa) and the Ben Ezra Synagogue. Allocate about 3 hours to explore these religious landmarks and the surrounding Coptic area.

For lunch, indulge in the flavors of Le Pacha Boat Restaurant, a floating dining experience with a variety of cuisines. Post-lunch, head to the Cairo Citadel (Citadel of Saladin) and the Alabaster Mosque (Mosque of Muhammad Ali). Spend around 2 hours here, admiring the panoramic views of Cairo and the mosque's grandeur.

Dine at The Blue Restaurant & Grill for an elegant evening meal. Cap off the night with a visit to the Cairo Tower (Burj al-Qahira), where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Cairo illuminated at night. Spend the remainder of the evening here, taking in the cityscape.

Begin with an early breakfast at a local café before embarking on a full-day tour of Luxor's East and West Banks. Visit the Karnak Temple and the Luxor Temple, marveling at the colossal monuments and hieroglyphs. These sites will take up the majority of your day, so prepare for a lot of walking and discovery.

Enjoy a packed lunch from Al-Azhar Koshary as you continue your exploration of Luxor. In the afternoon, cross over to the West Bank to visit the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Hatshepsut. The history and artistry here are overwhelming, so take your time to appreciate these ancient wonders.

After a day of exploration, relax with dinner at a recommended local restaurant such as Al-Sahaby Lane Restaurant in Luxor, offering traditional Egyptian cuisine with views of the Luxor Temple. Reflect on the day's historical journey as you enjoy your meal.

Have a light breakfast at the hotel before heading out to the Colossi of Memnon, two massive stone statues that have stood for millennia. Then, visit the Ramesseum, the memorial temple of Pharaoh Ramesses II, and the Medinet Habu, the mortuary temple of Ramesses III. Spend the morning immersed in these awe-inspiring sites.

For lunch, stop by Sofra Restaurant & Café for some local delicacies. Afterward, take a leisurely felucca ride on the Nile, allowing you to see Luxor from a different perspective and to rest your feet after the morning's excursions.

Conclude your trip with a farewell dinner at 1886 Restaurant in the Winter Palace Hotel, known for its fine dining and historical ambiance. After dinner, if time permits, take a final stroll along the Corniche, soaking in the last views of the Nile before preparing for your departure.