Exploring Egypt in just one week requires careful planning to make the most of your time. Here’s a suggested itinerary that covers some of the key attractions in Egypt:

Day 1-2: Cairo

  • Morning: Start your trip in Cairo. Visit the Giza Plateau to see the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, home to a vast collection of ancient artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun.
  • Evening: Stroll through Khan El Khalili, a historic bazaar in Cairo, for shopping and local cuisine.

Day 3: Luxor

  • Morning: Fly to Luxor, often called the “world’s greatest open-air museum.”
  • Afternoon: Visit the Karnak Temple complex, a vast network of temples, chapels, and pylons.
  • Evening: Explore Luxor Temple illuminated at night.

Day 4: Luxor

  • Morning: Cross the Nile to the West Bank and visit the Valley of the Kings, where many pharaohs were buried.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon.
  • Evening: Take a leisurely stroll along the Nile Corniche.

Day 5: Aswan

  • Morning: Travel to Aswan, visit the High Dam, and take a boat to Philae Temple.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Nubian Museum and stroll through the colorful Nubian villages.
  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing felucca ride on the Nile.

Day 6: Abu Simbel

  • Morning: Take a short flight to Abu Simbel to see the magnificent temples of Ramses II and Nefertari.
  • Afternoon: Return to Aswan and spend the afternoon at leisure.

Day 7: Back to Cairo

  • Morning: Fly back to Cairo.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Citadel of Saladin and the historic Mosque of Muhammad Ali.
  • Evening: If time permits, explore the old Islamic and Coptic quarters.

This itinerary covers some of the major highlights of Egypt, but keep in mind that Egypt has much more to offer. Adjustments can be made based on your specific interests and preferences. Also, consider the potential for unexpected changes in travel plans, such as transportation delays or closures, and plan accordingly.