We touched down in Cairo at 2 AM, and I braced myself for a long, quiet ride to the hotel. But Cairo had other plans. The city was wide awake, its streets buzzing with life. People strolled through brightly lit alleys, cafés brimmed with chatter, and vendors were still hawking wares. I thought to myself: if this is Cairo at 2 AM, what will it be like during the day? As it turned out, Egypt never slows down—it only pulls you deeper into its timeless rhythm.

Discovering Cairo

Our base in Cairo was the Ramses Hilton, perched along the Nile corniche. The view of the legendary river set the perfect backdrop for our Egyptian adventure. The next morning, we ventured out after brunch near Tahrir Square to the Egyptian Museum. Walking into its aging halls felt like stepping into another era. Despite its faded grandeur, the museum delivered on its promise of wonders: sarcophagi, intricate statues, and the crowning jewel—Tutankhamun’s golden mask. Getting up close to mummies was both eerie and fascinating, a preview of the rich history we were about to experience.

Dinner that night was aboard Le Pacha 1902, a floating restaurant in the chic Zamalek neighborhood. The glittering Nile surrounded us as we savored dishes that blended local flavors with international flair.

The Pyramids and Beyond

The next day was a whirlwind of history. With a guide and driver, we explored Saqqara’s step pyramid, the ancient capital of Memphis, and, of course, the iconic Giza pyramids. Seeing the Great Pyramid up close is something no photograph can prepare you for—it looms larger than life, both in size and significance. Lunch at Khufu’s Restaurant offered incredible views of the pyramids, though the service left something to be desired.

Our guide added another layer to the experience, sharing tales of ancient Egypt that brought the monuments to life. However, guides in Egypt often steer tourists toward shops selling papyrus art or perfumes, and it takes some resolve to skip what you don’t need. We saved our shopping for Khan el-Khalili, the bustling bazaar we’d visit later in the trip.

That evening, we found culinary perfection at Zooba in Zamalek. The koshari—a hearty mix of lentils, rice, and pasta—was comfort food at its finest, while the chicken shawarma bowl was bursting with flavor.

A Day by the Mediterranean

Alexandria was next on the itinerary, a three-hour drive north to Egypt’s Mediterranean jewel. The city felt like a breath of fresh air (not literally, it Is polluted like everywhere else), with its coastal charm and historical sites. We marveled at the Roman catacombs and amphitheater before heading to the modern Library of Alexandria. The library, with its sleek design and vast collection, was a highlight. I was surprised to find we could explore the reading halls, which were buzzing with local students.

After a seafood feast, we visited the citadel overlooking the sea before heading back to Cairo, our journey set to continue south.

Aswan: The Gateway to Nubia

A late-night flight brought us to Aswan, where the Obelisk Nile Hotel welcomed us with a suite overlooking the river. The next morning, we slowed down the pace, taking a ferry to Elephantine Island. Life on the island felt worlds away from the bustle of Cairo. We dined at Nubian Dreams, a charming spot with friendly staff and vibrant Nubian cuisine.

The temple at Philae Island, dedicated to the goddess Isis, was another highlight. Its intricate carvings and serene location were unforgettable. For dinner, King Jamaica on Elephantine Island offered a relaxing vibe and a chance to try stuffed pigeon, a delicacy that tasted like a more intense version of chicken.

The next day, we journeyed to Abu Simbel, where colossal statues of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari left us in awe. Their grandeur and precision are a testament to ancient engineering and artistry.

The Majesty of Luxor

Our journey continued with stops at the temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo before arriving in Luxor. Here, history felt alive. We began with an early morning hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings, a surreal experience that offered breathtaking views of ancient tombs and the golden desert.

On the ground, we explored the tombs themselves, including the ornate final resting place of Tutankhamun. Visits to Hatshepsut’s mortuary temple and the sprawling Karnak and Luxor temple complexes rounded out the day, leaving us spellbound.

Back to Cairo

Returning to Cairo for our final day, we visited the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum. Its modern design and carefully curated exhibits were a fitting finale to our journey. The museum does justice to Egypt’s treasures, offering a more polished experience than the older museum in Tahrir Square.

We ended our trip at Khan el-Khalili market, navigating its maze of stalls for souvenirs. Dinner at Naguib Mahfouz Café, nestled in the heart of the bazaar, was a delightful blend of traditional Egyptian cuisine and refined ambiance.

Travel Tips

1. Carry small bills (10 EGP notes) for tips, needed everywhere, including restrooms.

2. The air can be smoky and polluted, so N95 masks are a good idea for those with sensitivities.

3. Uber is convenient in Cairo, but elsewhere, rely on guides or pre-arranged drivers.

4. Always confirm prices at tourist-site restaurants if menus aren’t provided.

5. Stay hydrated with bottled water, and don’t miss trying koshari, shawarma, and Egyptian tea.

Itinerary at a glance

Day	Location	Activity
1	Cairo	Early morning arrival. Visit the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square
2	Cairo	Visit Saqarra, Memphis, GIza
3	Cairo	Day trip to Alexandria Fly to Aswan
4	Aswan	Visit Elephantine Island and Temple of Isis on Philae Island
5	Aswan	Day trip to Abu Simbel
6	Luxor	Visit temples at Kom Ombo and Edfu on the way to Luxor
7	Luxor	Hot Air balloon ride, Visit Valley of Kings, Hatshepsut temple, Karnak temple, Luxor temple
8	Cairo	Grand Egyptian Museum Khan el Khalili Bazaar

Egypt is a country where history seeps into every corner, from bustling markets to serene temples. It’s a place where the past and present coexist, offering something for everyone. Cairo and the rest of the country feel like two different worlds with the economic divide. People are friendly and helpful and will go the extra mile if you tip them. Whether you’re drawn by the pyramids, the Nile, or the vibrant culture, Egypt will leave you captivated.