Egypt Holidays · Style
Cairo and Nile Cruise Holidays
Pairing Cairo with a Nile cruise is the most-booked first holiday in Egypt, and for good reason: it puts the Pyramids and the river temples in a single trip without a wasted day. You give the first two or three nights to Cairo – the Giza Pyramids, the Sphinx, and the new Grand Egyptian Museum on the plateau – then fly south to join a 5-star cruise sailing between Luxor and Aswan, calling at Edfu and Kom Ombo on the way. We hold both halves under one booking, arrange the internal flight, and keep the same standard of guiding from the plateau to the river. It is the itinerary we build most often for British travellers seeing Egypt for the first time.
80 matching holidays
The shape
What is a cairo and nile cruise Egypt holiday?
A Cairo and Nile cruise holiday combines two or three nights in Cairo – the Pyramids, the Egyptian Museum or the Grand Egyptian Museum, and Coptic or Islamic Cairo – with a three- or four-night cruise on the Luxor–Aswan stretch of the Nile. The usual shape is seven or eight days in total, with an internal flight linking the two. It is the standard first-visit itinerary: the country's two headline experiences, the ancient capital and the river of temples, in one trip.
Cairo, then the river
How the classic eight-day combination runs
- Days 1–2CairoThe Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx, the Grand Egyptian Museum on the plateau, and a half-day in Coptic or Islamic Cairo.
- Day 3Fly to AswanMorning flight south. Board the cruise after lunch; Philae Temple and the High Dam in the afternoon.
- Day 4Kom OmboSail north to the riverside double temple of Sobek and Horus, reached straight off the gangway at dusk.
- Day 5EdfuThe Temple of Horus at opening, the best-preserved temple in Egypt, then a long afternoon on the water.
- Days 6–7LuxorDisembark for Karnak, the Valley of the Kings and the West Bank, with a night to take it slowly.
- Day 8Fly homeTransfer to Luxor airport for the connection to Cairo and the flight home.
Direction and length flex: we run it as a 5-night cruise, reverse the river leg, or open with the cruise and finish in Cairo to suit your flights.
Mid7 Days Cairo, Luxor, Aswan & Abu Simbel Include Edfu and Kom Ombo
Cairo
Discover the very best of Egypt on this 7-day private guided tour. Starting in Luxor, the itinerary combines Luxor, Cairo, Nile and Aswan — with all domestic flights, private Egyptologist guide and handpicked accommodation included in every tier from Comfort to Luxury.
Budget4 Days Cairo Tour Packages
Cairo
Discover the very best of Egypt on this 4-day private guided tour. Starting in Cairo, the itinerary combines Cairo — with all domestic flights, private Egyptologist guide and handpicked accommodation included in every tier from Comfort to Luxury.
Mid6 Days Cairo & Nile Cruise Tour Package
Cairo
This six-day tour combines Cairo sightseeing with a three-night Nile cruise between Aswan and Luxor. It includes visits to the Giza pyramids, the Grand Egyptian Museum, Aswan’s major monuments, temples along the Nile, and Luxor’s East and West Bank sites. The itinerary also includes domestic flights between Cairo, Aswan, and Luxor.
8 Days Cairo Nile Cruise Aswan 3 Nights (Copy)
Cairo
Book an 8-day Cairo, Aswan and Luxor tour with Nile cruise, Egyptologist guides, entrance fees and hotels included. Enquire today.
Budget15-Day Egypt Tour | Cairo, Nile Cruise & Red Sea
Cairo
This 15-day itinerary links Cairo, Alexandria, Aswan, a Nile cruise between Aswan and Luxor, Luxor and Hurghada, finishing in Cairo. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we arrange all transfers, domestic flights and Egyptologist-led sightseeing. We do not run large coach-group itineraries; transfers and excursions are by private air-conditioned car with local guides. Unlike short packaged cruises, this trip includes full calls at Kom Ombo and Edfu and time on both Luxor East Bank and West Bank, plus two full days at the Red Sea for snorkeling and a desert quad safari.
Mid10-Day Egypt Tour | Cairo, Alexandria, Aswan & Luxor
Cairo
This 10-day itinerary visits Cairo, Alexandria, Aswan, Abu Simbel and Luxor, focusing on Pharaonic, Coptic and Islamic sites. It is led by experienced Egyptologists and includes guided visits to major monuments and museums. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we arrange domestic flights and the first-class train transfer between Aswan and Luxor. Unlike mass coach programmes, we limit daily group sizes and favour guided walking at each site so you have time to study inscriptions and architecture. Expect early starts at major temples and a pace tuned to avoiding midday heat where possible.
Mid9 Day Cairo, Aswan, Luxor & Alexandria Tour | Discovery Tours
Aswan
A 9-day, land-based tour that visits Cairo, Alexandria, Aswan and Luxor with private Egyptologists and a combination of domestic flights and a first-class train. We arrange all airport meet-and-assist, modern private transfers and guides for the major sites named in the itinerary. Unlike large coach programmes, every major visit is private and paced to avoid peak crowds whenever possible. We do not run fixed-seat group buses; instead you travel in air-conditioned cars with your Egyptologist. Entrance fees for the listed monuments are included, while pyramid interiors and premium tombs are excluded unless requested.
PremiumCairo + Luxor 5-Day Eclipse Package
Cairo
Two nights Cairo, two nights Luxor, eclipse on Day 3. The short fly-in shape for travellers who can't take eleven days off.
Budget6 Days Cairo and Alexandria Tour | Giza & GEM | Discovery Tours
Cairo
This 6-day Cairo and Alexandria holiday combines Cairo’s pharaonic and medieval sites with a full-day visit to Alexandria. You travel with an expert Egyptologist and private air-conditioned transfers. Highlights include the Giza Pyramids Complex and Great Sphinx, the new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), Saqqara’s Step Pyramid and a day in Alexandria to see Qaitbay Citadel and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. We run departures daily and use private vehicles rather than coach-style group transfers, which gives flexibility on pickup times and pacing. Entrance fees listed in the itinerary are included; international flights, the Egypt entry visa and tipping are not included in the price.
Budget13-day Alexandria, Cairo, Aswan–Luxor Nile cruise and Hurghada holiday
Nile (cruise route)
A 13-day guided holiday combining Alexandria, Cairo, a three-night Nile cruise between Aswan and Luxor, and a Red Sea break in Hurghada. We arrange domestic flights, private transfers and a dedicated Egyptologist throughout. This itinerary suits travellers who want museum and city sightseeing in Cairo and Alexandria followed by the paced sightseeing a short Nile cruise affords, then four nights for snorkeling and beach time in Hurghada. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we book the hotels and cruise with local suppliers and manage timings so you move comfortably between cities.
BudgetNational Museum of Egyptian Civilisation, Cairo
Cairo
Visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation in Fustat, Cairo, for a chronological overview of Egypt from prehistory to the modern era. The museum includes the Royal Mummies Hall (mummies transferred in 2021) and specialist galleries covering archaeology, Coptic, Islamic and contemporary collections. We schedule private, timed visits with one of our Egyptologists; unlike mass tours, we avoid the museum’s peak rotation times. Allow 2–3 hours for a focused visit; mornings reduce the likelihood of encountering school groups. Standard entrance fees are included; private transfers, gratuities and special access are extra. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and issue timed tickets on your behalf.
3-Day Cairo: Giza, Egyptian Museum & Old Cairo
Cairo
A three-day private Cairo itinerary visiting the Giza Pyramids, the Egyptian Museum and Old Cairo with private transport and an English-speaking Egyptologist. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we don't run group-bus tours; all site visits and transfers are private. Day one focuses on the Giza Plateau (Khufu, Khafre, Menkaure) with a sunrise or early-morning option to avoid crowds. Day two covers the Egyptian Museum and Tahrir area; day three visits Coptic and Islamic Cairo including the Citadel and Khan el-Khalili bazaar. Unlike cruise-ship day trips, two nights in Cairo let you schedule Giza at dawn and a calmer afternoon for the Museum. Standard site fees are included; the Khufu pyramid interior, premium tombs (Tutankhamun/Seti I) and gratuities are excluded. Expect early starts, busy sites and limited shade at Giza; modest dress is required for mosques.
Premium11-Day Egypt Grand Tour – Solar Eclipse 2027
Cairo
BudgetNational Museum of Egyptian Civilization & Egyptian Museum Tahrir Day Tour
Cairo
Visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization and the Egyptian Museum (Tahrir) in one full day with a private Egyptologist and private transfers. Standard museum entrance fees are included; premium or temporary exhibition surcharges are extra. Unlike coach-based museum runs, we operate this as a private visit so you have time with key displays and the Royal Mummies Gallery at NMEC. Our Egyptologists explain provenance, conservation and display context, and we arrange the car, driver and a relaxed lunch stop in central Cairo. Trade-offs: the Egyptian Museum (Tahrir) can be crowded and has older cases and queues during peak hours. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator.
Swiss Inn Pyramids Golf Resort, Giza
Cairo
Swiss Inn Pyramids Golf Resort is a hotel in Giza with an on-site golf facility and direct road access toward the Giza Plateau. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we use this property for one-night or short stays when clients prioritise Pyramid access over Downtown Cairo location. Unlike central Cairo hotels, it reduces morning transfer time to the Giza Plateau and Khufu Pyramid. Trade-offs: fewer late-night dining options nearby and limited rooms with direct Pyramid views; ask us to reserve a Pyramid-facing room where available. We arrange private transfers and flexible early departures to match scheduled site times.
Helnan Dream Hotel, Cairo
Cairo
Helnan Dream Hotel is a centrally sited Cairo hotel commonly used as a city base for visits to the Egyptian Museum and the Giza Plateau. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we arrange private airport transfers, Cairo Egyptologists and timed museum entries to match your flight times. We don't run coach-group hotel pickups; we provide private arrivals and locally guided visits to avoid morning queues. Unlike Nile cruise hotels, a city stay keeps you close to evening restaurants and the museum timetable. Expect Cairo traffic at peak times; airport transfers can take 45–75 minutes in rush-hour.
Novotel 6 October, 6th of October City
Cairo
Novotel 6 October is a full-service hotel in 6th of October City, west of central Cairo. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange private airport transfers, timed departures and guided excursions from this base. We often recommend it for clients with business in Smart Village; we do not usually advise it for short, first-time sightseeing stays in central Cairo because journeys to the Egyptian Museum or Khan al-Khalili commonly exceed 40 minutes in peak traffic. Expect 35–60 minutes by private car to the Giza Plateau (Khufu, Khafre, Menkaure) depending on traffic. On-site parking and quieter suburban streets are practical advantages.
Barceló Cairo Pyramids Hotel, Giza
Cairo
Barceló Cairo Pyramids Hotel sits on the Giza edge, with rooftop terraces that face Khufu and Khafre. We use this hotel when clients want a clear pyramid view without staying on the plateau itself. The hotel provides a rooftop pool, an on-site restaurant and rooms with direct pyramid views when available. It is approximately a 10–15 minute private-car transfer to the Giza Plateau; traffic can lengthen journeys to central Cairo and the Egyptian Museum (typically 30–45 minutes). Expect some road noise on the main approach road, and book pyramid-view rooms early–they are limited.
Sonesta Hotel Tower & Casino – Cairo (Heliopolis)
Cairo
Sonesta Hotel Tower & Casino sits in Heliopolis, a short drive from Cairo International Airport. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and arrange airport transfers, early check-in and quiet-room requests for arriving or departing guests. The property offers standard rooms and suites, a swimming pool, a casino and 24‑hour dining; meeting rooms are available for small groups. We prefer Sonesta for pre- or post‑flight stays because it combines airport convenience with full hotel facilities; unlike terminal hotels, it has leisure spaces and meeting capacity. Trade-offs: some rooms face the casino and street; request a higher-floor room if you need quieter nights.
Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir, Cairo (Tahrir Square)
Cairo
Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir sits on Mohamed Mahmoud Street beside Tahrir Square, opposite the Egyptian Museum. We arrange stays here for guests prioritising central museums and government offices; unlike hotels on the Giza Plateau, this is an urban base rather than a Pyramid-front location. The hotel offers rooms, an onsite restaurant and a rooftop terrace; we can book private transfers and flexible check-in through Discovery Tours Egypt, a licensed Egyptian tour operator. City-centre traffic can add 30–60 minutes to Cairo International Airport transfers at peak times, and street-facing rooms can be noisy.
Radisson Blu, Cairo
Cairo
Radisson Blu in Cairo provides international-standard rooms and practical services; we book it often for arrival and departure nights. We prefer Radisson Blu when clients need predictable logistics: unlike small boutique hotels, its straightforward reception and transport options reduce risk on late or early flights. We arrange airport transfers, early check-in requests where possible, and private cars for onward Cairo sightseeing. Trade-offs: this is a business-style hotel rather than a heritage property, and you should expect standard city traffic noise rather than a quiet garden setting. Discovery Tours Egypt is a licensed Egyptian tour operator and manages local arrangements and billing.
Jewel Sport City – Cairo
Cairo
One-night hotel stay at Jewel Sport City in Cairo arranged by our licensed Egyptian tour operator. We position this property as a practical overnight for airport connections and early departures rather than a central sightseeing base. Unlike central Cairo hotels, it suits short stops and early flights. We arrange private transfers and meet-and-greet on request. Rooms are straightforward and functional; do expect practical amenities rather than boutique design or extensive leisure facilities. Our drivers can collect or drop you at agreed times, and B&B or room-only options are available depending on your preference.
Steigenberger Cairo Pyramids Hotel (Bed & Breakfast)
Cairo
Steigenberger Cairo Pyramids Hotel is a bed-and-breakfast hotel in Giza, about 3.5 km (12-minute drive) from the Giza Plateau. We use this hotel for short Giza transfers and early starts to Khufu; unlike inner‑Cairo hotels, it typically reduces morning drive time to the plateau. Breakfast is included and we arrange airport transfers and pyramid-site excursions through our team. Selected rooms have views of the Giza Plateau; those rooms must be requested at booking as availability is limited. Peak-traffic transfers can add 20–40 minutes. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and will confirm room category and transfer times when you book.
AZAL Pyramids Hotel, Giza
Cairo
AZAL Pyramids Hotel is a Giza property we arrange for travellers visiting the Giza Plateau. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and our Cairo team handles on-the-ground logistics. We prefer to schedule Pyramid visits early in the morning from Giza hotels to avoid afternoon traffic; we do not run large coach groups from here. Rooms are straightforward and some offer rooftop sightlines toward Khufu and the Sphinx; rooftop exposure and street noise vary. Unlike downtown Cairo hotels, a Giza base shortens transfers to the Giza Plateau. We can add private transfers and guided visits on request.
Cosmopolitan Hotel Cairo
Cairo
One night at the Cosmopolitan Hotel Cairo is offered as a short stopover option in our Cairo programmes. We arrange private airport or railway transfers and flexible check‑in to match international flight schedules. We use this hotel primarily for practical overnight stays rather than extended Cairo holidays. Unlike airport hotels, this option places you inside the city for quicker access to central Cairo landmarks such as the Egyptian Museum or Coptic Cairo in the evening. Rooms and on-site facilities are configured for short stays; do not expect resort-style leisure amenities. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we can add an early-morning pickup or a pre-departure briefing on request.
Sofitel El Gezirah, Cairo – Nile-side hotel in Zamalek
Cairo
Sofitel El Gezirah sits on Gezira Island in Zamalek, Cairo, with direct Nile frontage and views across to the Cairo Opera House. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange private transfers and Nile-view rooms when available. The hotel houses multiple restaurants, a rooftop terrace and a spa, and offers a quieter island base compared with hotels on the Giza Plateau. Expect peak-hour transfers to Giza to take 45–60 minutes; some rooms face the inner courtyard and do not have Nile views. We do not operate large coach transfers from the property, so arrivals and departures are handled with private cars and timed meet-and-greets.
Hotel to Sharm El Sheikh International Airport Transfer
Cairo
Private, door-to-door transfers between Sharm El Sheikh hotels and Sharm El Sheikh International Airport, with meet-and-greet and fixed prices. Typical transfer time is 20–30 minutes depending on hotel location and traffic. We use private sedans and MPVs and do not operate large shared shuttle buses. Our drivers monitor flight status, wait if your flight is delayed, and meet you in the hotel lobby with a name-board. Unlike shared shuttle services, you travel directly to the terminal without extra stops. Allow extra time for airport security and peak-hour traffic; gratuities and oversized-luggage handling are extra. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator.
3-day Cairo Visit
Cairo
AI Test Bundle Draft
Cairo
Jewel Plaza, Cairo
Cairo
Jewel Plaza is a Cairo hotel we book for short overnight stays and transit nights. We use it when clients require a straightforward, practical room for an arrival, departure or a single-night layover. We favour short-stay hotels such as Jewel Plaza for overnight layovers instead of placing clients in larger Cairo hotels for just one night. Unlike larger full-service hotels, Jewel Plaza is chosen for practicality rather than extensive leisure facilities. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange reservations, meet-and-greet transfers and early check-in requests where available. Not recommended for stays longer than two or three nights; guests seeking extensive on-site facilities should consider other neighbourhood hotels.
Safir Hotel Cairo
Cairo
Safir Hotel Cairo is a centrally located hotel in Cairo, suitable for short stays and transit nights. We book Safir primarily for guests who need straightforward rooms and reliable group logistics; we do not promote it as a boutique or luxury option. Unlike hotels in Zamalek, Safir often provides easier coach parking and simpler group check-in processes. Trade-offs include fewer on-site leisure facilities than higher-tier Cairo hotels and some dated room decor; service can be slower at peak times. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator we arrange the reservation, private transfers and early check-in on request.
New Master Service
Cairo
Egypt – Cairo & Alexandria (9 Nights / 10 Days)
Cairo
8 Days Cairo Nile Cruise (Luxor/Aswan 4 Nights)
Cairo
6 Days Cairo, Luxor, Aswan & Abu Simbel Tour Package
Cairo
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Domestic flight: Aswan to Cairo (ASW–CAI)
Aswan
A scheduled domestic flight from Aswan International (ASW) to Cairo International (CAI); airborne time is typically about 1 hour 30 minutes. We book scheduled seats and arrange private transfers at both ends; we prefer scheduled flights for reliability and luggage handling and do not recommend squeezing multiple internal flights into one afternoon. Expect standard domestic check-in times and possible short delays; we confirm exact departure times and baggage allowances at booking. We operate this as a licensed Egyptian tour operator and manage all local transfers so you travel on the ground with the same driver and vehicle where possible.
Pyramisa Cairo Hotel, Cairo
Cairo
Pyramisa Cairo Hotel is a practical city hotel we can book as a base for Cairo stays. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we manage room bookings, private airport transfers and Egyptologist pickups for timed visits to the Egyptian Museum. Our distinctive point of view: we use Pyramisa for short stays and city logistics rather than leisure-focused holidays. Compared with larger Nile-side or resort hotels, expect simpler leisure facilities and a more straightforward room offering. Honest trade-offs: it is chosen for convenience and value, not for extensive spa facilities or panoramic Nile views.
Boudle Grand Pyramids Hotel – Giza
Cairo
Boudle Grand Pyramids Hotel is a Giza hotel we book for guests visiting the Giza Plateau. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator. We do not place clients on coach-group itineraries; instead we arrange private transfers and time visits with our Egyptologists to avoid peak crowds. Some rooms have direct views of the Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure pyramids; others face the street, so request a pyramid-view room at booking. The hotel is convenient for short stays beside the plateau, but allow extra time for central Cairo sites because of local traffic.
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Domestic Flight: Sharm El Sheikh to Cairo
Sharm El Sheikh
We arrange scheduled flights from Sharm El Sheikh (SSH) to Cairo (CAI); flight time is about 1 hour 15 minutes. Typical carriers are EgyptAir and Nile Air. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and handle flight booking, baggage coordination and a Cairo meet-and-assist or private transfer to your hotel. We prefer morning direct services to reduce delay risk and give you a full Cairo afternoon. Unlike overnight road transfers, the flight saves six to eight hours of travel time. Trade-offs: expect security and baggage checks that can add 30–90 minutes at either airport.
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Domestic Flight: Luxor to Cairo
Luxor
We arrange scheduled domestic flights from Luxor to Cairo; airborne time is about 1 hour 15 minutes. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we book the carrier, monitor connections and organise private transfers to Luxor International (LXR) and from Cairo International (CAI). We favour booked morning departures to reduce afternoon domestic delays and to avoid the hottest part of the day at Luxor airport. Compared with the 7–8 hour road transfer, flying saves a full travel day but adds time for airport transit, security and luggage handling. Allow at least 90 minutes for check-in and security; baggage allowances vary by carrier, and occasional airline delays or Cairo traffic can affect timings. We can hold seats and arrange meet-and-greet services on request.
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Domestic Flight: Hurghada (HRG) to Cairo (CAI)
Hurghada
Scheduled domestic flights from Hurghada (HRG) to Cairo (CAI) take about 1 hour 15 minutes. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we book scheduled carrier tickets and ground transfers on your behalf. Hurghada airport lies about 6 km from most hotels (15–20 minutes by road); Cairo International is roughly 20–40 km from central Cairo (30–60 minutes by road, depending on traffic). Allow 90–120 minutes for check‑in and security at both airports. We avoid coach transfers for this sector; flying typically saves four to six hours compared with the coastal road. Trade‑offs: queues, luggage limits and occasional air‑traffic delays; we can add meet‑and‑assist on request.
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Cairo to Sharm El Sheikh – Domestic Flight Transfer
Cairo
Flight time: 1 hour 15 minutes between Cairo International (CAI) and Sharm El Sheikh International (SSH). We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and, when you book with us, we arrange the scheduled ticket, airport meet‑and‑greet and private onward transfer. Sharm airport is about 16 km from Naama Bay (roughly a 20‑minute drive). We favour scheduled flights rather than overnight coaches to save a night and reduce road fatigue. Note: security queues at CAI can add 30–60 minutes and domestic baggage limits are often stricter than international allowances.
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Domestic Flight: Cairo to Hurghada
Cairo
A scheduled domestic flight from Cairo International Airport (CAI) to Hurghada International Airport (HRG) takes approximately 1 hour 20 minutes. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and we arrange your meet-and-greet at CAI, baggage assistance and private transfer from HRG to your hotel. We avoid bulk coach transfers; we reserve seats on scheduled domestic services and meet you at arrivals. Unlike the ≈450 km road transfer (typically 6–7 hours), the flight saves about six hours. Trade-offs: domestic check-in and security add time, and carriers' luggage allowances vary.
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Cairo to Luxor Domestic Flight (CAI → LXR)
Cairo
Fly from Cairo International (CAI) to Luxor International (LXR); flight time is about 1 hour 15 minutes. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange private transfers to CAI and from LXR and offer meet-and-greet and checked-baggage assistance on request. Unlike the 7–9 hour road transfer, the flight cuts the journey to roughly 1h15. We usually favour morning departures to reduce the chance of afternoon delays and to arrive in Luxor before midday. Trade-offs: higher cost than coach travel, airport waiting and security time, and airline baggage limits can apply. Standard domestic check-in is around 90 minutes; we advise allowing two hours.
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Domestic Flight: Cairo to Aswan
Cairo
Scheduled domestic flights between Cairo International Airport (CAI) and Aswan International Airport (ASW) take about 90 minutes. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and book the flight ticket, handle meet‑and‑greet at both airports, and provide private transfers to your hotel. We prefer daytime flights and private transfers; unlike overnight sleeper trains, flights cut transit time to roughly 90 minutes so you can arrive in Aswan that same morning. Allow at least two hours for international‑to‑domestic connections at CAI; baggage allowances and boarding gates vary by airline and are confirmed at booking. Ask your consultant to include the fare in your holiday quotation.
BudgetCairo: Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo & Khan el‑Khalili
Cairo
A private, guided visit connecting the Egyptian Museum, key monuments of Islamic Cairo and Khan el‑Khalili bazaar in central Cairo. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator; our Cairo‑based Egyptologist leads the museum visit and a local-knowledge guide conducts the Islamic Cairo walk. Unlike larger coach tours, we do not run group-bus rotations and use a private air‑conditioned car so you set the pace. Standard site entrance fees are included; pyramid interiors and premium tombs are not part of this programme. Note: expect uneven cobbles, narrow streets and market noise during the bazaar section.
BudgetNational Museum of Egyptian Civilization
Cairo
BudgetAl-Moez Street
Cairo
BudgetSultan Hassan & Al‑Rifa'i Mosques, Cairo
Cairo
This combined ticket covers Sultan Hassan Mosque and neighbouring Al‑Rifa'i Mosque in the Citadel area of Cairo; standard entrance fees are included. We schedule 60–75 minutes for the pair. Sultan Hassan dates from 1356–1363 and is a major Mamluk funerary complex; Al‑Rifa'i was completed in 1912 as a royal mausoleum. Our Egyptologist will explain architectural details such as monumental portals and funerary inscription panels rather than offering only surface commentary. Unlike typical coach-group stops that allow 20–30 minutes, we preserve time for photographing façades and entering Al‑Rifa'i. Expect limited shade on the forecourt, uneven stone underfoot and a modest-dress requirement.
BudgetAl-Suhaimi House, Cairo (Beit al-Suhaymi)
Cairo
Al-Suhaimi House is a restored Ottoman-period town house on the Nile’s former basin, noted for its wooden mashrabiya screens, inner courtyards and decorated reception rooms. We include it as a 30–45 minute stop on our private Cairo walking routes; we do not schedule it as a full-day visit because the rooms are compact and the house is best appreciated close-up. Unlike larger museum visits such as the Egyptian Museum or the Citadel, Al-Suhaimi rewards attention to architectural detail rather than scale. Practical cons: narrow stairs, low doorways and limited shade; opening hours can change during Ramadan and on public holidays.
BudgetBaron Palace (Baron Empain Palace), Heliopolis, Cairo
Cairo
Baron Palace in Heliopolis is an early 20th-century mansion built by Édouard Empain with architecture inspired by Angkor and Hindu temples. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and arrange timed-entry tickets and private local guides for interior visits. We do not run mass coach groups; instead we treat Baron Palace as a concise, specialist stop and often pair it with a private Heliopolis walking route. Note: interior access is sometimes restricted for conservation, photography rules may apply, and the palace has steep stairs and narrow corridors that limit wheelchair access.
Cairo Airport (CAI) – Private Transfer to Cairo Hotel
Cairo
Private transfer from Cairo International Airport (CAI) to any Cairo hotel, with meet-and-greet and luggage assistance. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and operate our own fleet; we do not sell shared shuttle seats. Unlike shared shuttles, we monitor your flight and adjust pickup for delays at no extra charge. Expect 30–60 minutes to reach central Cairo in normal traffic; peak hours (07:00–09:30 and 16:00–19:00) often double journey times. Vehicles are air‑conditioned sedans or MPVs; child seats and larger vehicles are available on request.
Cairo hotel to Cairo International Airport (CAI) – private transfer
Cairo
Private transfer from your Cairo hotel to Cairo International Airport (CAI), with meet-and-greet and flight monitoring. We operate private transfers rather than shared shuttle coaches and adjust collection if your flight is delayed. CAI lies approximately 22 km northeast of Downtown Cairo (Tahrir); transfers normally take 45–60 minutes, but rush-hour journeys can exceed 90 minutes. We provide saloon cars (up to three passengers) and minivans (four-plus); please request child seats in advance. We meet you in the hotel lobby with a nameboard. Tolls are included; driver gratuity is not. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and arrange the transfer on your behalf.
BudgetCoptic Cairo Half-Day Tour: Hanging Church & Ben Ezra Synagogue
Cairo
This private half-day introduces Coptic Cairo’s principal sites with a Cairo-based Egyptologist and an air-conditioned private car. Stops: Saint Virgin Mary's (the Hanging Church), Abu Serga (St Sergius), Ben Ezra Synagogue and the Coptic Museum. We run this as a private tour; we do not mix guests on coaches. Unlike typical cruise-ship shore calls, our half-day includes time inside the Coptic Museum and the churches rather than a drive-by. Expect narrow lanes, low church ceilings, and limited shade at midday; modest dress is required for religious sites. Discovery Tours Egypt is a licensed Egyptian tour operator. Standard entrance fees are included; optional donations and gratuities are not.
BudgetCoptic Museum – Coptic Cairo ticket & private visit
Cairo
The Coptic Museum in Coptic Cairo houses Christian-era collections of icons, textiles and liturgical objects dating from the 3rd–19th centuries. Marcus Simaika Pasha founded the museum in 1908. Unlike the Egyptian Museum’s pharaonic displays, this museum focuses on Coptic art and church material culture. We usually pair the museum with a private walking tour of the Hanging Church and the Ben Ezra Synagogue rather than a rushed coach stop. Our Egyptologists explain iconography and Coptic inscriptions; visits typically take 60–90 minutes and include narrow staircases and compact galleries. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange timed-entry tickets and door-to-door transfers.
Cairo Early Check-In Hotel Supplement
Cairo
We arrange early check-in at participating Cairo hotels to give you priority room allocation on arrival. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and book the supplement directly with our hotel partners rather than relying on a standard reception request. Unlike asking on arrival or using luggage storage, this supplement increases the chance your booked room will be available soon after you arrive. Availability remains subject to hotel confirmation; some properties restrict early check-in by room category and surcharges vary by season. Request the supplement at booking; standard check-in is usually 14:00 and charges are per room.
BudgetEgyptian Museum (Tahrir), Cairo
Cairo
The Egyptian Museum on Tahrir Square opened in 1902 and holds more than 120,000 Pharaonic objects. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and our Egyptologists lead private visits focusing on Old Kingdom statuary, New Kingdom treasures and the remaining Tutankhamun displays. Major parts of the Tutankhamun collection have been transferred to the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza. We do not squeeze the museum into a rushed Giza morning; we recommend 2–3 hours to see selected rooms properly. Unlike coach-group schedules, we arrange flexible early-morning entry to reduce queues. Expect crowds and subdued lighting in places; an early start improves the visit.
BudgetEgyptian Museum Half Day Tour
Cairo
Book an Egyptian Museum Half Day Tour in Cairo with a private Egyptologist, hotel pickup and entry to the main galleries. Enquire today.
Free Day – Leisure Day in Cairo
Cairo
Spend a free day in Cairo with flexible arrangements from our team, including private cars, optional Egyptologist time, and pre-booked restaurant reservations. We can arrange private cars, airport transfers and restaurant bookings. We don't run group bus tours; our free days are genuinely unscheduled and never include compulsory shopping stops. Unlike most hotel-concierge suggestions, we supply a tailored options list and can dispatch an Egyptologist for a half-day to accompany museum visits or the Giza Plateau. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we handle logistics and supplier bookings for any optional excursions. Base rate covers support only; activities, site entrance fees and gratuities are extra.
BudgetGayer‑Anderson Museum, Cairo
Cairo
The Gayer‑Anderson Museum occupies two adjacent 16th‑ and 17th‑century houses beside the Mosque of Ahmad Ibn Tulun in Old Cairo. Major R.G. Gayer‑Anderson assembled the collection and bequeathed the houses to the Egyptian state in 1942; many rooms retain original furniture and Islamic, Coptic and Ottoman artefacts. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange timed guided entry and private visits; typical visits take about 45 minutes. We treat this site as a short, focused stop rather than a full‑day outing; unlike the Egyptian Museum (Tahrir), the Gayer‑Anderson is compact and needs less time. Note: low doorways, narrow staircases and dim lighting limit access for some guests.
BudgetGrand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
Cairo
BudgetGrand Egyptian Museum Half‑Day Tour, Cairo
Cairo
Spend a focused half-day at Cairo's Grand Egyptian Museum with one of our Egyptologists; museum entrance, audio headset and private transfers from central Giza hotels are included. The museum is built to display the Tutankhamun collection and thousands of archaeological objects. We do not attempt to include the Giza Plateau on this half-day because that compresses both experiences; guests who want both should pick a full-day option. Unlike standard coach tours, we use a private car so you spend time in the galleries rather than waiting at transfers. Expect thorough security screening, bag checks and 30–45 minutes of walking inside the galleries. Khufu pyramid interior visits are excluded. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator.
BudgetKhufu Pyramid Interior (Giza Plateau) Ticket
Cairo
Access to Khufu's Pyramid interior requires a separate, limited-capacity ticket and descends via the original passages to the King's Chamber. We rarely include the interior as standard because the low ceilings, narrow passages and steep ascents make it physically demanding for many clients. Unlike coach-run Giza excursions that sell a rushed interior slot, we arrange timed entry and a short Egyptologist briefing at the ticket office. The interior ticket is excluded from standard Giza entrance fees and is sold at the pyramid ticket office subject to daily quotas. We arrange transfers and meet-and-assist; we are a licensed Egyptian tour operator.
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Islamic & Coptic Cairo Tour
Cairo
This is a private full-day tour of Cairo’s Islamic and Coptic districts led by one of our Egyptologists. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and operate with a private car and guided walking sections rather than large coach groups. Unlike typical cruise-ship or coach excursions, we plan visits to reduce time in the busiest parts of Khan al-Khalili and to enter quieter churches during off-peak hours. You will see the Mosque‑Madrasa of Sultan Hassan, Ibn Tulun, the Coptic Museum, Saint Virgin Mary’s (the Hanging Church), the Church of St Sergius (Abu Serga) and Ben Ezra Synagogue. Expect narrow lanes, uneven cobbles and market noise; modest dress and site opening hours apply. Site entrance fees are included.
BudgetMuseum of Islamic Art, Cairo
Cairo
We arrange private, Egyptologist-led visits to the Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo with timed-entry tickets and optional private transfers. We don't run large coach tours; visits are private and paced for photography and close inspection. Unlike the Egyptian Museum, this collection concentrates on ceramics, metalwork and textiles rather than monumental sculpture. Standard site entrance fees are included; private transfers, specialist publications and gratuities are extra. Expect walking indoors and some standing – several galleries have narrow display rooms and limited seating, which can make longer visits tiring in the midday heat.
BudgetMary Tree – Coptic Cairo
Cairo
Tell us the Mary Tree’s exact location (for example: Church of St Sergius, Old Cairo), opening hours and whether entrance or a guide is included. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator; we write product copy that names sites precisely and states what is excluded. Distinctive-POV: we generally do not bundle short, on-foot Coptic stops into long bus itineraries – they work best as part of a half-day Cairo Old City walk. If you prefer, we will draft a full marketing block from publicly verifiable facts and your confirmation of practical details.
BudgetMeidum Pyramid – Meidum (Cairo region)
Cairo
Meidum Pyramid is attributed to Pharaoh Sneferu (4th Dynasty) and sits about 100 km south of Cairo. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange private transfers and one of our Egyptologists; standard site entrance fee is included. We rarely sell Meidum as a standalone stop – the drive is significant, so we add it to longer private exploration days. Unlike visits to the Giza Plateau, Meidum is quiet and shows the collapsed outer casing and core structure without coach crowds. Practical notes: limited shade, few visitor facilities, and the pyramid interior is usually closed; morning visits avoid the heat.
BudgetMohamed Ali Palace, Shubra (Opening Soon)
Cairo
Mohamed Ali Palace in Shubra is reopening to the public as a restored 19th-century suburban residence of Mohamed Ali Pasha. The palace's interiors display period decoration, and visits typically last 45–60 minutes. We treat this as a stand-alone visit rather than bundling it with the Citadel; that avoids rushed itineraries and gives time to walk Shubra's nineteenth‑century streets. Unlike the Mosque of Muhammad Ali at the Citadel, the Shubra palace emphasises domestic architecture and decorative interiors. Expect limited visitor facilities at opening and areas under conservation; wear sensible shoes for original floors and low thresholds. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange timed-entry tickets, private Cairo guides and transfers, and optional Shubra neighbourhood walks.
BudgetMohamed Ali Palace, Manial (Manial Palace Museum)
Cairo
Mohamed Ali Palace in Manial stands on Roda Island and displays late‑Ottoman and eclectic princely interiors with adjoining formal gardens. We arrange private, small‑group visits rather than coach drops; we do not bundle the palace into rushed city coach tours. Unlike the Egyptian Museum, the palace concentrates on royal domestic rooms, furniture and personal collections rather than pharaonic antiquities. Note: many rooms are reached by steep stairs and display labels are limited, so the visit involves close walking and some uneven floors. Entrance ticket and our Egyptologist‑led commentary are included unless stated otherwise.
BudgetMummies Room – Egyptian Museum (Tahrir, Cairo)
Cairo
The Mummies Room at the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir presents preserved human remains and funerary objects within a secure gallery. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange private, Egyptologist-led visits and can request early entry to avoid the busiest hours. We do not run mass-coach, audio-only visits for this gallery; our approach is one Egyptologist per small private party. Expect low lighting, narrow corridors and restricted photography in parts of the room – these are necessary for conservation and respectful display. Standard museum entrance fees are included unless we state otherwise; additional premium requests (extended private access) carry an extra charge.
BudgetNilometer
Cairo
BudgetPyramids, Sphinx and Egyptian Museum – Cairo Day Tour
Giza
See Khufu's Pyramid, the Great Sphinx of Giza and the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir on a single, curated day in Cairo. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and our Egyptologists guide each visit. We don't run group bus tours; unlike typical coach programmes, we keep visits unhurried and arrange private transfers between sites. Standard entry fees are included where applicable; pyramid-interior access (Khufu or Khafre) and premium museum requests are extra. Expect walking on uneven ancient stone and limited shade at midday–good physical mobility and sun protection are essential. We arrange museum-timed entries to avoid the busiest windows when possible.
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Royal Carriages Museum, Cairo
Cairo
The Royal Carriages Museum in downtown Cairo displays the ceremonial coaches used by Egypt’s Muhammad Ali dynasty and later monarchs. The collection concentrates on gala coaches and state carriages used for official ceremonies. We usually plan a 45–60 minute visit; the galleries are compact and do not require a full half-day. Unlike the Egyptian Museum, this site focuses narrowly on transport and court ceremonial, not archaeology or large artefacts. English signage is limited and spaces are small, so a short guided visit with one of our Cairo Egyptologists adds context. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange timed-entry tickets and guided stopovers from central hotels.
BudgetSaladin Citadel (Al‑Qal'a), Cairo
Cairo
Saladin Citadel (Al‑Qal'a) sits on Mokattam hill and was begun by Salah ad‑Din in 1176. The site contains Muhammad Ali Mosque (built by Muhammad Ali Pasha in the 19th century), Al‑Nasir Muhammad's mosque, the Gawhara Palace and the National Military Museum. We typically schedule 60–90 minutes on site so you can visit Muhammad Ali Mosque and take panoramic photographs across Cairo and the Giza Plateau; standard site entrance fees are included. Unlike quick coach stops, we do not rush the Citadel – we allocate time for a guided walk and photography. Note the cons: steep stone steps, limited shade at midday, and modest dress for mosque entry. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and provide your private guide and car.
BudgetSalah El Din Citadel Half-day Tour, Cairo
Cairo
Visit the Salah El Din Citadel and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali on a focused half-day tour from central Cairo. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and operate this as a private or small-group visit. Unlike large coach tours, we reserve early- or late-afternoon slots to avoid peak heat and the busiest periods. Standard entrance fees are included; mosque entry requires modest dress and women should carry a headscarf. Expect uneven stone, steps and limited shade on the Citadel terraces; midday visits can be hot. Pick-up from central Cairo hotels; the visit typically lasts about three to four hours including transfers.
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Salah El‑Din Al‑Ayoubi Citadel, Cairo
Cairo
Salah El‑Din Al‑Ayoubi Citadel sits on the Mokattam plateau; construction began under Salah al‑Din in 1176. We schedule visits late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and catch the skyline at sunset; we do not compress the Citadel into a 30‑minute photo stop as many operators do. Our Egyptologists explain the Mosque of Muhammad Ali (19th century Ottoman style), the Mamluk royal complexes and the Gawhara Palace courtyards. Note: limited shade, uneven cobbles and security checks; stair climbs to viewpoints make the visit moderately strenuous. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator we arrange skip‑the‑line access where available; standard entrance fees apply unless stated.
BudgetSultan Hassan Mosque and Al‑Rifa'i Mosque, Cairo
Cairo
Visit the Mosque‑Madrasa of Sultan Hassan (built 1356–1363) and neighbouring Al‑Rifa'i Mosque (completed 1912) in Historic Cairo. We are a licensed Egyptian tour operator and arrange entry and a private guide; our visits last 45–60 minutes and are timed to avoid peak crowds and the midday heat. Sultan Hassan is a major Mamluk complex with an imposing iwân and cruciform madrasa plan; Al‑Rifa'i was built as a royal mausoleum and contains modern royal tombs. Unlike coach stoplists, we do not rush this site–expect measured time for photography and architectural detail. Note: modest dress is required and stone floors are uneven.
BudgetSun Boat Museum (Khufu)
Cairo
Synagogue of Ben Ezra & Amr ibn al‑As Mosque, Old Cairo
Cairo
Visit the Synagogue of Ben Ezra and Amr ibn al‑As Mosque in Old Cairo with a private Cairo-based Egyptologist. Ben Ezra contains a 19th-century Geniza manuscript collection once found in its storeroom. Amr ibn al‑As Mosque was first founded in 642 CE as Egypt’s first mosque and has undergone several reconstructions. As a licensed Egyptian tour operator, we arrange 90–120 minute, on-foot visits rather than rushed bus drops. Unlike large monuments in Islamic Cairo, these sites require walking between narrow lanes and modest dress for mosque access. Note: mosque entry can be restricted during Friday prayers and there is limited shade and uneven stone underfoot.
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First Obelisk of Senusret – Matariya, Cairo
Cairo
The First Obelisk of Senusret stands in Matariya (Heliopolis), east Cairo; it dates to the 12th Dynasty under Senusret I (c.1971–1926 BCE). We treat it as a specialist stop: clients usually spend 20–30 minutes on site and combine it with nearby Heliopolis remains. Unlike large open‑air sites such as Giza, the obelisk is a roadside monument with limited shade at midday. Our Cairo Egyptologists read the inscriptions and explain the royal titulary; we purposefully keep the visit short rather than stretching it into a longer archaeological day. We can combine the visit with other Heliopolis remains and the nearby Matariya mosque in the same half‑day.
Practical questions
What clients ask about this style of holiday.
01How many days do I need for Cairo and a Nile cruise?
Seven days is the minimum that does both halves justice: two nights in Cairo for the Pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum, then a four-day, three-night cruise. Eight days adds a second Cairo night or a fourth on the river. Anything shorter means rushing one half, and the internal flight makes a tight trip tighter.
02Do I fly between Cairo and the cruise?
Yes – a one-hour internal flight links Cairo with Luxor or Aswan, and we include it in the package. The overnight sleeper train is the slower alternative some travellers prefer. Either way we handle the transfer, the timing, and the luggage so the changeover is seamless.
03Is a Cairo and Nile cruise good for a first visit to Egypt?
It is the first-visit itinerary. It puts the two things almost everyone comes to Egypt for – the Pyramids and the river temples – in one trip, with a private Egyptologist guide throughout and a 5-star ship handling the logistics between Luxor and Aswan. Families, couples and solo travellers all do this shape.
04What is the Grand Egyptian Museum and is it included?
The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) sits beside the Pyramids at Giza and holds the full Tutankhamun collection. We include it on the Cairo leg of this holiday. It has largely replaced the old Tahrir Square museum for the headline collection, though both can be visited if you want the contrast.
From the Cairo desk
Found the shape. Now make it yours.
Every Egypt holiday we sell is tailor-made – your dates, your party, your pace. Send a short brief or talk to the Cairo desk direct. Replies inside one working day.
– Suhaila & the Cairo team · 38 years · 6 offices · IATA #90255546