Egypt 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Cairo

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - Arrival: Arrive at Cairo International Airport (CAI)
  • 10:00 AM - Visa on Arrival: Collect your visa on arrival. Egyptians can get a visa free, but citizens from certain countries need to pay $25 for a one-month single entry visa.
  • 11:00 AM - Giza Plateau: Head to the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. You’ll have time to explore the pyramids, take photos, and learn about their history.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM - Lunchtime: Enjoy a traditional Egyptian meal in one of the local restaurants near the pyramids.
  • 2:30 PM - Egyptian Museum: Visit the world-famous Egyptian Museum to see an impressive collection of artifacts from ancient Egypt. Highlights include King Tut’s tomb and mummies.

Evening

  • 5:00 PM - Khan el-Khalili Market: Explore the historic Khan el-Khalili market, one of the oldest in the Middle East. Browse through stalls selling spices, perfumes, jewelry, and souvenirs.
  • 8:00 PM - Dinner: Savor a delicious dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city.

Day 2: Cairo and Alexandria

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - Departure: Leave for Alexandria, which is about a 3-hour drive from Cairo. You can also take a flight (about an hour) or a train.
  • 12:00 PM - Lunchtime: Have lunch at a local restaurant in the heart of the city.

Afternoon

  • 1:30 PM - Citadel of Qaitbay: Visit the historic Citadel of Qaitbay, built on the site where the famous Lighthouse of Alexandria once stood. The citadel houses a mosque and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • 4:00 PM - Bibliotheca Alexandrina: Stop by the modern library complex, inspired by the ancient one that was destroyed. You can take a guided tour inside.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM - Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood while watching the sunset.
  • 9:00 PM - Relaxation: Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening, perhaps with a local spa treatment to soothe any travel fatigue.

Day 3: Cairo

Morning

  • 8:00 AM - Breakfast: Have breakfast at your hotel or grab something to go if you have an early day.
  • 9:30 AM - Islamic Cairo: Visit the historic Islamic Cairo area, which includes mosques, madrasas, and bazaars. Highlights include Al-Azhar Mosque and Khan el-Khalili.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM - Lunchtime: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant serving Middle Eastern cuisine.
  • 1:30 PM - Saqqara: If you have time, visit the ancient necropolis of Saqqara (about an hour outside Cairo), which houses some of Egypt’s most impressive pyramids and tombs.

Evening

  • 5:00 PM - Shopping: Spend your last afternoon in Egypt shopping for souvenirs or doing some last-minute sightseeing.
  • 7:00 PM - Farewell Dinner: Gather with friends and family for a farewell dinner at one of Cairo’s finest restaurants, perhaps trying some Egyptian specialties.

Transportation

  • Taxis: These are readily available but be sure to agree on the fare beforehand. There’s an increased risk of scams.
  • Ride-sharing apps: Uber operates in major cities like Cairo and Alexandria. However, it’s always a good idea to check prices with your driver before you start your journey.
  • Metro or Bus: For those who prefer public transport, Cairo has a metro system that covers most areas. The buses are also an affordable option for shorter trips.

Tips

  • Dress modestly: Covering shoulders and knees is a sign of respect when visiting mosques and churches.
  • Bargain wisely: Negotiating prices at markets is part of the experience, but remember to keep your cool.
  • Stay hydrated: The Egyptian sun can be hot. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Additional Information

  • Language: Arabic and English are widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
  • Currency: The Egyptian Pound (EGP) is the local currency, but US dollars and credit cards are also accepted at many places.
  • Safety: Egypt has experienced security concerns in the past. Stay informed, avoid large gatherings if you’re not familiar with them, and use reputable transportation services.

This itinerary provides a good overview of Cairo and Alexandria’s main attractions. However, always check current travel advisories for any changes or updates before your visit.