Itinerary

Day 1: Giza Pyramids and Sphinx

Land in Cairo, drop your bags, and head straight to the Giza Plateau, about 30 minutes from downtown. The Great Pyramid’s a beast, one of the last ancient wonders standing, and you’ll feel tiny staring up. Walk around Khufu and Khafre’s pyramids, maybe enter one if you’re cool with tight spaces (book ahead). The Sphinx is nearby, half-lion, half-mystery, perfect for pics. Lunch at a local spot, try koshari, a street mix of lentils and pasta. Afternoon, hit the Solar Boat Museum, cool old ship by the pyramids. Dinner back in Cairo, go for ful medames, fava beans with bread, at a small eatery.

Giza’s hot, start early to beat heat and crowds.

Day 2: Egyptian Museum and Nile Vibes

Morning, head to the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, packed with mummies, Tutankhamun’s gold, and statues that’ll blow your mind. Spend a few hours, grab an audio guide if you want details. Lunch nearby, maybe shawarma or taameya (falafel) from a street cart. Afternoon, stroll along the Nile Corniche, chill vibes with felucca boats sailing by. Book a short sunset felucca ride, super relaxing. Dinner at a riverside restaurant, try grilled fish or molokhia, a green stew. If energy’s up, hit a cafe for shisha and tea.

Museum’s crowded, watch your stuff in Tahrir.

Day 3: Saqqara and Wrap-Up

Early drive to Saqqara, about 45 minutes south, for older pyramids like the Step Pyramid of Djoser, less touristy but just as epic. Wander the site, check out nearby tombs if open. Lunch at a local rest stop, go for grilled kofta or stuffed pigeon if you’re feeling adventurous. Afternoon, swing back to Cairo and visit Khan el-Khalili bazaar for souvenirs like papyrus or spices. Grab a quick coffee or hibiscus tea at a market cafe. Final dinner, splurge on a mix of mezze—hummus, baba ghanoush—with flatbread, maybe near the Nile.

Khan’s a haggling zone, don’t pay first price.