Egypt travel guide: Cairo, Luxor and the Red Sea
Ancient history, the Nile and Red Sea holidays can fit one Egypt trip, but distances shape the itinerary. Begin with Cairo and Giza, then add Luxor for ancient sites or Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada for a coastal stay.
Visa details last checked: 28 October 2026What to know before visiting Egypt
Cairo, Luxor and the Red Sea are different regions, so plan flights, road transfers and hotel nights separately. Visit the pyramids early, then leave calmer time for museums and historic markets. Compare domestic flights, guides, entrance fees and visa support when reviewing an Egypt tour itinerary.
Places to explore
Giza Pyramids
A guided visit to the pyramids and Sphinx helps place the plateau in its historical context.
Cairo museums and historic centre
Check opening times and local transport for collections, mosques and markets.
Luxor
Allow at least a full day for Karnak, Luxor Temple and monuments on the West Bank.
Red Sea coast
Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada offer different bases for diving, sea days and resort stays.
Local food to try
Koshari
A filling street dish combining rice, pasta, lentils and tomato sauce.
Ful medames
Fava beans with seasoning, served as breakfast or a light meal.
Taameya
Egyptian falafel made with fava beans, often served with salad and bread.
A route to consider
- 01
Cairo and Giza
Allow extra time for traffic between ancient sites, museums and the city centre.
- 02
The Nile and Luxor
Add Luxor by domestic flight or a planned transfer for a history-focused trip.
- 03
Coastal extension
Treat a Red Sea stay as a separate section and balance it with city sightseeing.
Before you go
- Use sun protection, water and comfortable shoes at large archaeological sites.
- Confirm luggage arrangements, domestic flights and hotel transfers between regions.
- Travel advisories and local conditions can change; check official notices before booking.
Entry and visa notes
The Turkish MFA states that Turkish ordinary-passport holders are subject to a visa for Egypt. Some visa-on-arrival conditions vary by age and arrival area; confirm where and how to obtain the correct visa with official Egyptian and consular sources before ticketing.
Entry rules depend on nationality, passport type and purpose of travel. Recheck official guidance before booking.
Frequently asked questions
Do Turkish citizens need a visa for Egypt?+
Ordinary-passport holders are subject to a visa. As arrival-visa rules vary by age and destination, check the current Turkish MFA Egypt notice before travel.
Can I visit Cairo and Luxor on one Egypt tour?+
Yes, but the distance usually means a domestic flight or a long transfer. Plan history sites and a Red Sea stay in separate blocks for a more comfortable trip.