How This 5 Day Egypt Budget Tour Covers Three Cities from $680: Two Nights on the Sleeper Train
This 5 day Egypt budget tour covers Cairo, Luxor and Alexandria from $680 per person. It keeps the price down in two ways: you travel between Cairo and Luxor on the overnight sleeper train instead of flying, and you stay in 3-star or 4-star hotels in Cairo.
The sleeper train is both your transport and your bed for two of the four nights, with dinner and breakfast served on board. You save two hotel nights and two flights, and you lose no sightseeing time, because you travel while you sleep.
In Cairo you visit the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and the Grand Egyptian Museum. In Luxor you see the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple in one full day. In Alexandria you explore the Catacombs of Kom El-Shoqafa and the Citadel of Qaitbay. The last morning covers the Citadel of Saladin and the Hanging Church in Old Cairo before your flight.
Explore the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx.
Discover the remarkable treasures of the Grand Egyptian Museum.
Visit the historic Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa in Alexandria.
Explore the impressive Citadel of Qaitbay overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
Discover the legendary Valley of the Kings, home to Egypt’s royal tombs.
Visit the magnificent Karnak Temple Complex, the largest temple complex in Egypt.
Enjoy guided sightseeing with a professional Egyptologist guide.
Experience Egypt’s three most famous destinations in one affordable itinerary.
Benefit from a budget-friendly package without missing Egypt’s top attractions.
Ideal for first-time visitors seeking history, culture, and value for money.
Create unforgettable memories while exploring the best of Cairo, Alexandria, and Luxor in just five days.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Cairo, Egypt
Our representative meets you inside the arrivals terminal at Cairo International Airport with a signboard and assists with visa and passport formalities. You then transfer to your hotel, with the rest of the day free.
Meals Plan: No Meals Included
Day 2: Giza Pyramids, Sphinx and Grand Egyptian Museum
Your actual 5-day Egypt tour package begins when our tour guide picks you up from your hotel for the tour of the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and the GEM Museum.
Today, you will visit the Giza Plateau. Today’s tour includes the Great Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure with the great Sphinx. The only ancient wonder which still remains (Khufu’s pyramid) awaits you. Today you will learn about the history of the pyramids, how they were constructed, and why they were constructed.
Savor your lunch at a local restaurant, then continue to the Grand Egyptian Museum. Explore the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian treasures in one stunning modern complex. You’ll stand face-to-face with the full Tutankhamun collection and enjoy immersive galleries that bring Egypt’s history to life. Then, transfer to Giza Railway to board your sleeper train to Luxor.
Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner on the train
Day 3: Luxor: West & East Banks
Upon arrival in Luxor, you will meet with your guide to commence your Luxor highlights tour. Visit the magnificent Valley of the Kings, where the pharaohs of the New Kingdom were buried. There are 65 tombs in the Valley of the Kings. Our tour guide will recommend the best three tombs to visit. Then proceed to the unique Hatshepsut Temple. Its grand terraces, cliffside setting, and elegant design make it a highlight of any Luxor tour. Continue for a photo stop at the Colossi of Memnon. Two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III that have stood on Luxor’s west bank for thousands of years.
Enjoy your lunch at a local restaurant, then continue your tour to the impressive Temple of Karnak. Karnak is the largest religious complex ever built, covering about 100 hectares. Its giant columns, sacred halls and detailed carvings show the power of ancient Thebes over more than a thousand years. End your Luxor tour at the majestic Temple of Luxor. Luxor Temple is beautifully set in the heart of Luxor on the east bank of the Nile. Then, transfer to Luxor railway to board your sleeper train back to Cairo.
Meals Plan: Breakfast on the train, Lunch at a restaurant & Dinner on the train
Day 4: Alexandria Wonders
Embark on a scenic journey from Giza Railway to the enchanting City of Alexandria, marking another delightful day in your 5-day Egypt itinerary. Upon arrival, you will visit the famous Roman Catacombs of Kom El-Shoqafa. The catacombs are huge Egyptian tombs and royal cemeteries with Ptolemaic and Roman influences. The catacombs of Kom El-Shoqafa are one the largest Roman burial sites not just in Alexandria but in Egypt. These catacombs started as a private tomb for a wealthy family, then became a public cemetery. The catacombs house more than 300 tombs.
From the catacombs to the nearby Pompey’s Pillar. Many of the ancient historians did not tell us more details about the “Pompey’s Pillar” but about the buildings that stood nearby and have disappeared now. The hill on which the pillar is erected was covered with temples and houses a long time before the Roman era. It was the place of the Citadel of Rhakotis. A temple was dedicated to Osiris-Serapis was built on the mountain.
From the Pompey’s Pillar to the magnificent Citadel of Qaitbay. The Citadel of Qaitbay in Alexandria is one of the most important fortifications in Egypt. It was constructed by Sultan Al-Ashraf Qaitbay to defend Egypt against the Ottomans/Turks. You will end your tour to Alexandria highlights by visiting the Library of Alexandria. Enjoy your lunch at a local restaurant, then travel back to Cairo for the final night of your budget Egypt vacation 5 days.
Meals Plan: Breakfast on the train & Lunch at a restaurant
Day 5: Citadel of Saladin, Coptic Cairo and Departure
Your last day covers Islamic and Coptic Cairo. Begin at the Citadel of Saladin, begun in 1176 to protect Cairo from the Crusaders. Inside its walls stands the Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali, the citadel’s best-known landmark, with wide views over the city.
Continue to Old Cairo and the Hanging Church, one of the oldest and most famous Coptic churches in Egypt, admired for its wooden ceiling and its icons. Then visit Abu Serga Church, built over the crypt where the Holy Family is believed to have sheltered, and the Ben Ezra Synagogue, famous for the Geniza documents that revealed Jewish life in the medieval Middle East.
Finish with time to shop in Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, among its spices, brass, jewellery and souvenirs. Your 5 day Egypt budget tour ends with a transfer to Cairo Airport for your flight home.
Meals Plan: Breakfast Only
What Our Guests Say on Tripadvisor
Posted on Tripadvisor
Vivian H
Verified
Mid-tier Lake Nasser Cruise
Just finished the Lake Nasser Cruise mid tier with Egypt Best Vacation. Highly recommend. Food and service are better than 5-star hotels in USA. Had a wonderful relaxing time.
Posted on Tripadvisor
Momaleoale
Verified
Family travel in Egypt
Thank you for this amazing trip! Everything was perfectly organized, from our arrival at the airport to the day we returned home. The Nile cruise was wonderful, our guide in Cairo was excellent, and we couldn’t have asked for anything better. The choice of restaurants and the excursions were also outstanding. Thank you for making this experience so special for our whole family! ❤️)
Posted on Tripadvisor
Destination732328
Verified
Fantastic 8-day private tour of Egypt – highly recommended!
Fantastic 8-day private tour of Egypt – highly recommended! We recently returned from an amazing 8-day private tour of Egypt with Egypt Best Vacations, and we couldn't be happier with our experience! Our trip included Cairo, Aswan, Abu Simbel, a 3-night Nile cruise, Luxor and Giza. Everything was organised in advance, including domestic flights, hotels, transfers, transport, entrance tickets and private guides. From the moment we arrived, everything ran smoothly. The drivers were punctual, professional and reliable, and the whole trip was very well coordinated. A special mention goes to our guide in Cairo and Giza, Mina, who was incredibly knowledgeable, friendly and professional. He made our visits particularly enjoyable, sharing interesting information and answering all our questions. We were also very happy with everyone involved throughout the trip, including our guides, drivers and airport representatives, who helped make the whole experience so smooth and stress-free. Cairo Airport was quite chaotic, but having a representative from the agency there to assist us made the process much easier, and we really appreciated their help. Overall, we had a fantastic experience and felt well looked after throughout the entire trip. Everything was very well organised, allowing us to enjoy Egypt without having to worry about the logistics. We wouldn't hesitate to recommend Egypt Best Vacations to anyone planning a trip to Egypt. Highly recommended – definitely 5 stars from us!
Posted on Tripadvisor
Eric E
Verified
Egypt Best Vacations is aptly named
We spent 10 days in Egypt with our friends. The entire trip was coordinated by Egypt Best Vacations. From the beginning, the communication was superb. We felt like we were coddled throughout the trip starting with Tarik who met us at the airport and facilitated and expedited the immigration process, to Karim who drove us safely everywhere around Cairo. Our guide Abdel was friendly, knowledgeable and passionate about Egyptian history, and made our experience very enjoyable. Seeing the pyramids in Giza, and visiting the new Grand Egyptian Museum was spectacular. We then flew south to Upper Egypt where Ahmed met us and guided us from Abu Simbel to Aswan and ultimately on our Nile River dahabeya cruise to Luxor. Kamal did a great job driving us in Upper Egypt, and we felt extremely safe along the way. Ahmed’s knowledge of Egyptian history is astounding, and he could easily be a professor on the subject. The entire trip was curated and coordinated by Essam who even came to meet us in Luxor, which was such a friendly gesture. We loved our Egyptian experience, and would absolutely recommend Egypt Best Vacations to anyone who is considering a trip to Egypt. There is no question that if we wanted to visit Egypt again, we would use this company and the entire crew again. This was a top notch company with top notch coordination.
Posted on Tripadvisor
Debbie T
Verified
Wonderful Experience
Our tour with Egypt Best Vacations was truly an unforgettable trip. It was extremely well organized from airport pick up and drop off to getting us to every destination on a luxury bus. Our tour guide Essam was kind, knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and friendly. He went above and beyond to help us understand Egyptian history, culture and traditions. The Nile River cruise on the Dahabiya was amazing with an outstanding crew making everyone feel welcomed. I highly recommend Egypt best Vacations.!
Posted on Tripadvisor
Kirby M
Verified
Trip of a lifetime!
I truly cannot say enough wonderful things about this experience! From the moment we arrived in Cairo to our time in Luxor and four unforgettable days cruising the Nile River, every single detail was exceptional. Our incredible tour guide, Essam, and his associate, Ali, went above and beyond to make this journey extraordinary. Their knowledge of Egypt’s rich history, attention to detail, and genuine care for our safety and comfort made all the difference. The accommodations, the staff, the organization, and the seamless coordination of everything were absolutely outstanding. They even arranged unforgettable extras, including private ceremonies and a hot air balloon ride over Luxor, making an already magical experience even more special. I can say without hesitation that this was the best trip of my life. Egypt is a remarkable place, but experiencing it with this team took it to an entirely different level. I would recommend this company over and over and over again. Truly the trip of a lifetime!
Posted on Tripadvisor
Galen H
Verified
Amazing tour!
Our tour was so Awesome and our guide couldn’t have been better, he knew the answers for every question I asked and made it fun with his sense of humor. We started in Cairo, flew to Luxor and then sailed on a private cruise to Aswan. Seeing all the history, Pyramids and temples was incredible. Highly recommend Egypt Best Vacations!
Posted on Tripadvisor
Giuseppe Z
Verified
Spectacular vacation... excellent service..
Spectacular 10-day tour... maximum availability from the agency in tailoring the trip to our needs. From our arrival in Cairo, where they welcomed us and helped us with visas, to our departure for the return trip, we were followed in an excellent manner... my wife and I had a great time... We asked for guides who spoke Italian; Abram and Amro were 2 exceptional, helpful, and very knowledgeable guides... we felt pampered and never alone... thanks for everything.
Posted on Tripadvisor
AtlantaTraveller
Verified
An unforgettable and beautifully orchestrated Egypt experience
An unforgettable and beautifully orchestrated Egypt experience We just returned from an incredible trip to Egypt with Egypt Best Vacations, and it was truly one of the most memorable journeys our family has taken. Egypt can feel overwhelming at first — the airports, early morning flights, cruise schedules, temple visits, Cairo traffic, tickets, transfers, and the sheer magnitude of history everywhere you go. But Egypt Best Vacations handled the logistics with impressive precision and made the entire experience feel effortless. That allowed us to be fully present and enjoy the trip instead of constantly worrying about the next step. Our journey began in Cairo and then continued to Luxor, where we boarded our Nile cruise to Aswan. Luxor was absolutely extraordinary. Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and the Colossi of Memnon were all breathtaking. What made the visits even more meaningful was having a knowledgeable guide who could explain the history, symbolism, and significance behind what we were seeing. In Egypt, the right guide makes a huge difference — otherwise you are just looking at ancient stones without understanding the civilization behind them. The Nile cruise was another highlight. Sailing between Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Aswan gave the trip a beautiful rhythm. Philae Temple was stunning, and Abu Simbel was worth every minute of the early morning journey. Standing in front of those monumental temples is humbling and almost surreal. Back in Cairo, we visited the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the Grand Egyptian Museum, Coptic Cairo, the Citadel, and Khan El-Khalili. Each place had its own character, from the grandeur of the pyramids to the spiritual depth of Coptic Cairo and the energy of the bazaar. The itinerary was ambitious, but it never felt chaotic because the team managed the details so well. What we appreciated most was the professionalism, responsiveness, and genuine care from Egypt Best Vacations. They were punctual, organized, flexible when needed, and clearly experienced in creating a smooth experience for travelers. For a first trip to Egypt, that kind of coordination is invaluable. I would highly recommend Egypt Best Vacations to anyone planning to visit Egypt. They helped turn a complex itinerary into a seamless, enriching, and unforgettable adventure.
Price Per Person Per Travel Season
Bronze: Egyptian 3 stars = Western 2.5 stars
Travel season
Triple
Twin
Single
1 May – 30 Sep
$680
$705
$1,200
1 Oct – 20 Dec
$705
$755
$1,285
21 Dec – 10 Jan
$880
$945
$1,605
11 Jan – 25 Mar
$705
$755
$1,285
26 Mar – 10 Apr
$780
$850
$1,445
11 Apr – 30 Apr
$705
$755
$1,285
Bronze Hotels in Cairo: Cleopatra Cairo Hotel. Swiss Inn Hotel. Beirut Hotel. Golden Park Hotel Cairo. Royal Marshal Hotel and more of the similar category.
Silver: Egyptian 4 stars = Western 3 stars
Travel season
Triple
Twin
Single
1 May – 30 Sep
$760
$810
$1,380
1 Oct – 20 Dec
$810
$885
$1,505
21 Dec – 10 Jan
$1,015
$1,105
$1,880
11 Jan – 25 Mar
$810
$885
$1,505
26 Mar – 10 Apr
$910
$990
$1,685
11 Apr – 30 Apr
$810
$885
$1,505
Silver Hotels in Cairo: Baron Hotel. Helnan Landmark Hotel. Tolip El-Galaa Hotel. Pyramids Park Resort. Jaz Pyramids. Azal Hotel. Triumph Plaza Hotel. Flamenco Cairo Hotel. Novotel El-Borg Hotel and more of the similar category.
Price Includes
Meet & assist service upon arrival and departure
All transfers as per the itinerary by air-conditioned vehicles
Accommodation in Cairo on a Bed and Breakfast basis
Hotel picks up and drops off
Sleeper train tickets from Cairo to Luxor and from Luxor to Cairo on a half board basis
9 meals: 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners
Licensed English speaking tour guides
Entrance fees as per the itinerary
All service charges and local taxes
Price Excludes
International flights
Arrival visa
Gratuities
Meals and drinks when not included
Any optional tour
Travel insurance
Things to Know
Pricing Policy
All our prices are in USD per person per trip. You can also make your payment online through a secure payment gateway with no additional fees or surcharges. We accept USD, Euros, GBP, CAD, AUD and NZD. The starting price is for one adult in a triple room on a private tour. It shows the lowest price during the low season.
Tipping
Tipping is not included in our tour packages and is left entirely to your discretion. While it is not mandatory, it is greatly appreciated by the people who assist you during your journey.
Here is a suggested tipping list:
Driver – full day $3-5 per person per day.
Driver – transfer $1-3 per person per day.
Tour guide – full day $15-20 per person per day.
Tour guide – half day $10-15 per person per day.
Representative / tour leader $3-5 per person per day.
Sleeper train $1 per person to be paid when you get off.
Children Policy
Children from 0-2 years pay 30% of the adult price.
Children from 3-5 years pay 40% of the adult price.
Children from 6-11 years pay 50% of the adult price.
Children from 12 years pay adult price.
Deposit and Payment
A deposit of 25-50% to secure your booking through a payment link. The remaining balance is also will be wired through payment links sent to your email.
Cancellation Policy
We do not charge cancellation fees for tours canceled due to ‘force majeure’ events such as natural disasters or other uncontrollable circumstances. However, if you cancel for personal or business reasons after we have incurred booking costs on your behalf, these costs will be charged to you.
From the date of booking up to 75 days before the date of your arrival, 10% of the total tour price will be charged.
Between 74 and 61 days before your arrival date, 25% of the total tour price will be charged.
Between 60 and 30 days before your arrival date, 50% of the total tour price will be charged.
Between 29 and 15 days before your arrival date, 75% of the total tour price will be charged.
Between 14 and 08 days before your arrival date, 90% of the total tour price will be charged.
Between 07 and 1 day before your arrival date, 100% of the total tour price will be charged.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included. We strongly recommend buying a policy that covers medical care and trip cancellation before you travel.
Extra Expenses & Additional Entry Tickets
Our tours do not include entrance fees for special archaeological sites such as:
Walking inside the pyramids.
Tombs of Seti I and Ramses V in the Valley of the Kings
Entering the Tomb of Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings in Luxor.
These attractions require an additional fee. Please contact us if you would like to add or adjust anything in your itinerary.
Other personal expenses during your trip may include:
Food tours and alcoholic beverages.
Tipping for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
Visa fees and recreational activities.
Additional transportation.
Unexpected costs due to bad weather, flight cancellations, or extra hotel nights and meals.
FAQs
Is this 5 day Egypt budget tour suitable for first-time visitors?
Yes. This Egypt budget tour is perfect for first-time travelers. It covers Egypt’s most famous attractions in Cairo, Alexandria, and Luxor within a short and affordable itinerary.
Are Egypt budget tours safe?
Yes, Egypt budget tours are generally safe when you book with a reliable local tour operator. Egypt Best Vacations helps you travel with trusted drivers, quality hotels, and professional tour guides. So, you will explore Egypt with confidence.
What are the main attractions included in this tour?
The tour includes the Pyramids of Giza, the Grand Egyptian Museum, the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, the Citadel of Qaitbay, the Valley of the Kings, and Karnak Temple.
Does the tour include accommodation?
Yes. You spend two nights in a hotel in Cairo, on a bed and breakfast basis, and two nights on the sleeper train between Cairo and Luxor, with dinner and breakfast on board. You choose between Egyptian 3-star hotels (Bronze) and Egyptian 4-star hotels (Silver).
Are the sleeper train tickets included?
Yes. Round-trip sleeper train tickets between Cairo and Luxor are included in this Egypt budget tour package.
Are airport and railway station transfers included?
Yes. All transfers mentioned in the itinerary are included for a smooth and comfortable travel experience.
Is this a private or small-group tour?
This 5 day Egypt budget tour package is usually operated as a small-group tour to keep costs affordable. Private tour upgrades may be available upon request.
Are entrance fees included in the package?
Yes. Entrance fees to the attractions listed in the itinerary are included unless otherwise stated.
Will there be a tour guide during the sightseeing tours?
Yes. An experienced Egyptologist guide from Egypt Best Vacations will accompany you during all scheduled sightseeing visits.
What meals are included?
Nine meals are included: four breakfasts, three lunches at local restaurants on the touring days in Cairo, Luxor and Alexandria, and two dinners on the sleeper train. Dinner on the day you arrive and on your last night in Cairo is at your own expense.
What is the best time to book Egypt budget tours?
It is best to book several weeks or months in advance, especially if you plan to travel between October and April. Booking early with Egypt Best Vacations can help you secure better availability and more suitable hotel and transport options.
Is Alexandria worth visiting on a short Egypt trip?
Absolutely. Alexandria offers a different side of Egypt with its Mediterranean atmosphere, Greco-Roman heritage, and unique historical landmarks.
What should I pack for this 5 day Egypt budget tour?
Pack comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a light jacket for cooler evenings and sleeper train travel.
Is this Egypt budget tour suitable for families?
Yes. The tour is suitable for families, couples, solo travelers, and seniors who enjoy cultural and historical sightseeing.
Do I need a visa to visit Egypt?
Most travelers need a tourist visa to enter Egypt. Many nationalities can obtain an e-Visa before arrival or a visa on arrival. We recommend checking the latest visa requirements before traveling.
Can I customize this Cairo, Alexandria, and Luxor itinerary?
Yes. Egypt Best Vacations can customize the itinerary, accommodation, transportation, and sightseeing arrangements to suit your preferences.
Are Egypt budget tours worth it?
Yes, Egypt budget tours are a great option if you want to see the country’s most famous sites without paying for luxury travel. With the right plan from Egypt Best Vacations, you can enjoy strong value, good organization, and unforgettable experiences.
Why choose Egypt Best Vacations for this budget tour?
Egypt Best Vacations offers expert guides, carefully selected accommodations, reliable transportation, and excellent value for money, ensuring a memorable and affordable Egyptian adventure.