No other place on Earth evokes mystery and wanderlust like Egypt. And there's no better way to experience this ancient and fascinating country than on a cruise along the Nile.
Delve into a civilisation that began over 5,000 years ago, exploring mighty monuments, once-hidden tombs and temples dedicated to strange and enigmatic gods. Starting in the capital city, Cairo - a fascinating fusion of Western, Islamic and Christian cultures - we'll explore many of the famous landmarks. Then board the lavish Steigenberger Regency and relax as we navigate the majestic Nile River stopping at some of Egypt's most beloved sites. Sail to Edfu Temple, known for its rich cultural traditions, and witness gods immortalised in sandstone at Kom Ombo Temple and Abu Simbel. And carry on to Aswan - home to the High Dam and Philae Temple of Isis.
After time relaxing in Luxor, you'll head home with a head full of stories and mysteries from centuries past. This holiday is ideal for travellers with an interest in historic sites, classical history and culture, or a fascination with Egypt.
At a glance
Highlights
- Marvel at the incredible Pyramids of Giza and get up close to the enigmatic Sphinx.
- Admire the superb collection of artefacts at the Egyptian Museum.
- Visit the incredible Temples of Karnak and Luxor.
- Wonder at the ‘Double Temple’ of Kom Ombo, so called as it was dedicated to two gods with separate halls and chambers.
- Gaze in awe at the rock cut tombs of the Valley of the Kings on the West Bank of the Nile.
- See the sights of Aswan and complete your visit with a felucca ride.
Offers
What's better than exploring worldwide destinations for the first time? Doing it all with your friends. You and nine or more of your friends or family can travel for less with our group offer, available on all tours, ocean and yacht cruises, and river cruises of 6 nights or less.
Choose to receive 10% off your group’s booking costs back or one free place – simply call 01283 901216 and speak to a member of our dedicated groups team.
Your itinerary
Arrival in Cairo
Fly to Cairo, transfer to our hotel and settle in for a three-night stay.
Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx and Egyptian Museum
See the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx then explore the collection of treasures at the Egyptian Museum.
The Pyramids & Sphinx
Today we’ll drive out of the city towards the Giza plateau for our first close-up view of the Great Pyramids. The truly gigantic size of the three main pyramids only becomes fully apparent when they tower above you in all their majesty. For the more adventurous, entry into the pyramids is available at an extra cost payable locally. For the Great Pyramid of Cheops there’s a daily limit to the number of visitors, so there’s no guarantee of an entry.
A little further down the hill is the mighty Sphinx, one of the world’s largest free-standing sculptures. After your visit, lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
Egyptian Museum
“This day of days, the most wonderful that I have ever lived through…” is how Howard Carter described the day in 1922 when he realised, he had made the archaeological find of the century. King ‘Tut’s’ tomb held so many treasures that it took 10 years to examine, photograph, catalogue and finally remove all 5,398 of them. The collection forms the centrepiece of the Egyptian Museum, without question one of the world’s greatest museums, a treasure-house overflowing with artefacts of remarkable ancient craftsmanship, ranging from the mundane to the mystical. Should the Grand Egyptian Museum be open for your departure you will visit this instead, housing the same treasures and artefacts but on an exciting new site in Giza.
Coptic Cairo and Citadel
Learn about Cairo's Christian history with a tour of Coptic Cairo and see more of the city’s sights.
Coptic Cairo
This morning, we’ll explore Old Cairo’s Christian history with a visit to the remarkable 3rd century ‘Hanging Church’, built over a gateway to the Roman era Babylon fortress. With its wooden barrel-roofed interior this makes for a fascinating introduction to Egypt’s long Coptic heritage. We’ll continue to the Ben Ezra synagogue, said to be the place where the Pharaoh’s daughter found Moses in his basket amongst the reeds.
Citadel and Souk
After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll enjoy a guided tour of the Citadel of Cairo – also known as Citadel of Saladin - to delve into the Islamic history of the Egyptian capital. Originally constructed as a fortification against Crusaders in 1176, it remained the home to Egypt’s rulers for 700 years. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a sprawling site of mosques, palaces, gateways, towers and museums perched in the Muqattam Hills. It also offers wonderful views over the city.
Our tour includes the Mosque of Muhammad Ali – known as the "Alabaster Mosque", thanks to its marble panelling on its interior and exterior walls. Built in the Turkish style, its ornate interior is truly breathtaking. We'll then carry on to the nearby Khan El-Khalili Souk (market) dating back to the 14th century. It’s a treasure trove of Egyptian culture with bustling streets filled with local artisans and vendors selling everything from traditional souvenirs to local spices and handicrafts.
Cairo to Luxor
Fly from Cairo to Luxor today to board your cruise.
Embark on Steigenberger Regency
Leaving Cairo this morning, we'll transfer to the airport for an early flight to Luxor. Upon arrival, we'll learn more about Luxor’s fascinating history through photos and videos on a visit to the Luxor Library and Heritage Centre (flight time permitting).
Soon it'll be time to transfer to our ship. The elegant Steigenberger Regency will be our home for the next seven nights. After a warm welcome from the crew, we'll enjoy our first lunch on board before time to settle into your cabin and explore the ship.
Luxor Temple
This evening, when the temperature’s a bit cooler, we'll enjoy an evening visit to Luxor Temple. The Temple of Luxor will be one of the smaller ones you’ll be visiting this trip, but it is equally remarkable. The temple is famous for its statues, unique artwork and wall carvings. It is also the access point for the two-mile-long Avenue of the Sphinxes, which connects the Temple of Luxor to Karnak Temple.
We'll return to the ship for dinner and our first night on board.
Dendera
See the temple of Hathor, one of the best-preserved in all of Egypt, before a relaxing afternoon cruising along the Nile.
Dendera
The temple of Hathor is one of the most complete and best-preserved in all of Egypt. Hathor was the Egyptian goddess of love, beauty, joy and healing, and her temple follows the architecture and style of much older temples, despite only being completed in Roman times. Look out for a famous relief carved into one of the outer walls - it depicts Cleopatra and Caesarion, her son, by Julius Caesar. You may well be walking in the footsteps of the famous queen.
Afternoon cruising
After your morning visit, savour a leisurely lunch back on board as your ship sails to Edfu via Esna. You could relax on a lounger, cool off with a dip in the pool or find a quiet corner with a book from the library. Perhaps, you’ll simply relax and enjoy the Nile views from your cabin before indulging in afternoon tea on the top deck – it’s completely up to you.
Kom Ombo
Relax with a morning sailing. Later, we’ll arrive at the small agricultural town of Kom Ombo with its unconventional temple.
Morning sailing
Wake up slowly to the peaceful sound of lapping water outside as the scenic riverbanks glide by. There’s plenty of time to linger over that second cup of coffee in the restaurant this morning as we spend the entire morning at leisure as we sail along the Nile.
We’ll enjoy a delicious lunch on board before arriving in Kom Ombo later in the afternoon.
Kom Ombo
The small town of Kom Ombo is located on the East side of the Nile. You’ll visit the magnificent temple here, unusual in that it’s dedicated to two gods, Horus (the falcon-headed god) and Sobek (the local crocodile god). This duality is cleverly reflected in the architecture – there are twin entrances, two linked hypostyle halls and twin sanctuaries. The temple had a lake with sacred crocodiles and many mummies of them have been found nearby, which are on display in the Crocodile Museum. After your visit, sail to the city of Aswan where your ship will moor overnight.
Aswan
Visit the attractions of Aswan, a city renowned for its rich and diverse Nubian culture.
Aswan
This morning, we’ll visit one of modern Egypt’s greatest achievements – the Aswan High Dam. Measuring more than 2 miles long at its crest, it was completed in 1970 after 11 years of construction.
We’ll then continue to the tiny island of Philae – a mere 450m long and less than 150m wide, it’s home to the Temple of Philae, which had to be rescued from the rising waters of Lake Nasser due to the new dam. It is a fine example of ancient Egyptian architecture and culture, devoted to the goddess Isis.
Carrying on, we’ll visit the Nubian Village of Gharb Soheil where we will be greeted by the sight of its majestic domed mud-brick houses. These beautifully crafted structures are adorned with intricate designs that mirror the vibrant hues of the river. As we wander through the village on foot, we'll experience the bustling energy of local life and see local artisans, who craft exquisite textiles, jewellery and pottery, while families go about their everyday lives.
After a visit to the Nubian village, you’ll also see the Unfinished Obelisk. Despite not being completed, it is without a doubt the largest obelisk ever constructed and offers a valuable insight on how such structures were created in ancient Egypt.
Felucca ride
Following lunch back on board, we’ll hop on a traditional Egyptian wooden sailing boat for a tranquil felucca cruise, crewed by a friendly local sailor. Soak up more sights along the Nile and enjoy the river breeze.
Aswan and optional Abu Simbel
Enjoy a leisurely day on board or visit the Great Temple of Abu Simbel on an optional excursion.
Abu Simbel
Today, you'll have the opportunity to visit Abu Simbel on an optional excursion.
Free day in Aswan
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a little relaxation, as the ship is moored in Aswan, you could spend the day on the taking advantage of the ship’s facilities. A quiet day at leisure is the perfect excuse to pamper yourself with our onboard massage service.
This evening, we’ll head back to the Temple of Philae to enjoy a sound and light show. See the magical temple burst back to life in an exceptional display revealing the ancient secrets and mysteries of the Egyptian gods and goddesses.
Personalise your holiday
Abu Simbel
If you choose to join us, we'll take an early morning flight to bring us closer to the great temple.
Arguably one of the most spectacular temples in Egypt, it is all the more impressive as the temples were relocated with some 16,000 blocks moved in the late 1960s to avoid being submerged due to the creation of Lake Nasser following the construction of Aswan High Dam. Abu Simbel was cut into the living rock on the shores of Lake Nasser by King Ramesses II, around 1264 BC. The structure consists of the Great Temple some 30m high, the main hall is lined by colossal statues of the king, leading to the sanctuary where four deities are sat: Amun Ra, Ra Horakhty, Ptah, and a deified version of Ramesses II. The site consists of two temples, the main one dedicated to sun gods Amon-Re and Re-Horakhte and the smaller, yet equally impressive temple, dedicated to Ramses’ main wife, Nefertari.
From £295 per person
Please contact us for more information and to add the above experience to your booking.
Edfu
Enjoy a gentle morning sailing along the Nile before reaching Edfu to visit the temple – the second largest in Egypt.
Morning sailing
You can enjoy a gentle start to the morning as we sail to the city of Edfu - ideal after a busy couple of days exploring monuments and temples.
Temple of Edfu
This afternoon, we'll visit one of the best-preserved temples from the Ptolemaic era: the Temple of Edfu. The temple is dedicated to the falcon-headed god Horus, the patron deity of Edfu. This enormous structure provides a unique glimpse into ancient Egypt's religious and cultural practices with towering columns and intricate hieroglyphics.
After time to explore, we'll rejoin the ship for dinner and begin our journey back to Luxor via Esna.
Temple of Karnak
Marvel at the magnificent Temple of Karnak, visit a local papyrus workshop and spend the afternoon relaxing onboard.
Karnak Temple
After breakfast this morning, we'll visit the Temple of Karnak. The Hypostyle Hall is the most awe-inspiring part of this vast complex, said to be the largest religious centre of the ancient world. Its 134 gigantic columns stretch up to 80ft high and are covered in hieroglyphics – look carefully, and you'll spot traces of the original colours still visible. One of the many interesting features is the first documented peace treaty in history - between Ramses II and the Hittites. Another highlight is the great Obelisk of Hatshepsut, carved from one 97-foot-high block of polished red granite, and weighing over 300 tons. It has stood here for over 3,450 years - a testament to the ability and ingenuity of its creators.
Next, we'll head to a local papyrus workshop to find out how this ancient writing material is made and used before returning to the ship.
Free afternoon
There's plenty of time to make the most of the ship's facilities as we remain moored in Luxor during our last afternoon and evening onboard.
Luxor West Bank and Valley of the Kings
Visit Luxor’s West Bank including the magnificent Valley of the Kings, Colossi of Memnon, Temple of Hatshepsut and Habu Temple.
Luxor West Bank
Disembark your ship for a real highlight today - cross the Nile to the West Bank for a visit to the Valley of the Kings! It is simply remarkable that so much artistic beauty is hidden below the barren earth of this hot, dry, rock-strewn valley. The incredible state of preservation and the vividness of the paintings and hieroglyphics is simply astounding. It is tantalising to imagine what treasures all these tombs once held, lost to incredibly efficient grave robbers thousands of years ago.
We will also visit the Colossi of Memnon – two massive stone statues in a seated position depicting Amenhotep III. Then on to the mortuary temple of Hatshepsut, one of the first female rulers of Egypt, with its stunning three-tiered colonnaded terraces reflecting the outline of the cliffs above. Complete your day with a visit to the beautiful Medinet Habu Temple. Less well known than other sites, it is no less impressive with its altar and chapel dedicated to the god Amun and several incredible carvings, inscriptions and paintings depicting religious scenes and myths.
Check into your hotel this afternoon for your two-night stay in Luxor.
Luxor
See a superb collection of artefacts at the Luxor Museum, then enjoy an afternoon relaxing at the hotel.
Luxor Museum
After breakfast, we'll visit the Luxor Museum located on the corniche, it houses a small but superb collection of high-quality artworks and artefacts found in the local area. They date from the Predynastic period to the Islamic era. Highlights of this impressive collection include the double statue of the crocodile god Sobek and Pharaoh Amenhotep III which was discovered at the bottom of a water-filled shaft in 1967, and the reassembled wall of 283 painted sandstone blocks from a dismantled temple built at Karnak for Amenhotep IV.
Free afternoon in Luxor
After some incredible sightseeing during this trip, you may choose to spend your last afternoon relaxing by the pool or reminiscing about the amazing sights you’ve seen with newfound friends over a drink at your hotel. Dinner is included at your hotel this evening.
Return home
It’s time to bid farewell to Egypt and start the journey home after a truly fascinating tour.
Available ships
Steigenberger Regency
- Built
- 1992
- Crew
- 85
- Passengers
- 104
Cruise along the Nile on the elegant and modern Steigenberger Regency.
Hand-picked hotels
Extras & upgrades
Opt for a convenient door-to-door service with transport from your home to your choice of regional airport or train station, available as an added optional with every holiday. This can be added to your booking after you've booked online by our reservations team a call, or when you're booking over the phone.
From hotel upgrades to holiday extensions, you can benefit from our Travel Concierge service:
- Add up to two nights before you sail in the destination your river cruises starts from
- Add up to two nights after your cruise in the destination your river cruises ends in
- Change your departure airport (depending on flight availability)
- Book a door-to-door transfer service from your home to your departure airport or airport hotel
If you would like to add Travel Concierge to your European river cruise, please call our reservations team.
Travel connections
All transfer times listed here are approximate, and dependent on traffic. If you have a question regarding transfer times please don't hesitate to contact us.
Arrival airport | Start ship location | Transfer time |
---|---|---|
Cairo International Airport | Cairo | 1 hr |
End ship location | Departure airport or train station | Transfer time |
---|---|---|
Luxor | Luxor International Airport | 30 mins |
FAQs
The price of this cruise is per person, based on two people sharing a double room/cabin.
Sole occupancy is available on request at the relevant supplement.
The price includes:
- 3 nights in Cairo and 2 nights in Luxor in five-star hotels
- 7 nights full board on Steigenberger Regency
- 3 lunches and 5 dinners during your pre and post cruise stays
- Scheduled international and domestic flights
- All transfers
- All tours and visits mentioned
- The services of an expert Tour Manager
- Complimentary Wi-Fi on board ship and at hotels
- All port taxes and fees
Please note: Visa not included
Along with a valid passport, UK citizens must have a visa in order to travel to Egypt. For the most up-to-date passport and visa information visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/egypt/entry-requirements.
Visa cost is US$25 per person. Full details of how and when to apply will be sent with your booking confirmation.
We are unable to accept responsibility if you are unable to travel because you have not complied with any passport/entry/immigration requirements.
Please note that visa costs may be subject to change.
Whilst the travelling schedule shall pose no problems for people of any age in normal physical health, we would point out that in visiting a number of historical sites, paths are uneven and uphill and we often enjoy walking tours of the main sights.
A reasonable level of fitness is required to get the best out of this tour, for example entry into some of the tombs involve steep descents with numerous narrow steps. Therefore, this holiday will not be suitable for clients of greatly impaired mobility.
Daytime temperature levels will also be high for most of the year and in summer months most excursions start early in order to avoid excessive midday desert heat.
Please consult your GP regarding the appropriate inoculations required for Egypt at least a month before departure.
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to call us to discuss these concerns. General information on mobility information can be found on our Mobility FAQs page.
- No photography or guiding is allowed inside tombs or pyramids, as well as in museums.
- Entry into the Egyptian Museum’s Mummy room and into any of the Great Pyramids is payable extra locally.
- The order of visits may vary according to the season & local conditions.
- Currency: Egyptian Pound
- Flight Time: Approx. 4 hrs 40 mins
- Language: Arabic
- Time Zone: GMT+2
- Country: Egypt
Our ships are moving vessels, therefore, you may experience some noise on board. Noise levels tend to be louder when the ship is manoeuvring, docking, and can vary depending on the river conditions and weather. Cabins in the middle and towards the front of the ship are less likely to be affected than those at the rear.
The deposit for this holiday is £500pp, then the remaining balance of the holiday is due a minimum of 101 days before you depart.
Classic Tours Information
Along with your experienced and knowledgeable tour manager and local experts, you’ll discover so much on our award-winning Classic tours, offering the best value for money way for you to explore the world.
Our tour managers have been rated as the best in the business for their knowledge and experience and will go above and beyond to ensure every aspect of your holiday runs smoothly – so all you need to worry about is your packing.
Availability
- Holiday type
- Departing
- When
- Guests
Selecting price display and sort by options will update the results displayed below automatically.
We've found you 14 holidays
Choose your date, departure point and the type of tour. Accommodation options will be shown at the next step.
-
Classic Tours available
Tour style | Date | Departs | Departing from | Accommodation | Price from | Call to action |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Classic Tour
|
25 02 2026 | TBC |
|
Steigenberger Regency | £4,199 pp | Book now |
Outbound:
|
Inbound:
|
|||||
Classic Tour
|
25 02 2026 | 13:30 |
|
Steigenberger Regency | £4,199 pp | Book now |
Outbound:
|
Inbound:
|
|||||
Classic Tour
|
04 03 2026 | TBC |
|
Steigenberger Regency | £4,199 pp | Book now |
Outbound:
|
Inbound:
|
|||||
Classic Tour
|
04 03 2026 | 13:30 |
|
Steigenberger Regency | £4,199 pp | Book now |
Outbound:
|
Inbound:
|
|||||
Classic Tour
|
15 04 2026 | TBC |
|
Steigenberger Regency | £4,099 pp | Book now |
Outbound:
|
Inbound:
|
|||||
Classic Tour
|
15 04 2026 | 14:30 |
|
Steigenberger Regency | £4,099 pp | Book now |
Outbound:
|
Inbound:
|
|||||
Classic Tour
|
13 05 2026 | TBC |
|
Steigenberger Regency | £3,699 pp | Book now |
Outbound:
|
Inbound:
|
|||||
Classic Tour
|
13 05 2026 | 14:30 |
|
Steigenberger Regency | £3,699 pp | Book now |
Outbound:
|
Inbound:
|
|||||
Classic Tour
|
16 09 2026 | TBC |
|
Steigenberger Regency | £3,699 pp | Book now |
Outbound:
|
Inbound:
|
|||||
Classic Tour
|
16 09 2026 | 14:30 |
|
Steigenberger Regency | £3,699 pp | Book now |
Outbound:
|
Inbound:
|
|||||
Classic Tour
|
07 10 2026 | TBC |
|
Steigenberger Regency | £4,099 pp | Book now |
Outbound:
|
Inbound:
|
|||||
Classic Tour
|
07 10 2026 | 14:30 |
|
Steigenberger Regency | £4,099 pp | Book now |
Outbound:
|
Inbound:
|