Egypt Short break private tour 5 days Cairo and Alexandria

Planning a trip to Egypt can feel overwhelming—there’s so much to see and do, from pyramids to ancient ruins, bustling markets, and seaside cityscapes. This 5-day private tour offers a well-rounded way to experience some of Egypt’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. While we haven’t traveled it ourselves, this package has earned a perfect 5-star rating from previous travelers, making it a compelling option for those looking for an informative, comfortable, and authentic adventure.

What we love about this tour? First, the comprehensive itinerary covers Cairo’s prime attractions like the Giza Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, and Islamic Cairo, giving you a thorough introduction to Egypt’s history and culture. Second, the expert guides seem to make all the difference—delivering insights and stories that bring the sites to life. Lastly, the inclusion of Alexandria’s seaside charm with visits to Pompey’s Pillar and Montazah Gardens offers a nice change of scenery and cultural contrast.

A potential consideration is that the tour involves a fair amount of travel time between sites, which might feel packed for some travelers. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a busy, sightseeing-focused trip and don’t mind moving quickly through historic sites. If you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced experience, this may not be the perfect fit.

This tour appears highly suitable for travelers eager to see Egypt’s most famous landmarks in a structured but engaging way, especially if you’re visiting Egypt for a short period and want a guided experience that hits all the highlights.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Covers Cairo’s top attractions and Alexandria’s seaside highlights in just 5 days.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides with high ratings, providing meaningful insights and stories.
• Value for money: At $520 per person, it includes accommodation, most meals, entrance fees, and private transportation.
• Authentic sites: Visits major landmarks like the Giza Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, and Montazah Gardens, ensuring a well-rounded Egyptian experience.
• Comfort and convenience: Private air-conditioned transportation, hotel pickups, and assistance make the trip smooth and hassle-free.
• Fast-paced: It packs many sites into a short period, ideal for those who prefer seeing a lot in limited time.

The Full Review: What to Expect on Your 5-Day Egypt Adventure

Day 1: Arrival and Welcome

Your journey begins with a warm welcome at Cairo airport, where a representative from True Egypt – Day Tours will meet you holding a sign with the company’s name. This personal touch helps ease the nerves of arriving in a new country. After introductions, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle for a comfortable transfer to your hotel.

While your guide explains the upcoming itinerary, you can start getting excited about the adventure ahead. The tour includes the option for a dinner Nile cruise and a sound and light show at the pyramids, both of which add a magical touch to your first night. These extras aren’t included in the base price but seem to be popular choices, especially for first-time visitors wanting a taste of Egypt’s enchanting ambiance.

Day 2: Giza, Memphis, and Sakkara – The Ancient Heart

The second day is a cornerstone of the trip, with visits to the Giza Necropolis—home of the iconic Pyramids and Sphinx. Your guide will take you through the Cheops, Chefren, and Menkaure Pyramids, offering detailed stories about their construction and significance. The Great Sphinx, with its mysterious face and lion’s body, offers a perfect photo-op and a chance to ponder ancient symbolism.

You’ll appreciate the admission tickets included, which prevent the hassle of ticket lines, and the expert guide who brings the history to life. As one reviewer, Christopher, noted, their guide Amado and driver Mohammad made the trip “amazing,” thanks to their professionalism and deep knowledge.

After lunch, your journey continues to Memphis—the first ancient capital of Egypt—to see the colossi of Ramses II and the Alabaster Sphinx. From there, the tour visits Sakkara to see the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the world’s first pyramid. This site is especially meaningful for history buffs, as it marks a pivotal point in monumental architecture.

Day 3: Cairo’s Cultural Gems

The third day immerses you in Cairo’s museums and historical districts. The Egyptian Museum is a treasure chest of over 225,000 artifacts, including the stunning treasures of King Tutankhamun. Expect to spend around two hours here, soaking in displays that range from royal jewelry to statues, with the highlight being King Tut’s golden mask—an image that truly lives up to its reputation.

Next, the Cairo Citadel and Mohamed Ali Mosque provide a glimpse into Ottoman-era architecture and history. The Mosque, with its grand domes and minarets, offers excellent photo opportunities and insights into Islamic art.

After a delicious lunch, you’ll explore Coptic Cairo, visiting the Hanging Church, Abu Serga Church, and Ben Ezra Synagogue. These sites reveal Egypt’s multi-layered religious history, and reviewers mention that guides often share stories behind the sites that you won’t find in guidebooks. The day wraps up in Khan El Khalili, a bustling bazaar where you can browse for souvenirs, spices, and traditional crafts. Walking through its narrow alleys, you’ll feel transported to a different era.

Day 4: Alexandria’s Seaside and Ancient Ruins

On the fourth day, the focus shifts north to Alexandria, a city with a vibe all its own. The tour visits the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, an underground necropolis with Roman and Egyptian influences. As one reviewer noted, this site was excavated by accident in 1900 but remains one of the largest Roman necropolises, full of atmospheric tunnels and statues.

Nearby, the Pompey’s Pillar, a Roman triumphal column, provides a glimpse into the city’s imperial past. Traveling to the coast, you’ll visit the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, which was once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today, it’s replaced by the Qaitbay Fortress, built in the 15th century, which offers impressive views and a sense of historical resilience.

The Mosque of Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi is worth a quick outside visit for its beautiful architecture. Then, your day concludes at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern marvel and a hub of knowledge with over 8 million books, reflecting Alexandria’s historic reputation as a center of learning. Finally, the Montazah Gardens and Palace provide a relaxing stroll along the seaside, with lush gardens and regal architecture.

Day 5: Departure

Your trip ends with a transfer back to Cairo airport, with plenty of time to reflect on your whirlwind tour of Egypt’s highlights.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $520 per person, the tour packs in accommodation, most meals, entrance fees, private transportation, and the guidance of a knowledgeable Egyptologist. The reviews praise guides like Amado for their professionalism and storytelling, which elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing. The inclusion of hotel pickups and assistance means you won’t waste time figuring out logistics or navigating unfamiliar transport.

The tour’s structure is designed for those curious about history and culture, eager to see iconic sites with a guided expert, and comfortable with a fast-paced schedule. It’s perfect for first-timers or travelers with limited time who want a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to Egypt.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers who appreciate guided experiences and want the convenience of a organized, all-inclusive package will find this tour ideal. History buffs will value the detailed visits to major monuments and museums. It also suits those who want a mix of urban exploration in Cairo and seaside charm in Alexandria.

If you’re after a balanced experience—covering ancient wonders, cultural sites, and a touch of modern Egyptian life—this tour delivers at a fair price. Be prepared for a busy schedule but also for the chance to learn from passionate guides and see Egypt’s highlights without the stress of planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a personalized and flexible schedule.

Does the price include accommodation?
Yes, it includes 4 nights at a good quality 4-star hotel with breakfast.

Are entrance fees included?
Most major sites, like the Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, Catacombs, and Montazah Gardens, include entrance tickets in the price.

What meals are included?
Breakfast each morning and 3 lunches are included. Dinner options, like a Nile cruise or sound and light show, are optional extras.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, private air-conditioned vehicles are used throughout, with pickup and assistance services included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes, but note that the tour involves walking and site visits that may not suit very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a hat, and a camera. Some sites might be crowded, so keep valuables secure.

Are there any hidden costs?
Beverages in restaurants, souvenirs, optional tours, and tipping are not included, so keep some extra cash handy.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day private tour to Cairo and Alexandria offers a comprehensive and well-organized way to explore Egypt’s most famous sites. The inclusion of expert guides, private transport, and carefully curated visits ensures a smooth, engaging experience that makes Egypt’s history accessible and exciting.

It’s best suited for travelers who prefer guided tours, want to maximize their time, and are comfortable with a lively, packed schedule. With great value for the price, this trip promises a memorable introduction to Egypt’s ancient wonders and vibrant culture.

Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this experience balances sightseeing, comfort, and authenticity—making it a reliable choice for a short but impactful Egyptian adventure.