Heliopolis in 8 Days for Couples - Private airport welcome and hotel briefing in Cairo
In Collaboration with Timeless Tours Ltd. Updated on January 31, 2026.
An 8-day thoughtfully paced romantic journey through Alexandria, Cairo and a 3‑night 5* Nile cruise — designed for couples who want history, riverside sunsets and intimate moments onboard a luxury Nile vessel.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Timeless Tours Ltd, inspired by the tour Cleopatra's Egypt: Cairo, Alexandria & 5* Nile Cruise. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Private airport welcome and hotel briefing in Cairo
- Day trip to Alexandria: Kom El Shoqafa, Bibliotheca Alexandrina & Fort Qaitbey
- Giza Plateau (Great Pyramid & Sphinx) + Egyptian Museum
- Overnight sleeper train to/from Upper Egypt
- 3-night 5* Nile cruise with Philae, Kom Ombo, and Luxor temples
- Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple and Colossi of Memnon
- Sunset moments on the Nile & special onboard sundeck sundowners
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival day in Cairo — private airport welcome, transfer to your pyramid-view hotel and relaxed welcome briefing. Easy evening to recover from travel with an included hotel dinner option.
Arrival & Private Airport Pickup — Cairo International Airport
Meet your Timeless Tours representative at Cairo International Airport. Assistance through arrival formalities and help with baggage; private transfer to your hotel in Giza. This is your first warm welcome to Egypt — relax and enjoy the beginning of your journey.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the rep to confirm a quiet, private corner at the airport lounge area if you need immediate calm after the flight.
- Keep passports & printed booking voucher handy — your rep will need them for the transfer paperwork.
- If arriving close to sunset, request a route via the Nile Corniche for romantic first glimpses of Cairo's lights.
Transfer to Hotel — Jaz Pyramids Resort (Giza)
Short private drive to your hotel with views of the Pyramids. Time to check in, refresh and enjoy the hotel facilities before an informal welcome briefing with your Egyptologist guide.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a room with a pyramid view when checking in — it sets a romantic tone for the stay.
- If you need a nap, ask reception for a 'quiet' floor away from service areas to ensure restful sleep.
- Keep a small bag with sunscreen and a hat for quick rooftop photos of the Pyramids at dusk.
Hotel Check-in & Welcome Briefing — Pyramid-side Relaxation
Meet your guide at the hotel for a relaxed briefing about the week ahead; questions, optional extras (Abu Simbel), and a quick map orientation. Time to enjoy the hotel pool or spa before dinner.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the guide for the best golden-hour photo spot on the hotel grounds for a private couple portrait.
- If you want a more private briefing, request it on the hotel's terrace overlooking the Pyramids.
- Confirm any dietary needs now — the hotel kitchen is usually willing to adapt meals for couples with food preferences.
Dinner — Relaxed Hotel Dinner (Romantic option)
First evening meal at the hotel's restaurant — a relaxed, romantic dinner option after travel. Alternatively, request a private table on the terrace if available.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a quiet corner table or a terrace seat to enjoy the night lights with your partner.
- Try a classic Egyptian mezze platter to share — it's perfect for couples who want a relaxed tasting experience.
- If you prefer something special, enquire about a private dining set-up under the stars (advance request may be required).
Day 2
Full-day guided excursion to Alexandria — coastal romance, Hellenistic heritage and sea views. Well-paced with a lunchtime stop at an elegant historic hotel.
Morning Transfer Cairo to Alexandria — Scenic Coastal Drive
Early departure from your hotel for the drive to Alexandria. Enjoy coastal scenery and onboard refreshments while your guide provides historical context for the city you'll explore.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the right side of the coach for best sea views when approaching Alexandria from Cairo.
- Carry a light jacket for the Mediterranean breeze even in autumn evenings.
- Bring a small binocular or zoom lens for better photos of the Corniche and Fort Qaitbey from the shoreline.
Kom El Shoqafa (Catacombs) — Underground Romance of History
Guided visit to the atmospheric Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa — a fascinating Hellenistic-Roman burial complex. Low lighting and close spaces make this an evocative, intimate stop.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable shoes and be ready for several steps — hold hands on steeper sections if you want steadiness.
- Bring a small flashlight app (phones are fine) to better appreciate carvings in lower-light corners.
- Avoid peak hours when possible — early visit times are quieter and more private for couples.
Bibliotheca Alexandrina — Modern Marvel & Peaceful Rooftop Stroll
Visit the striking modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, explore the archaeological museum and enjoy the open terraces — a calm place for quiet conversation and shared discovery.
Tips from local experts:
- Take a slow stroll on the library terrace for sea views and quieter photo opportunities.
- Couples should visit the small archaeological exhibition for a compact, romantic shared experience.
- Look for the library café terrace — a pleasant spot for a coffee together after the tour.
Lunch at the Historic Steigenberger Cecil — Elegant Alexandria Dining
Enjoy a relaxed lunch in a historic hotel setting close to the corniche — a classic Alexandrian dining experience with colonial-era charm.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a window or terrace table in advance to enjoy sea breezes and people-watching.
- Share a seafood plate — it's fresh and perfect for a light, romantic lunch by the Mediterranean.
- Ask staff for a quieter corner if you prefer intimate conversation away from larger tour groups.
Fort Qaitbey — Sunset-Focused Visit & Coastal Walk
Visit the coastal Fort Qaitbey, sited where the Pharos Lighthouse once stood. Walk the battlements and enjoy sweeping Mediterranean views — a lovely spot for couples’ photos.
Tips from local experts:
- Time your walk along the bastions for calm sea breezes and golden-hour light on the walls.
- Bring a light scarf; the wind can pick up on the promontory even in October.
- For a private moment, descend to the small rocks below the fort (careful footing) to hear the waves together.
Return Transfer to Cairo — Sunset Drive Back
Relax on the return drive to Cairo. Unwind onboard and enjoy debrief time with your guide — perfect moment to plan an evening at leisure in Cairo.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the driver to stop if you spot an appealing coastal sunset viewpoint for a quick photo stop.
- Keep water and light snacks from lunch handy in case you feel peckish during the drive.
- Use the coach time to ask your guide about intimate photo spots for the coming days (pyramid vantage points, Nile sundecks).
Evening at Hotel — Private Downtime
Return to your Giza hotel for dinner and downtime. We recommend a quiet evening to enjoy the pool, spa or a short stroll around the resort grounds.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a couples' spa treatment if you want a private relaxation experience before the train leg.
- Try a late-night terrace walk to glimpse the Pyramids lit up after dark — a subtly romantic moment.
- If you want an early night before train travel, request a packed light snack from the hotel kitchen.
Day 3
Cairo's ancient heart — the Great Pyramids and Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum — then board an overnight sleeper train to Aswan. Pacing is gentle to allow for memorable photo moments and downtime.
Breakfast & Transfer to Giza Plateau
Early breakfast and short transfer to the Giza Plateau. Arrive with energy for guided exploration of the Great Pyramid complex.
Tips from local experts:
- Have a light breakfast and bring bottled water; there are shady spots near the visitor areas.
- Bring a hat and sunglasses — the sun can be strong even in autumn afternoons.
- Plan a posed couple shot near the Sphinx early to avoid mid-day crowds.
Giza Plateau: Great Pyramid & Sphinx — Iconic Shared Moment
Guided visit to the Great Pyramid complex and the Sphinx. Time to walk, photograph and soak in the scale of these timeless monuments.
Tips from local experts:
- Head to the elevated viewing point for a sweeping skyline photo of all three pyramids together at mid-morning.
- Consider a short camel-back photo (optional) but agree a clear price beforehand for a relaxed experience.
- Carry light layers — the desert wind across the plateau can turn cooler in the shade.
Transfer to Egyptian Museum (Tahrir) — Cairo Cultural Hub
Short transfer across central Cairo to the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square for an afternoon of pharaonic treasures.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask your guide to recommend the less-crowded rooms holding Tutankhamun artefacts for relaxed viewing.
- Take a break at the museum café if you need a quiet moment between galleries.
- Keep valuables in a secure inside bag when navigating busier museum galleries.
Egyptian Museum — Treasures of the Pharaohs
Explore the museum’s exceptional collections, including highlights from Tutankhamun’s tomb. Your Egyptologist will guide you through the most romantic and significant artefacts.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the guide to focus on a few must-see objects rather than trying to see every room — quality over quantity for a relaxed experience.
- If you appreciate quieter viewing, skip busier central halls and request a route focusing on quieter galleries.
- Photography policies can vary — double-check camera permissions for flash-free photos together.
Free Time & Dinner — Prepare for Overnight Train
Relax, freshen up at the hotel (or museum-area restaurant), and enjoy an early dinner before transferring to Ramses Station for the sleeper train to Aswan.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a light, early dinner to sleep comfortably on the overnight train.
- Ask your guide for recommended dishes that travel well (grilled fish or chicken with vegetables).
- Confirm luggage protection arrangements with hotel bell staff if leaving bulky items at the hotel.
Transfer to Ramses Station & Board Overnight Sleeper Train
Short drive to Ramses Railway Station. Board your private sleeper cabin for an overnight journey to Aswan — an atmospheric and intimate travel experience.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a lower bunk if you prefer easier access during the night and for romantic comfort.
- Bring earplugs and a light travel blanket for extra comfort during the overnight journey.
- Keep essential items (passport, phone charger, medication) in a small bag accessible in-cabin.
Day 4
Arrive in Aswan, board your 5* Nile cruise and visit the romantic island temple of Philae. Afternoon at leisure on the cruise with an evening sundeck sundowner.
Arrival in Aswan & Transfer to Nile Cruise
Arrive in Aswan by sleeper train; private transfer to your 5* Nile cruise vessel. Time to settle into your cabin and enjoy views of Aswan's palm-lined banks.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrange a preferred cabin location in advance (mid-ship cabins are typically more stable and quieter).
- Enjoy a brief deck walk with your partner to greet the Nile air — perfect early-morning calm.
- Confirm lunch timing with the cruise manager so you don't miss the first meal after the train.
Philae Temple by Boat — Island Temple of Isis
Boat ride to Philae (Agilkia Island) and guided visit through one of Egypt’s most romantic temple complexes. Its island setting makes it a perfect couples’ discovery.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the right side of the boat for the best photo approach of the temple façade.
- Wear comfortable shoes; island paths are easy but can be uneven in places.
- Pause near the inner colonnades for a few quiet minutes—very atmospheric and intimate.
Lunch Onboard the Nile Cruise — Leisurely Riverside Dining
Return to your cruise for a leisurely onboard lunch. Enjoy local flavours and Nile vistas as you begin your sailing south toward Kom Ombo and Luxor.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a table by the windows or sundeck for uninterrupted river views during lunch.
- Try a local mezze selection for shared tasting — great for a relaxed, intimate meal.
- Check for any on-deck dessert service to enjoy a sweet treat as you watch river life pass by.
Afternoon at Leisure Onboard — Sundeck & Spa Options
Relax on the cruise sundeck, read on deck chairs or book a couples' massage (subject to cruise spa availability). The Nile’s slow pace is ideal for quiet together time.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a couples' spa slot early in the day; spa schedules can fill quickly on popular sailings.
- Sundeck sunsets are magical — plan to be on deck 45 minutes before sunset for photos.
- Carry a light shawl for cooler river breezes as evening falls even in October.
Sundeck Sundowner — Romantic Golden-Hour Moment
Enjoy a dedicated sundowner on the sundeck with a glass of local wine or mocktail — a signature romantic moment on the Nile before dinner.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the cruise crew for a quieter corner of the sundeck for a more private sunset experience.
- Bring a portable camera or phone tripod for a polished couple portrait at golden hour.
- Request the sommelier or waiter for a recommended local wine or non-alcoholic alternative.
Day 5
Cruising the Nile with a morning visit to Kom Ombo Temple; enjoy river scenery, relaxed lunches and private moments onboard as you approach Luxor.
Kom Ombo Temple Visit — Twin-Temple Beauty
Guided morning visit to the unique double temple of Kom Ombo, perched on the Nile bank with striking reliefs and river views.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive earlier in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy softer light for photos.
- Walk to the riverbank behind the temple for a quieter perspective and reflections in the water.
- Ask the guide about the Crocodile Museum adjacent to the temple — a quirky shared stop for couples.
Lunch Onboard — Gentle Afternoon Sailing
Return to your ship for a relaxed lunch as the vessel sails toward Luxor. Time to watch Nile life unfold and enjoy private conversation.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a light seafood or grilled vegetable option to keep energy up for afternoon exploring.
- Reserve a small deck table if you want to dine outside while cruising.
- Capture river scenes from the stern — often surprisingly photogenic as local feluccas appear.
Afternoon Sailing & Leisure on Deck — Watch Rural Nile Life
Afternoon to relax on deck while the cruise glides north. Enjoy peaceful views of farmed riverbanks, palm groves and villages.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a lightweight blanket for lounging on deck chairs in the late afternoon breeze.
- Consider a short nap together — the gentle motion of the boat is restorative.
- Walk to the bow for unobstructed views of small riverside communities and birds.
Evening Dinner Onboard — Candlelit Table Option
Romantic dinner onboard — many 5* cruises can provide a candlelit table on request (advance booking recommended).
Tips from local experts:
- Request a candlelit or terrace table when you arrive on board for a special evening.
- Try a local dessert such as basbousa or fresh fruit for a sweet end to the day.
- Confirm evening entertainment (if any) and request a quieter seating area if you prefer intimate conversation.
Day 6
Luxor's East Bank: Karnak and Luxor Temples. A full day of monumental temples balanced with a relaxed late-afternoon rooftop or Winter Palace sunset.
Disembark & Transfer to Karnak Temple — Luxor East Bank
After breakfast, disembark and head to Karnak Temple — a monumental complex perfect for dramatic couple photos under towering columns.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive early at Karnak to avoid larger tour groups and capture the Hypostyle Hall in softer light.
- Bring a small fan or cooling spray for comfort as you walk between open courtyards.
- Ask your guide to point out quiet niches for private moments away from busier routes.
Karnak Temple — Hypostyle Hall & Sacred Lake
Guided walk through Karnak’s vast precincts — the Hypostyle Hall's columns are ideal for dramatic photos and a sense of shared wonder.
Tips from local experts:
- Pose between two columns for a classic couple photo — the scale is unforgettable.
- Look for the sacred lake area late morning for calmer reflections and quieter surroundings.
- Wear comfortable shoes; explore at an unhurried pace to savour the atmosphere together.
Lunch — Sofra Restaurant & Café (Local Favorite)
Relaxed lunch at a well-regarded local restaurant offering traditional dishes in a charming setting — a good spot to share meze-style plates.
Tips from local experts:
- Order several small dishes to share — it’s a leisurely, sociable way to dine as a couple.
- If outdoor seating is available, request a shaded table for a pleasant midday break.
- Ask staff for their chef recommendation — local specialities are ideal for a memorable meal.
Luxor Temple — Afternoon Visit & Riverside Ambiance
Visit Luxor Temple with its processional avenue and atmospheric evening lighting — a romantic place to wander as the light softens.
Tips from local experts:
- Time your walk to capture soft late-afternoon light on the columns and statues.
- Pause on the temple steps to watch the quiet riverbank activity — an intimate shared scene.
- If you enjoy music, check if any localized cultural performances are scheduled in the temple grounds.
Winter Palace Rooftop / 1886 Restaurant — Sunset Cocktail
Enjoy an elegant rooftop or historic hotel bar (Winter Palace / 1886 area) for a sunset cocktail — a signature romantic moment in Luxor.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a table facing the Nile to watch the sunset while sipping a cocktail or mocktail.
- Dress neatly for the Winter Palace atmosphere — it adds to the occasion's elegance.
- Ask staff about the best local non-alcoholic cocktail if you'd prefer a traditional Egyptian flavor.
Day 7
Luxor West Bank: Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple and Colossi of Memnon. Board the overnight sleeper train back to Cairo in the evening; gentle pacing with romantic photo stops.
Valley of the Kings — Royal Tombs & Private Moments
Cross to the West Bank for a guided visit to selected tombs in the Valley of the Kings. The carved tombs are quiet and deeply atmospheric — a moving place for couples.
Tips from local experts:
- Select a limited number of tombs (often 2–3) to avoid fatigue and appreciate the decorated chambers more intimately.
- Bring a light jacket for underground tombs as they can feel cool compared to surface temperatures.
- Respect photography restrictions inside tombs — ask your guide where photos are allowed to plan keepsake shots.
Temple of Hatshepsut — Dramatic Terraces & Quiet Views
Visit the terraced mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut at Deir el-Bahri — its architecture and cliff setting create an unforgettable backdrop.
Tips from local experts:
- Pose on the terrace steps for a dramatic couple shot with the cliff behind you.
- The site can be breezy; bring a hair tie or clip for windier moments.
- Listen to the guide’s stories about Hatshepsut — sharing a narrative makes the visit more intimate.
Colossi of Memnon — Iconic Photo Stop
Short visit to the twin Colossi — a quick stop ideal for a classic couple’s photograph with ancient sentinels.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive mid-day for clearer light on the colossi faces (or early morning for softer light and fewer visitors).
- Stand between the statues for a memorable framed photo of the two of you.
- Take a quiet moment to listen to your guide’s stories — the setting is surprisingly peaceful.
Lunch — Local West Bank or Nearby Restaurant
Relaxed lunchtime with options to sample local dishes. A leisurely midday meal prepares you for the transfer to the station later.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose lighter options (salads, grilled fish/chicken) to keep you comfortable for the afternoon and train journey.
- If you’d like a special memory, ask for a shared dessert to enjoy together at the end of the meal.
- Confirm the final meeting time with your guide before dispersing for lunch.
Afternoon at Leisure & Transfer to Luxor Station
Free time to relax or explore a little more, then a short transfer to Luxor Railway Station to board the overnight sleeper train to Cairo.
Tips from local experts:
- Use the afternoon to pack an accessible small bag with essentials for the train (chargers, toiletries, a change of clothes).
- If you'd like a last-minute shopping stop, ask your guide for a nearby boutique with tasteful local crafts.
- Arrive at the station a bit early to enjoy a calm coffee together before boarding.
Board Overnight Sleeper Train — Luxor to Cairo
Board your private sleeper compartment for the overnight journey back to Cairo. A final riverside-to-desert travel experience to share.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a couple's cabin or adjacent lower bunks for the most comfortable overnight experience.
- Enjoy a final cup of Egyptian tea before lights-out — a small local ritual.
- Check with staff about morning arrival times so you can coordinate a calm transfer on Day 8.
Day 8
Arrival in Cairo, train arrival pick-up and private transfer to Cairo International Airport (or drop-off in central Cairo/Heliopolis to suit onward plans). End of tour.
Arrive at Cairo / Ramses Station — Meet & Greet
Morning arrival at Ramses Station in Cairo. Your representative meets you on arrival and helps with luggage before transfer to the airport or central Cairo.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your onward flight time with the representative to allow comfortable airport arrival.
- If you prefer a final Cairo detour (e.g., Kahk pastry stop), mention it to the rep — short detours can usually be arranged.
- Keep a copy of your train ticket and passport ready for a quick handover at pickup.
Transfer to Cairo International Airport (or Central Cairo Drop-off)
Private transfer to Cairo International Airport for departure, or request drop-off in central Cairo/Heliopolis or Giza if you have onward arrangements (we can add post-tour accommodation at checkout).
Tips from local experts:
- If your flight is later, request a stop in central Cairo for a short farewell coffee in Zamalek.
- Allow extra time for airport check-in and security — Cairo timings can vary by airline.
- If you’re headed to the airport, ask the driver for assistance with terminal procedures if needed.
Optional Central Cairo Drop-off (Heliopolis / Downtown) — End of Tour
If you prefer, be dropped in central Cairo (Heliopolis, Tahrir or Giza) instead of the airport to continue your stay independently or to check into a post-tour hotel.
Tips from local experts:
- If staying longer, ask your driver to drop you in Zamalek for a calm riverside lunch or coffee.
- Heliopolis is a good choice for quick onward taxi access and hotels near the airport.
- If ending in downtown Cairo, keep valuables secure and use the hotel concierge for final leg assistance.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 8 |
| Highlights | 7 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 12 |
| Restaurants | 8 |
| Total Activities | 28 |
| Total Places | 28 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Hotel, Restaurant, Attraction, Culture, Break, Meal, Experience, Nightlife, Neighborhood |