Luxury cruises are the most popular way to travel on the Nile. The river can handle luxury liners and smaller luxury yachts between Aswan Dam and Luxor. Many offer planned shore trips that take passengers to the more famous tombs, temples, and pyramids as well as the Aswan Dam.

A cruise down the Egyptian Nile, ideally on a romantic felucca rather than a crowded tourist boat, reveals relics of one of the world’s most ancient civilizations.

The high point is the Valley of the Kings, with its monumental statues, and the magnificent Kom Ombo Temple, north of Aswan on the east bank.

The ancient Egyptians were one of the most impressive civilizations the world has seen, but other ethnicities have shaped this country too, making Egypt a unique mix of the Arabian and Islamic with the Mediterranean. This rich history has created a tapestry of cultural and archaeological treasures unmatched anywhere – so much so that the country is home to one-third of the world’s antiquities. From the majestic Pyramids still standing proudly to the mighty Nile flowing through the heart of Egypt, the stark Sahara Desert, and the pristine beaches of the Red Sea, this is a destination not to be missed.

The Nile was the lifeline of ancient Egyptian civilization and today the banks of the river are dotted with ancient tombs and temples.

Lying 420 miles south of Cairo, Luxor is the most dramatic historical site in Egypt – and is often referred to as the world’s greatest open-air museum. Luxor is the modern-day name for Thebes, the ancient capital city of the New Kingdom Pharaohs. Today, Luxor is home to more than half of Egyptian antiquities and is a must-see destination for any visitor to Egypt.

Aswan is the “Jewel of the Nile”. Pink and grey granite thrusts upward through the Nubian sandstone, forming mountains, cliffs, and jagged outcrops. The Nile runs clear and cold here, and endless waves of golden sand swirl against its banks.

Where do the Cruises Take place on the Nile in Egypt?

Nile River Cruise in Egypt takes place between Luxor and Aswan or a Lake Nasser Cruise. It is the best way to see the incredible ruins of ancient Egypt and modern life along the banks of the Nile, which has brought life to Egypt for millennia.

Cruise ships to Consider for Luxury Nile Cruise in Egypt

Sanctuary Nile Adventurer

The Sanctuary Nile Adventurer is widely regarded as one of the best boutique ships on the epic Nile, and named as one of National Geographic’s ‘Journeys of a lifetime’. With just 32 cabins, the ship has been decorated in a modern, comfortable style and provided a taste of genuine 5-star luxury on a timeless river.

Sanctuary Sun Boat III

Evoking the heyday of Egypt’s past, the Sanctuary Sun Boat III has several times been voted among the top 100 most beautiful boats in the world by Condé Nast readers. Style, comfort, and elegance combine to recreate the opulent era of the ‘20s and ‘30s and the ultimate in luxury and relaxation.

Sanctuary Sun Boat IV

Furnished in a contemporary chic style, with an Art Deco influence, the modern fittings and cutting edge technology on board the boutique Sanctuary Sun Boat IV are combined with sophisticated public areas with luxurious teak flooring for an elegant finish.

Sanctuary Zein Nile Chateau

Sanctuary Zein Nile Chateau is a stunning dahabiya, available only for private charter. Tailor your cruise and each day’s sightseeing by choosing from an à la carte style itinerary led by our renowned Egyptologists. An oasis of calm, the Sanctuary Zein Nile Chateau is reminiscent of the glamour of old-world sailing.

When is the best time to take a Luxury Nile Cruise in Egypt?

The best time to cruise the Nile River is between October and April. During these months the weather is not too hot, meaning you can get the most out of your day trips to the iconic sights from Luxor to Aswan.

How to get to the Nile River in Egypt from Cairo

Egypt Air flies four times daily direct to Luxor International Airport from Cairo International Airport. Flights take one hour, Luxor flights depart from Cairo Airport’s Terminal Three. In minimal traffic conditions (before 7 am and late at night) a taxi to Cairo Airport from the central city only takes around 30 minutes. At any other time of day, make sure to add in an hour for taxi transport time.

Luxor Airport is seven kilometers from central Luxor. There is no public transport into the center, so you need to either use one of the airport taxis or book a private transfer with your Luxor hotel.

Where to stay on the Nile in Egypt

Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor Hotel

Discover the sumptuous history of a hotel that’s hosted royalty and celebrities: the 5-star Sofitel Winter Palace Luxor! Built-in 1886 on the banks of the Nile and surrounded by century-old Royal Gardens, the hotel overlooks the Nile and the West Bank Necropolis. It’s an oasis of tranquillity – and a gateway to the splendors of Pharaonic times. Come and bask in an atmosphere steeped in history, romance, and adventure

Sonesta St. George Hotel Luxor

Welcome to five-star splendor on the banks of the Nile in a city of Ancient Pharaonic treasures, the Sonesta St. George Hotel Luxor redefines magnificent contemporary style. The hotel is luxurious, sophisticated, and above all, elegant.

Come and enjoy a sweeping terrace with majestic views of the Nile, a grand entrance of polished marble and handsomely appointed furnishings with exquisite detail, a sumptuous health spa, an array of fine dining choices, and every amenity to please the most discerning traveler. With the mystical Nile, just a whisper away and the temples of Luxor and Karnak preserved in time, experience a city of fascinating antiquity and indulge in the rich splendor of the Sonesta St. George Hotel Luxor.

Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa

Facing the West Bank, our resort rests on the edge of the River Nile, less than seven kilometers from central Luxor via shuttle. We have traditional felucca sailing and horseback and camelback tours of the riverbanks, with both Karnak and Luxor temples within four kilometers. Perks include our holistic spa, two infinity pools, and a kids’ corner.

Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan Hotel

Step into the legendary site where King Fouad once entertained and Agatha Christie sipped cocktails: the 5-star Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan Hotel. In the Nubian Desert on the banks of the Nile, opposite Elephantine Island, the majestic hotel sits on a pink granite cliff overlooking the world’s longest river. This ravishing hotel with its legendary guest list of royals and dignitaries is both ideals for romantic getaways, and a perfect venue for small summits and corporate meetings.