DAY 1: UK - Cairo.
Fly to Cairo, where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for a two-night stay. The rest of the day is yours to relax or to introduce yourself to this pulsating city. (D)

DAY 2: Cairo.
Egypt's capital and Africa's largest city is a mesmerising mix of sights, sounds and ancient monuments, as well as being home to over 18 million people, all of whom contribute to its intoxicating atmosphere. This morning, begin your stay in this captivating city with an included visit to its most spectacular sight - the three, soaring Giza pyramids of Kings Cheops, Chephren and Mykerinos, together with the Valley Temple with its mysterious Sphinx. After witnessing these unimaginably old treasures, this afternoon continues in the same vein with a visit to the enthralling National Egyptian Museum, which bursts with ancient artifacts from the Pharoah's tombs, including gold treasures from Tutankahmun's burial chamber. Whilst you wander around the Museum's Halls gazing at the exhibits, the informed commentary of your Tour Director will bring the displays to life, giving you a fascinating insight into ancient royal Egypt. Relax this evening with an optional Nile dinner cruise, complete with an exciting belly dancing and folklore show. (B)

DAY 3: Cairo - Alexandria.
This morning, time to discover the oldest quarter of Cairo, also known as Coptic Cairo. Originally a Roman stronghold called 'Babylon', this picturesque area still has old Christian churches and sections of its ancient wall. Our visit includes time to view the Saladin citadel, crowned with a beautiful mosque, the first ever built in Egypt. Later, leave Cairo, driving along the famous Agricultural Road through charming countryside to Alexandria for a two-night stay. (B, L, D)

DAY 4: Alexandria. Included sightseeing.
Often described as the 'Pearl of the Mediterranean', Alexandria captures the essence of Egypt in its cosmopolitan ambience, elegant architecture and legendary hospitality. Built on the orders of Alexander the Great in 331 BC, our tour of this historic city takes in its best-known landmarks including its ancient Catacombs, cut into rocks during the 2nd century, Pompey's Pillar, the new Alexandria library and the turreted Quait Bay Fort. There is also, a chance to stroll around the beautiful Montaza Palace gardens, once a royal summer residence. The remainder of the day is free for you to continue exploring this charismatic city or for simply relaxing by your hotel pool. (B)

DAY 5: Alexandria - Marsa Matruh.
Today enjoy a scenic drive along the Mediterranean coastal road to El Alamein, made famous in the decisive Allied Forces victory against Rommel's army in World War II. After a fascinating and moving visit to the El Alamein Museum with its military artifacts as well as the vast Cemetery with its regimented rows of war graves, we continue to Marsa Matruh for a two-night stay. (B, L, D)

DAY 6: Marsa Matruh.
A waterfront town set on a spectacular Mediterranean bay of crystal clear seas and white sandy beaches, Marsa Matruh makes a wonderful sight and was a key location in the battles of World War II. Today starts at Agiba Beach, a stunningly picturesque beach replete with amazing rock formations, followed by a visit to Rommel's Cave, where the German Commander would retreat at the end of the day to refine his military plans. The rest of the day is at your leisure, giving you the opportunity to soak up the charms of Marsa Matruh. (B, D)

DAY 7: Marsa Matruh - Cairo.
Another fascinating day begins with strikingly contrasting scenery as we drive the desert road back to Cairo, through stark, rugged landscapes. En-route, stop at Wadi el Natrun, a lush oasis nestling in a desert valley to view one of its age-old Coptic monasteries and learn about the Coptic faith. Later, arrive in Cairo in time for some last-minute souvenir shopping at the bustling Khan-el-Khalili bazaar. (B)

DAY 8: Cairo - UK.
Transfer to Cairo airport for your flight to the UK. (B)