egypt good place to visit

20 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Egypt

Written by Jess Lee Updated Oct 16, 2023

Home of the ancient Pharaohs, Egypt is a destination full of dazzling temples and tombs that wow all who visit. It's not all historic treasures and tourist attractions, though. With vast tracts of desert for 4WD adventures, the Red Sea's world-class coral reefs and wrecks for divers, and cruising on the famed Nile River, there are plenty of things to do in Egypt for all types of travelers.

Beach lovers head to the Sinai or the Red Sea Coast to soak up the sun, while archaeology fans will have a field day in Luxor.

Cairo is the megalopolis that can't be beaten for city slickers, while Siwa oasis and the southern town of Aswan offer a slice of the slow pace of the countryside.

With so much to see and do, Egypt offers visitors a chance to create itineraries that combine culture, adventure, and relaxation all on one trip.

Plan your sightseeing with our list of the top attractions and places to visit in Egypt.

1. Pyramids of Giza

2. luxor's temples & tombs, 3. cruising the nile, 5. abu simbel, 6. diving the red sea, 7. explore historic cairo, 8. south sinai's beach life, 10. egyptian museum, 11. white desert, 12. alexandria, 13. abydos temple, 14. siwa oasis, 15. st. catherine's monastery, 16. red sea beaches, 17. coptic cairo, 18. wadi al-hitan, 19. temple of hathor, 20. monastery of st. anthony.

The last surviving wonder of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Pyramids of Giza are one of the world's most recognizable landmarks.

Having awed travelers down through the ages, these tombs of the Pharaohs Khufu (Cheops), Khafre (Chephren), and Menkaure (Mycerinus), guarded by the enigmatic Sphinx, are usually top of most visitor's lists of tourist attractions to see in Egypt and often the first sight they head to after landing.

Today, sitting on the desert edge of Cairo's sprawl, these megalithic memorials to dead pharaohs are still as wondrous a sight as they ever were and an undeniable highlight of any Egypt trip.

To beat the crowds , get here around 7:30am and enter through the main Pyramid of Khufu site entrance (rather than the Sphinx entrance). This means you can have finished exploring the interior tunnels and burial chambers of the Pyramid of Khufu by the time the tour buses start pulling in at 8:15am.

Most visitors limit their site visit to the three pyramids and the Sphinx, but there is plenty more to see on the Giza Plateau. If you can, reserve time to explore the funerary complexes of the eastern cemetery (on the east side of the Pyramid of Khufu). The tombs of 6th dynasty high officials Qar and Idu and the tomb of Meresankh III (who was one of Pharaoh Khafre's wives) are all open to the public.

• Read More: Pyramids of Giza: Attractions, Tips & Tours

Famed for the Valley of the Kings , Karnak Temple , and the Memorial Temple of Hatshepsut, the Nile-side town of Luxor in Upper Egypt has a glut of tourist attractions.

This is ancient Thebes, the power base of the New Kingdom pharaohs, and home to more sights than most can see on one visit.

Luxor's east bank is home to the modern city, with its vibrant souq; the two temples of Karnak and Luxor; and the museum. The west bank's lush farmland and barren cliffs are where the vast majority of Luxor's tourist attractions sit, with so many tomb and temple sights that it has been called the biggest open-air museum in the world.

Spend a few days here exploring the colorful wall art of the tombs and gazing in awe at the colossal columns in the temples, and you'll see why Luxor continues to fascinate historians and archaeologists.

The Valley of the Kings is one of Egypt's most visited sites but, if you are willing to get up extra early, you can beat the crowds . All of Luxor's archaeological sites open at 6am, but hardly any visitors (and no large tour operators) take advantage of this.

Kick off your sightseeing with a 6am start at the Valley of the Kings, and you'll get to experience the interiors of Luxor's famed New Kingdom tombs with hardly anyone else (except the handful of other wily early risers) there.

Egypt is defined by the Nile. For many visitors, a multi-day cruise upon this famed waterway that saw the rise of the Pharaonic era is a highlight of their Egypt trip.

Cruising the Nile is also the most relaxing way to see the temples that stud the banks of the river on the route between Luxor and Aswan, plus sunrise and sunset over the date-palm-studded river banks, backed by sand dunes, is one of Egypt's most tranquil vistas.

The two famous sights on a Nile Cruise are the Temple of Kom Ombo and Edfu's Temple of Horus , where all the big cruise boats stop.

If you'd prefer a less crowded and slower experience, though, and don't mind "roughing it" a bit, you can also cruise the Nile by felucca (Egypt's traditional lateen-sailed wooden boats), which also allows you to create your own itinerary.

The vast amount of cruise boat itineraries depart from either Luxor or Aswan, but feluccas can only be chartered for multi-day trips from Aswan.

Egypt's most tranquil town is Aswan, set upon the winding curves of the Nile. Backed by orange-hued dunes, this is the perfect place to stop and unwind for a few days and soak up the chilled-out atmosphere.

Take the river ferry across to Elephantine Island and stroll the colorful streets of the Nubian villages. Then ride a camel to the desert monastery of St. Simeon on Aswan's east bank. Afterwards, relax in one of the riverboat restaurants while watching the lateen-sailed feluccas drift past.

Make sure to jump aboard a felucca at sunset to sail around Aswan's islands. This is by far, Aswan's most popular activity and the most relaxing way to take in the local sights.

There are plenty of historic sites here and numerous temples nearby, including Philae Temple on its island, but one of Aswan's most popular things to do is simply kicking back and watching the river life go by.

Even in a country festooned with temples, Abu Simbel is something special. This is Ramses II's great temple, adorned with colossal statuary standing guard outside, and with an interior sumptuously decorated with wall paintings.

Justly famous for its megalithic proportions, Abu Simbel is also known for the incredible engineering feat carried out by UNESCO in the 1960s, which saw the entire temple moved from its original setting to save it from disappearing under the rising water of the Aswan Dam.

Today, exploring Abu Simbel is just as much about admiring the triumph of this international effort to save the temple complex as it is about gaping in wonder at Ramses II's awe-inspiring building works, itself.

Most people arrive in Abu Simbel on organized day trips from Aswan, which all have an early morning start to get to the temple complex at 8am or 9am.

After 11am, nearly everyone has cleared out and headed back to Aswan. To wander through Ramses II's colossal monument without the crowds, overnight in Abu Simbel village itself and visit the temples after midday.

Below the Red Sea's surface is another world as fascinating as the temples and tombs on land.

The coral reefs of the Red Sea are renowned among scuba divers for both the soft corals on display and the vast amount of sea life, ranging from colorful reef fish and nudibranchs to sharks, dolphins, turtles, rays, and even dugongs.

For divers, the most famous town to base yourself in is Sharm el-Sheikh on the Sinai Peninsula, closest to the reefs of Ras Mohammed National Park, as well as the reefs of the Straits of Tiran.

To dive the sites of the Straits of Gubal head to Hurghada or El Gouna on the Red Sea coast, while advanced divers should check out the resort of Marsa Alam, the nearest base for diving Egypt's "deep south" dive sites.

As well as fish life and coral, the Red Sea is a major wreck-diving destination. The most famous wreck is the Thistlegorm, a British WWII cargo ship that was on its way to resupply Allied troops when it was bombed by the Germans in 1941.

Today the site is regarded by divers as one of the top five wreck dives in the world due to the vast cargo of cars, motorbikes, and WWII memorabilia that can be seen both scattered on the sea bed around the wreck and inside the ship itself.

Dive boat trips to the wreck are organized from both Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada.

The Red Sea offers year-round diving but for the calmest sea conditions and best underwater visibility, July and August are the best months . This is high summer in Egypt though with its accompanying sweltering on-land temperatures. If your Egypt trip doesn't solely revolve around diving, it's still best to avoid these months.

Read More: Diving in the Red Sea: Best Dive Sites

The atmospheric, narrow lanes of the capital's Historic Cairo district are crammed full of mosques, madrassas (Islamic schools of learning), and monuments dating from the Fatimid through to the Mameluke eras.

This is where you'll find the labyrinth shopping souq of Khan el-Khalili, where coppersmiths and artisans still have their tiny workshops, and stalls are laden with ceramics, textiles, spice, and perfume.

Surrounding the market is a muddle of roads, home to some of the most beautiful preserved architecture of the old Islamic empires.

There is a wealth of history here to explore. Visit Al-Azhar Mosque and the dazzling Sultan Hassan Mosque , and make sure to climb up to the roof of the ancient medieval gate of Bab Zuweila for the best minaret-speckled panoramas across the district.

Mornings are the best time to visit this district as the narrow lanes are at their quietest. If you're planning to visit the area's mosques though, avoid visiting on Fridays (the Muslim holy day) . If you want to enter mosques as a tourist, dress conservatively (covering arms and legs) and bring along a scarf to throw over your head if you're female.

Keen shoppers should head to Khan el-Khalili in the evening: the shops here are all open until late and the souq is at its most vibrant after dark.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Cairo & Easy Day Trips

Egypt's South Sinai region, on the Sinai Peninsula, offers a beach for every type of traveler.

Sharm el-Sheikh is a European-style resort town packed full of luxury hotels, international restaurants, and bags of entertainment options. A favorite with Europeans on winter-sun vacations, many of the resorts here cater to families on one- or two-week sun-and-sand breaks.

Dahab is a low-key beach town with a budget-traveler heart, which is just as much about desert excursions and adventures as the sea. It's particularly known for its cheap dive-package deals and for its lagoon beach area where windsurfing and kitesurfing are the top activity.

Up the coast, between the port town of Nuweiba and the border town of Taba are the bamboo hut retreats that offer complete get-away-from-it-all respites from life and back-to-basics beach life.

Everyone's heard of Giza's Pyramids, but they're not the only pyramids Egypt has up its sleeve. Day-tripping distance from Cairo , Saqqara is a vast necropolis of tombs and pyramids that was utilized during every era of Pharaonic rule.

It's best known for its Old Kingdom Step Pyramid, which shows how the architects of Ancient Egypt advanced their engineering knowledge to finally create a true pyramid shape.

There's much more to see beyond the Step Pyramid, though, with some of the surrounding tombs, such as the Mastaba of Ti, showcasing some of the finest tomb paintings you'll see in the country.

Nearby, the pyramid site of Dahshur is home to the Red Pyramid and Bent Pyramid, which should be included on any Saqqara visit.

• Read More: Exploring Saqqara: A Visitor's Guide

A treasure trove of the Pharaonic world, Cairo's Egyptian Museum is one of the world's great museum collections . The faded pink mansion in downtown Cairo is home to a dazzling amount of exhibits.

The museum's exhibits cover the breadth of the Pharaonic era with highlights including its artifacts from pre-dynastic Egypt, the Old Kingdom galleries displaying the fine statuary from Egypt's period of pyramid builders, and the displays of glittering funerary goods unearthed from the country's most famous tomb finds.

Make sure to reserve enough time at the museum to fully view the galleries devoted to the grave goods of Yuya and Thuya and the royal tombs of Tanis (both upstairs).

Until Giza's much-delayed Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) opens, the Egyptian Museum is also where you come to see a selection of the riches from Tutankhamen's Valley of the Kings tomb. When the GEM finally does open, these will be moved there (and the entire Tutankhamen collection will be displayed in full for the first time).

Everything else though in the Egyptian Museum's collection will be staying in place.

Egypt's kookiest natural wonder is White Desert National Park, out in the Western Desert, just south of Bahariya Oasis. Here, surreally shaped chalk pinnacles and huge boulders loom over the desert plateau, creating a scene that looks like icebergs have found themselves stranded amid a landscape of sand.

This highly scenic environment looks like something out of a science fiction movie and is a favorite destination for 4WD desert trips and overnight camping , which are both easiest organized in Bahariya Oasis.

For desert fans and adventurers, this is the ultimate weird playground, while anybody who's had their fill of temples and tombs will enjoy this spectacular natural scenery.

Alexandria has a history that not many others can match.

Founded by Alexander the Great, home of Cleopatra, and razzmatazz renegade city of the Mediterranean for much of its life, this seafront city has an appealing days-gone-by atmosphere that can't be beaten.

Although today, there are few historic remnants of its illustrious past left to see, Alexandria's long seafront Corniche road leading to its fort (sitting on the site where its famous ancient lighthouse once sat) remains a favorite summer destination to capture cooling sea breezes for Egyptians and foreign visitors alike.

Underwater archaeological projects here have imbued Alexandria's museums with interesting exhibits. The modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a contemporary interpretation of Alexandria's famed ancient library, and the handful of historic sights in town include an atmospheric catacombs site.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Alexandria

The Temple of Osiris in Abydos is one of Ancient Egypt's most fascinating artistic treasures.

The temple, begun by Seti I, sits amid a vast necropolis site where archaeological excavations are ongoing. There a various other temple remnants to see here but for most visitors, the Temple of Osiris is the main reason to visit.

Its hypostyle halls, graced by papyrus-headed columns, contain some of the finest relief-work in Egypt, with various scenes portraying the pharaoh and the gods of Ancient Egypt.

As the temple lies north of Luxor, it isn't on the main Nile cruise ship route, so it receives much fewer visitors than the temple sites in Luxor itself and the Nile-side temples to the south. This means you are often lucky enough to wander through the temple's halls with only a few other visitors on site.

• Read More: Exploring The Temples of Abydos: A Visitor's Guide

Sitting in isolation, in the western corner of the Western Desert, Siwa is the tranquil tonic to the hustle of Egypt's cities. This gorgeous little oasis, surrounded by date palm plantations and numerous hot-water springs, is one of the Western Desert's most picturesque spots.

Siwa town is centered around the ruins of a vast mud-brick citadel, known as the Fortress of Shali, which dominates the view, while various temple remnants, including the Temple of the Oracle where Alexander the Great is said to have come to receive advice, are scattered throughout the wider oasis area.

This is a top spot to wind down and go slow for a few days, as well as being an excellent base from which to plan adventures into the surrounding desert.

One of the oldest monasteries in the world, St. Catherine's stands at the foot of Mount Sinai, amid the desert mountains of the Sinai Peninsula, where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments.

This desert monastery is home to an incredible collection of religious iconography, art, and manuscripts (some of which can be seen in the on-site museum), as well as the burning bush.

For most visitors here, a trip to St. Catherine's also involves a hike up Mount Sinai to see sunrise or sunset. Take the camel path for the easy route, or climb the famous Steps of Repentance if you want better views.

Egypt's Red Sea coastline offers swaths of sand for travelers who want a time-out from temple viewing.

During winter, the resorts scattered along the shore surrounding Hurghada jump into life as European families arrive on package tourism breaks.

The big bonus of choosing a resort on the Red Sea coast over one on the Sinai Peninsula is that you are within day-tripping distance to Luxor, so this is the best place to visit for beach life if you still want to easily see some of Egypt's most famous monuments.

Hurghada and El Gouna are the two main resort towns, while the smaller, and still being-developed, town of Marsa Alam is much farther south.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Red Sea Region

The Cairo district known as Coptic Cairo is one of the most important Christian sites in the country.

Originally the Fortress of Babylon, dating back to the Achaemenid Empire's conquest of Egypt in 525 BCE, this district is home to Cairo's oldest surviving church, synagogue, and mosque, as well as the excellent Coptic Museum, which holds the world's largest collection of Coptic Christian art and antiquities.

A section of the Fortress of Babylon's walls, which were repaired and expanded under Roman rule, are also still standing and are the entrance into the district.

Make sure to visit the Hanging Church, which holds a fine collection of icons and was built half over the Roman-era water wheel (hence the church's name). Then thread your way down the narrow alley to the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus which, according to local tradition, was built atop the site where the Holy Family with the infant Jesus lived in refuge after fleeing King Herod.

Nearby, the Ben Ezra Synagogue is famous for being the site where the Geniza documents cache were discovered.

A short walk away is the Mosque of Amr Ibn Al As, built by the Arab Muslim army commander (and later, first governor of Egypt) after conquering Egypt.

Wadi Al-Hitan is in the Fayoum area, a lush and fertile depression fed by ancient canals and surrounded by desert.

The Fayoum itself, with Lake Quran, the pottery village of Tunis, and Pharaonic ruins scattered across the hinterland, is an interesting place to visit, but the main tourist attraction here, in the nearby desert, is the UNESCO World Heritage site of Wadi Al-Hitan.

Amid the orange dunes and jagged rocks of this desert valley, a vast fossil cache of the oldest prehistoric whales (the basilosaurus and dorodontus) were discovered, hugely aiding human understanding of the evolution of whales.

Some of the finds have been kept in situ, with walking tracks radiating out from the visitor's center to skeleton sites sitting amid the sand.

In the visitor center itself, a museum dedicated to the site does an excellent job of explaining Wadi Al-Hitan's importance, and displays many of the site's other finds, including a skeleton of a basilosaurus whale that measures 18 meters long.

The Temple of Hathor at Dendara was built in the late Pharaonic era and extended during the Roman period, though Dendara itself was an important cult center from early on in the period of Ancient Egypt.

A trip here is well worth a day trip from Luxor, as the temple's youth (in comparison to other Pharaonic temples) means that it is one of the most complete surviving temples in Egypt.

The reliefs and decoration here are in an excellently preserved state. In particular, while in the hypostyle hall, which was built by the Roman Emperor Tiberius, note the columns topped by heads of the Egyptian god Hathor, and the wall reliefs of the emperor paying tribute to the Egyptian gods.

Dendara is just outside the city of Qena, 80 kilometers north from Luxor.

Secreted within the jagged northern mountains of the Red Sea coast, the Monastery of St. Anthony has been a working monastery since the 4th century, and today is still home to around 120 monks.

The Church of St. Anthony, within the fortress-like compound, has an interior of secco wall paintings that are considered one of the most important collections of Egyptian Coptic art in the world and date from around the 11th and 12th centuries. The church is also home to the tomb of St. Anthony (the father of monasticism) and is a major pilgrimage destination for Egyptian Coptic Christians.

Monks run tours of the monastery that include visiting the church and some of the monastery's gardens, as well as allowing you to head up and walk on top of the monastery's walls.

St. Anthony's Monastery is very isolated. If you don't have your own transport, the easiest way to get here is to hire a driver from Cairo or Hurghada.

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16 Best Places to Visit in Egypt

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on May 4, 2024

With a fascinating history that reaches back to the dawn of civilization, Egypt is considered the oldest travel destination on earth. The African nation’s awe-inspiring temples and pyramids have captured the imagination of travelers for thousands of years.

Although most people come to Egypt to view its ancient monuments, natural attractions beckon travelers too. The Red Sea coast is known for its coral reefs and beach resorts. A trek through the Sahara can lead visitors to refreshing freshwater spring oasis.

Map of Egypt

Such is the nature of this country, its history and landscape that traveling here is an adventure. That’s whether you do it on a budget or surrounded by luxury comforts. The best places to visit in Egypt provide an exceptional mix of history, culture, and geography.

Set between Aswan and Luxor on the West Bank of the Nile, Edfu is but a small river city. Yet among it stands one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt. Pharaonic history bursts to life at the Temple of Horus and seeps through every crevice of its sightly sandstone structure.

One of Egypt’s holiest sanctuaries, the Temple of Horus maintains much of its original structure. Those who designed it wasted no space with reliefs encrypted across the halls, showcasing stories from beyond the ancient world.

Statues representing the falcon god of Egypt, Horus guides you on a journey back to 3,000 BC and deep into the Ptolemaic era. Surrounding the temple are remnants of age-old villages, some of which once encased the temple, hiding it from plain sight.

Much has been both saved and lost in Edfu. Yet within the town’s communities is a diverse culture that has stood the test of time.

The scale of the story of Abydos is hard to grasp. A place of burial and religious significance as far back as 4000 BC, discoveries here have completely transformed the timeline of ancient Egypt. Tombs have been discovered here that existed before the 1st dynasty, including that of the earliest known pharaoh.

So why Abydos? It was here the original gods made themselves known along the desert’s edge and banks of the Nile. Those that stood here 6,000 years ago reveled in the evening light that shone from the heavens and imagined it as a staircase to the afterlife.

Between 3000 and 4000 BC, pilgrims arrived by the thousands alongside ancient leaders to leave tokens hoping to gain favor from those in command. Today, you can discover incredible burial grounds and memorials. The best being the stunning Great Temple of Seti I.

14. Saint Catherine’s Monastery

At the base of the jagged and fast-rising Sinai Mountains lays Saint Catherine’s Monastery. It’s one of the world’s oldest operating Christian monasteries. Marking the spot where Moses heard the words of God through a burning bush, telling him that he stood on holy ground.

Now over 1,400 years old, the colors of the beautiful monastery blend in with the spectacular backdrop. Its surrounding fortress walls and the main church are from the original construction, with the basilica design being a staple of the Byzantine era.

As you enter the monastery, you’ll follow centuries of the footsteps of worshipers who’ve wandered down the central nave and admired the brilliant apse mosaic. It’s one of the many samples of iconography here that dates back over a thousand years. These represent the real celebration here of art that seems immortal and with a touch of divinity.

Egypt’s premier seaside town, Dahab, attracts scuba divers the world over. Home to the famed Blue Hole along with Bells, Gabr El Bint, and Umm Sid, among others, it’s a diving destination to be revered.

Set along the Red Sea in the Gulf of Aqaba, the town of Dahab itself is a representation of those who visit most. A tourist town by definition, it’s utterly relaxing, with ample hippy charm and just enough Bedouin culture laid in to create a welcome balance.

Backed by the Sinai Desert, the colors of the Red Sea pop. The deep blues and turquoise mix with aplomb, providing just enough insight into the treasures below that you’ll wake up ready to dive.

Just north of Dahab is the Blue Hole. One of the most celebrated dive sites on earth. Just off the shore, the captivating and equally frightening sea shelf makes itself known. The reef-laden wall drops an incredible 120 meters into the abyss.

12. White Desert

Once a seabed, Egypt’s White Desert is today a postcard to the past. It’s a mesmerizing example that life never stays still. Like the seashells on the mountaintops in Yellowstone National Park, the White Desert is rich in sedimentary limestone, showcasing a time when its landscape was polar opposite.

When you first gaze upon the White Desert, you’d be forgiven for not trusting your eyes. In the morning light, the desert’s white chalk spires spin-out from the desert floor. The orange hues of the early day combine with the shades to create a spectacular dance that feels beyond surreal.

Iron pyrites and quartz dazzle within the limestone, often creating more than just stunning spires. Instead, craggy bluffs surge out of the desert floor to create mountains and thus canyons and valleys. Those made almost entirely of quartz crystals, like Crystal Mountain, take the experience in a more supernatural direction.

11. Dahshur

Dahshur is a little village south of Cairo that’s home to some lesser-known, less-crowded pyramids – you won’t find the massive queues that you’d expect at the Giza complex or Saqqara here. In fact, until 1996, it was a restricted military zone.

Like Saqqara, Dahshur was part of the ancient necropolis of Memphis. The same pharaoh behind the building of the Great Pyramid built two more complete pyramids in Dahshur. In the years after, many more pharaohs had their own pyramids built here to form a total of 11, but none of them could compete with the original ones.

Highlights include the unusually-shaped Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, both constructed during the reign of Pharaoh Sneferu (2613-2589 BC). The Red Pyramid (also known as the North Pyramid), is famously the oldest true pyramid in Egypt because it doesn’t have any steps or bends.

The Black Pyramid of Amenemhat III is another sight that can be enjoyed from the base of the Bent Pyramid. It cannot be visited, and it isn’t actually a pyramid at all; rather, a strange-looking mound of dark rock.

10. Alexandria

The second-largest city and leading seaport in Egypt, Alexandria has a prime location on the edge of the Mediterranean. Founded in 331 BC by Alexander the Great, the city was once considered the crossroads of the world. Several of Egypt’s pharaohs, including Cleopatra, ruled the country from Alexandria until the nation fell to Rome in 30 BC.

Under Roman rule, the city earned a reputation as a center for arts and literature. The city’s Roman Theater, which features stunning mosaic flooring and marble seating, is a remnant of Alexandria’s Roman occupation.

Today’s Alexandria is a dusty seaside city with an over-inflated population of 5 million, that is badly in need of a lick of paint. It’s a faded shade of its former glorious cosmopolitan self, but still worth a visit for its many cultural attractions and glimpses of its past.

Many of Alexandria’s most famous historic sites, including a library that housed more than 500,000 books, were destroyed by devastating earthquakes in the 14th century. Completed in 2002, a new library stands near the site of the original Library of Alexandria.

Exhibits of Alexandria’s long history are on display at the Alexandria National Museum. The museum’s more than 1,800 artifacts are arranged chronologically, from the Greco-Roman period to the Coptic and Islamic eras.

In ancient Alexandria, the most prominent feature was the Lighthouse of Alexandria, a towering structure that was considered one the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The lighthouse crumbled into sea during an earthquake along with much of the ancient metropolis. Scuba divers can still view massive stones and statues lying on the seabed floor.

9. Hurghada

Hurghada is a resort town on the edge of the Red Sea, easily reached via a bumpy six-hour bus ride from Cairo. It offers a more popular alternative to Sharm El Sheikh and Dahab and is now one of Egypt’s most-visited tourist destinations. But that’s understandable, as there’s plenty to love about Hurghada with its many beaches and warm waters.

Once a simple fishing village, this famous resort town has hundreds of high-end hotels along the seafront, yet the focus is still mainly on relaxation. This section of the Red Sea is renowned for its excellent scuba diving opportunities, with gorgeous colorful coral reefs to discover just offshore. Other watersports, like snorkeling, windsurfing, and jet-skiing, are just as popular.

For those who prefer to admire the magical marine life from above the water, there are many places offering glass-bottom boat trips, so you can usually shop around to find the best offer.

Hurghada is extremely popular with Eastern Europeans and especially Russians, hundreds of thousands of whom visit each year. Many tourists choose to combine their holiday here with visits to other prominent locations along the Nile Valley, including the relatively nearby city of Luxor.

Egypt’s southernmost city, Aswan is another major city nestled along the banks of the Nile River. However, due to its location and size, it offers a much more relaxed alternative to big cities Luxor or Cairo.

Although its own monuments are minor compared to Luxor’s, Aswan is the base for excursions to the temples of Philae and Kabasha and to the Sun Temple of Ramses II at Abu Simbel, to the south. It is also the best starting point for excursions to the temples of Kom Ombo and Edfu, between Aswan and Luxor.

Aswan itself has one of the most beguiling settings in Egypt. Granite cliffs overlook the Nile’s First Cataract, the first of a series of shallow white water rapids broken by rocky islets that stretch north to Khartoum. Home to a large community of Nubian people, it was once the gateway to Africa in ancient Egypt. You can learn more about these people at the Nubian Museum, which is filled with treasures and relics that were kept safe from the flood of Nubia.

Aswan is famous for its granite quarries that were used to build Luxor’s many obelisks. Some of these unfinished obelisks can still be seen in the city today, such as the largest known ancient obelisk in the world located in the south of Aswan that was intended to be over 40 meters tall.

7. Siwa Oasis

Located near Egypt’s western border, Siwa Oasis remained culturally isolated from the rest of the country until late in the 19th century. Surrounded by the Egyptian Sand Sea, the Siwan people developed their own unique customs as well as their own language, Siwi, a Berber dialect.

The small community was not unknown to the outside world, however, even centuries ago. The famous Temple of the Oracle of Amun, believed to have been built in the 6th or 7th century B.C., made the oasis a place of pilgrimage. The most famous visitor to seek the oracle’s wisdom was Alexander the Great.

Today, Siwa Oasis is an increasingly popular travel destination. Vacationers come to the city to enjoy the town’s many freshwater springs, to stroll through acres of palm groves and to explore ancient mud-built fortresses and remnants of Siwa’s Greco-Roman past. Bubbling springs are in abundance here. One of the most popular is a stone pool known as Cleopatra’s Bath. A more secluded pool is located on an island in Lake Siwa. Visitors reach Fatnas Spring by navigating a narrow causeway.

Cafés in the small town of around 23,000 people are designed for relaxation as well. Local and visitors alike enjoy sipping tea and smoking from a communal hookah. A trip to the local marketplace gives visitors the opportunity to explore the city’s unique culture and to sample dates and olives grown in the region.

6. Sharm el-Sheikh

Sharm el Sheikh is one of the most popular resort towns in Egypt, located at the tip of the Sinai Peninsula. With its warm, deep blue water and great golden beaches , Sharm (as it’s affectionately called) is a popular package holiday destination with its own airport.

But this old fishing village has so much more to offer than simply sunbathing. Nicknamed the City of Peace after the countless international peace talks that have been hosted here, Sharm el Sheikh is one of the best scuba diving spots in the world. Don’t miss the chance to snorkel or dive the extraordinary reefs around Tiran Island and Ras Mohammed National Park, home to some astonishingly colorful marine life.

Despite being the perfect spot for a fly and flop holiday, those looking for adventure will find it here too. Sharm el Sheikh’s at the southern tip of the peninsula gives easy access into the desert, where you can visit Bedouin camps and climb Mount Sinai, an ancient biblical spot known for its spectacular view of the sunrise.

The name Saqqara refers to an Egyptian village, but more importantly, an age-old necropolis with a scattering of both large and smaller satellite pyramids spread across a dusty desert plateau. Buried beneath the sand overlooking the Nile Valley until the 19th-century, Saqqara has since been undergoing a significant restoration process.

Named after Sokar, the Memphite god of the dead, Saqqara served as a cemetery for the ancient city of Memphis for thousands of years and is the largest archeological site in Egypt. As such, it’s home to hundreds of fascinating tombs and burial sites for pharaohs and other Egyptian royals.

The highlight of Saqqara is the Step Pyramid of Djoser – the oldest pyramid on Earth. You’ll find some of the best views of the Nile from the top of this pyramid, accessible via a wooden ramp when the gate is open. Try one of the many doors and explore any that are unlocked – you never know what kind of mysteries lie behind them. The Pyramid of Teti with its fascinating Pyramid Texts and the Mastaba of Ti with its incredible reliefs are two more must-sees.

4. Abu Simbel

Set over a glistening Lake Nasser, the Temples of Abu Simbel are a collection of some of the most stunning monuments in Egypt. It’s an ancient engineering marvel that includes the Temple of Hathor and the Great Temples of Ramses II.

It took a stroke of genius to create such an incredible site, yet an even better one to save it. When the construction of the Aswan High Dam was completed in the 1960s the 3,200-year-old site lay in the path of the rising waters of Lake Nasser. The edifices and their temples were dismantled and reassembled brick by brick on a bank high above the reservoir.

Ramses, the larger of the two temples, boasts a quartet of colossal statues that tower over visitors at 21 meters tall. On the 22nd of October and February, the sun shines through the entrance and into the inner sanctuary where a statue of Ramses the II shimmers in the morning light.

The smaller Temple of Hathor honors the queen Nefertari and has six exterior statues each about 10 meters tall. About a 3 hours bus drive from Aswan, a day trip to view the massive temples is a can’t-miss activity.

This dusty capital city is one of the most sprawling cities on Earth, home to more than 17 million people. Built on the banks of the Nile River, Cairo is a medieval Islamic city with an eternally hazy horizon and beige-colored buildings topped with TV satellites.

Built near the ancient capital city of Memphis, modern Cairo is a popular starting point for cruises up the Nile and for explorations of the Pyramids at Giza just outside the city’s limits. But there is so much to do within this enormous city itself.

At the world-renowned Egyptian Museum of Tahrir Square, visitors can get a close-up view of the treasure of Tutankhamun as well as mummies and other artifacts from Egypt’s ancient past.

The city’s most historic mosques are worth a visit as well. Dating back to the 9th century when the Fatimids made the city their capital, the Ibn Tulun Mosque is the oldest in Cairo. The stunning Citadel and Mosque of Mohammed Ali Pasha, also known as the Alabaster Mosque for its gleaming white edifice, was named after the man who is regarded as the founder of modern Egypt.

When you’ve tired of Cairo’s historical sights, get a true taste of Egypt by immersing yourself in everyday life. Embrace the crowds while shopping at one of the city’s chaotic markets like the Khan al-Khalili bazaar, smoke some shisha amongst locals at a local Ahwaz or escape the heat of the inner city entirely with a breezy felucca trip along the Nile on a traditional Egyptian sailing boat.

One thousand years after the construction of the Great Pyramids , the New Kingdom arose in Egypt, and power shifted from the ancient capital of Memphis to Thebes in the south, the site of modern-day Luxor. Enriched by gold mined in the deserts of Nubia and transported to the city on the river Nile, Thebes became the country’s cultural and political hub.

Today, the mid-sized city Luxor is known as the “world’s largest open air museum” and is one of Egypt’s most popular travel destinations. There’s so much to see and do in Luxor – from temples to tombs and everything in between. You’ll need to allow a couple of days to do it all justice.

Most of the Luxor attractions are located either on the East Bank or the West Bank of the Nile. Famous highlights on the East Bank include Karnak Temple – also known as Ipet-isu (‘Most Select of Places’) – an extraordinary temple city that took over 2,000 years to build. Although the entire Karnak complex consists of four main parts, the main structure known as the Temple of Amun is the only one that is open to the general public.

The largest religious building ever built, the temple’s pillared hall is a breathtaking stone forest of 134 columns that stand as high as 21 meters (69 feet). Stroll.

The beautifully illuminated Luxor Temple is a particularly stunning temple to explore at night. On the other side of the Nile, the West Bank boasts the white-washed scenery of the Valley of the Kings, home to many elaborate and colorfully-muraled tombs, pits, and burial chambers. Some of the tombs are included in your ticket entrance, but prepare to pay more to visit King Tut’s tomb – the highlight – the final resting place of King Tutankhamun’s mummy.

1. Giza Necropolis

The Giza Plateau is probably one of the most recognizable destinations on Earth. Located on a desert plateau to the west of the capital of Cairo, Giza is its own city but in recent years it’s grown so much that it feels like another district of ever-expanding Cairo.

While once a humble carriage track, Giza is now one of the most touristy parts of Egypt, home to upmarket hotels, big-name restaurants, giant shopping malls, and pulsing nightclubs. But most famously, Giza is the closest part of the city to the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, which is why most people center themselves around this neighborhood for at least a few days during their trip to Cairo.

The three main pyramids of Giza are an ancient necropolis that were built as tombs for three Egyptian pharaohs – Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. A scattering of satellite pyramids in the area were built as a place to bury their wives and royal family members.

The Great Pyramid of Khufu (Cheops) is the one you can enter if you’re happy to pay extra. Alternatively, you can take a camel ride out into the desert and get a photo with all of the pyramids in the background before heading to the Sphinx for the stock standard Sphinx-kissing tourist photo.

If you happen to be staying close to Giza overnight, don’t miss the Pyramids Sound and Light Show. It’s exactly what it sounds like, but it’s a great way to appreciate the Great Pyramid a little differently. While you’ll have to pay for a seat at the official light show, if you have dinner on the balcony of the nearby Pizza Hut, you can watch both the sunset and the show for free.

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Reader interactions.

May 4, 2019 at 12:29 pm

We just came back from Egypt. It has been the best vacation we have had, very interesting history, beautiful sites, amazing culture. Two weeks were not enough to see everything. We are planning our next trip to see the north side of Egypt. It is an amazing place to visit! This is a country with more history than any another country.

July 12, 2016 at 9:45 am

Where is Marsa Allam, Marsa Matrouh, Newabaa, Saint Katherine and Taba

July 31, 2015 at 8:34 am

just visited Egypt this summer. What a tremendous culture they had so many centuries ago and well worth seeing. I highly recommend finding a good tour company for this one! Travel can be confusing, there are also some language barriers and safety concerns.

April 16, 2015 at 10:05 pm

There are so many places to travel to Egypt. This summer we might be able to go to Egypt.

July 30, 2014 at 7:29 am

Oh man, you can miss El gouna….It is like heaven!

March 22, 2014 at 1:53 am

they are very beautiful and nice pictures

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10 Best Places to Visit in Egypt (Can't Be Beaten for First-Timers)

Visiting Egypt and not sure where to start? We've listed 10 of the most popular destinations within Egypt to help you figure out where to go on your Egypt tour.

The top destinations listed below are:

• 1. Giza (Pyramids of Giza)
• 2. Luxor (Valley of the Kings)
• 3. Cairo (Egyptian Museum)
• 4. Aswan (Nile Cruise)
• 5. Abu Simbel (Temples of Philae and Ramses II)
• 6. Dahshur (Less-crowded Pyramids)
• 7. Sharm el-Sheikh (Beach and Diving)
• 8. Saqqara (the Oldest Pyramid)
• 9. The Siwa Oasis (Beautiful Landscapes)
• 10. Alexandria (Lighthouse of Alexandria)

1. Giza: Home to the Pyramids of Giza

Probably one of the best-known spots in Egypt , if not the entire world, Giza is a magical sight. It is home to both the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, making it a must-see on any trip to Egypt , and most visitors' most desired stop on a tour of Egypt.

Located (around 30 minutes by car) to the west of Cairo , Egypt's capital, Giza is its own city but with Cairo's rapid growth has blended into Cairo's suburbs. Its three main pyramids were the tombs of Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure, three ancient Egyptian pharaohs.

Khufu's pyramid is the one you can also enter at the moment. Only 300 visitors a day are allowed in though, so you'll have to plan properly. Contact us to make appointment.

The Pyramid of Khufu , largest pyramid in Egypt, is also known as the Great Pyramid of Giza or the Pyramid of Cheops. It was built in 2560 BC after between 10 and 20 years of construction, it is believed.

Giza's second-biggest pyramid is the Pyramid of Khafre , "the sister structure of Khufu". It looks bigger but being built on a bedrock upstand gave it a height advantage. It is steeper, giving it a more pointed top.

• Top sights : Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
• Recommended visiting duration : 1 day*
• Tour recommendation : 10–Day Egypt Tour with Red Sea and Nile Cruise or 1-Day Egypt Pyramids and Museums Tour

2. Luxor: F rom Ancient Tombs to Vast Temple Complexes

Luxor is a city located on the east bank of the Nile in the south of Egypt . This is where Thebes was, the pharaoh's capital of between the 16th and 11th centuries BC, which explains why there are so many amazing sights to see — from ancient tombs to vast temple complexes.

Karnak Temple , known also as Ipet-isu, was built over a period of around 2,000 years (20th–1st century BC). Of its four parts, only one is currently open to the public: the Temple of Amun. It is the largest religious building ever built, encompassing 134 columns standing 21 meters (69 feet)high, making it an impressive sight to see.

At night , be sure to visit Luxor Temple , on the east bank of the Nile River, the city's second biggest temple. This temple is different in that it is not dedicated to a cult god or a pharaoh in death , but instead to the rejuvenation of kingship . Historians speculate that it might have been the case that pharaohs of Egypt were crowned there.

Another popular sight in Luxor is the Valley of the Kings . This is where you'll find many of the beautiful tombs and burial chambers, including the famous King Tutankhamun's mummy, some of which are open to the public ( different tombs will open during different time periods to ensure they are all able to be preserved properly ).

• Top sights : Karnak Temple and Valley of the Kings
• Recommended visiting duration : 2–3 days
• Tour recommendation : 8–Day Egypt Essence with Nile Cruise Tour

Get to know more information about planning a trip to Egypt >>>

3. Cairo: Home to the Egyptian Museum

As the capital of Egypt , Cairo is a bustling hub best known as being home to the Egyptian Museum , probably one of the most incredible museums in the entire world. It is full of ancient Egyptian antiquities, storing over 120,000 items.

Other things to do in Cairo include seeing the Nile riverbank, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali built in the 1800s, as well as the famous Tahrir Square.

For shopping we recommend going to Khan Al-Khalili, a bazaar in an older part of town, where you'll also be able to get a taste of local life as there are plenty of shisha cafés and restaurants selling local dishes.

• Top sight : The Egyptian Museum
• Recommended visiting duration : 1–2 days*
• Tour recommendation : 11–Day Off-the-Beaten-Track Egypt Tour

*Please note that the Egyptian Museum is set to move from Cairo to the Grand Egyptian Museum in nearby Giza around November 2022 (this date is estimated and has been delayed a few times). Once the museum moves, we recommend spending an extra day in Giza, and a day less in Cairo.

Suggested read: How to Avoid Crowds When Traveling in Egypt

4. Aswan: A Popular Spot to Take a Boat Trip

In the south of Egypt, you'll find the city of Aswan. On the Nile, it's a popular spot to take a boat trip, and the city has a much calmer atmosphere than Luxor and Cairo , making it popular with tourists starting or ending their Nile cruises . From there, you'll see beautiful cliffs overlooking the Nile, which during ancient times was the entrance to the rest of Africa.

Aswan is often used as a base to visit the Sun Temple of Ramses II in Abu Simbel , listed underneath as the 5th best place. It is also a good starting point to visit the temples of Kom Ombo and Adfu .

• Top sight : Nile cruise tour
• Recommended visiting duration : 1–2 days
• Tour recommendation : 8-Day Egypt Essence with Nile Cruise Tour or 10-Day Egypt Tour with Red Sea and Nile Cruise

Must read: The 10 Worst Tourist Traps to Avoid in Egypt

5. Abu Simbel

Approximately three hours from Aswan , Abu Simbel, near the Sudan border, contains two massive temples : the Great Temple and the Small Temple. The temples have beautiful exteriors, which are unique in that they are cut into two djacent cliffs externally and internally. This was done in the 13th century BC during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II.

These temples were relocated in 1968 as part of a UNESCO campaign. They would have been inundated after the creation of Lake Nasser behind the Aswan High Dam. Carefully moved in parts over 4 years by an international team of engineers, it was considered one of the greatest challenges and feats of archeological engineering. That story alone makes the visit worth it.

• Top sights : Temples of Philae and Ramses II
• Recommended visiting duration : 1 day
• Tour recommendation : 11-Day Off-the-Beaten-Track Egypt Tour

6. Dahshur: Lesser-known and Less-crowded Pyramids

Dahshur, a small village approximately 40 kilometers (25 mi) south of Cairo , is where you'll find some lesser-known and thus less-crowded pyramids . Dahshur was part of the ancient necropolis of Memphis.

The best-known pyramids in Dahshur include the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, both of which were built by Pharaoh Sneferu (between 2613 and 2589 BC). These pyramids were part of Egypt's journey to building pyramids, demonstrating the transition from building step-sided pyramids to gathering up the knowledge that helped them build smooth-sided pyramids . It is this experience that led them to be able to build the Great Pyramid of Giza.

• Top sights : The Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid
• Tour recommendation : Contact us to include Dahshur in your own private tour

7. Sharm el-Sheikh: Beach Allure and Scuba Diving

If you want to include some time to rest and recharge during your time in Egypt, Sharm el-Sheikh is the place to do it. Known as the most popular resort town in Egypt , Sharm el-Sheikh boasts warm , deep blue water and beautiful sandy beaches along the Red Sea.

While historically Sharm el-Sheikh was an important naval base, today it is primarily known for its beach allure and scuba diving potential , as it is one of the best spots to get under the water in the world, home to beautiful corals and colorful fish .

This is also a great place to start a trip to Mount Sinai from, as well as Egypt's desert Bedouin camps .

• Top sights : Tiran Island and Ras Mohammed National Park
• Recommended visiting duration : 2–7 days (depends on if you are a scuba diver, and how long you would like to enjoy the beach for)
• Tour recommendation : Contact us to include Sharm el-Sheikh in your own private tour

Suggested read: Is Egypt Safe for Travelers?

8. Saqqara: The Largest Archeological Site in Egypt

A village close to Giza , Saqqara holds vast ancient burial grounds for many Egyptian royalty, which recently featured in the popular Netflix documentary "Secrets of the Saqqara Tomb". It also has pyramids, making it the largest archeological site in Egypt . It was an important complex for approximately 3,000 years.

Most tourists will visit Saqqara's highlight: the Step Pyramid of Djoser , as it is the oldest pyramid in Egypt . From there, you'll catch some of the best views of the Nile, too.

• Top sights : The Step Pyramid of Djoser
• Tour recommendation : Contact us to include Saqqara in your own private tour

9. The Siwa Oasis: A Destination for Pilgrims

The Siwa Oasis, just 50 km (30 mi) east from the Libyan border, is popular with tourists because of its vast, beautiful landscapes , freshwater springs , as well as historical significance .

The oasis was home to an oracle of Amun Ra , a major ancient Egyptian deity. The ruins of the Temple of Amun, built in the 6th or 7th century BC, it is thought, made the Siwa Oasis a destination for pilgrims . One was Alexander the Great, who sought wisdom there.

• Top sights : Lake Siwa and the Temple of Amun
• Tour recommendation : Contact us to include the Siwa Oasis in your own private tour

10. Alexandria: Home to the Lighthouse of Alexandria

As Egypt's second largest city, Alexandria's location along the Mediterranean gave it an important role in history. It even served as Egypt's capital after Memphis , and before Cairo .

The city was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, and was also the location from which several ancient Egyptian pharaohs ruled Egypt, including Cleopatra.

Alexandria gained fame for having one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Lighthouse of Alexandria , which was destroyed in an earthquake, and the Great Library , one of the largest in the ancient world, which unfortunately burned down.

A city of 5 million, it is a dusty seaside city that doesn't quite look like it would have done in its glorious past, but is still worth visiting because of its history.

Its museum, the Alexandria National Museum , has beautiful artifacts dating back to the Greco-Roman era.

If you are a scuba diver , you'll also be able to see the stones from the famous Lighthouse of Alexandria in the sea.

• Top sights : The Alexandria National Museum
• Tour recommendation : 8-Day Egypt Essence with Nile Cruise Tour

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Egypt welcomes you with its mighty Nile and magnificent monuments, the beguiling desert and lush delta, and with its long past and welcoming, story-loving people.

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Egypt and beyond

Amazing Places to Visit in Egypt

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: November 13, 2023

Who hasn’t dreamed of going to Egypt? An ancient and mystical land, Egypt is one of the oldest civilizations on earth. With a 5000-year history housing two of the world’s seven ancient wonders, Egypt offers the romance and intrigue of a bygone era of travel. What was once overly crowded with tourists, is seeing fewer foreigners these days offering intrepid travelers a chance to visit amazing places in Egypt without the crowds.

Table of Contents

Best Places To Visit In Egypt

Egypt is full of famous monuments, and remarkable landscapes. The fabled Sahara Desert and the legendary Nile River are top attractions to see, not to mention its world-class diving, and incredible beach vacations. Egypt has been the gateway to Africa for millennia. Many people know of the Pyramids of Giza but there are many other iconic places to visit in Egypt that will excite even the most seasoned travelers. Also, check out Fun Facts About Egypt

Off the Beaten Path Places to Visit in Egypt

Egypt has it all. Home to the only remaining Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, countess UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and incredible pyramids it is a dream destination that will leave a lasting impression for years to come. We could start with the top tourist attractions in Cairo in this post, but we thought we’d introduce you to some lesser-known destinations before we get into the famous monuments of Egypt. So what are the best places to visit in Egypt? Let’s find out!

1. White Desert National Park

We arranged a three-day tour to the White Desert from Cairo. If there is one unique thing you should do in Egypt, it is to see the White Desert. Giant white chalky rock formations jut out of the desert landscape creating an incredible scene.

Brought on by erosion, these powdery mounds create the illusion of massive mushrooms, eagles and turkeys, and even one that looks like a camel. Having a true Bedouin experience, we camped out under the stars surrounded by standing stones. You can book an overnight to to the desert from Cairo.

2. Siwa Oasis

Siwa takes you far off the beaten path near the border of Libya. In the middle of the Siwa Oasis is an 13th century walled fortified town built by mud brick and rock salt. It is in ruins today, but a tour through the abandoned buildings is a highlight of any trip to Egypt. It is here that there is plenty of desert adventures from dune buggy rides to sand boarding.

3. Abu Simbel

Located on Lake Nassar Abut Simbel is Ramesses II’s imposing temple. It was built to show the power of Egypt. Originally located on The Nile, Abu Simbel needed to be moved when the Egyptians created the Aswan High Dam project. It would have been engulfed by water never to be seen again until the government came to its rescue.

Abu Simbel was taken apart piece by piece and rebuilt it high on the banks of the lake Nassar. We saw Abul Simbel en route to the Sudan where we crossed the border to Wadi Halfa. It is a truly remarkable place to visit, taking you off the beaten path in Egypt.

Places to Visit in Egypt – Cairo

4. pyramids of giza.

I know I said there are more places to visit in Egypt than the pyramids of Giza, but they must not be missed! Weaving through the back streets of Cairo on our hired camels we felt as if we stepped back in time a thousand years. Markets were in a flurry with customers and we could barely catch a glimpse of the ancient pyramids. But then we turned a corner and gasped at the view in front of us. Read more: 27 Amazing Historical Places In The World

The main pyramids of Giza are the Pyramid of Khufu (also known as the Great Pyramid), the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure. These structures are among the most iconic and enduring symbols of Ancient Egypt, representing the zenith of pyramid construction during the Old Kingdom.

The Great Pyramid of Khufu is the largest and oldest of the three, originally standing at 146.6 meters (481 feet) tall. The Pyramid of Khafre, slightly smaller, includes the Sphinx nearby. The Pyramid of Menkaure is the smallest of the three main pyramids. Together, they form a complex that has fascinated people for millennia and remains a major archaeological and tourist site.

The Great Pyramid of Giza doesn’t seem real as it towers over the barren desert. This is the only remaining structure of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World. From the Great Sphinx to

We have visited them two other times and hired a private guide to take us on a tour of the pyramids and the Sphinx. Each visit is just as exciting as the first. You can now book a guided camel and quad tour of the desert and pyramids.

5. Islamic Cairo

Islamic Cairo is known as the “City of Citadels” with many mosques to visit including the Sultan Hussan Mosque and the Alabaster Mosque aka, The Mosque of Muhammad Ali. It is the most visited mosque in all of Egypt and with good reason.

Get lost in the streets of the Khan el-Khalili bazaar and tour of the Cairo Citadel.

Where to Stay in Cairo

• We stayed at the Intercontinental Hotel Cairo and it was fabulous.
• If you want something cheaper, we also stayed at the Dahab Hostel and loved it.

6. Egyptian Museum

It took us three visits to finally enter the Egyptian Museum and it didn’t disappoint. Other museums around the world have Egyptian artifacts but this takes it to the next level.

It is worth touring the museum because when visiting the temples of Egypt, there is nothing inside they have all been moved to the safety of the museum where you can see them with your own eyes. See our list of the best ancient ruins in the world

Ancient Egypt Along The Nile

7. valley of the kings.

We all know about King Tut and it is here that you can visit his tomb. In fact, you can visit all of the Kings of the Pharaoh’s tombs. Ramesses, I-V, and everyone in between were entombed in extravagant tombs filled with riches and jewels on the West Bank of the Nile.

You won’t see the treasures in these tombs today, but you will see the paintings and hieroglyphics drawn on the walls of these massive chambers that are as big as a house. The tombs are impressive but the valley itself is even more incredible. I can see why the ancient Egyptians chose this as the resting place of their most important leaders.

The Tomb of Queen Nefertari

The Valley of the Queens is not as impressive as the Valley of the Kings, but The Tomb of Queen Nefertari is a standout. Nefertari, the beloved wife of Ramesses II, was honored with one of the most beautiful tombs, indicative of her esteemed position.

Known for its vibrant colors and intricate detail, the tomb provides an awe-inspiring look at Egyptian artistry and offers a glimpse into the past, displaying what tombs looked like over 3,000 years ago? ?. The preservation efforts and the limited visitor capacity further emphasize its delicate grandeur and the importance of conservation? ?.

8. Egypt Bucket List – The Tomb of Tutankhamun

When visiting Egypt, you will check off many items on your travel bucket list. I know we did! For us, it was sleeping in the desert for the first time, sailing along the fabled Nile River, seeing the Great Pyramids with our own eyes, and visiting King Tut’s tomb. We felt like Indiana Jones!

9. Temple of Hatshepsut

This impressive temple is dedicated to the female King Hatshepsut. She was the leader of the Pharaohs for 27 years. Hatshepsut’s monument rivals even the greatest of kings.

Built between 1490-1460 BC it is one of the most impressive temples in Egypt. It is impossible to imagine that the Nile reached the grounds of this temple complex and that the area surrounding it was lush and green. Today the desert is dry, but the mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut is no less impressive.

10. Luxor Temple

The Luxor Temple is the star attraction of Luxor located on the banks of the Nile it is one of the best-preserved of all the temples in Egypt.

11. Karnak Temple

But the Karnak Temple is also a must-see. The massive site of ancient ruins is awe-inspiring. Walking through the Obelisks and columns will take your breath away. We took a Felucca cruise to see the city from the water. Sailing along the fabled Nile, I wondered exactly what bank Moses was left on. Read more: 10 Amazing Temples of Egypt – That We’ve Seen

12. The Mortuary Temple of Ramesses III

The Mortuary Temple of Ramesses III at Medinet Habu is a formidable New Kingdom structure on the West Bank of Luxor. It is celebrated for its grandeur, and extensive and well-preserved wall reliefs, including those depicting the defeat of the Sea Peoples during Ramesses III’s reign? ?.

The temple’s design is orthodox, resembling the Ramesseum, and it includes chapels of various Divine Adoratrices of Amun. The history etched into its walls and the connection to the royal palace via the “Window of Appearances” make it a profound visit for those interested in Egypt’s illustrious past.

13. The Nile River

Nothing is more magical than taking a Nile Cruise. The Nile River is the longest river in the world stretching  6,695km!

We also took a felucca along the Nile. Camels and goats walked along the river banks and the day was silent as we fulfilled yet another one of our dreams. Many one to three-day cruises set sail from Luxor to Aswan and Aswan is a great place to spend a couple of days.

14. Aswan Nile River Cruise

It is from Aswan that tours to Abu Simbel can be booked. Aswan is located on the Nile in the South of Egypt just before the journey over Lake Nassar. It’s a popular town with ships setting sail each day, but be sure to spend a few days exploring.

There is the Nubian Museum, day trips to Abu Simbel, The Temple of Isis, The Aswan Dam, and Elephant Island waiting to be explored.

15. Temple of Kom Ombo

The Temple of Kom Ombo stands out as a must-visit site in Egypt due to its unique double design, dedicated to two sets of deities: Sobek, the crocodile god of fertility and creator of the world, and Horus, the falcon-headed god of the sky.

This architectural marvel offers a rare glimpse into the religious duality of ancient Egyptian worship. Located on the banks of the Nile, it provides stunning views and an immersive experience into the historical world of pharaohs. The temple is also famed for its detailed carvings, including the only known depiction of ancient surgical instruments, making it a treasure trove for history enthusiasts and culture vultures alike. Read more: 10 Amazing Temples of Egypt – That We’ve Seen

16. Red Pyramid

The Red Pyramid is a lesser-known pyramid of Egypt, but it was our favorite. We crawled inside the pyramid to see the interior of the complex to see what it was like deep in the chamber. The Red Pyramid is far less visited than the Pyramids of Giza. While you are there, you can also visit the nearby Step Pyramid. Read more: The Red Pyramid of Egypt – Experience it Inside and Out

17. The Bent Pyramid of Egypt

Located in Saqqara near the Step Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, the Bent Pyramid is believed to be the first attempt at building a smooth-sided pyramid.

While it didn’t work, the large pyramid has lasted through the centuries with its curved sides rather than the straight points of the other Pyramids of Egypt.

Sinai Peninsula and the Red Sea Coast

We cycled more than 500 km from Cairo to Safaga taking in the beauty of Egypt. It was a wonderful stop to sit by the Red Sea taking in the balmy breeze. Besides being famous for diving, there are plenty of things to do in Safaga with luxury resorts, fine dining, boutique shopping, and museums, it is a wonderful place to visit in Egypt. If you enjoy scuba diving, this is the place to do it, but there is also great snorkeling and even glass bottom boats.

18. Sharm El-Sheikh

Sharm El-Sheikh is Egypt’s most popular resort destination located on the Sinai Peninsula. It is yet another excellent spot for scuba diving, but with its convenient location, it is also a great spot for adventure.

19. Ras Mohammed National Park

Ras Mohammed National Park is an exceptional destination for visitors who seek both terrestrial and marine wonders. The park is celebrated for its crystal-clear waters that are ideal for snorkeling and diving, especially from March to May, when sea conditions are perfect for encountering diverse marine life like dolphins, turtles, and sharks? ?.

Visitors can engage in a variety of activities such as hiking, bird watching, boat trips, and simply relaxing on the picturesque beaches? ?. With its vibrant coral reefs, abundant wildlife, and a plethora of activities, Ras Mohammed National Park provides an unparalleled experience in one of Egypt’s most beautiful natural settings, making it a compelling addition to any travel itinerary? ?.

20. Hurghada

Hurghada is taking over Sharm El-Sheikh as a popular spot for fun in the sun. Besides lounging on the beach, visitors can dive into a plethora of activities such as snorkeling in crystal clear waters, exploring the vibrant underwater life at sites like the Straits of Gubal and Gota Abu Ramada, and taking boat trips to the serene Giftun Islands? ?.

Adventure enthusiasts can also indulge in desert safaris by jeep or quad bike, dine with picturesque views at Hurghada Marina, or immerse in local culture with Bedouin dinner tours. With such a wide array of activities set against the backdrop of stunning natural beauty, Hurghada is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

21. El Gouna

For a luxury escape in Egypt, El Gouna is a popular holiday destination. It’s a popular spot for diving in the Red Sea, chilling out at the beach, and dolphin spotting. From five-star resorts to fine dining, it’s a wonderful escape after having an adventure in Egypt. Read more El Gouna, Egypt – the Perfect Beach Holiday

21. Saint Catherine’s Monastery

Located at the foot of Mount Sinai, a visit to Saint Catherine’s Monastery is a must-visit when in the Sinai Peninsula. It is the very place where God spoke to Moses as a burning bush. (If you believe in that sort of thing). Dating back to the 500s AD, this is the oldest continuously working Christian monastery in the world.

22. Mount Sinai

Mount Sinai, also known as Jebel Musa, is the biblical mountain in Egypt where it is believed that Moses received the Ten Commandments from God. It is a significant site in the Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions.

Many tourists and pilgrims trek to the summit of Mount Sinai, where they can enjoy stunning sunrise views and visit the small chapel and mosque located there. The hike is considered moderately challenging and is often done overnight to witness the sunrise from the peak.

23. Alexandria

Located on the Mediterranean Sea, Alexandria is where East meets West. Alexandria is the second largest city in Egypt and is one of the top places to visit. Founded by Alexander the Great, Alexandria housed one of the seven ancient wonders of the world, the Alexandria Lighthouse. Psst: The Great Pyramids are another ancient wonder. Read more: Everything You Need to Know About Alexandria, Egypt

One of our favorite places to see was the Alexandria Library. The new and modern building is located on the site of the original ancient library which was the largest collection of books in the ancient world.

And these are the best places to visit in Egypt. Egypt is a spectacular destination that everyone should visit once in their lifetime. For its ancient history and historical monuments, this is a trip you will never forget.

• Discovering Egypt: A Photo Story
• 10 Reasons Why El Gouna, Egypt is the Perfect Beach Holiday
• Everything You Need to Know About Alexandria, Egypt

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11 thoughts on “Amazing Places to Visit in Egypt”

Awesome post! Its my child dream go to Pyramids of Giza. I watched a lot of movies with this place and its wonderful.

Egypt is one of my dream destinations! Great read and fabulous photos!

I’ve been there three times, and I’d go again tomorrow. There’s absolutely no sense of ‘been there; done that’ about it. Still have to see Alexandria, St Catherine’s Monastery and the Red Sea resorts.

And, although I’ve seen Cairo and the Pyramids, (twice) done a Luxor-Aswan AND an Aswan-Luxor cruise plus a Lake Nasser cruise, I’d still do any of these again.

It’s fascinating to see the juxtaposition between the pyramids and the city in the distance. What an incredible place, with so many layers of complexity.

….Ah, beautiful islands! I think we must be on the same wavelength, wanting to think of warm places this time of year………

I want to visit Egypt SO MUCH! I’m still convincing Kali, but I think I’m close. 😉

Its a shame we will miss you in Egypt by a day or 2. We are arriving on Sat afternoon for 10 days! Hopefully get some amazing photos like you guys.

Revisiting places in my mind is one of the most enjoyable parts of travelling!

Ahhhh these pictures make me want to book a ticket right now!

Wow! Great pictures!

The White Desert looks amazing – I haven’t heard of that before but will add it to the ever growing list of places to visit.

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10 best places to visit in Egypt for an unforgettable holiday

Egypt is a treasure trove for lovers of history, aquatic adventures and culture. find your way to the best spots with our guide.

O ne of the cradles of civilisation, Egypt packs in more history than you can shake a textbook at. Home to the only surviving wonder of the ancient world, The Great Pyramid of Giza, this country is positively littered with pyramids, tombs, temples — and a new breed of museums to show off all the discoveries. One of the best ways to see Egypt’s ancient history is to take a cruise on the Nile, the world’s longest river.

But Egypt’s appeal extends far beyond its ancient sites. Scuba divers in the know come to marvel at the Red Sea reefs, and the country has long been a winter sun favourite for shivering Europeans, with hundreds of resorts lining the eastern coast. Most visits to Egypt start in Cairo, though more direct flights are arriving from Europe and the Middle East to Luxor, Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh. Here’s our pick of the best places to visit in Egypt.

Main photo: a visitor feeds a camel in one of the Nubian villages of Aswan (Alamy)

This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue

As chaotic as it is captivating, the Egyptian capital of Cairo is one of the largest cities in Africaand the Middle East. At the heart of downtown on Tahrir Square is the dusty pink Egyptian Museum, packed to the rafters with display cases of ancient artefacts, though the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza could steal its crown (and a lot of its treasures, including the famous 23-karat solid gold death mask of Tutankhamun).

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To the east, the neighbourhood of Islamic Cairo is a showcase of architecture through the ages, with mosques, madrassas (religious schools) and the maze-like medieval lanes of Khan el-Khalili, where traders have been touting their wares since the 14th century.

Across the Nile River is the main reason many travellers come to Cairo. The Pyramids of Giza crown a plateau and are visible from elevated points in the city on clear days. The Great Sphinx lies protectively at their feet, and the brave can even scramble around inside the steamy structures.

Make it happen

Stay in the centre of it all at the Nile Ritz-Carlton, whose central location backs onto Tahrir Square and the Egyptian Museum.

All Egypt itineraries with Exodus start in Cairo with a visit to the Pyramids of Giza.

The Pyramids of Giza certainly hog the spotlight, but they aren’t the only pyramids in the vicinity. Take a day trip from Cairo to Saqqara and Dahshur to see the Step Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, two even earlier examples that show how the ancient Egyptians worked to perfect the architecture. Part of the vast Saqqara necropolis, the Step Pyramid of Djoser was constructed in the 27th century BC for a Third Dynasty pharaoh, some 120 years before Giza.

Nearby in Dahshur, the Red Pyramid and Bent Pyramid are a step closer to obtaining the smooth pyramid sides seen at Giza, though the maths weren’t quite right — notice how the angle of the Bent Pyramid was altered during construction. The interiors of all three of these pyramids are open for visitors to climb around.

Saqqara and Dahshur are on the western side of the Nile, closest to Giza. Stay at the historic Marriott Mena House at the foot of the Pyramids of Giza for a pyramid-filled day out.

Riviera Travel includes a visit to Saqqara on its 15-day river cruise Wonders of the Nile: Cairo to Aswan.

Often touted as the “world’s greatest open-air museum”, Unesco-listed Luxor has a rich cache of historical treasures like few other places on the planet. The pharaohs of the New Kingdom moved their capital here, then called Thebes, and constructed mighty monuments to their gods and themselves, many of which still stand today.

Like many ancient Egyptian cities, Luxor is split in two by the Nile: the east side, where the sun rises, was seen as the “land of the living”, while the west was considered the “land of the dead” and the setting sun. Karnak Temple is the most impressive site on the east bank, and it’s one of the largest religious temple complexes in the world, covering nearly 500 acres. Karnak is connected to Luxor Temple by the Avenue of Sphinxes and fronted by colossal statues of Ramses II. This certainly isn’t the last you’ll see of this prolific pharaoh.

Across the Nile River, the Valley of the Kings is the New Kingdom’s royal necropolis, and the magnificent tombs are carved and painted floor to ceiling with spells and blessings for a smooth journey into the afterlife.

Many Nile cruises depart from Luxor and head south to Aswan, taking a few days to stop at temples along the way.

On the quieter West Bank, the personality-filled rooms at Al Moudira inject luxury and local character into a Luxor stay.

Wendy Wu’s 11-day Dreams of Egypt tour takes in all of Luxor’s major sights before embarking on a Nile cruise.

• Best Nile cruises • When is the best time to cruise the Nile?

Laid-back Aswan is one of the best places in Egypt to enjoy the Nile. Cruises arrive and depart from here, and you can also hop aboard a smaller felucca (a traditional wooden sailboat) and skirt around the Nile islands. In fact, going by felucca is the easiest — and sometimes the only — way to see some of Aswan’s sights, including the Tombs of the Nobles and the colourful, mural-covered Nubian village of Gharb Soheil. South of the Aswan Low Dam, the Temple of Isis at Philae is set on a photogenic island studded with palm trees. At the end of the day, a sundowner on the terrace of the historic Old Cataract Hotel, built in 1899 by Thomas Cook and namechecked by Agatha Christie in Death on the Nile , is a classic Aswan experience.

For history with a side of sundowners, the Old Cataract hotel is unbeatable. For a more local experience, hop across the Nile to the Nubian village of Gharb Soheil to stay in the Instagram-ready, whimsically painted domed rooms at Kato Dool.

Newmarket Holidays’ 11-day Cairo, Luxor and Nile Cruise includes an exploration of the attractions of Aswan after disembarking from your boat.

5. Abu Simbel

Less than 25 miles from Egypt’s border with Sudan, Abu Simbel is the last tourist stop on the Egyptian portion of the Nile. The Great Temple of Ramses II is guarded by four colossal 20m-high statues of its namesake pharaoh. The temple is aligned so that twice a year (in February and October) the first rays of the sun illuminate the interior statues of Ramses II and the gods Ra-Horakhty and Amun. A smaller nearby temple is dedicated to Ramses II’s favourite wife, Nefertari, and the goddess Hathor. Most travellers visit Abu Simbel as a day trip from Aswan by plane or bus.

Most travellers visit Abu Simbel on a day trip from Aswan by road or air; however, the village itself has some accommodation options. Try Eskaleh Eco-Lodge for welcoming Nubian hospitality and traditional architecture.

Take a road trip to Abu Simbel with an optional excursion on Exodus’s nine-day Nile Cruise itinerary. You hit the road at 4am, but seeing Abu Simbel early is worth it.

• Best hotels in Egypt • Best all-inclusive hotels in Egypt

6. Sharm el-Sheikh

At the southernmost tip of the Sinai peninsula, Sharm el-Sheikh provides endless days of sun and sandy fun. This resort town caters to those who need an escape as well as energetic types who prefer to peel themselves off the sunlounger and get active. On Sharm’s doorstep is Ras Mohammed National Park, which makes a delightful day trip for scuba diving and snorkelling amid the vibrant coral reefs and schools of fish that swirl like colourful clouds.

Mövenpick Resort Sharm el-Sheikh offers the best of all worlds, with private amenities but one of Sharm’s main hubs within walking distance.

7. Saint Catherine

Cradled in the Sinai peninsula’s mountainous interior among Egypt’s highest peaks, Saint Catherine’s is the oldest inhabited Christian monastery in the world, established by Byzantine emperor Justinian in AD548, and surrounding the bramble that is considered to be the biblical burning bush. For some, Saint Catherine’s is a place of pilgrimage, but even if you’re not a devotee, making the trek up Mount Sinai (also known as Jebel Musa, or Mount Moses) for sunrise is a spiritual experience no matter what you believe. The crowds pour out from tour buses at 4am to start the climb, but for a more immersive experience, arrange to camp overnight near the summit with the Bedouin guides at Wilderness Ventures Egypt. A Bedouin guide is mandatory to visit Mount Sinai at any time.

Most travellers visit Saint Catherine on a day trip from Sharm el-Sheikh or Dahab, booked through their resort. For an in-depth look into the region’s Bedouin history and culture, sign up for Exodus’s 12-day Bedouin Trails of Jordan & Egypt tour, which climbs Mount Sinai for sunrise.

8. Hurghada

Similar to Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada is home to a glut of Red Sea resorts that often make good-value getaways. Chill out on the beach or go snorkelling or scuba diving in the crystal-clear water that’s filled with multicoloured coral and marine creatures, including highlighter-yellow butterflyfish, pouty-looking triggerfish and pipe-thin cornetfish.

Serry Beach Resort is one of the best in Hurghada. Monochromatic accents punctuate its Arab-style architecture of breezy corridors and arches, and the resort offers a huge menu of on-site activities.

• Best hotels in Hurghada • Best things to do in Hurghada

A haven of hipsters and digital nomads, welcoming Dahab is as chilled out as Egypt comes. Quirky cafés line the seafront, where remote workers sip coffee and watch wetsuit-clad figures emerge from the water after a successful scuba diving adventure. Divers and snorkellers have plenty of excellent sites to pick from right in town, and underwater canyons and vertical walls of coral await to the north at the Bells and the infamous Blue Hole.

On the town’s northern fringes, Dar Dahab is a well-designed, hip space filled with Bedouin-style cushions, rattan furniture and carved woodwork that’s suitable for short or longer-term stays.

10. Alexandria

Founded by Alexander the Great in 332BC, Alexandria was one of the great intellectual cities of antiquity. Though the famous library was lost to fire, war or invaders (scholars still debate its final fate), the institution has been resurrected as Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a modern marvel with enough shelf space for eight million books. Ancient archaeological sites have survived in Alexandria, including the remains of the Roman-era Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa and Pompey’s Pillar, and the 15th-century caramel-coloured Citadel of Qaitbay on the coast.

While Alexandria has a decent selection of hotels, some parts of the city feel very faded, so some travellers opt for a day trip from Cairo.

The Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano is hands down the most luxurious property in this seaside city, with plenty of sophistication and romance.

G Adventures’ short and sweet Classic Alexandria Mini Adventure offers the best of the city on a quick visit from the capital.

• Best Egypt tours • Best things to do in Egypt

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Planning a trip and looking for the best places to visit in Egypt? Here’s a list of the top things to see and what not to miss!

The secret is out – you’ve heard that now is the best time to visit Egypt! Don’t just take it from me – Forbes and CNN agree; a trip to Egypt (especially in 2020) is a MUST!

With your trip planning underway I’m sure, I’m glad you’ve found this ultimate bucket list. Included here are the BEST things to do in Egypt to consider adding to your itinerary.

There’s truly so much to be seen in Egypt and there’s so much more to the country than just beaches and ancient monuments. Not only that but it may be be interesting to discover that the infamous Great Pyramids of Egypt, are not the only pyramids to be seen!

I’ve consulted with many locals and fellow travel bloggers to put together this list of must-have experiences in Egypt – whether it’s your first or fifth time visiting, you are guaranteed to want to come back! As someone who has travelled to Egypt multiple times, you could spend a whole lifetime uncovering it – especially since they keep making new discoveries !

This list, while long, may not even be entirely comprehensive as there are new discoveries being made in Egypt all the time. You’ll see many of the top tourist attractions mentioned here, but also lesser known sites that are some of the best things to do in Egypt that only the locals and expats are familiar with!

We’ll include sights from all regions of Egypt including Upper, Lower, Western Desert and Sinai! Yalla, what are you waiting for, let’s go on a virtual journey of the best sights in Egypt!

Table of Contents

Relax in Alexandria

Alexandria, or Alex as the locals call it, is the second largest city in Egypt. The city is often referred to as the Pearl of the Mediterranean and for good reason. Take a walk along the Corniche (the waterfront promenade) and you’ll see tranquility on the side of the Sea with local fishermen fishing, families and friends sitting along the boardwalk and to the other side, the infamous Egyptian traffic!

What attracts many to Alexandria is it’s mix of Greek, Roman and Egyptian history. Visit the Citadel of Qaitbay for unparalleled views of the city or the infamous Library of Alexandria for a dose of modern and ancient history. Whether you prefer historical sites, libraries, museums, diving or just laying back on the beach, this is the place to do them all!

If you spend 2 (or more) days in Alex , you won’t regret it!

Picnic at Al-Azhar Park

If you’re looking for a break from the chaos of Cairo then Al-Azhar park is the spot for you. In a previous life, the park was a dumping ground for garbage but in the last 15 years it has been completely transformed. The park is now truly an oasis in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Old Islamic Cairo. It’s unusual to see so much greenery but also stillness and calm in Cairo, life really seems to slow down a bit here – I mean you can still enjoy the car honking and traffic, just from a distance!

Take a seat at a local cafe and savour unobstructed views of the Cairo skyline with the silhouettes of the Mohamed Ali Mosque and Citadel in the background. Enjoy a leisurely walk as you people watch, seeing couples having their wedding photos done, families picnicking in the grass or children playing around the fountains. At Al-Azhar park you’ll see the collision of two design worlds, with modern landscaping and beautiful traditional Islamic architecture and gardens. It took me three trips to Cairo before I finally came to know the park and it’s now one of my favourite Cairo spots . For a small entrance fee of 20 EGP or about 1 USD you can discover this underrated gem. The park can be extremely busy on the weekends (Fridays and Saturdays), so keep that in mind when you plan your visit!

Rule over the city from the Citadel

At the top of Cairo, you’ll find a strategic fortress that was once built to protect the city. Today the Citadel is a preserved museum that also has three beautiful mosques on site, which includes the Mohamed Ali Mosque.

It’s arguably the most famous mosque in Egypt (and no, it’s not named after the boxer!). Not only is the architecture and history of the citadel and mosques worth a visit, but more uniquely it has one of the best vantage points of the city. Look down on all of Old Islamic Cairo and watch the hustle and bustle unfold at your feet!

Bargain at Khan El Khalili

This 500 year old bazaar is a maze, and will give you the feeling of a true Arabian experience. It’s a must-see not only for the souvenir shopping , but for the narrow alleyways and stunning traditional architecture. The Khan el-Khalili market for me, felt like a true Arabian experience. Explore the streets to find local artisans in the midst of their craft, the labyrinth of shops and narrow alleyways transports you back in time.

Wander at the Mosque of Ibn Tulun

When in Cairo, you can’t just visit one mosque , the city is after all known as the ‘ city of a thousand minarets ‘. While there are many others also worth visiting, the Ibn Tulun is lesser frequented by tourists, so you can often find enjoy it almost all to yourself. It’s also one of the oldest Mosques in all the city!

Take a stroll through history at the Egyptian Museum

While the new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is being built and set to open later in 2020, there’s just something special about the current one that you’ve got to see. The current museum is located just off Tahrir Square, the heart of the 2011 Egyptian revolution.

While it’s crowded with monuments and treasures and you can often find spelling mistakes on the signs describing the pieces, you can’t help but be amazed by the grandeur and the history. The museum has over 120,000 artifacts including artifacts from Tutankhamun’s tomb.

Explore the Pyramids of Dahshur

Contributed by Penny from GlobeTrove

A lot of people head to the Pyramids of Giza and that does not come as a surprise as they are one of the ancient wonders of the world. What many people however do not know is that Giza is not home to all the pyramids. In fact, a short drive away from the city lies a complex where pyramids are still being discovered and the unearthed ones are rather incredible. These are the  ancient Pyramids of Dahshur.

It is here that you will see the Black Pyramid, the Red Pyramid and the Bent Pyramid of Egypt. Each of these tells a tale of how the Pyramids of Giza came into being. In fact they are even older than the popular wonder. If you think you won’t get to see what the inside of pyramid looks a like, think again. You can enter one of the pyramids without the overwhelming crowds at Giza. You can see why I think it is pretty amazing.

Marvel at Saqqara

Contributed by Michael Turtle from Time Travel Turtle

While it’s the Pyramids of Giza that get the most attention, there’s another nearby pyramid that is just as important. It’s the Step Pyramid at the ancient necropolis of Saqqara, about 14 kilometres away. This structure, also known as the Pyramid of Djoser, was the first attempt at a pyramid in Ancient Egypt and would lead to the enormous ones at Giza about 80 years later.

The  Step Pyramid at Saqqara  isn’t the only thing to see. This site was the necropolis for the ancient city of Memphis and there are a few pyramids that were used as burial monuments to pharaohs – you can even go down into their chambers. There are also elaborately-decorated tombs of nobles with vibrant paintings and intricate carvings that have survived for thousands of years.

It’s easy to spend at least half a day at Saqqara and it’s worth the short trip out from Cairo to see the birthplace of Ancient Egypt as we know it today.

Be in awe at the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx

Contributed by Kamila from My Wander Lust

Visiting the Pyramids  is probably the most iconic thing you can do in Egypt. All the pictures you’ve seen before can’t prepare you for what you are about to see. The famous landmark is spectacular and can take your breath away with its beauty and splendor.  In real life the Pyramids are much more impressive than you could ever expect and even if you are not interested in ancient history you surely will be in awe. 

You can visit Pyramids with the tour or independently – if you decide for the second option prepare yourself for lots of annoyances as the touts do wonders to get your attention and eventually ask for the tip. But it’s so worth all the trouble really. When buying the ticket you might skip the more expensive option to visit the inside of the Great Pyramid of Giza as it’s claustrophobic and not much is inside. Instead, you can just wander around the site and enjoy its beauty from every possible angle. Don’t forget to take the picture with the iconic Sphinx too!

360 degree views of Cairo at the Cairo Tower

While the Cairo Tower has been long outranked as the tallest building in Africa, it’s still worth a visit. The view from 187m up will give you an appreciation for just how sprawling (and busy) but also at the same time, how tranquil the city is. At the top of the tower you’ll be able to get a 360 degree view of the city and if it’s a clear day you may even be able to see as far as the pyramids! Here your eyes will go from traffic jams to feluccas camly floating down the Nile. It’s a very popular spot to come for sunset and rightfully so!

Explore the streets of Cairo

You never know where the streets may take you – no really, it’s quite the adventure, google maps in Egypt is crazy, you really may get lost, be careful! Taking a stroll in Islamic Cairo is particularly special, there are stunning mosques and charming cobblestone streets to discover.

Part of the adventure of Egypt is being able to go with the flow and not stressing, you’re on Egyptian time now! Allow yourself to find local cafes, beautiful artesian boutiques, a secret viewpoint of the Nile, or even stumble upon a monkey in a laundry machine.. anything is possible in Egypt!

Uncover desert paradise at Wadi El Rayan

Contributed by Dee from Vanilla Papers

Just a few hours from Cairo, Wadi El Rayan is a paradise of soft desert sand that blends seamlessly into blue water. It’s perfect for a long weekend of birdwatching or sandboarding, whether you’re seeking adventure sports or a quiet get-away from the city. 

The Wadi El Rayan Protected Area includes an Upper and Lower lake, which are connected by Egypt’s only waterfalls. You can take a long boat ride across the lake or enjoy a leisurely meal with views over the water. Or rip through the sand in an offroad vehicle and try sliding down the soft dunes on a board – the sand is soft and it won’t hurt if you fall. 

Home to 13 species of residential birds and 26 migrant birds, the protectorate often attracts groups of birdwatchers from the city. 

Wadi El Rayan has long been a favorite weekend destination for Cairenes, but I’ve never seen it too busy. It’s easy to find a quiet spot even on weekends.

I love relaxing in the sand over a long lunch and dipping my feet in the lake. It’s a glorious landscape that reminds you of nature’s majesty. And it feels worlds away from the city. 

Take a spa day at the Siwa Oasis

Within Egypt, Siwa is well known for it’s bounty of fresh springs. At the Siwa Oasis, you’ll find over 200 springs, both hot and cold. For a relaxing wellness retreat, there’s hotels and eco lodges to satisfy whatever spa experience you’re looking for. Whether it’s getting buried in the sand at a health spa in the desert, or bask in the mineral rich waters at one of the many hot springs (like Cleopatra’s bath!). This will truly be a unique experience to have in the midst of the desert and allow you time to unwind at night while you watch the sunset over the desert dunes.

Stargazing in the White Desert

Venture into the Sahara desert, the largest desert in the world! There are a variety of tours you can take through the deserts, depending on the length and types of activities you’d like to partake in. One desert experience that can’t be missed has to be camping under the stars. Fall asleep under one of the clearest skies in the world to take stars as far as the eyes can see!

Feel history from St .Catherine’s Monastery

Contributed by James Ian from Travel Collecting

A visit to Saint Catherine’s monastery should be on everyone’s Egypt bucket list. The monastery is impressive – towering walls form a massive square. Camels often shelter from the desert heat in the shade cast by the walls.

The monastery, which dates from 565 AD, is one of the oldest active Christian monasteries in the world.  Inside is the legendary burning bush.  The bush you see today is supposedly the original one seen by Moses in the Bible.  No matter what you believe, walking in the footsteps of characters from the Bible is an interesting experience.  St Catherine’s also has the oldest library in the world, so it is a fascinating place to explore.  

Don’t miss the view of the monastery from above.  This is the start/ end of the hike up Mount Sinai and if you do that hike, you’ll get great views of St. Catherine’s on your way down. Even if you don’t do this hike, it’s worth walking a little ways up into the hills to see the formidable fortress-like monastery from above.

Climb Mount Sinai

Many tours offer sunrise and/or sunset climbing experiences of Mount Sinai, the infamous site where Moses is said to have received the ten commandments. It’s no easy feat and some may find the climb physically difficult and it’s recommended you do it with a guide (private tours are ideal). The climb itself can take around 3-3.5 hours and because of the elevation of the mountain keep in mind it can get cold and ensure you prepare properly!

Luxury resort at the Red Sea

Contributed by Dave from Jones Around The World

Last year during my trip to Israel, I decided to hop across the border into Egypt for a visit to some of the luxury resorts in the Red Sea! It ended up being a highlight of my trip, because I was completely blown away by how affordable the luxury resorts are in Egypt!  It’s a super budget-friendly destination, and I stayed at 5* resorts for only $25 USD per night!  I spent my days relaxing by the pool, snorkelling in the Red Sea, and enjoying buffet meals!  I stayed at two different resorts in  Taba Heights , and it’s one of my favourite tips now to give to people traveling to Egypt! The Red Sea is absolutely stunning, and there is just something really cool about being in Egypt, and being able to see Israel, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia all at the same time!  Treat yourself to a bit of luxury for a fraction of the cost, and you’ll find yourself booking a return visit soon I’m sure!

Be a beach bum in Dahab

Further south of Taba in the Sinai region, is the laid back city of Dahab. If you’re looking for a place to relax, a holiday by the Red Sea is ideal! Egypt has incredible beaches, if you don’t believe me, take it from National Geographic, they also agree Dahab has some of the best beaches in the Middle East . Other beaches in the Red Sea to consider hopping to are in Hurghada, Sharm El Sheik, Marsa Alam or Sahl Hasheesh.

The city is also famous for diving and snorkelling too for that matter. Whether you’re diving for the first time or already certified, there’s something for every experience level. There are many options for the types of dives as well, whether you’re looking for shipwrecks, colourful coral reefs or the infamous 300 ft deep Blue Hole.

Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan

With different length options; and start and end points, you can customize a cruise to fit your trip itinerary. Nile cruises can be anywhere from 3 to 10 days, but we found 4 to be a sufficient amount on the boat and we decided to stay an extra night on our own in Aswan. We took the Luxor to Aswan leg and without a doubt, boat is the best way to travel between these two cities. Consider yourself travelling the infamous Nile as the Ancient Egyptians themselves once did. There are options for a more laid back style on smaller boats all the way up to cruise ships that can accommodate a few hundred.

In four days we were immersed in over 2,000 years of history. With every stop, you see sights you had long dreamed of seeing and it’s a surreal experience. From the Luxor and Karnak temples, to the Valley of the Kings and Queens, to Kom Ombo and Philae Island each site is almost more impressive than the last.

Even after having travelled to many parts across Egypt, this excursion remains one of my favorites! I genuinely can’t wait to do this again one day and believe it’s one of those once (or maybe twice if I’m lucky!) in a lifetime bucket list experiences!

Stay in a Nubian Village

A unique experience only to be had in Egypt is the opportunity to visit a Nubian village. The Nubians are an ethnic minority group with a unique history, culture, traditions and even language of their own living in the southern regions of Egypt and into northern Sudan.

You’ll reach the Nubian village by traditional felucca ride down the Nile passing stunning landscapes and seeing local fisherman getting their catches of the day. As you approach the island you’ll notice a few things out of place, namely the colour palette. The homes throughout Egypt are often in sand coloured tones and there isn’t too much variety of colours, however here, the Nubians homes are showered in colours creating a feast for your eyes! Walking through the village you’ll notice many drawings and geometric patterns on the homes, said to represent the families that live inside.

If you have the time, stay in the heart of the Nubian village for a truly local experience at the Anakato Nubian homes . If you’re short on time, at least make time for a tea or a meal and enjoy the terrace while you relax and enjoy the Nile views!

Aswan Botanical Gardens

A must do when in Aswan , is a visit to the Botanical Gardens. Arrive to Kitchener Island where the gardens are located by my favorite Egyptian means of transportation – felucca! Take a relaxing ride on the Nile while as you approach you take in all the greenery that is so rare in the desert landscape.

The island is named after the former consul general, Lord Kitchener who first brought together unique trees and flowers from all over the world and created what today we know as the gardens. Currently the gardens have grown into a popular local spot for taking refuge from the heat and enjoying some tea at the islands local cafes.

Explore the island at your leisure and read the signs that show which specimen and country the flora are form. There’s even opportunities to grab some unique souvenirs if you are in the mood for some bargaining.

Philae Temple by night or day

If you’re travelling as part of a Nile cruise, it’s likely that you’ll be stopping by the Philae temple, and for good reason. The temple (also known as the Temple of Isis) was re-located onto an island in the reservoir of the Aswan Dam to prevent being overtaken by the waters of Lake Nasser.

The temple can be visited during the day, arriving by felucca or you can visit at dusk to take in the sound and light show that showcases the temples history.

Be surrounded by mummies in the Valley of the Kings

Contributed by Meredith from The Longest Weekend

The Valley of the Kings in Luxor is a cornerstone destination on any Egyptian itinerary. Contrary to popular belief, not all of Egypt’s pharaohs were buried in pyramids. After the tombs of their predecessors were raided, the pharaohs of the New Kingdom built their tombs deep into the ground. 

The Valley of the Kings is home to the tombs of more than sixty pharaohs, including the final resting place of the world’s most famous mummy – King Tutankhamun. Because the tombs were hidden from invaders for thousands of years, they are beautifully preserved and many are open for viewing. Spoiler alert – a few of the mummies still reside in the Valley of the Kings, including King Tut himself! When visiting  

Located on the West Bank of the Nile in the heart of the desert, the Valley of the Kings is not to be missed on your Egyptian itinerary.

Be in the presence of a true queen at the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut

The mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut is a mandatory stop on any Egyptian adventures. Tucked into the striking desert landscape on Luxor’s West Bank, Hatshepsut’s temple takes funerary extravagance to another level. The temple was buried in the desert until the 20 th century but is pristinely preserved and photogenic from all angles. 

After visiting the Valley of the Kings around the corner, head here to wander the grounds, admire the architecture and learn about the drama that ensued when Queen Hatshepsut crowned herself pharaoh. As legend goes, she shipped her stepson – Thutmose III, the actual pharaoh – off to military school then took the throne for herself.

Visiting the temple of Queen Hatshepsut is a truly spectacular experience and one of the many reasons not to miss Luxor on your trip to Egypt.

Cruise the Nile on a Felucca

Contributed by Kenny from Knycx Journeying

A Felucca is a traditional wooden sailboat of Egypt. Now they are the best way for tourists to cruise the Nile in Luxor. We had an enjoyable felucca ride during sunset. The boat ride was perfect to enjoy the view of the ancient city, catch the comforting breeze on a hot summer day, and watch the glorious sunset.

The trip usually began nearby Karnak, where the Karnak Temple is the largest temple in Luxor and one of the most important archeological sites in the country. The Hypostyle Hall was truly impressive and the grand stretch a 3-kilometer long avenue lined with sphinxes and linked to another historic landmark, the Luxor Temple.

As the felucca sail along the Nile, we had a great view of the city’s coastline and it was nice to temporarily stay away from the bustling traffic and watch the city from a different perspective. The sailboat turned as we reached the Luxor Temple, which is located on the river bank and we caught a good look of the temple’s outline. After the boat ride, hop on a horse carriage to explore the city, or sit down in a hookah bar and try the water pipe!  

Stand in awe at Abu Simbel

Abu Simbel, without a doubt has to be one of the most impressive Ancient Egyptian monuments to see in all of Egypt. It’s jaw dropping because of the grandeur of the four 20 meter tall statues of Ramesses II that flank the entrance to the temple. What’s also remarkable about Abu Simbel, is the site it currently sits on is not where it was originally built. In the 1960’s the temple was dismantled and rebuilt to avoid being submerged with the creation of the Aswan dam.

Get up close with hieroglyphs at Karnak Temple

A massive complex, the Temple of Amun Thebes or what today is known as Karnak, is the largest religious building ever built. The site is over 2km squared and has sanctuaries, obelisks and pylons. This stunning vastness has to be seen to be believed.

See Luxor from above in a Hot Air Balloon

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Experience Egypt (@experienceegypt) on May 16, 2019 at 2:49am PDT

See the best that Luxor has to offer from a birds eye view! Fly over the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepshut’s temple as well as the villages below taking in both desert and green valley landscapes. Get out of your comfort zone and go for a hot air balloon experience in one of the most majestic places in the world!

Stuff your face with Egyptian Food!

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention how delicious Egyptian food is and how much you’ll miss the taste when you leave. Ta’ameya, koshary, baladi, oh my! For some of the top traditional foods to try take a look at this food guide . It’s one thing to experience all there is to see in Egypt, but it’s another to taste it! Get a feel for the local culture through it’s food, yum!

Egypt tourism is on the rebound! Many of these incredible historic sites are now become busier and busier with tourists from all over coming to see the best sites in Egypt! So if you’re eager to come visit and wondering…

What places should I visit in Egypt?

What are the underrated places to visit in Egypt?

What are the most surreal places to visit in Egypt?

My hope is this list gives you a solid starting point for your Egyptian adventure!

Some additional guides that may help with your trip planning:

• Egypt travel tips for first-timers
• 10 reasons to travel to Egypt – this is the year!
• Where to stay in Cairo , advice on the best neighbourhoods
• 10 photos that will make you want to travel to Egypt
• Amazing pyramid view hotels  you should consider staying at
• The  best 15 spots in Cairo for instagram photos
• What to wear in Egypt  a guide for women
• Movies to watch to inspire your travel to Egypt
• Looking for a unique honeymoon destination, try Egypt !

Like this? Pin it for your Egypt travel later!

Egypt is definitely on my bucket list. I am particularly looking forward to seeing the pyramids and going on a cruise down The Nile. Thanks for some great other suggestions of what to see and do in Egypt.

What a great bucket list, I always think about pyramids, but now am also dreaming of some of those lovely desert oasis and wadi spots to explore!

The Best Things to do in Egypt: 25 Amazing Sights & Attractions

Have you ever wondered why Egypt attracts flocks of tourists, historians, and adventure-seekers? Well, buckle up and dive into this expert’s guide to the best things to do in Egypt – the sights and attractions you shouldn’t miss. 

If you’re planning (or even just dreaming of) a trip to Egypt – I have some sage advice for you… book it. 

We’ve all heard tell of this fabled land – one filled with pyramids, ancient tombs and stone-built temples, carved lengthways by the sinuous Nile. Well – it’s all true – Egypt really does live up to its reputation. 

Those of you following along here will know that I’ve recently spent a couple of brilliant weeks travelling around Egypt with a guide and – I don’t say this lightly – it was one of my favourite trips ever. 

Enough about me though, this guide is all about helping you plan a stellar Egypt trip and walking you through all the places you shouldn’t miss.

Let’s dive into the best attractions in Egypt – hold on to your hats! 

Looking for a place to stay? The Steigenberger Pyramids Cairo hotel offers jaw-dropping scenery of the nearby Pyramids of Giza. 

PS: Take a sneak peek at my full Egypt itinerary in this video!

Top 5 Things to Do in Egypt

Visit the pyramids of giza.

Undeniably at the top of any list of Egypt’s tourist attractions, Cairo’s mighty Pyramids of Giza are a symbol of the country’s ancient architectural prowess. 

As if the three aren’t stunning enough, The Great Pyramid is the last remaining Ancient Wonder of the World – placing it front and centre as the best place to visit Egypt. 

I have to say – I almost burst with excitement seeing them up close and personal. 

PS: If I only give you one tip, it’s to pay extra to go inside the Great Pyramid. Here – I’ll even give you a sneak peek of what to expect. 

@thediscoveriesof Ever wondered what it looks like inside? 🤔 see the whole egypt itinerary 👉🏾 @thediscoveriesof #egypt #egypttravelguide #egyptrip #greatpyramid #cairotravel #travelbucketlist ♬ Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God) – Kate Bush

But what’s the deal with the Pyramids of Giza? 

Built sometime between 2550 BC and 2490 BC with nothing but chisels, iron hammers, levers and, of course, lots of manpower, The Pyramids of Giza as they’re collectively known, stood as burial temples full of gold and other riches. 

Individually, the three pyramids – of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure – built in that order, are even more stunning up close.

Top Tip: Book a half-day guided tour to learn all about the pyramids too 

Explore The Valley of the Kings (And The Valley of the Queens)

The world’s best-known necropolis (wait, is that even a thing?) The Valley of the Kings (and the less well-known Valley of the Queens) boast a series of royal tombs. 

Not just any royal tombs either, but rather ones containing the creme de la creme of the 18th, 19th and 20th dynasties (the New Kingdom). 

They’re aesthetically decorated with ornate murals and sculptures and, when they were built, would have been filled with treasures for the deceased to use in the afterlife. Now that’s one way to lay to rest.

For thousands of years, kings, queens, and other nobles of the earmarked these valleys as tomb sites. They hoped to prevent robbers and raiders alike from plunging their afterlife treasures.

There’s so much to see in each area that I’ve written individual guides to visiting The Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens – but if you need a quick takeaway, don’t miss the tombs of Tutankhamun and Queen Neferteri. 

Top Tip: If you book a tour of the valleys , be sure to book the extra tickets to visit Tutankhamun’s tomb in the Valley of the Kings and Queen Nefertari’s tomb in the Valley of the Queens . 

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride over Luxor

Luxor is a modern Egyptian city nestled within the ancient Egyptian capital of Thebes. There’s so much to discover in the region, which is dotted with historic temples, monuments, and royal burial valley – and, IMHO, t aking a hot air balloon ride is hands down the best way to see this intriguing metropolis. 

Experience one of the most stunning sunrises in the world, boasting an eyeful of Valley of the Kings and the Queens. 

That would be worth the experience alone – but then there’s the added bonus of views of the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, the Colossi of Memnon and the stunning rolling dunes of the Egyptian desert thrown in for good measure. 

Top Tip: Ensure you book a hot air balloon at sunrise for the best views.  Read Next: Hot Air Ballooning Over the Valley of the Kings

Float Down the Nile on a Cruise

Perhaps the most visited tourist attraction in Egypt (after the Giza Pyramids), the 6,650 km-long Nile River is the lifeline of the nation. 

How better to explore it than onboard a Nile Cruise? 

Very few cruises ply the whole route of the Egyptian Nile, but the section between Aswan and Luxor is the most popular stretch for cruises. This is largely thanks to an abundance of sights from Philae Temple to the Temple of Kom Ombo to stop off along the way. 

Different types of boat ply the route – from basic (but peaceful) feluccas to all-out luxury cruises. 

Top Tip: Not sure which type of cruise to book? I’ve written all about them in this Nile Cruise guide

Marvel at Abu Simbel

Built by Ramses II in honour of himself and his favourite wife, Queen Nefertari, the temples of Abu Simbel are also a dedication to the sun gods, Amon-Ra, Ptah, and Ra-Horakhty.

Frankly speaking, the Pharaoh built the temples to intimidate his enemies and ordain himself as a god — what a brag! 

Still, you can’t quibble with the final result – two glorious temples, the main one and a smaller one dedicated to Ramses’ wife Nefertari, glinting in the sun overlooking the vast waters of Lake Nasser. 

Top Tip: Abu Simbel is best visited on a day trip from Aswan and you can choose to do it by car or by air. 

Brilliant Things to See & Do in Egypt

Delve into history at karnak temple.

Despite Egypt being full of temples, the wonders of each one never cease to amaze me. But Karnak Temple stands head and shoulders above the rest. 

Built over the course of 1,000 years, according to legend, this religious complex is where the sun god Amun-Ra lived with his wife Mut, and son, Khonsu.

You should set aside at least a couple of hours (preferably a half-day) to explore, but if you really shouldn’t miss the stunning Hypostyle Hall. 

Wander Around Coptic Cairo

As I mentioned earlier in this guide, Egypt is more than pyramids and deserts. The nation also has a profound Christian history dating as far back as the 1st century A.D – nowhere is this more visible than in Cairo’s Coptic Quarter – a maze of centuries-old churches and historical sights – as well as the understated Coptic Museum. 

In the Interfaith Complex, you’ll find the white-stone Roman-built fortress of Babylon. Synagogues and other places of worship predating the founding of modern-day Cairo are there as well. 

This stronghold of Christianity offers an exceptional Egypt sightseeing experience, making it one of the best things to do in Cairo — no pyramids involved.

Top Tip: The Coptic Quarter can be a bit of a maze – get the full lowdown on this tour of Old Cairo. 

Visit the Egyptian Museum (Or the Grand Egyptian Museum When it Opens)

The Egyptian Museum — not confused with the newly built Grand Egyptian Museum — is home to a collection of ancient artefacts and antiquities. If you want to see the country’s history in one place, this is where to go in Egypt. 

The Neoclassical French-designed building sits centrally in the heart of Tahrir Square, making a perfect stopover on a Cairo walking tour .

Top Tip: The Egyptian Museum will be replaced with the Grand Egyptian Museum when it opens later this year. The new museum promises to be one of the biggest in the world and will definitely be one not to miss. 

Explore Islamic Cairo

Among the several conquests of Egypt, the Islamic caliphate expanded its civilisation into the country in the 7th century, introducing the Muslim religion that now reigns. 

As a symbol of conquest, the caliphate built a new capital in an area now known as Islamic Cairo. 

Roam around the ancient city, full of dome-topped mosques, madrassas, and mediaeval fortifications like the Salah al-Din Citadel. 

A full-day private tour includes visiting famous places in Egypt like the Hanging Church in Coptic Cairo, the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, and the Mosque of Muhammed Ali Pasha.

Top Tip: Want to see the best of Cairo in a short time? Read my two-day Cairo itinerary. 

Go Diving in the Red Sea

Still, think Egypt has nothing but pyramids? Let’s explore the salty Red Sea, and I’m not just referring to seawater. 

Named after its noticeable colour variations, this saline inlet is one of the most heavily travelled channels globally, often carrying maritime cargo between Asia and Europe.

Apart from its significance in global supply chains, the gulf is also home to over 1,200 species of fish and 250 species of gorgeous coral. So take a Red Sea cruise and discover magnificent scuba diving and snorkelling spots – it has some of the best dive sites in the world. 

See the Ancient Structures in Saqqara

Saqqara — also spelt as “Sakkara” — is hands down one of the richest architectural sites in Egypt. 

Prominent for being an ancient burial ground for nobles and a destination for many cultic pilgrims.

However, the highlight of Saqqara is the Step Pyramid of Djoser — this 4,700-year-old stone structure is the oldest in Egypt and, indeed, the world. 

Explore the fascinating interior on a full-day tour , and wander the bewildering series of tunnels and burial chambers of many royals, including Pharaoh Djoser.

Discover the Ancient Egyptian City of Memphis

Another noteworthy ancient capital and one of the most underrated of Egypt’s attractions, Memphis boasts an array of mastabas, pyramids, and temples. 

This millenia-old city has long lost its grandeur, but there’s an incredible story in its remains. 

The most intriguing sight in Memphis is the limestone Alabaster Sphinx. 

Embark on a day tour to Memphis , and stand in awe of one of the world’s biggest and oldest monolithic statues.

Marvel at the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut in Luxor

At this point, you’ve realised that Egypt isn’t shy of temples and tombs, but each is unique, carrying complexities that serve as a doorway to ancient civilisations. 

To put it quite bluntly, the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut in Luxor is exceptional.

Unlike many temples in Egypt, this one pays homage to Pharaoh Hatshepsut, one of the few historically recorded female Pharaohs — can someone say “Girl Power?” 

Don’t go expecting a tomb – Hatshepsut wasn’t buried here. Instead, she lies in The Valley of the Kings, nearly 4 km away.

See the Beautiful Philae Temple in Aswan

Known as the “Pearl of Egypt”, Philae Temple illustrates the unimaginable beauty of the Aswan region. I hate to play favourites (OK – I kind of love it) but Philae really is one of the most beautiful temples you’ll find in Egypt. 

The tiny island has lush vegetation surrounding stone-carved structures with ancient hieroglyphs. The most striking is the giant carving of Isis, the goddess of the moon.

Take a walk around this monumental storybook and pay close attention to the tales it tells. Marvel at intricate  wall carvings depicting a captivating mythic narrative of Isis bringing her husband Osiris back to life and giving birth to their son Horus. Look closely and you’ll also see carvings depicting the mummification of Osiris. 

Spend Time Exploring Aswan

Don’t be surprised if Aswan becomes your favourite city in Egypt – you certainly won’t be the first person it’s happened to. 

This busy market city holds some of the most unique and historically rich places to see in Egypt. Spoiler alert — Philae Temple is just the beginning. 

Begin your trip at the Tombs of the Nobles, sitting majestically atop high cliffs overlooking the west bank with spectacular scenes of Aswan. 

Then make your way to the prehistoric Nubian Museum, and stroll through the impressive cultural hub full of antique exhibitions and artefact collections from various ages. 

Stop by the riveting Unfinished Obelisk before taking a boat trip to the colourful Nubian Village for a much-needed escape from the bustling city.

Top Tip : Want to know more? Read my guide to the best things to do in Aswan. 

Pop into the Temples at Edfu

Comfortably sitting along the west bank and tucked between the cities of Esna and Aswan, find a serene getaway in the ancient settlement of Edfu. 

With a population of fewer than 70,000 people, this preserved site houses the Ptolemaic Temple of Horus. If you’re looking for a less crowded place to go to in Egypt, Edfu should be at the top of your list. 

See the Double Temple at Kom Ombo

For more unusual sights of Egypt’s landmarks, the uniquely constructed double temple of Kom Ombo is one for the books. 

The ancient Greek-Roman temple is best-known for its mysterious mummified crocodiles – not content with just one or two – there are 40 of them!

Get (Not Too) Lost in the White Desert

You can’t go to Egypt and not go on a desert tour . But this one is like none other, boasting oddly-shaped dunes and the jaw-dropping Bahariya Oasis. 

Uncover the oddities of the Black and White Desert and marvel at the picturesque and sprawling views of sandy landscapes that stretch across the horizons.

The Tomb of Nefertari

As I mentioned, Queen Nefertari was Ramses II’s first and most beloved wife. Her tomb — also known as the Sistine Chapel of Ancient Egypt — houses some of Egypt’s most ornate and well-preserved paintings.

Radiating with vivid colours and descriptive hieroglyphs, the murals in this tomb surpass the others in The Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens by far — now that’s what I call a queen’s burial. Of all the best places to visit in Egypt, Nefertari’s tomb transports you to the peak of this great civilisation.

Unique Things to See & Do in Egypt: Hidden Gems That are Off the Beaten Track

Check out the city of the dead.

If you’re up for a spooky adventure — the City of the Dead is one of the world’s largest cemeteries. Boasting a sea of seemingly infinite white conical-shaped domes, this city, also called Cairo Necropolis, is where the dead genuinely live among the living.

What do I mean? Due to the high population congestion in Cairo, many low-income earners (about 500,000) built their homes here, filling the gaps between the 7th-century mausoleums.  

Tip : If you have a touch of necrophobia, perhaps it’s best to skip this attraction.

See the Nilometer

If you still don’t believe that modern mathematics has to do with the advancement of ancient Egyptian civilisations, here’s a place that will dispel your doubt. 

The Nilometer is an old instrument that farmers used to measure the waters of the Nile.

The Nile River’s behaviour could mean life or death for ancient Egyptians. Thus to know whether they should prepare for flood or famine, the citizens built this device to predict the most likely outcome.

Stand Beneath the Towering Colossi of Memnon

Ancient Egyptians strongly believed in the afterlife, so they would build temples and towering figures to protect their tombs from all kinds of evil. Colossi Of Memnon is one such temple.

Built by Pharaoh Amenhotep III, two towering seated statues of the king sit side by side, guarding his Mortuary Temple against unwanted raiders. These statues survived 3,400 years of changing climates, invasions, and even earthquakes.

See the Rainbow-Hued Coloured Canyon

One thing I bet you thought you’d never see in the arid Egyptian desert is a sprawling oasis of kaleidoscopic hills. Spanning over 800 metres long and 30 metres deep, these rainbow mountains are just 338 km away from Cairo.

With many not aware of this breathtaking geographical marvel, the Coloured Canyon boasts the perfect escape from typically crowded Egypt tourist attractions, giving you a serene visit and tonnes of stunning views. 

Delve into the Labyrinth of the Shali Fortress

Closing off this expansive list of places to visit in Egypt, the sensational Shali Fortress boasts a labyrinth of crowded buildings that were initially four storeys high and sheltered hundreds of people.

Get lost in this maze of mud buildings, built using kershef (a mixture of rock, salt, and clay), and witness the best-kept secret of Egypt’s Siwa Oasis.

Things to Do in Egypt: Practical Tips for Your Trip

How Long to Visit Egypt?

If you’re looking to explore all these attractions, you’ll need at least a week or two to get through just half of these listed excursions. 

Want more detail on how much time to spend at each location? Start with my 10 days in Egypt itinerary . 

Best Time to Visit Egypt

Egypt’s arid climate is dry, with hot summers and cool winters with rainfall along the coastal areas. 

However, the best time to visit Egypt is between October and April. During this time, temperatures are cooler, but you’re still guaranteed a lot of sun.

May to July is peak season, so flight tickets skyrocket. 

Top Tip: If you’re in the planning stage – check out my super-detailed guide on how much an Egypt trip costs to find out when to catch the best deals.

Where Should I Stay in Egypt?

With so many tourists visiting Egypt every year, the country has a sophisticated network of hotels and accommodation, from budget-friendly to mid-range and luxury. Also, check out this guide on where to stay in Cairo for more lodging options.

Steigenberger Pyramids Cairo Hotel (Mid-Range)

Boasting stunning scenes of the Pyramids of Giza and the Nile’s west bank, the  Steigenberger Pyramids Cairo hotel offers an ideal stay for a seasoned 2 Days in Cairo itinerary.  

Four Seasons Cairo At The First Residence (Luxury)

The Four Seasons Cairo At The First Residence offers exclusive Nile River sights and sweeping views of the greater Cairo skyline for a more luxurious stay. If you book the right room, you may also get glimpses of the Giza Pyramids as a stunning backdrop.

Recommended Tours in Egypt

• From Hurghada: Luxor Valley of the Kings Full-Day Trip
• Giza Pyramids and Sphinx: Half-Day Private Tour
• Cairo: Dinner Cruise on the Nile River with Entertainment

Things to Do in Egypt: Map

Places to Visit in Egypt: Read Next

• The Ultimate 10-Day Egypt Itinerary 
• What You Need to Know Before Travelling to Egypt 
• How (and what) to Pack for an Egypt Trip 
• Unmissable Things to do in Cairo 
• The Places You Have to See in Luxor 
• Your Go-To Guide for Visiting Aswan

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

Related Posts

Visiting Queen Nefertari’s Tomb in Luxor: A Practical Guide

The Best Things to do in Luxor

Taking a Nile River Cruise in Egypt: What You Need to Know and Where to Book

11 Stunning Ancient Egyptian Temples You Can Still See Today 

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Home » Travel Guides » Egypt » 15 Best Places to Visit in Egypt

15 Best Places to Visit in Egypt

In a land where the past sits overlooking the present, Egypt is a country that fills the senses. Despite experiencing a great deal of social and political upheaval in recent years, the country and her people are still as welcoming and enticing as ever.

The desert in Egypt is its own character – making up about 95% of the country. Combine that with the Red Sea and the old world charm of empty beaches and gloriously undisturbed sunrises, and the beach scene here is a huge draw. Cruises down the Nile River to visit some of history’s most incredible monuments are also something that you really can’t miss.

This is the land of the Valley of Kings, King Tut’s tomb, and the temples of the pharaohs. You’ll find the Egyptians proud of their heritage and ready to show you all the Egypt has to offer.

Sinai is a place of sundrenched seaside resorts.  It’s a major holiday destination and over the years has really developed a personality unlike the rest of Egypt. It’s a beautiful area and as soon as you see the empty desert stretching for miles away from you, you’ll absolutely agree.

Historically, there is a great deal of religious importance here and for centuries Sinai served as a crossroads for change and progress.  Once you’ve soaked up all you can of the beach life, step away from the holiday makers and see what the heart of the Sinai Peninsula is about.

In the mountains you’ll find the Bedouin working to preserve their traditions as modern life moves forward. It’s an enchanting place at the top of everyone’s must see list.

2. Sinai Coast

This historic region is best known for the sandy beaches and gorgeous coral reefs.  In fact, one of the most famous diving spots in the Red Sea is in Ras Mohammed.  It’s consistently rated as one of the top five dives on Earth.

Not only will you see plenty of fish and the coral walls, you’ll also get a look at the remains of the Jolanda – a freight that sank there in 1980.  You’ll also love the Gardens, which are really more like three spots in one.  Far Garden is where you’ll find a colourful overhang located in deep waters known as the Cathedral.  The Middle Garden slopes down toward a large bed of sandy trails, and Near Garden is where you’ll find an astounding chain of pinnacles.

The culture in the region is primarily Bedouin and locals will love telling you about the intricate history of these isolated shores.

3. Ras Mohammed National Park

Named for nearby cliffs that form the shape of a man’s profile, Ras Mohammed National Park sees over 50,000 guests per year.  The coast line is considered some of the most desirable in the Red Sea.  Guests are given a taste of some of Earth’s most stunning coral reef ecosystems.

There are about 1000 species of fish in the Red Sea, and almost all of them can be found within the park.  You’ll have the chance to sport hammerheads, whale sharks, and manta rays.

Be sure to explore the entire park, which includes the surrounding desert, Tiran Island, and the coast between Nabq Protectorate, and Sharm el-Sheikh harbour.

4. Red Sea Coast

This is one for the history buffs.  The Red Sea coast of Egypt is home to many important sites in early Christianity.  Prehistoric trade routes cross the region and ancient rock art dots the land.

Don’t miss the desert ruins in this surprising area. You’ll enjoy the loud and over-the-top city of Hurghada, the Eastern Desert, and even more great diving.  The area is now famous for the incredible holiday packages and that can be off-putting for some.

But all you need to do is scratch beneath the surface to find the many hidden gems of the Red Sea coast.

5. Alexandria

Although no signs of Alexander the Great remain in modern day Alexandria, this city is the stuff of legends.  The list of unbelievable aspects of this city are long:  once home to Queen Cleopatra, the Pharaohs lighthouse (one of the seven wonders of the ancient world), and the Great Library.

These days, Alexandria is a key commercial hub for Egypt and the cultural renaissance is alive and well.  It’s now home to writers and poets who are struggling to find their voice in an uncertain political climate.  The modern library is a landmark of innovation for the entire country.

Be sure to plan enough time to cover the historical circuit in order to visit the museums and monuments.  Then spend a day or two relaxing in an old world café and soaking up the atmosphere.

6. Hurghada

Originally a destination spot for diving, the city has suffered in recent years from overdevelopment.  But a gem like Hurghada is not to be tossed aside lightly and many NGO’s have come in with an aim to restore this stretch of coastline.

Many visitors love to combine a stop in Hurghada with a tour of the Nile Valley sites.  You’ll find three main areas to explore.  In the north is Ad-Dahar which is considered by most to be the most Egyptian part of the city thanks to the lively souq in the neighbourhood.  There’s also the Sigala area that hosts plenty of shops and restaurants as well as the lovely Gebel al-Afish mountain.

Along the coast is the resort strip home to more upmarket resorts and hotels.

There is very little on Earth that can compare with the breathtaking spectacle of the monuments in Luxor.  So much has survived from ancient Thebes and most visitors are blown away by the beauty of the place.

The Nile River flows directly between the modern city and the necropolis, tombs, and temples on the west bank.

There is a great deal of history to discover in Luxor as you explore these unprecedented archaeological sites.

One of the most popular beach destinations in the entire Middle East, Dahab is laid-back and relaxed.

An enclave for beach bums seeking a secluded shack on the beach, this tourist village boasts safe diving, a great tourism infrastructure, family friendly activities and accommodations, and a little something for almost every kind of traveller.

Many people use Dahab as their base for excursions into the desert or Mt. Sinai. The atmosphere is a fusion of hippie chic and the entire town is so charm that some people rearrange their plans to spend their entire vacation here.

9. Suez Canal

Cutting through the Suez sand for 163 kilometres is the Suez Canal.  This amazing feat of engineering separates Africa from Asia and Egypt from Sinai.

Completed during a period of grand dreams for the Egyptians, today the area has a distinctive, if dated, architecture and atmosphere. It’s not a big tourist draw, but there is a ton to learn about modern Egyptian history here.

Be sure to visit the canal-side towns of Ismailia and Port Said to experience a slower paced and more relaxed Egypt.

The Egyptians call Cairo Umm ad-Dunya, or the Mother of the Word. With a population of over 20 million, Cairo comes with all the draw backs of the world’s biggest cities, but it also has an energy that’s fantastic and surprisingly charming.

Check out the pyramids of Giza, the plethora of palaces and grand avenues, and the many stunning mosques. The capital of Egypt is located on the Nile River and at its heart is Tahrir Square with its incredible Egyptian Museum where you can see the artefacts collected from King Tut’s tomb.

Don’t miss Cairo Tower, which stands at almost 190 metres and offers astounding views of the city.

11. Pyramids of Giza

The most famous structures are easily the Pyramids of Giza and there is nothing like getting a close up view.  Guarded by the magnificent Sphinx, these ancient tombs have been drawing visitors for centuries.

Truly, no trip to Egypt is complete until you’ve been there. Showcasing the power and ambition of the pharaohs, you’ll see keystone monument, the Pyramid of Cheops. Also known as the Great Pyramid, it was built for Pharaoh Khufu by over 100,000 men for three months out of every year.

If you like, you can tour inside and view the incredible masonry and sarcophagus for yourself.

12. The Valley of the Kings

Sitting on the west bank of the Nile River, opposite modern day Luxor, is the Valley of the Kings.  Over the course of 500 years tombs where built here for many nobles and pharaohs of the time.  So far, over 60 tombs and rooms have been discovered – one tomb is so grand that it has over 120 rooms!

Unfortunately almost all the tombs were robbed at some point but it is still easy to get a sense of the majesty of these places and of the lives of the men and women buried here. Roughly 18 of the tombs can be visited, though you’ll need to do a bit of planning ahead of time, as officials open and close tombs on a fairly regular basis.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979, roughly 5,000 tourists visit each day.

13. El-Hassana Dome

North of Cairo is El-Hassana, a natural rock formation that was created when Cretaceous limestone broke through the Earth’s surface.

The dome was formed roughly 50 million years ago and the folding and contorting of the crust is remarkable.

You can even spot marine fossils in the formations.

14. El-Ahrash

If you’re looking for a bit of natural beauty during your visit, be sure to stop by El-Ahrash.

The name means “the bushes” in Arabic and this region features Mediterranean coastal sand dunes that reach up to 60 metres high.

It’s a lovely little eco-system, well worth an afternoon excursion if you’re on the Sinai Coast.

15. Al-Azhar Park

The hillside area of Al-Azhar Park is surrounded by some of the most interesting historic areas of Islamic Cairo. Perhaps the most popular destination, the park is located in the heart of this historic area and provides a phenomenal view of the city.

Created in 1984 by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, the basic idea behind the park is the Islamic belief that all people are caretakers of our planet.

Visitors will love this oasis as they tour the city’s monuments and neighbourhoods.

15 Best Places to Visit in Egypt:

• Sinai Coast
• Ras Mohammed National Park
• Red Sea Coast
• Pyramids of Giza
• The Valley of the Kings
• El-Hassana Dome
• Al-Azhar Park

Egypt Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit

Egypt, the land of mysteries. Explore the world-famous Pyramids, ancient temples, incredible landscapes, white beaches, and the beautiful reefs of the Red Sea. Egypt is an enormous country that can be traveled on every kind of budget. It is time-consuming to travel around Egypt, so we recommend spending at least one week in this beautiful destination. Use our 10-day Egypt travel guide to visit the best places in Egypt

Egypt Travel Guide (10 days)

The majority of historical sights to visit in Egypt are located along the Nile because the ancient Egyptians lived along its banks. In these 10 days traveling Egypt, you will be guided down following that river. Please note: We optimized the tour we did so you can possibly do the best itinerary.

Day 1 – 2: Cairo

Your journey starts in Egypt’s capital: Cairo. It is the gateway to the Pyramids and Sphinx of Giza. Cairo itself is chaotic but in a fascinating way. Visit the mummy room in the museum, the mosque and plan to spend two days with the things to do in Cairo .

Cairo to Luxor: 9 hours

Hotels in Cairo 😴

Day 3 – 4: Luxor

Welcome to the world’s largest open-air museum. Luxor is the city where would need at least 4 days to visit all the well-preserved temples and tombs. Good to know: If you travel in Egypt is it required to buy a photography pass in order to take photos at most sites.

The city has a relaxed vibe, very different from Cairo. You will find yourself in some ‘jaw-dropping’ moments, for example when wandering around in Valley of the Kings. This is where the tomb of Tutankhamun is located.

Here’s: how to get your Visa for Egypt

Spend two days in Luxor and visit the Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Temple of Queen Hatshepsut. Luxor is one of the highlights when you travel to Egypt.

Luxor to Aswan: 4 hours

Hotels in Luxor 😴

Day 5: Aswan

Aswan is another great stop on the Egypt Travel Guide. Like Luxor, Aswan is located on the Nile. Therefore, sailing the Nile with a felucca from Aswan to Luxor is a popular way to travel Egypt .

Order your Visa online here

While in Aswan, visit the Kom Ombo and Philae Temple and plan a trip to the temple of Edfu, one of the best-preserved ancient monuments in Egypt.

Hotels in Aswan 😴

Day 6: Abu Simbel & Nubian village

Rise and shine early and prepare for a 3-hour trip down south Egypt to visit Abu Simbel. The temple complex near the border with Sudan is completely carved out of the side of a rock. Between 1964 and 1968, the entire temple has been moved to higher ground because it was threatened to be flooded. An unbelievable story when you are standing in front of the massive temple. Read more about the colorful Nubian Village in Egypt .

Tip: If time isn’t a problem, visit Abu Simbel in the afternoon. It will be far less crowded.

Get back to Aswan, arrange a motorboat and cruise the Nile to the Nubian village. The Nubians are known for their kindness and colorful building. Wander around in the village for 2 hours, have lunch at Kato Dool restaurant and jump back on the boat the Aswan.

Stay in a beautiful Nubian House

Day 7 – 9: Dahab

Dahab is a chilled backpacker town on the Red Sea. Most travelers visit Dahab for its incredible snorkeling and diving into the Blue Hole. Rent an ATV and go on a desert safari and eat at some delicious restaurants located on the boulevard. After traveling in Egypt, Dahab will be one of your top stays so make sure to spend enough time here.

Hotels in Dahab 😴

You can either fly from Aswan into Sharm El-Sheikh via Cairo. This is only 20 minutes away from Dahab.

Book your flight to Sharm el Sheikh

Another option is a 12-hour drive, where you catch a ferry from Hurghada to Sharm El-Sheikh.

We recommend to rent a car in Egypt through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Day 10 – End of Traveling Egypt

Your incredible Egypt travels have come to an end. Depending on where you need to fly, you should take an international flight from Cairo or Sharm El-Sheikh.

Book your tour online

Egypt + Jordan

Egypt by tour or not?

Traveling in Egypt with a tour company is a great decision. Why? Getting from A to B isn’t that easy, and in Egypt, every little thing comes with a hassle. By joining a tour, you learn a lot about Egypt’s history, it makes traveling safer , and easier, and you will meet a lot of like-minded people.

Best time to visit Egypt

Travel to Egypt in their winter which runs from October until April. Temperatures will be much more comfortable but the attractions will be busier. Try to avoid December and January as these are known as the peak months.

Egypt Budget

Egypt can be traveled on any kind of budget. Go on a low budget by staying in hostels and traveling by train and local buses. Or choose for a little more comfort by joining a tour in Egypt .

Costs of Traveling in Egypt

Travel on a budget in Egypt, from $190 − $470 USD weekly per person, mid-range $530 − $790 USD, and high-end from $760 − $1180 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $30 − $120 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $40 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $30 USD Book public transport
• Food: $4 − $20 USD
• Activities: $5 − $20 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

What to wear while traveling in Egypt?

Egypt is a modern country where they wear modern clothes. As a woman, you don’t need need to cover your hair or ankles outside religious sites. It’s best to wear breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, and silk. During the winter time, take a sweater and long jeans as the temperatures in the evening will drop.

Visa in Egypt

Entering Egypt requires a visa. A Visa on Arrival can be purchased for 25 USD at the airport in Cairo. Make sure to have the exact amount with you in US dollars.

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Egypt via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via Viator
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Visit the Colorful Nubian Villages in Egypt

Visa for egypt: how to get it and entry requirements, 7 best things to do in cairo, egypt.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

We had such a great time in Egypt! We didn’t get to visit a Nubian Village, but we hope there is a next time :)

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9 Best Places to Visit in Egypt (Try These Famous Places in Egypt)

Egypt is a marvelous country, full of many fascinating things. The best places to visit in Egypt feature magnificent cities, old monuments, pyramids, and other historical attractions – the country offers it all.

Egypt is one of the rare countries in the world that has hundreds of great locations to visit and things to see for any taste.

Most of the attractions are close to the river Nile, but throughout the entire country, you can see fantastic things.

We’ve spent a total of 2 months exploring Egypt, from the border of Sudan to the chaotic streets of Cairo and the peaceful shores of the Red Sea.

It was a trip that surprised us in many ways and fulfilled childhood dreams of standing in the face of history and exploration.

Don’t leave home without:  Lonely Planet Egypt (Travel Guide)

9 of the Best Places to Visit in Egypt

Table of Contents

The recommended amount of time in Cairo: 2-5 days depending on your interests and how much time you have on your trip

Since most international flights arrive in Egypt, we strongly advise that you plan a couple of days in the city prior to heading elsewhere in the country. This is simply due to there being so many great things to do in Cairo .

Your first outing should be to head straight to the Egyptian Museum. This museum is a world icon and houses the relics of ancient Egypt.

It is an insightful journey into the history, lives, and culture of the country, making it a great starting point for your trip.

It is advisable to visit the museum early in the morning because it is often very busy and packed with tourist groups during the day. Some major attractions you can see in this museum include real mummies and the tomb of Tutankhamen filled with all kinds of treasures.

After you’ve had your fill of the museum, head over to the Khan el Kahlili Bazaar for some shopping.

Be sure to poke your head into the various sale stalls and marvel at the hookah pipes, lanterns and other treasures on display.

Check out this book:   Egypt: The World of the Pharaohs

There are several tours that you can book that will take you to the best sights in Cairo and provide you a fantastic guide. It is possible to book tours in advance or through your hotel once you arrive in Egypt.

Both options can work great but we prefer to book in advance to ensure we get the tours we want.

Interested in taking a night walking tour of Cairo? Watch Cairo come to life after dark with a 6-hour, private tour through the city’s most atmospheric spots . Take in the view from the top of the iconic Cairo Tower, then cast off on the Nile River in a traditional felucca sailboat.

Sip tea high above the city from the peak of El Mokkatam mountain and enjoy a traditional Egyptian dinner.

Finish your evening at the bustling Khan El Khalili bazaar, where vendors pile their stalls will brilliant displays of antiques, handicrafts, and jewelry.

2. Saqqara, Dashur & Memphis

Of course, seeing the city is fantastic but you do not want to miss the opportunity to explore the areas around Cairo.

Luckily, there are several fantastic day trips on offer that will show you other cities, desert oasis’, sand dunes, ancient cities and large collections of pyramids.

There are a lot of options for day trips from Cairo and what you can see will depend only on the time you have available.

If you only have one spare day to work with we highly recommend that you take a day tour to the Dashur & Saqqara Pyramids and Memphis.

In doing this you will have the opportunity to explore the very first pyramids that were built in Egypt.

You may also want to opt for a day trip to Alexandria .

3. Pyramids of Giza

While technically located in Giza, the pyramids are accessed from Cairo but deserve to be highlighted separately from the city. Giza Pyramids are surely the biggest attraction and the top site of all the places to visit in Egypt.

The Great Pyramids are mysterious structures, each containing unique things.

Built-in perfect shapes, the three pyramids are known as Kafhre, Khufu and Menkaura. It is believed that these ancient structures were built for the pharaohs who are buried inside them.

Check out this book:   Giza and the Pyramids: The Definitive History

No trip to Giza would be complete without paying a visit to the Sphinx. This ancient and mysterious structure has puzzled people since ancient times and even today the archaeologists still struggle to find the purpose and origins of the Sphinx.

While tourism was down in Egypt, our visit to the Pyramids of Giza was the most crowded. This has a lot to do with the local people that enjoy visiting the complex. It will be crowded and be sure to dress conservatively, despite the inevitable heat.

Looking for a great private tour of the Giza Pyramids and Sphinx? Check out this amazing half-day tour from Cairo that we did and loved ! Follow your own Egyptologist through all the highlights and enjoy personalized attention as your tour the city’s most iconic destinations.

The flexibility of a private tour means you can decide how much time to spend at each of the sites, ensuring a truly memorable experience.

A recommended amount of time in Luxor:  3 days depending on your interests and how much time you have on your trip

Following the path of the ancient pharaohs, you cannot miss a visit to Luxor. It has dozens of great monuments and museums where you can admire interesting artifacts and exhibits.

It is also a lively city with great shopping and dining options that shouldn’t be missed. There is no shortage of things to do in Luxor , so plan your time wisely.

Built on the ancient location of Thebes, the main draw to Luxor is its access to the Valley of the Kings. This is the place where pharaohs were buried and the host to many old treasures and other wonders.

The mummy of Tutankhamen, one of the most famous discoveries of all time, was discovered by archaeologists at this very site.

The Valley of the Kings is located on the West Bank of the Nile River and it is home to hundreds of tombs and chambers.

The majority of the old tombs are not open for tourists, but it is possible to go descend into a few of them, as well as explore the various temples in the valley.

It is definitely one of the most popular archaeological places to visit in Egypt and is protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Be sure to take a hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings when you are there!

Don’t leave home without:   Lonely Planet Egypt (Travel Guide)

You also shouldn’t miss a visit to the Valley of the Queens. Also located on the West Bank, the must-see site here is the enormous Hatshepsut Temple. The temple is extremely detailed and worth the time it takes to explore all of the levels.

Lastly, located within the city are the impressive temples of Luxor and Karnak. These temples are a place where ancient Egyptians worshipped their gods. 

Both temple complexes are large and require a few hours to really explore all they have to offer.

Expect very ornate carvings throughout and solid examples of the perfect Egyptian text.

Take a Valley of the Kings tour and explore the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut on this 4-hour private trip from Luxor, with your very own Egyptologist guide .

Head for the West Bank and discover the hieroglyph-coated chambers of the Valley of the Kings, the mountain-cut tombs of 62 of ancient Egypt’s rulers, as you learn about the pharaohs once buried here.

Also, visit the stunning Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and stop to see the towering Colossi of Memnon.

A recommended amount of time in Aswan:  3 days depending on your interests and how much time you have on your trip

First impressions of Aswan might make you think it’s a pretty unexciting place. We’ll admit it, we thought that too until we took a closer look. Truth is, there are some pretty interesting things to do in Aswan .

The city, while not over the top like Luxor, has a lot to offer and is worth the visit for access to Abu Simbel alone.

The city is much more laid back than the other cities I’ve mentioned, making a visit here a more calming experience.

The main road of the city literally runs next to the Nile River on the East Bank with amazing views of towering sand dunes on the opposite side of the river.

Typical visits to Aswan include touring the nearby sites that include Philae Temple, the Unfinished Obelisk and the Aswan High Dam.

There is a beautiful market located in the city center where you can find a large variety of trinkets and clothing to purchase.

One of the things we really enjoyed was an afternoon sunset Felucca trip that ended with a tour of the Nubian village on the West Bank, where we enjoyed a traditionally cooked meal in a family home. We even got henna tattoos from the local women.

This private tour of the Philae Temple, Aswan High Dam, and unfinished Obelisk showcases three of Aswan’s most popular sites.

You will get an up-close look at the dam that divides the Nile from Lake Nasser, marvel at the sheer size of the unfinished Obelisk and revel in the natural beauty of Philae Temple’s island home.

6. Abu Simbel

Outside of Aswan, people are usually drawn to the area for the opportunity to visit the amazing ancient site of Abu Simbel.

While it is possible to travel to Abu Simbel and stay in the small village near the lake, most people stay in the more comfortable Aswan and take the very early morning tour to the famous temple.

Located nearly on the border of Egypt and Sudan are a couple of temples built by the famous Egyptian, Pharaoh Ramses II. It is hands down the most impressive temple structure and at the top of the places to visit in Egypt.

Despite the cost, early morning departure and effort to visit, it is a place that is totally worth your time. Do not miss it.

7. Hurghada

A recommended amount of time in Hurghada: 2 days depending on your interests and how much time you have on your trip

While the main reason to visit Egypt revolves around temple touring and ancient history, one must not forget that it shares a coast with the stunningly beautiful Red Sea.

With the desert running into the turquoise water, it would be a shame to take a day or two for some water fun and maybe some scuba diving!

I won’t lie to you, the best place to experience the Red Sea in Egypt is from Dahab or Sharm el Sheik, however, if you don’t want to travel through the Sinai Peninsula and are just looking for an easy option then Hurghada is your answer.

Officially a resort town, you won’t find any temples here. Instead, the strip is filled with restaurants, bars, shops, and fancy hotels. You’ll even find a Hard Rock Cafe in Hurghada, but don’t let this deter you.

The direct access to the Red Sea makes the visit worth your time, especially if you like to scuba dive.

Many people will plan a trip to Egypt using this beach resort town as a base, which works out great due to an abundance of day trips on offer to the rest of Egypt. There are plenty of things to do in Hurghada .

8. Sharm el Sheik

A recommended amount of time in Sharm el Sheik:  5-7 days depending on your interests and how much time you have on your trip

Even more commercial and the official resort town of Egypt is Sharm el Sheik. Affectionately known by repeat visitors as ‘Sharm’, the only difference between this beachside resort and Cancun, Mexico is the continent.

Upscale, all-inclusive resorts are the name of the game and water sports are the tempo. People flock to the shores of Sharm el Sheik for world-class diving opportunities in the Red Sea.

It’s a shame but people will visit the resort town and never leave to explore the rest of Egypt. Go for the diving and the sunshine, but don’t miss out on Egypt’s history.

Revel in the sparkling waters and sunshine of the Red Sea on this full-day Tiran Island cruise and snorkeling trip from Sharm el Sheikh .

Aboard a comfortable boat, cruise to Tiran, an island in the southern Gulf of Aqaba famous for its beautiful corals, lagoons and marine life. 

A recommended amount of time in Dahab:  3-7 days depending on your interests and how much time you have on your trip

When Sharm el Sheik exploded into a giant beach resort, laid-back travelers left in search of quieter, less commercial areas. This is how Dahab came to be the hippy paradise it is today.

Arguably, it even has better diving on offer including the famous Blue Hole and Bells dive sites within a few minute’s drive.

The town is very laid back with a backpacker vibe. There’s a main street with restaurants and bars, a market, several dive shops, and small boutique hotels.

However, it is now possible to have an all-inclusive experience in a handful of properties that have moved into the area.

After spending 17 weeks Overlanding through Africa and traveling through Egypt for a month, we holed up in Dahab for 2 weeks and found the small town to be exactly the perfect blend of a remote location and access to modern amenities.

It also has one of the most picturesque coastlines along the Red Sea.

So Many Amazing Places to Visit in Egypt

Egypt is a country that can be visited throughout the year, regardless of the season. Chances are high that you will always see other tourists checking out the attractions, no matter the period of your visit.

Above all, Egypt will amaze you and leave you contemplating the greatness that once resided within its borders. You will be mesmerized by the rich history and presence of all the places to visit in Egypt.

Our visit to Egypt not only exceeded our expectations but completely blew our minds. The structures are something you can only really appreciate in person, so nothing should hold you back from visiting.

Remember to keep an open mind and be prepared for the unexpected, you never know what you might find. After all, Egypt is full of treasures that cannot be seen anywhere else in the world.

Safety in Egypt

A lot of people wonder if Egypt is a safe place to visit , given its location in North Africa, its consideration as part of the Middle East and the history of political conflict.

While this may at first be concerning, we are happy to report that Egypt continues to be a safe place for visitors who want to explore relics of the ancient world.

A huge bonus about tourism in Egypt right now, compared to before 2011, is that the country is no longer a crowded place to visit.

You can literally enjoy places like Abu Simbel and the temples of Edfu in the company of a handful of other people. There is no better time to explore the best places to visit in Egypt.

We recommend that you check out a tour that hits all the highlights with a certified Egyptologist guide: 10 Day Egypt Experience with 5* Nile River Cruise

As with all travels, it is important to make sure your investment is covered in the case of unforeseen circumstances, including lost luggage and change of plans.  Policies for non-US travelers can be evaluated with companies like  iSelect – Travel Insurance .

More on Egypt:

• Ultimate Egypt Itinerary for 7 Days, 10 Days or 2 Weeks
• 21 Epic Things to Do in Egypt
• Best Time to Visit Egypt: Month by Month Breakdown
• Ultimate Egypt Travel Guide
• Choosing an Egypt Nile Cruise: Itineraries, Essential Tips & Advice
• 25 Essential Safety Tips for Travel

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Borders Of Adventure

Leading Culture and Adventure Travel Blog by Becki Enright. Looking at the world with a different angle to change perceptions of misunderstood places, for the best in travel.

Cultural Travel , Egypt

An Explorer’s Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Egypt

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to handpicked partners, including tours, gear and booking sites. If you click through or buy something via one of them, I may receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and allows this site to keep running.

Getting lost in temple corridors, descending into tombs, and witnessing the crossing of historical and religious timelines in structures and scripture ⁣carvings, deciding where to go and the best places to visit in Egypt can be quite a list to narrow down.

But on a route that uses Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor and Aswan as the main bases, you can cover a lot of ground, combining city visits and day trips to sites in deserts and on coastlines by cruising on the Nile. 

You will want to see as many as possible since every site is unique. From Ancient Egyptian sites to ones with a multi-layered history over the ages, you will never stop marvelling at how people built these colossal structures. Or how such carvings and paintings have survived to the point that they look like people added them just a few years ago. ⁣You will stare endlessly at the murals as you try to piece together the historical timeline they are telling you.

Ready to get planning on where to go in Egypt? This guide to Egypt’s best sites has you covered. 

What Are the Best Places to Visit in Egypt?

Giza pyramids necropolis, egyptian museum and mummy room, khan el-khalili bazaar visit, islamic and coptic cairo tour, saqqara and memphis , monasteries of wadi natrun , pompey’s pillar , catacomb of kom ash-shuqqafa , library of alexandria , abu simbel , visit a nubian village, philae temple , the unfinished obelisk, aswan sharia el souk, kom ombo temple , valley of the kings, tomb of tutankhamun , temple of hatshepsut, colossi of memnon , karnak temple and luxor temple, access the best places to visit in egypt on a tour.

⁣It’s hard to put an exact number on exactly how many sites there are to visit in Egypt. Aside from the dozens already on show, many others are open but not easily reached or are currently undergoing excavation.

With new sites always being unearthed, even under peoples’ houses, Egypt will never be a one-visit destination. And who knows what different perspective you will have when you return to a site you once stood in before.

FULL TRAVEL GUIDE: Travel to Egypt Safely & Responsibly – Overturning Negative Perceptions

So, where to begin with all this archaeological excitement? 

In a 12-day round trip from Cairo with G Adventures, I not only got to realise a childhood dream to visit Egypt (I had my heart set on being an Egyptologist), but I was able to see more sights in 10 full trip days on a small adventure group tour than I would have in trying to organise each area independently. Independent travel in Egypt is also possible but requires more time and on-the-ground hassle than it may be worth.

Here’s where to go in Egypt and what to see to explore the best of Ancient Egypt and beyond.

Planning where to go in Egypt? Start here. 

Cairo – Home of the Last Remaining Wonder of the World

Cairo is where you come to tour the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. It’s a rite of passage to traverse this highlight of Egypt in Giza’s once-remote desert area on the Nile River’s western side across from Cairo city in the East.

The Giza Pyramids and Sphinx site is one of the first you will visit in Egypt.

How does it feel to stand before the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still in existence? Unimaginable. Nothing can describe the feeling of seeing the only remaining wonder of the world that you once marvelled at in history books and pictures.

Archaeologists estimate that Egyptians used up to 2.5 million stone blocks to build Giza’s Great Pyramid by hand. When you realise just how tiny you are compared to only ONE of those stones, you understand what a magnificent feat of architecture this was for the time. ⁣

The Great Pyramid – the last remaining Ancient Wonder of the World – awaits.

Visiting the most iconic landmark of Egypt is a significant stop. It’s on everyone’s list, and one perk of the G Adventures Egypt tours is that you will be one of the first on-site to avoid the crowds.  Coupled with an Egyptologist guide’s insights, you learn so much more about the historical structures when they are looming in front of you.

Visit the Giza Necropolis site.

Giza Pyramids Ticket Price

• Giza Pyramids: 160 EGP 
• Entry to inside the Great Pyramid: 360 EGP
• Entry to inside the 2nd or the 3rd Pyramid: 100 EGP
• Entry to the Solar Boat Museum: 100 EGP

Giza Necropolis Opening Hours

•  06:00 – 22:00

Giza Pyramids Tours

• Tour the Pyramids and Sphinx, then take a Felucca ride on the Nile on this five-hour trip. 
• Short on time? This half-day Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx tour gets you straight to it. 
• Whizz around the Pyramids on a quad bike , taking in the views of the desert city.  
• Opt for a female-guided tour of Cairo covering the city’s highlights, including Giza, the Egyptian Museum, and browsing the Khan El Khalili Bazaar. 
• Capture memories and tour the Pyramids with a photographer . 

The Egyptian Museum contains over 120,000 artifacts documenting every period of Egyptian history. The main highlight is seeing all the treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun and the Egyptian Mummy Room, where you can gaze upon some of Egypt’s greatest rulers, like Ramesses II.

Gazing at one of the many thousands of artefacts in The Egyptian Museum.

Our G CEO, Said, was present to facilitate our trip and get us from A to B with ease and a local with expert knowledge and qualifications in Egyptian history and archaeology. Egyptians are proud of their history, and people like Said impart the facts and stories with great passion.

The fascinating. history-filled corridors of The Egyptian Museum are as much a highlight on your trip to Egypt as the temples and tombs themselves.

• Opening hours: 09:00 – 19:00, on Fridays 09:00- 11:00 and 1:30- 19:00
• Egyptian Museum Ticket Price: 60 EGP (regular); 30 EGP (student)
• Mummies Room entrance price: 100 EGP (regular); 60 EGP (student)
• Photography ticket cost: 50 EGP

Egyptian Museum Tour

• Take a half-day private guided tour of the Egyptian museum , including hotel pickup and transfer. 

The bustling Khan El Khalili Bazaar stalls, mainly catering to tourists, didn’t overwhelm me. Still, as Cairo’s main bazaar, it is good to wander around and see it as part of the city’s overall makeup. For more local goods such as gold, silver, copper, perfumes, and antiques it is famous for, venture off into the narrow side streets where you can try your luck with some haggling.

Cairo Bazaar Tours

• Take an i nsider’s tour of four Cairo Bazaars and Souqs , including Khan El Khalili. Get off track, learn to haggle, and see the markets from a local perspective.

The bustling, dusty, chaotic, haggling-filled lanes of the Khan El Khalili Bazaar in Cairo.

Before I started my big Egypt tour, I made sure to arrive early to make the most of my time in Cairo and view the city aside from its Ancient Egyptian fame. Hearing that Cairo was chaotic and uninteresting, I wanted to take a Cairo walking tour with a female guide to try and understand a city that has a rich history but a negative reputation. There’s also a female-led Cairo highlights tour that includes the Giza Pyramids. 

Take a walking tour in Cairo and see more of it aside from its Ancient Egyptian fame.

Cairo is a city where different faiths stand side by side and where history is layered in stone from the church foundations to the high reaches of Mosque minarets. ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ It’s a vast city, where the Coptic and Islamic sites are widely spread. So I enlisted the help of a female guide from a local walking tour company who was able to introduce me to the city in a half-day exploration. It included visits to the Hanging Church, Church of St.George, Saint Sergius and Bacchus Church (where the Holy Family came to rest after their journey into Egypt from Israel).

We then passed through Garbage City on the way to Saint Samaan, the Tanner Monastery built into the rock and ending in the Islamic part of Cairo.

Entrance to Coptic Cairo’s Hanging Church.

⁣⁣One highlight was the Sultan Hassan Mosque – a remarkable great of architecture completed in the 1300s after three years of construction. It is one of the largest mosques in the world, whose walls stand nearly 40m tall and the minaret soars at 68m. You’ll often find yourself alone in its corridors filled with delicate carving and detailed paint patterns before emerging into brightly lit courtyards.

The intricate details of the Sultan Hassan Mosque, Cairo – one of the important religious sites to visit in Egypt.

• Sultan Hassan Mosque Ticket Price: 80 EGP
• Clothing: Modest clothing is required for religious sites. 

Old Cairo Walking Tours 

• Spend a full day visiting the sites of ancient Cairo , including the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization.
• Or opt for the Islamic and Coptic Cairo tour with a local lunch stop. 

On a day trip, we visited Memphis and Saqqara, around a 2.5-hour drive south of Giza.

Memphis is the ancient capital – where more artifacts have been found and put on display, like the massive statue of Rameses II, and where many more are still being uncovered.

You are tiny next to the colossal statue of Rameses II at the Memphis site, Egypt.

Market stalls and other artefacts line the museum’s outdoor space in Memphis, Egypt.

Saqqara is the site of Egypt’s first Pyramid, the famous Step Pyramid (The Pyramid of Djoser), and a vast archaeological site that is only starting to be extensively uncovered. Like the noble family tombs, which have only been open to the public for the last six months.

Who knows what will be here in two years as the work continues to find and understand the history of Ancient Egypt.

Visit Saqqara, the necropolis site of the Ancient Egyptian capital of Memphis.

Marvel at Egypt’s first Pyramid, the six-tiered Step Pyramid of Djoser.

Saqqara is an ongoing archaeological site where you can visit recently excavated tombs.

• Opening hours: 09:00 – 17:00 
• Saqqara Ticket Price: 150 EGP
• Saqqara New Tombs Ticket Price: 60 EGP
• Memphis Ticket Price: 80 EGP

Saqqara and Memphis Tours

• This trip was an extra to our Egypt tour and cost 650 EGP.
• If travelling independently, enjoy a full-day tour that combines Giza with Memphis and Sakkara . 

On the way to Alexandria, we stopped for a tour with a local monk at the Monasteries of Wadi Natrun. If the Coptic sights in Cairo are not enough, this is the chance to delve deeper into the history and importance of Wadi to Coptic Christians. Dating back to the 4th century AD, these Wadi sites are some of the earliest Christian monasteries in the world, standing in a relatively desolated desert land.

The grounds of the Monasteries of Wadi Natrun.

The colourful, detailed ceiling murals in the Wadi Natrun Monasteries.

Opening hours

 09:00 – 17:00, on Fridays 09:00- 11:00, and 1:30- 19:00.

Monasteries of Wadi Natrun Ticket Price

How to get there

Accessible only by car or by bus. Hourly West Delta Buses leave Heliopolis station. Our tour included a visit to the monasteries.

Alexandria – European Character and Mystery

I always wanted to visit Alexandria, Anthony and Cleopatra’s home, whose tombs are yet to be discovered, and my trip included a loop there and back from Cairo . But it doesn’t make a visit to the northern city on the Mediterranean coast any less impressive.

Founded by Alexander the Great around 331BC, there are still many archaeological treasures to see and a chance to wind down in the streets tinged with a cooling seaside breeze.

Wander Alexandria’s Mediterranean coastline.

The site as it stands today might be small, hugged by modern apartment complexes, but Pompey’s Pillar stands proud. It is a Roman 20-metre-tall victory column from 297 AD that was once part of a large Roman temple complex. Erected in 293 for Emperor Diocletian, it is one of the largest monolithic columns ever created.

The site of Pompey’s Pillar in Alexandria, Egypt, surrounded by modern apartment buildings.

• Opening hours: 09:00 – 17:00
• Pompey’s Pillar Ticket Price: 60 EGP

A donkey fell down a shaft from the ground surface and uncovered these hidden tombs of Catacomb of Kom ash-Shuqqafa, carved into the bedrock deep below Alexandria. Accessible via a winding stairwell, the tombs were built in the 2 nd Century AD in the age of the Antonine Emperors. It was the resting place for one wealthy family who was still practising Egypt’s ancient religion with a fusion of Greek and Roman religions, as suggested by the carvings. 

• Opening hours: 08:00 – 16:00
• Catacomb of Kom ash-Shuqqafa Ticket Price: 80 EGP 

The Library of Alexandria was one of the greatest and most famous libraries of the ancient world. A master collection of knowledge that expanded during Greek rule. Destroyed by a fire in the 1 st Century BC, what stands in Alexandria now is a new library that is just metres away from the ancient one’s perceived site. It stands with the same ethos – a centrepiece of scholarship and knowledge available to all.

Inside Alexandria Library in Egypt, they are continuing the desire to collate a master collection of knowledge.

• Opening hours: 10:00 – 19:00 (Monday-Thursday and Sunday), 14:00 – 19:00 (Friday), 14:00 – 16:00 (Saturday), 
• Library of Alexandria Ticket Price: 80 EGP 

Tours of Alexandria

• On a round-trip from Cairo, enjoy an archeological-filled day trip to Alexandria , covering monuments, mosques, tombs, and royal gardens. 
• If you are already in Alexandria, this full-day city tour is a great introduction to the historical landmarks.

Aswan – Nubian Egypt

From Cairo, we caught an early flight south to Aswan, giving up optimal time to explore the city on the banks of the Nile and the boardwalk Corniche. It also allowed time to get to the surrounding highlights without rushing as they are hours from the city. 

A visit to Abu Simbel is a must-see and ended up being one of my favourite sites of all. The site is two rock temples carved out of the mountainside in Southern Egypt, built by the Egyptian Pharaoh Ramesses Il between 1274-1244 BC. One for himself and one for his wife, Queen Nefertari.

The mountain-carved temples of Abu Simbel are one of the best places to visit in Egypt and shouldn’t be missed.

Both temples symbolise love and pride, with colossal statues at the entrance over 20 metres high. ⁣⁣ Ramesses II dedicated the temple to himself in the godlike form alongside the sun gods Amun and Ra and Ptah of creation. Past the main entrance hall lined with colossal statues, each room continues to play out stories of battles and victories and scenes of offerings to the gods. Ramesses II had a reputation for being a great warrior. ⁣⁣

The temple of Abu Simbel dedicated to Ramesses II.

A tiny patch of the exquisite, intact detail inside Abu Simbel temple.

⁣⁣Considered one of Egypt’s most beautiful temples, it would be submerged today under Lake Nassar if it weren’t for modern engineering working to preserve history. ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ Both temples were dismantled and relocated in 1964 to a higher elevation to prevent being submerged by the Nile’s waters after the construction of the Aswan High Dam. To think this all could have been lost and be able to stand before it is a privilege.

It takes over three hours to drive from Aswan to the site, close to the Sudan border. It’s remote and worth the journey. ⁣⁣

Guardians of the temple sites in Egypt.

• Abu Simbel Ticket Price: 200 EGP (includes entrance to the Documentation Centre)

Boarding a felucca to take a trip along the Nile was more than just viewing Aswan city from the water or spotting the ruins of the Aga Khan Mausoleum on the hillside. It was also about supporting local initiatives that main tourism drives would otherwise overshadow. ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ Our transport was also a means to spend some time with local people from one of the Nile islands before visiting their Nubian village home for a walking tour and a delicious traditional dinner. ⁣⁣

Visiting one of the colourful traditional Nubian villages in Aswan.

Our Nubian friend proudly showing off his village that sits on the banks of the Nile in Aswan.

The Nubian culture, described as having a distinctively African feel to it, is one of Egypt’s oldest (mainly found in Aswan and Southern Egypt) and considered one of the earliest civilisations found in ancient Africa. ⁣⁣

The host family (on a rotation basis using more than one household) can use this ‘local living moment’ on our G Adventures Egypt trip as a regular source of income. At the same time, travellers learn about Nubian people and culture in modern-day Egypt. It’s all a part of travelling for good and making sure your tourism dollars are spent directly in local communities.

Sailing across another part of the Nile in Aswan brings you to Philae Temple, which once sat on Egypt’s southernmost border. As it is on an island, the only way to reach it is by boat, which adds a little anticipation to the exploration. ⁣ ⁣ This temple is a monument where Greek-Roman history sits alongside Ancient Egyptian. Here, Greco-Roman columns line the exterior entranceways. The last use of Egyptian hieroglyphs adorn the inner walls, and Roman ruins sit side-by-side with temple complexes dedicated to deities Isis, worshipped by the Pharaohs. ⁣

Trying to narrow down where to go in Egypt? Don’t leave the magnificent Philae Temple in Aswan off the list.

A corridor of columns showcasing greek and roman history at the Philae Temple.

Following the meticulous reconstruction of Philae Temple to ensure its original appearance, the temple is now on nearby Aglika Island as part of a UNESCO protection project. Historians moved the structure from Philae Island after it was at threat of being submerged by the Aswan High Dam’s construction. How mind-blowing is that?

To visit Philae Temple, you must reach the island by boat, allowing for incredible views from the water.

• Opening hours: 07:00 – 16:00
• Philae Temple Ticket Price: 80 EGP

I took an extra excursion to one of the ancient quarries to see the Unfinished Obelisk. Ordered by the female Pharaoh Hatshepsut (1508-1458 BC), it was the tallest Egyptian obelisk ever erected until that crack happened while being carved out of the quarry.

The ancient quarry site in Aswan where you will find the Unfinished Obelisk.

See the enormous crack? It’s how the Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan got its name.

• Unfinished Obelisk Ticket Price: 80 EGP 

The sounds of vendors hawking their wares, the bright colours of textiles and the heady smell of spices – wandering the souk in Aswan is a chance to mingle with the locals, support them and experience this distinct part of Egyptian culture.

Nothing beats a bustling Egypt shopping experience. Sharia el Souk in Aswan is an excellent way to spend an afternoon.

A Trip to Aswan’s Sharia el Souk Aswan is mostly known for its black pepper, and I was determined to find some to take home for Egyptian inspired dishes. Always shopping local where I can, I met Mr Abed, who owns a super spice shop.

Aswan is famous for its black pepper. Be sure to pay Mr Abed a visit to stock up on your Egyptian spices.

Take a Nile Cruise Between Aswan and Luxor

Aswan is where we also started our Nile Cruise to Luxor—heading upriver on a two-day, three-night adventure, passing the sandy banks, villages, and pockets of an oasis.

Typical coastline views as seen from a Nile Cruise in Egypt – desert lands, pockets of oasis and mountain backdrops.

Viewing a temple in Egypt at sunset is a must. Like how we explored Kom Ombo in its golden glow as one of the excursion stops on our Nile River Cruise.

On the banks of the Nile, Kom Ombo is a ‘double temple’ with two sides and two entrances, built during the Graeco-Roman period (332 BC-AD 395) and dedicated to the crocodile god, Sobek and the falcon god Horus. ⁣⁣

Kom Ombo Temple, as seen as part of a Nile Cruise itinerary.

Carved pictures tell stories of Ancient Egypt on the red walls of Kom Ombo Temple in Egypt.

The crocodile, in particular, was important to the people of Ombos. So much so that in excavation, mummified crocs were found in catacombs and are now on display in a dedicated viewing area.⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ There are some interesting carvings here, including the ancient calendar system and the first representation of medical instruments for surgery that we still use today (such as scalpels, forceps and scissors). One of the guards on-site took us on a treasure hunt to find the tiny carving of an elephant. ⁣⁣

Visit Kom Ombo temple at night and see the carvings in a golden glow.

• Kom Ombo Temple Ticket Price: 100 EGP 

Book a Nile Cruise

• Want to cruise Egypt’s famed waters? Book a 2-day Nile River cruise from Aswan to Luxor , which includes a hot air balloon ride. 

Luxor – Land of the Greatest Pharaohs

Like Cairo, Luxor is firmly on the tourism agenda as people flock here to get lost within the sandy, stone enclaves of the Valley of the Kings.

No trip to Egypt is complete without visiting the vast archaeological site of the Valley of the Kings for a day.

One of the best sites in Egypt in the Valley of the Kings – a network of tombs under the Luxor mountain rocks.

Located on the ancient site of Thebes in Luxor’s West Bank, across the Nile and past vast farming fields, this site is a network of tombs and tunnels – an ancient burial ground and the final resting place for Egypt’s New Kingdom rulers. ⁣

It is hard to imagine the intricate network of tunnels and tombs that lay underneath you as you wander this rocky basin, as well as knowing you could even be walking amongst dozens more still buried. In the tombs uncovered, the treasures have been removed (either looted or on show in the Egyptian Museum).

However, each wall painting tells a life story, of triumph and struggle, power and love.

Visiting Ancient Egyptian sites is always a marvel.

Going deeper underground in tombs at the Valley of the Kings, Egypt.

The ticket for the Valley of the Kings grants you entrance to three tombs out of the 63 on-site and our G Adventures CEO was on hand to tell us the best three to visit that were open that day. The wonders of local knowledge. ⁣ ⁣ The most impressive for me was the tomb of Ramses IV which looks almost like a film set (much of ancient Egypt looks so surreal), and Tutankhamen’s tomb, which is worth the extra ticket cost. ⁣

It looks like a film set inside the tomb of Ramesses IV in the Valley of the Kings.

• General Entry (access to three tombs): 160 EGP 
• Tomb of Ramses VI: 100 EGP
• Tomb of Tutankhamun: 250 EGP
• Photography Costs:  There is an additional 300 EGP fee to take photos in the Valley Of Kings, but it is worth the extra cost to keep these memories.

Likely the Pharaoh who dominated your school time Egypt history lessons, Tutankhamun is the most famous. Therefore the option to descend into his tomb is a dream come true for most who travel to Egypt and the Valley of the Kings. His treasures may be on show at the Egyptian Museum. Still, his mummified body is the first thing you see when you enter, before taking a few moments to take in the surroundings and realise what a momentous moment it must have been when this space was first found.

The entrance to the Tomb Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings – well worth the extra ticket cost.

The classic architectural style of the Temple of Hatshepsut stands more as a symbol of the power of female rulers to the throne of Egypt and the means they had to hold onto it. This tiered mortuary temple sits majestically like a castle complex in limestone rocks. While much of the carvings and statues have been destroyed (or stolen), the vision of Queen Hatshepsut shows the disguising of herself as a man, which is why you will still see images of the typical Pharaoh figure.

The restoration you see is down to the work of the Polish Academy of Sciences, who painstakingly reconstructed three levels of the temple. 

The restored three-tiered Temple of Hatshepsut in Luxor, Egypt.

• Temple of Hatshepsut Ticket Price: 80 EGP

Behold the two 18-metre high mammoth statues of Amenhotep II at the Colossi of Memnon site. Now protruding from a small, grassy roadside oasis, they once used to stand at the front of a grand temple that no longer exists in the city of Thebes. 

The Colossi of Memnon dominate a patch of land in the Luxor valley.

• Colossi of Memnon Ticket Price: 80 EGP

Karnak Temple was once the centre of all religious life in Egypt and the largest religious structure ever constructed – built and extended by generations of Pharaohs for over 1,500 years. This house of the gods is Luxor’s grandest temple and is a site so large that it requires a few hours to stroll the columned corridors of the temples and maze-like chapel side rooms. It is split into separate temple sections such as The Temple of Ptah and The Temple of Mut. Most notable is The Great Temple of Amun – the main area marked with the mighty passageway of the Hypostyle Hall, comprised of 134 towering sandstone columns in 16 rows. 

Karnak Temple in Luxor is one of my top three best sites to visit in Egypt. Dedicate a few hours to explore.

An Egyptian temple guard oversees the ancient history of the Karnak Temple complex.

Get lost amongst the 134 sandstone columns in 16 rows at Karnak Temple in Luxor.

Luxor Temple may look small, but like many others in Egypt, it is big on details and design layers. ⁣Most notably in that Ancient Egyptian, Coptic Christianity and Islamic architecture intertwined throughout the temple. It shows its evolution to worship over the thousands of years since its construction in 1390BC. Amenhotep II, Tutankhamun and Rameses II built some parts of the temple. ⁣

The splendour of the Luxor Temple site in Egypt.

We visited the Temple of Luxor after a morning visit to Karnak Temple to better picture how the recently uncovered two-mile Sphinx Alley connected the two temples. This Alley is currently being uncovered in its entirety – a restoration that will bring back the original pathway to these two sits of worship.

Sphinx Alley – connecting Karnak and Luxor Temples – is currently being fully excavated.

• Karnak Temple Opening hours: 06:00 – 17:30
• Karnak Temple Ticket Price:  150 EGP
• Luxor Temple Opening hours: 06:00 – 22:00
• Luxor Temple Ticket Price: 140 EGP

Luxor Tours

• Choose from full or half-day East and West Bank tours and dig deeper into Egypt’s ancient civilisation. 

Egypt Tours to See More

My G Adventures Egypt Upgraded tour covered all of the listed sites above , including the Nile Cruise and Abu Simbel excursion, and is a tour designed with a little more comfort in mind. I visited in partnership with G Adventures, detailing travel to destinations responsibly and with purpose. Philae Temple, alongside the Saqqara and Memphis day trip on our return to Cairo, were optional extras but worth the investment for the historical excursions. 

There are seven tours altogether, and all include some of the best places to visit in Egypt in different measure, including:

• Egypt on a budget ,  for those wanting the ease of organisation with minimal costs by using public transport and floating down the Nile on a felucca.
• Shorter trips like Best of Egypt , which covers Cairo, Luxor and Aswan, including sailing the Nile on a traditional felucca and the Luxor to Cairo flight.
• Visiting the Red Sea area on the Highlights of Egypt trip which includes time in coastal Hurghada an overnight train to Aswan and a felucca sail between Aswan and Luxor.

Access more of the country on a tour of Egypt.

About Becki

Becki Enright is a British Travel Press Award-winning writer whose work focuses on changing perceptions about misunderstood aspects of destinations. Her writing combines storytelling with insight into the social, historical, political and economic factors that shape the country or place in relation to tourism. Becki has appeared live on Sky News and CNN and has contributed to high profile media including National Geographic, Time.com, Guardian online, New York Times, Grazia and Buzzfeed.

Tom Henty says

19 November 2023 at 9:59 pm

It was very interesting reading about Alexandria, as I had to miss the port city in my recent trip. I headed down the Nile to Luxor and Aswan. Thanks for filling in the gaps of what I missed.

Alastair McKenzie says

22 October 2019 at 3:27 pm

Spectacularly detailed and useful info here, Becki. That’s a lot of research & editing!

22 October 2019 at 3:46 pm

You know me too well! Thank you.

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How to make the most of visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza

By Scott Campbell

Egypt has faced down many myths and misconceptions ever since Ancient Greek historian, Herodotus, claimed to have seen hooved hippos and flying snakes with bat-like wings on the banks of the River Nile in the fifth century BCE. Thousands of years later, and vast numbers of visitors still arrive armed with dubious information – albeit more about tourist traps and top selfie spots than soaring serpents.

At the Great Pyramids of Giza, west of Cairo , for example, tourists often show up expecting to traverse the archaeological site’s 16,500 hectares on foot in under an hour, but end up leaving with a fake papyrus scroll in one hand and an empty wallet in the other.

“There are many things to be aware of while visiting the pyramids,” explains Marwa Hafez, one of the country’s first female Egyptologists and tour guides. “The weather can be intensely hot, the sellers are very persistent and it’s easy to miss out on so much of the history and culture if you don’t come prepared.”

Before venturing to the UNESCO -listed heritage area, read our essential guide to make the most of a visit to the Great Pyramids – and what to avoid.

The Great Pyramids of Giza

Give yourself plenty of time to explore

The Giza complex is vast, covering extensive grounds that span 16,500 hectares, and there's a wealth of history and architecture to absorb. Beyond the three main pyramids, there are several lesser-temples and tombs to discover, so make sure to give yourself at least four hours in Giza. The Egyptian sun can be relentless, and a day at the pyramids involves a lot of walking with very little shade, so remember to bring plenty of water and wear comfortable footwear. For the best views, head to the panoramic points dotted around the far reaches of the complex, where the pyramids appear perfectly aligned against the Giza skyline in one sweeping scene.

Bring plenty of small change

Navigating the Egyptian system of baksheesh – a baffling blend of tipping, charity, and at times, what seems like outright bribery – can be perplexing. “It’s usually given to workers and even to those in public service like bank tellers and hospital staff,” says local student Mohammed Yaseen, over a glass of mint tea and dominoes at one of the lively cafes skirting nearby Abu Al Houl Street. “The amount is usually based on quality of service and varies depending on the situation and the relationship between the individuals.” The unwritten rule around the pyramids is more straightforward: if someone does something for you, no matter how minor, unsolicited, or unexpected, they’ll likely expect a few Egyptian pounds for their efforts. Hustlers are even known to demand steep tips for wandering into the background of your photo or dispensing dubious information about visiting hours — and if you do give in, prepare for a crowd as others follow, hoping for their share. Don’t always feel the need to pay out but if someone genuinely helps you out, it's generally wise to hand over a few coins.

The tunnels into the pyramids may feel claustrophobic, particularly in the heat

Pick the right entrance

The main entrance near the Marriott Hotel Mena House is typically busier and offers a classic approach to the site, but the gate next to the Great Sphinx is your ticket to quicker access, especially if capturing that perfect shot with the iconic statue is a priority. Entry to the complex isn't free, and the cost can vary. As of January 2024, general admission is EGP540 (approximately $11.50), and if you're keen on exploring the inner sanctums and burial chambers, there’s an additional charge – $19.20 to enter the Great Pyramid, and $4.70 for the other two. Venturing inside these ancient wonders is an experience in itself, although it’s not for everyone — especially if you’re claustrophobic. Handrails and lamps have been installed, but the passages are as narrow as a metre at points and the air is heavy, especially during Egypt’s hotter months. Contrary to what you might expect, there are no hieroglyphics inside, but you will see the stone sarcophagi of the ancient kings and pass through the Robber’s Tunnel — an entrance dug by medieval looters.

Avoid riding camels and horses

Set aside your Lawrence of Arabia fantasies and appreciate the animals from a distance. The standards of animal welfare at tourist sites sometimes fall short of what visitors expect, leading to uncomfortable scenes of over-burdened, distressed horses, in particular, struggling under the harsh desert sun. According to Tegan Joke Van der Post, who provides free veterinary treatment to thousands of the area’s animals at the Good Karma Sanctuary near the Great Sphinx, horses are sometimes worked for 18 hours a day in temperatures that can soar to 45°C. If you’re intent on riding, she advises looking around in advance for a reputable stable – such as Ride Egypt , which runs excursions from its purpose-built facilities – and checking carefully for any signs of mistreatment. “Never go on a horse or camel if you haven't seen it without a saddle so you can look for wounds, and insist that it gets a drink of water first,” she says. “If the horse gobbles down water you know he didn't have any all day, which can point to greater issues.”

Visit early to avoid the heat and crowds

Go at the right time to avoid huge groups

The pyramids are bathed in a beautiful golden light during the morning and early afternoon, especially from the Great Sphinx gate. As the day progresses, and the sun begins to set behind their peaks, the light becomes less captivating, casting long shadows and dimming the majestic appearance of the site. Arriving early in the morning not only allows you to see the pyramids in their best light but also helps you avoid the more intense midday sun. “The best time to visit is at 7am,” explains Hafez. “If you can’t make it that early, go after 11am, which is just after the rush hour for the big groups, but expect the weather to be warm.” The complex is usually open from 8am-4pm from October to March, and from 7am-6pm from April to September, but hours are subject to change, so check on the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities website or with your hotel for the latest information.

Arrange your guide and transport in advance

Although it’s possible to visit the pyramids alone, good guides can significantly enhance your understanding of these ancient wonders. Booking one in advance after checking reviews online is the best way to promise a memorable (and historically accurate) experience. Around the pyramids, many vendors hawking for last-minute tour business sport official-looking lanyards, but appearances can be deceiving — verify their credentials or affiliation before engaging in any services or handing over money. When in doubt, it's best to consult directly with verified staff members or head to the ticket centre for information. Navigating transportation to and from the pyramids can also be tricky and expensive if left to the last minute. Taxis to the site often charge premium rates, especially if you’re hailing them on the spot — and waiting for an Uber or Careem for your return trip can mean long delays. Arranging a car service from your hotel through a reputable company beforehand not only secures a set price but makes sure your ride will be ready and waiting for you when you need the air conditioning the most.

Make time to explore the area

Explore the area around the pyramids

The immediate vicinity around the two main exit points is full of tourist trappings, but embracing the lively atmosphere can be part of the adventure. Beyond the obvious, there are a few less-visited corners worth discovering. Wander through the criss-cross of narrow alleyways in the surrounding Haram district, for example, and you'll stumble upon local eateries serving authentic Egyptian fare, smaller shops with handcrafted goods, and quiet spots offering unexpected views of the pyramids. El Gizawy restaurant is a highlight, turning out exceptional falafel sandwiches 24 hours a day just a few minutes' walk away from the Great Sphinx exit, while Koshary Hekaya will whip you up a hearty bowl of Egypt’s carb-heavy national dish (chickpeas, lentils, pasta and rice topped with crispy onions and a rich, spicy tomato sauce) for little more than a dollar.

But avoid the papyrus museums

Countless shops and “museums” will offer to show and sell “ancient” papyrus and “relics”, but the authenticity of items is questionable at best. You might also be enticed by vendors, including street children, offering “free” souvenirs. These gifts might seem like harmless tokens of the local hospitality — but approach with caution. But what starts as a complimentary gesture often quickly evolves into a sales pitch or a request for tips. “A lot of people try to sell you things and follow you everywhere,” adds Hafez. “If you have no experience and are too polite then they will ask you for more and more.” Be kind but firm and you won’t have any problems.

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A practical guide to travel in Egypt, from tipping culture to independent touring

From packing tips to advice on haggling, here’s everything you need to know while planning your trip.

Whether you want to sail down the Nile on a felucca, explore ancient temples, browse the museums of Cairo or go trekking in Sinai, there are a few things to bear in mind when planning your trip to Egypt. Here’s what to be aware of when it comes to visas, tipping, guides and more.

Do I need a visa?

Almost all travellers, including visitors from the UK and the EU, need a visa to travel to Egypt. While it’s possible to get a visa on arrival, it saves time at the airport if you apply online in advance. A single-entry tourist visa costs US$25 (£20). If you plan to stay in the resort towns in Sinai for fewer than 15 days, you do not need a visa. Instead, you receive a ‘permission stamp’ in your passport when you land at Sharm el-Sheikh International Airport. While this option is a money saver, the list of places you’re permitted to visit is quite limited — even Ras Mohamed National Park at the southern tip of Sinai is off limits without the full visa.

What should I pack?

Egypt is a majority Muslim country, so it’s respectful for travellers to dress modestly. For all genders, this means covering everything between your shoulders and knees. You will likely be asked to cover up more if you visit a mosque or church.

The tap water is not safe to drink here so bring a water bottle with a filter, such as those from Lifestraw .

Wi-fi ranges from infuriatingly slow to nonexistent across the country, even at five-star hotels. Get mobile data through your service provider at home or buy an Egyptian SIM card when you land at the airport.

Can I pay by card in Egypt?

Cash reigns supreme but you can use a card at some higher-end hotels and restaurants. Take some Egyptian pounds out of a cash machine when you arrive, but be mindful of the fluctuating exchange rate and don’t take more out than you need. For bigger expenses, consider bringing US dollars, the most — and sometimes only — accepted foreign currency.

Tipping, called baksheesh, infiltrates almost every interaction you’ll have. It’s customary to tip nearly everyone you come in contact with, even for services you don’t want or require. Keep small change on hand for toilet attendants, porters, mosque caretakers and guards at temples and tombs.

Should I join a tour or travel independently?

Egypt has been a package-tour destination since the days of Thomas Cook, who first led a group to Egypt in 1869. The country is well set up for tour groups, and many first-time visitors find this option easiest, with guides and transport logistics arranged for you. Egypt’s historic sites have little signage, making a tour guide a necessity for deeper understanding.

Nile cruises generally run between Luxor and Aswan in both directions, but a few make the long journey from Cairo. Trains, planes and buses connect cities along the Nile, and buses or internal flights can take you to the Red Sea coast.

For Hungry Minds

Related topics.

• ANCIENT HISTORY
• ANCIENT EGYPT
• CITY GUIDES

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• 13 Reasons Why You Should...

Reasons You Should Visit Egypt at Least Once

Egypt may be known for ancient treasures and rich history, but there is more to this nation than you might expect. From surreal waters and golden sand beaches to remarkable architecture and natural therapies, Egypt is worthy of your bucket list. Here are some of the top reasons Egypt should be your next destination.

Keen to visit Egypt but not quite sure where to begin with planning your itinerary? Consider joining Culture Trip’s specially curated 10-day Egypt adventure, led by our local insider .

It’s one of the oldest ancient civilisations in the world

Ancient Egypt is one of the most interesting and oldest civilisations in the world. The Great Pyramids of Giza, the only surviving ancient wonder, along with ancient Egyptian statues and tombs, continue to seize the attention of top archaeologists and, of course, the wider world. To this day, remains of the ancient Egyptian civilization continue to be discovered.

It has the longest river in the world

Ranking as the longest river in the world, the Nile extends around 6,695km (4,160mi) and flows into the Mediterranean. You can visit a number of attractions along its length; the most prominent being Luxor and Aswan, both of which feature on Culture Trip’s exclusive small-group Egypt tour .

You’ll follow the footsteps of Moses

Mount Sinai, also known as Jabal Al Tor or Mount Moses, is considered a holy site and is visited by pilgrims from religions including Islam, Christianity and Judaism. It is where the prophet Moses received the divine commandments from God. It is located in the beautiful Sinai Peninsula, where many come to enjoy mountain climbing and hiking, too.

Paradise beneath the waves

The Red Sea is without question the best place to dive in Egypt. It offers diverse locations for an unforgettable experience including bright corals and colourful, distinctive fish. Egypt offers different diving opportunities including wrecks, walls, drifts, pinnacles, shore dives, day boats and liveaboards.

The beaches are gorgeous

The beaches of Egypt are a dream come true with the country home to internationally renowned beaches guaranteed to delight sunseekers. From natural pools and crystal blue waters to steady beaches as well as surfing spots, they are not to be missed.

It’s a hotspot for water sports champions

Dahab, Safaga, Hurghada, Ras Sudr and El Gouna are all among the top kite and windsurfing destinations in Egypt. Kite and windsurfing champions from around the world train in these locations due to the perfect weather and steady, safe waters. Not a champion? Egypt has some of the best kite and windsurfing schools as well.

The weather is great all year round

Egypt’s high season never ends. Summer is the perfect time to take a dip and go diving, while winter is the best time to visit the historic desert sites.

Safari desert trips are the best in Egypt

Much of the land here is desert, making it the perfect spot for a new kind of adventure. The best way to discover the region is via a safari trip. Camp to enjoy the full experience.

Horseback riding here is amazing

Wherever you’re going to enjoy your horseback riding experience in Egypt, rest assured you’ll have a view to go with it. Enjoy a ride across the dunes overlooking the lake in Fayoum, pass by the great pyramids or enjoy a romantic ride by the crystal blue beaches in Hurghada.

It’s a dream for architecture and art lovers

Cairo has some of the best Islamic architecture and art on earth. Visit mosques that have been standing for 1,200 years, such as the Mosque of Ibn Tulun, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, the Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan and more. These mosques are a perfect chance for architecture, art and history buffs to soak up some culture.

Egyptian cuisine is delicious

Egyptian food has been influenced by neighbouring countries in the Middle East, resulting in dishes full of flavour. Not only is it delicious, but the food in Egypt shapes the national culture. Egyptians turn to food in times of happiness, need and struggle. It’s the highlight of any occasion.

Egypt’s therapeutic waters and sands

Therapeutic tourism has long been popular in Egypt. The hot springs here are reputed to help cure respiratory diseases, kidney, bone and other skin problems. The mud in many areas is also said to cure skin issues. Sand-burying massages are also popular in Egypt and are said to treat physical injuries.

Egyptian people are a diverse bunch

In Egypt, people have different accents, distinctive food, unique traditions and even different fashions depending on which city they are from. Some cities even have different languages. Just wandering around Egypt is an experience in and of itself.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

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The Ultimate Guide to Egypt: Dos and Don’ts Every Traveler Must Know!

W aving hello from the land of the Pharaohs , it's Kevin Erickson , your trusty travel companion. Ever dreamed of marveling at the Sphinx , floating on the Nile , or relishing in the historic hustle and bustle of Cairo's streets? Ah, Egypt, a majestic place! But, wait – do you know the etiquettes and local customs? Dive in as I unravel the treasures of Egypt and help you navigate potential pitfalls. 🌍

• Dress modestly and respect religious practices
• Greet, haggle, and tip like an Egyptian pro
• Stay hydrated, savor local delicacies, but know where to draw the line
• Relish history but respect boundaries
• Dive deep into the culture but keep American sensibilities in mind

Why Egypt Should Be on Every Traveler's Bucket List

According to the World Tourism Organization, Egypt welcomed a staggering more than 11.3 million tourists in 2018. A beacon of history, culture, and cuisine, Egypt promises a travel experience like no other.

Cultural Nuances: Navigating Egypt's Rich Tapestry

1. dress to respect.

Egypt's culture is an intriguing mix of modern and traditional elements. In religious and rural areas, dressing modestly is the key.

Women, consider long skirts or pants and tops with sleeves, while men might ditch the shorts.

Remember, dressing appropriately is not just about blending in, it's about showing respect!

2. Communicate Like a Local

Starting with a warm " As-salamu alaykum" can break many barriers. It’s an essential phrase that means "Peace be upon you".

Plus, trust me; locals appreciate it when you put in the effort.

3. Fun with Finances: Haggle and Tip!

Haggling isn't just a transaction; it's an art form in Egypt .

Dive into the vibrant bazaars, start with half the price, and let the dance begin! And when it comes to tipping, small gestures can bring big smiles.

4. Food, Drinks, and the Egyptian Way

Egypt offers a culinary journey that your tastebuds will cherish.

From falafels to koshary, there's a world to explore. And here’s a zinger for my American friends: while Egypt is a Muslim-majority country, alcohol is indeed legal and available in many restaurants, hotels, and bars.

However, remember: public drunkenness isn't just frowned upon—it can land you in hot water!

5. Dive Deep into the History, but Respect the Boundaries

Egypt is, as Anthony Bourdain rightly said,

" a unique fusion of civilizations, cultures, and religions. Traveling here is like walking through layers of history."

But remember, while the Pyramids might tempt you, climbing them is a big no-no. Let's keep history preserved!

From a Traveler's Eye: Kevin's Secret Tips

• The Nile - More Than Just a River - The Nile isn't just about those mesmerizing boat rides. Avoid swimming, especially near urban areas, due to pollution.
• Not Everyone's After Your Bucks - Sure, there are hustlers, but many Egyptians are genuinely warm. Embrace the culture, make friends, and you'll discover the true heart of the country.
• Step Outside the Tourist Spots - Discover Egypt's hidden gems. Beyond the Pyramids and Sphinx, there’s a whole world awaiting.

Embracing the Egyptian Adventure: A Final Word

The magic of Egypt is something that has enticed travelers for generations. Whether it's the mysterious allure of the Pyramids, the sprawling beauty of the Nile , or the vibrant tapestries of the bazaars, every corner of Egypt is a testament to its rich heritage and captivating culture. But beyond the visual spectacle, the soul of Egypt lies in its people – warm, welcoming, and eager to share their stories.

Traveling here is not just about checking off sites from a bucket list; it's about immersing oneself in a timeless narrative that has shaped much of the world's history. It's about understanding the delicate balance of tradition and modernity that Egyptians navigate daily. By respecting local customs and approaching each experience with an open heart, travelers can forge connections that transcend mere tourism.

Kevin Erickson' s insights and tips are crafted from a place of deep respect and admiration for this land. While the dos and don'ts serve as a practical guide, they also underscore a more profound message: Travel with empathy. Every "do" is an invitation to embrace and every "don't" a nudge to respect boundaries.

In conclusion, as you set out to experience Egypt, remember that it's a journey both external and internal. The monuments will leave you awestruck, the cuisine satisfied, but it's the memories made and the friendships forged that will truly stand the test of time.

So here's to Egypt – an eternal story waiting for your chapter. Safe travels!

What currency should I carry in Egypt?

Egypt uses the Egyptian Pound (EGP). While major cities and tourist areas accept credit cards, it's wise to carry some local currency for smaller vendors, tipping, and haggling in bazaars.

Do I need any vaccinations before traveling to Egypt?

It's recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before your trip. Common vaccines suggested for Egypt include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever, especially if you're planning to visit rural areas.

Is English spoken widely in Egypt?

While Arabic is the official language, English is widely understood and spoken, especially in tourist areas, major cities, and by younger generations. However, it's always appreciated if you learn a few basic Arabic phrases.

Are there specific cultural or religious festivals I should be aware of?

Yes, Egypt has several religious and cultural festivals, the most notable being Ramadan, a month of fasting. During this time, many shops and restaurants may have altered hours. Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha are also significant festivals with grand celebrations.

Is vegetarian or vegan food easily available?

Yes, Egyptian cuisine offers a variety of vegetarian and even vegan-friendly dishes. Staples like falafel, koshary, and molokhia are both delicious and vegetarian-friendly.

How do I get around within the country?

Egypt boasts a range of transportation options from trains, buses, and domestic flights to more local means like tuk-tuks and horse-drawn carriages. For major attractions like the Pyramids, it's often convenient to hire a taxi for the day or join a guided tour.

Is the tap water safe to drink?

It's advisable to stick to bottled water in Egypt, both for drinking and brushing your teeth, to avoid any potential stomach upsets. Always ensure the bottle seal is intact when purchasing.

• World Tourism Organization
• Egyptian Tourism Board
• "Parts Unknown" by Anthony Bourdain

Explore 127 Best Places to Visit in Egypt

When people think about which  places to visit in Egypt , they often find themselves becoming somewhat confused and uncertain, and for good reason. Egypt is not only a land of antiquity; it is also a land of beauty and splendor that has so much to offer tourists visiting the country.

Egypt consists of various distinctive regions, with each of those regions being wonderfully unique in their own special way. Knowing what each region has to offer can make planning your Egypt vacation so much easier. Scroll down to find your favourite destination.

127 Best Places to Visit in Egypt

Choose your topic of interest and start your journey of exploration.

Ancient: Pyramids  • Temples  • Tombs  • Museums

Religious: Christian  • Islamic

Cities: Cairo •  Luxor • Aswan • Alexandria

Regions:   Lake Nasser • Nile Valley • Red Sea •  Sahara Desert

The Best Places to Visit Along the Nile River in Egypt

The River Nile has been the lifeline of Egypt for thousands of years. It is the longest river in the world and it stretches from Burundi, just south of the equator in East Africa all the way to the Mediterranean Sea. This unique river has a north-bound route. Its fertile banks are what allowed the ancient Egyptian civilizations to thrive and grow. Sailing along the Nile in a boat is a time-honored way for travelers and tourists to follow in the footsteps of the ancient pharaohs.

Nile cruise holidays  allow visitors to really see and experience a number of towns and cities located on its banks. Explore ancient temples and tombs dating back thousands of years; experience the local culture of the inhabitants that live alongside it, and watch as timeless scenery slips quietly by.

Visitors can experience the Nile River in several different ways, ranging from 5-Star luxury cruise ships to authentic river paddle steamers; from traditional Dahabiyas to time tested Feluccas that have been used on the Nile in one form or another since antiquity.

Today, all Nile River cruises operate between Luxor and Aswan, stopping along the way to visit some truly amazing sites, including the amazing Temple of Horus in Edfu which is only accessible via Nile cruises.

Top 7 Places to Explore Along the Nile

• Great Pyramids of Giza
• Valley of the Kings
• Luxor Temple
• Karnak Temple Complex
• Temple of Horus, Edfu
• Temple of Philae
• Abu Simbel Temples

Best Places to Visit in Cairo, Egypt

Cairo  is the capital of Egypt and geographically located in Lower Egypt. The city is home to more than 16 million people. Over the course of its history Cairo has been ruled by Romans, Greeks, Ottomans, Arabs, the French and the British. When you visit the city today, you can’t help but notice how many buildings reflect the influence of the various civilizations who have ruled this ancient land.

Just as Egypt has different regions, Cairo is also divided into several parts, each with its own unique things to see and places to go. Old Cairo, also referred to Coptic Cairo has been inhabited for more than 2000 years and features the famous  Hanging Church  and the  Ben Ezra Synagogue . You can also find many more of Cairo’s churches in this part of town.

In Islamic Cairo which is also known as Medieval Cairo, you will find a number of bazaars, including the famous  Khan Al-Khalili bazaar  and some of the oldest and most beautiful mosques in the country, including the  Mosque of Muhammad Ali ; the  Al-Azhar mosque , and the  Ibn Tulun mosque . This is also where you will find the imposing  Cairo Citadel .

The city of Cairo also offers some amazing insight into ancient Egypt. The legendary  Egyptian Museum  is located within the city limits and houses the world’s largest collection of Egyptian artifacts. Located on the outskirts of the city are the world’s most famous ancient attractions, the  Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx . Both these attractions are incredibly popular, and you’ll find them featuring in almost all  Cairo tour packages .

Other things to see and do in the city of Cairo include a visit to the City of the Dead, renting a Falucca sailboat and sailing on Nile River, enjoying Sufi dancers at the Citadel, bartering for souvenirs at the local bazaar and enjoying a camel ride.

Over and above all the attractions and activities on offer, Cairo also has plenty of great hotels to stay at, including many luxurious ones. First and foremost however, Cairo is all about sightseeing and holds some of most important  places to visit in Egypt .

Top Places to Visit in Cairo and Lower Egypt

• Giza Plateau: Giza Pyramids and Great Sphinx
• Egyptian Museum of Antiquities in Cairo
• Djoser’s Step Pyramid in the Saqqara Complex

Best Places to Visit in Upper Egypt

Upper Egypt is where ancient Egypt flourished. As such it is the place to go to see the ancient Egyptian treasures that makes Egypt such a phenomenal tourist hot-spot. Here tourists will find the famous  Valley of the Kings  and the  tomb of Tutankhamen . The two major tourist-related cities found in Upper Egypt are  Luxor  and  Aswan . Another interesting and culturally different area to visit in Upper Egypt is Nubia.

There is such a high concentration of ancient temples and burial grounds in Upper Egypt, that this part of the country is often described as being the world’s biggest open air museum. This area along with Cairo should be at the top of your list of must-see places to visit in Egypt.

Important Sights to See in Upper Egypt

• Karnak Temple
• The Temple of Horus and Sobek

Places to Visit in the Sahara Desert

When people are thinking about places to see in Egypt, they quite often overlook the great  Sahara Desert , which coincidentally is the largest desert on the African continent, and also the world’s hottest desert. It covers an amazing 9,400,000 square kilometers and stretches from the Red Sea to the outskirts of the Atlantic Ocean. Its driest region is known as the Libyan Desert. The Sahara Desert is also called Al Sahara Al Kubra, meaning “The Great Desert”.

As many people have discovered, the Sahara Desert is both beautiful and deadly at the same time. It has one of the harshest climates in the world, where temperature extremes can reach up to 138 degrees F and vast sandstorms and dust devils can be created by strong winds. Most of Egypt’s Sahara Desert is completely arid, with little to no vegetation. While it may not rain in the Sahara very often, when it does rain there is a very real risk of flash floods.

The desert is also the home of many potentially dangerous animals, including the Deathstalker scorpion, monitor lizards and Hyrax sand vipers. Visitors to Egypt can take camel rides and 4×4 jeep adventures into the desert with guides to experience the grand vastness and tranquility of the world’s largest desert.

There is much to see in the Sahara including desert oases such as the  Siwa Oasis , the  Farafra Oasis , the  Kharga Oasis , the  Dakhla Oasis , and the  Bahariya Oasis , which is the home of the Cleopatra II Bath. Other exciting attractions that can be found in the Sahara Desert include the White Desert, which features beautiful wind carved white rock formations, Al Alamein, the place where the Allied forces gained a decisive victory over the Axis powers in WWII,  Valley of Whales which is home of many sea fossils including whole skeletons whales and sharks, and the Gilf El-Kebir, a beautiful sandstone plateau.

You can hike the dunes, sleep out under the stars, ride a camel or take a safari ride in the Sahara Desert. Because the desert is a naturally dangerous place it is highly recommended that all tourists travel with an experienced guide.

Destinations to Experience at the Red Sea

The Red Sea sits just off the Egyptian coast and it is known to be one of the most popular scuba diving and snorkeling destinations in the world. The Red Sea’s underwater paradise is one of the most beautiful in the world as well. The clear water offers spectacular visibility and there are plenty of exotic underwater creatures to view and seascapes to visit. The sea walls, gardens and reefs are excellent places to view shallow water marine life. The area’s underwater wrecks are also great places to see open-water sea creatures such as sharks and sea turtles.

Even if you are not a SCUBA diving or snorkeling enthusiast, the Red Sea also offers plenty of beach-front resorts to enjoy. Areas like  Hurghada  and  Sharm El Sheikh  are also very well known for the vibrant nightlife and world class shopping

The most popular places to see on the shores of the Red Sea coast are  Hurghada ,  Sharm El Sheikh ,  Dahab  and  El Gouna , If you are still undecided about where to go in Egypt, spend a few days relaxing by the Red Sea coast will always prove to be a good bet.

Sinai Peninsula, Egypt

Since the fighting stopped in this region in the late 1980’s the Sinai Peninsula has become an exciting tourist destination with sandy beaches; spectacular desert scenery, and world class water adventures. In fact, about 80% of the housing in the Sinai Peninsula is found in the form of hotels. Major tourist destinations located in the Sinai Peninsula includes the city of  Sharm El Sheikh  and what is commonly referred to as its neo-hippy counterpart,  Dahab .

Also located here is Mount Sinai, where most people believe Moses received the 10 Commandments. If you intend visiting the Sinai Peninsula, please note that the northern parts of Sinai are not safe for foreigners to travel to.

Places to See on the Egyptian North Coast

Lower Egypt’s Mediterranean coast is the home of the exciting yet laid back historical city of  Alexandria , founded by Alexander the Great.  This region is now a growing resort-style destination for wealthy Egyptians living in Cairo, and its biggest draw are its long strips of sandy white beaches. Finding a spot to sit on one of these densely crowded beaches can be difficult however, especially on weekends and on public holidays.

Most western tourists visit the North Coast of Egypt to experience its amazing SCUBA diving sites. This undersea world is full of exciting things to see and probably one of the most interesting places to visit in Egypt. The most important sight is what some believe to be the ruins of Cleopatra’s palace and a number of WWII related wrecks and submerged planes. Like other old cities in Egypt, Alexandria is also home to many wonderful attractions, both ancient and modern, one of which is the New Alexandria Library. The best way to experience Alexandria is to visit the area as part of an  Egypt tour package .

With so many places to see and things to do in Egypt, perhaps it would be better to ask where not to go in Egypt, rather than asking which places to visit in Egypt. The Land of the Pharaohs really does have plenty for everyone.

MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS TO VISIT IN EGYPT

What sets Egypt apart from the rest of the world is the fact that each great civilization has left its mark in the form ancient relics; artifacts and monuments. Collectively, these provide us with an incredibly accurate record of the country’s history. When you visit Egypt, you come face to face with more than 5,000 years of history, which to this day has been extremely well preserved. No other country in the world can offer visitors a comparable experience.

The Ancient Pyramids and the Sphinx

The  Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx  are undeniably Egypt’s most famous attractions. They are also the most visited attractions in the country, drawing thousands of tourists to the Giza necropolis each day. If you are planning to visit the country and you’re making a list of what to see in Egypt, then you will definitely want to put this site at the very top of your “Must See” list. The fact that the site is located just a short drive away from central Cairo only gives you more reason to explore these ancient wonders.

The Giza pyramids were built over the span of 3 generations. The first one was constructed for Pharaoh Khufu. This is the tallest of the three great pyramids, reaching an impressive 138 meters into the sky, making it the largest pyramid ever discovered. The second pyramid was constructed for Pharaoh  Khafre, and the third for Pharaoh Menkaure.

When you visit the site, you might find that the Pyramid of Khufu is closed to the public for the sake of preservation. Also, when it is open, there are restrictions on the number of people allowed in. Currently, the authorities only allow 150 visitors inside in the mornings and another 150 visitors in the afternoons. You also have to purchase a special ticket on-site, and in person because tour operators are no longer allowed to book for group tours. If you want to get a ticket to enter this pyramid, you need to be at the ticket office early. Lastly, remember that the pharaohs never built their pyramids for entertaining guests, so don’t expect the interior design to be very visitor friendly.

Located just in front of the three pyramids is the Great Sphinx, a lion-like sculpture with a human head that was carved out of a single block of sandstone. The world-famous Sphinx is known as Abu al-Hol in Arabic, which basically means “Father of Terror”. When visiting the site, you will also be able to explore the Valley Temple which stands just a short distance away, facing the pyramids and the Sphinx.

The Great Pyramids of Giza were constructed in the 4th dynasty of Egypt’s Old Kingdom, about 5000 years ago. How exactly the ancient architects and laborers were able to construct these massive pyramids is still somewhat of a mystery, and contrary to popular belief, slave labor was never used during their construction. The Giza Pyramids are of course the signature site of Egypt.

Djoser’s Step Pyramid – Saqqara, South of Cairo

Once the largest building of its time, and also Egypt’s very oldest pyramid,  Djoser’s Step Pyramid  was constructed for to hold Pharaoh Djoser’s mummified body. It was built in the Saqqara necropolis just 30 km south of Cairo, near Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt.

At the time of its completion in 2611 BC, the pyramid stood 62 meters high and had six stepped layers. It was designed by the famous ancient architect Imhotep, and may have been one of the first stone buildings of its time. Tourists and pilgrims have been visiting Djoser’s Step Pyramid for more than 3000 years now.

The Saqqara necropolis is a vast ancient burial ground, and home to several other pyramids and temples which you can visit and explore while you are in the area. Saqqara sits on the edge of the desert, overlooking the Nile River valley, but it is surrounded by lush greenery that gives it a unique sort of charm.

Visitors will feel as though they have traveled back in time to see how the region appeared many millennia ago. These days, there is also a small modern museum which is definitely worth visiting. Simply put, this fascinating site should also feature on your “places to see in Egypt” list.

Visit the Egyptian Museum in Cairo

If you are fascinated by the ancient pyramids, temples and tombs of Egypt, then the  Egyptian Museum in Cairo  needs to be added to your “Must Visit” list as a matter of urgency. The museum houses more than 120,000 artifacts but for obvious reasons, not all of these are on display.

The Museum is also home to the “Treasures Room” which holds the treasures and artifacts that were recovered from the tomb of the boy king, Tutankhamen. This, along with the “Mummies Room” is for many people, the highlight of a visit to the museum.

There are many mummies in storage at the museum but not all of them are on display. Nonetheless, visitors can still see 11 mummies on display if they purchase a ” Mummies Room” ticket at the museum when they visit.

The Valley of the Kings – Luxor

This historically significant valley is located near Luxor and another of the very important places to visit in Egypt. The famous  Valley of the Kings  is host to 63 royal tombs and chambers for the kings and privileged nobles of the New Kingdom. These tombs and chambers were constructed during a 500 year period, beginning in the 16th century BC and continuing to the 11th century BC. The chambers and tombs range dramatically in size, from tiny pit chambers to full sized chambers that contain more than 120 different rooms.

Here visitors can see some of the most famous tombs every discovered, including the  tomb of Tutankhamen . In life, Tutankhamen was one of the least esteemed pharaohs, but in death he became the most famous of them all. Today, Tutankhamen’s mummy once again rests in his timeless tomb inside a specially designed glass box. This alone should be reason enough for anyone to add this site to their “what to see in Egypt” list.

His tomb is one of the best preserved tombs, and visitors may once again enter his tomb by purchasing a separate ticket on site.

Sadly, many of these tombs were opened and robbed in antiquity, but the Valley of the Kings is still the ideal place to see actual tombs and monuments of the great Egyptian pharaohs and noblemen, and to view the Egyptian mythology decorations found on the walls of the tombs.

Also located nearby is the  Valley of the Queens , where the queens of the New Kingdom and their children were often interred. Here visitors can see four of the queen’s tombs, including the famous tomb of Queen Nefertari.

Karnak Temple Complex – Luxor

The  Temple of Karnak  is not only one of Egypt’s most impressive ancient religious sites, but it is also the biggest such site ever discovered.  Although the site has been badly ruined, it is still the largest ancient religious site, designed and constructed by generations of ancient Egyptian builders.

The Karnak temple complex is located 2.5 km north of Luxor, and it consists of 3 main temples and several smaller, outer temples along with many sanctuaries, kiosks, pylons and obelisks which collectively cover an amazing 240 acres.

The Hypostyle Hall is probably the most famous part of this ancient site, and it includes a hall that is 5000 square meters in size. Within this hall are 134 massive columns that are arranged in 16 rows. The Temple of Karnak is a very impressive feat of ancient Egyptian construction, and was supposed to be the home of the King of all Gods, Amun-Ra. In ancient times this temple was known as “Ipet-isut”, which meant the “Most Select of all Places”.

The Temple of Luxor – Luxor

The  Temple of Luxor  is located in the center of Luxor Town and was built more than 4000 years ago by the New Kingdom Pharaoh Amenophis III. It was then finished by Ramses II. This spectacular temple has been an important place for celebrating rituals for thousands of years, including the festival of Opet, one of ancient Egypt’s most important festivals.

Today the Temple of Luxor is a tourist hot-spot, especially at night when the entire temple is beautifully illuminated with artificial lighting.

The Temple of Isis – Philae

This breathtaking structure built to honor Isis, the Goddess of Magic, Motherhood and Fertility. When you visit this site, you will notice that there are also several other smaller temples, sanctuaries and shrines that were constructed to honor various other Gods and Goddesses, with the oldest temple dating back to the year 370 BC.

One of the most impressive things about the  Philae Temple of Isis  is the fact that it was moved in its entirety and then reconstructed. This was a monumental task that was carried out in order to save this ancient wonder from the rising waters of  Lake Nasser  when the Aswan High Dam was built. Today the temple is located on the island of Agilkia after being moved from Philae Island.

It is now a Unesco World Heritage site, and it is without question one of the best ancient attractions in Egypt. If you travel to Luxor while you are in Egypt, make sure you visit this temple, and ideally, you should try and visit it both during the day and at night so that you can experience the magnificent Philae Temple Sound and Light Show. It’s worth noting that if you intend booking a Nile River cruise, a visit to Philae Temple will almost always be included in the itinerary due to its popularity.

Temple of Horus and Sobek – Kom Ombo

The  Temple of Sobek at Kom Ombo  is another must-see Nile Valley attraction. Like Philae Temple, this site also features prominently in the itineraries of nearly all  Nile cruise holidays . What amazes most people when they first arrive at the site is the fact that there are actually two twin temples: One built to honor Horus the falcon God of War and the sky, and the other built to honor Sobek, the God of fertility and creation.

The biggest challenge for the architect and for the builders was that both temples had to be identical so that neither of the two gods would feel offended. One had to be a mirror image of the other, and when you visit the site you soon notice that the job was completed to perfection.

This amazing achievement dating back to the early 2 nd  century BC is located on the banks of the River Nile, just a short distance from the tourist friendly city of Aswan. It is a well preserved temple with plenty to see. Add it to your list now so that you won’t be disappointed.

Temple of Horus – Between Aswan and Luxor

The amazing  Temple of Horus in Edfu  is considered to be the most well preserved ancient Egyptian temple. Constructed between 237 BC and 57 BC during the Ptolemaic Dynasty, the temple was built to honor Horus, a God that was often shown depicted as a man with the head of a falcon. In ancient Egyptian mythology, Horus eventually became the ‘supreme ruler’ and ‘god of the sky’.

The Temple of Horus is a massive structure and features a birth house, along with an impressive pylon and many fascinating reliefs and carvings. You can find this ancient wonder located at Edfu, about halfway between Aswan and Luxor along the Nile River. Like other previously mentioned attractions, it also features prominently in many  Nile cruise holidays  and other  classic Egypt tours .

Abu Simbel Temple – Lake Nasser

The  Temples of Abu Simbel  shouldn’t only be on your “what to see in Egypt” list, but instead, it should be right up there near the top of your list. No amount of words or pictures could ever be able to do this remarkable temple justice. Abu Simbel is an extremely popular historical site located on the banks of Lake Nasser in southern Egypt.

It is probably the most recognized monument of ancient Egypt, second only to the Great Pyramids of Giza. If your tour of Egypt takes you anywhere near Aswan or Lake Nasser, make certain you visit impressive structure. Abu Simbel temple actually consists of two  massive rock-cut temples which were originally carved from the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramesses the Great during the 13th century BC.

These monuments pay tribute to the pharaoh himself, as well as to his wife, Queen Nefetari. Although the site had to be removed from its original foundation in the 1960’s due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam, the complete and original twin temples can still be viewed in their entirety today. Well preserved; fascinating, and one attraction you really don’t want to miss. Many  Egypt package tours  that feature time in Aswan will include a trip to Abu Simbel, but not all of them do so always study a tour itinerary carefully before you make a booking.

Come Explore All the Best Places to Visit in Egypt

You can enjoy all of the best sights and attractions in one trip with a customized itinerary from us. We make all the arrangements and have the best connections that will make your travel to Egypt enjoyable and exciting. Our tours to Egypt are well-organized and flexible enough to allow you to make the selections of what kind of trip you want to take.

The possibilities are endless when you book your Egypt tour through us . Come experience all the best places to visit in Egypt .

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• Best Places To Visit In Egypt With Family For A Memorable Trip

15 May 2024

Seeking an unusual trip to a sandy fairly land? Step into Egypt, where the golden sands echo the pharaoh’s footsteps and the pyramids stand as classic guardians of history’s mysteries. Discover the best places to visit in Egypt with family for a wholesome experience. Add a unique dimension to your family vacation by adding the top attractions in Egypt. This blog takes you to the quintessential places awaiting your exploration.

Gearing Up For A Fun Vacation: Best Places To Visit In Egypt With Family

From the iconic Pyramids of Giza to the colourful streets of Cairo, Egypt is a land brimming with adventure, culture and fun. Let’s explore how Egypt captivates families of all types with its rich sights and experiences.

1. Aswan And Philae Temple

Image Source: Shutterstock

Aswan is a popular city and one of the best places to visit in Egypt with family. It is full of culture-rich vibes, colourful streets, and temples that may awe-struck you. With a population of 275,000, you can easily find relaxing spots. Furthermore, the vibrant atmosphere, similar to Cairo, makes Aswan a good destination to uncover. While visiting Aswan, remember to visit the ultimate attractions, like the Philae Temple for a unique experience. As architectural enthusiasts, you can have the best time to marvel at the captivating design and structure. Additionally, your family can have the best time, while watching the famous light and sound show in the evenings.

Location: Island of Agilika, Aswan, Egypt

Things to do: Sound and light show, Temple tours

Must Read: Facts About The Great Pyramids Of Giza

2. Pyramids of Giza

No trip is complete without embracing the beauty and wonders of the Pyramids of Giza. One of the best places to visit in Egypt with family, the Pyramids are among the seven wonders of the World. The pyramids are a cultural nidus and are a great spot to travel back to ancient times. These are the tombs of Pharos of Egypt and were ideally built under the Middle Kingdom Reign and Ola’s. For families, there is so much to see here. From intricate inner pathways to the breathtaking sites of the river Nile, you can easily have a great memorable trip here during your Egypt family vacation.

Location: Al Haram, Nazlet El-Semman, Al Haram, Giza Governorate, Egypt

Things to do: Guided tours, camel rides, photoshoots

3. Abu Simbel Temples

What can be better than discovering an ancient temple to experience the religious times of our ancestors? Abu Simbel Temples offers that and much more. These are not only the best places to visit in Egypt with family, but also some of the most admirable temples built during the old Egyptian period. These are a cluster of temples built side by side. Out of all, Sun Temple is an amazing place which honours the great Pharaoh King Ramses II. The four giant statues at the door act as a marvellous entry point. It is believed that the temple structure is built in a way that sun rays would perfectly align with the temple, on his birthday and on the day he was crowned king.

Location: Abu Simbel, Aswan Governorate 1211501, Egypt Things to do: Guided tours, Temple sightseeing

Suggested Read: Hiking In Egypt

4. Hurghada

Hurghada is one of the best places to visit in Egypt with family and probably one of the most famous tourist destinations here. During the old times, the city used to be a small fishing village next to the Red Sea. Now, it has become an oasis of wonder and pristine scenery.

Various tourists and families come here to spend their beach vacation on the shores of the Red Sea. One can also indulge in activities like scuba, snorkelling, deep water sea diving and so on. Do make sure to check out the famous resort of Hurghada, home to many movie shoots.

Location: Hurghada, QesmHurghada, Red Sea Governorate, Egypt Things to do: Relax on beaches, swim, scuba diving, sightseeing

5. Alexandria

Alexandria, home to 4.5 million inhabitants overall, is the second-biggest city in Egypt. Known as ‘Egypt’s Window to the Mediterranean’, the city boasts the largest port in the nation. Alexandria is quite worth visiting, especially if you want a peek at the glorious history of the country. Although it was once a bustling, cosmopolitan metropolis, it became a peaceful tourist destination, one of the best places to visit in Egypt with family. Furthermore, the city houses the biggest port in the nation. Alexandria offers many tourist destinations along with street markets that will give you the essence of real Egypt. You can also go to beaches and visit various temples located here with your family. A direct train runs from Luxor to Alexandria and it takes 2.5 hours by car from Cairo to get to the city.

Location: Alexandria, Alexandria Governorate, Egypt Things to do: Explore temples and beaches

Further Read: Best Cities To Visit In Egypt

Hope you did get some sort of chills and thrills reading this blog, a virtual tour of the best places to visit in Egypt with family. Next, turn your vision into reality, for Egypt is all about experiencing up close. Plan your trip to Egypt with the best itinerary for a truly memorable Egypt family vacation. Grab your chance to enjoy the immersive and enriching experiences Egypt offers for every member of your family.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

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Frequently Asked Questions About Best Places to Visit in Egypt with Family

Is Egypt an ideal destination for families?

Egypt is mostly a family-friendly destination. The culture here is very family-friendly and you can ensure that most of the travel places are safe for kids, adults and even elders. Furthermore, the locals are welcoming and travel-friendly policies from the Egyptian government make it a good destination for family trips.

Why is Egypt so good for your family holiday?

Thanks to its intriguing history of pharaohs and ancient dynasties, Egypt is a good choice for a family holiday. There are plenty of options for adventure, from hiking through the Sahara to snorkelling in the Red Sea. This is a perfect area to explore with kids and adults of all ages.

Does Egypt offer luxury travel for families?

Yes, there are multitudes of luxury tourist spots that serve as the best places to visit in Egypt with family. There are plenty of opulent family vacations in Egypt too. You may select between lodging in a luxury resort by the well-known Red Sea or a chic high-rise resort in the centre of Cairo's bustling city. You can get options to fit every kind of family.

Is Egypt a budget-friendly option to travel with family?

Egypt is a fairly inexpensive nation. However, you need to ensure that you are getting the best deals and prices for your tour packages. Egypt is not an expensive country and is quite budget-friendly. Also, shopping here won't cost you much, so it's a big yes if you are looking for a good family-friendly destination on a budget.

What is the most beautiful part of Egypt?

Egypt is a beautiful country, boasting world-famous attractions and scenic landscapes. Egypt as a whole is among the best places one should visit in a lifetime.

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