Egypt: Top 10 Things to See & Do

With iconic ancient sites, world-class scuba diving, year-round sunshine, and direct flights from the UK in about 5 hours, Egypt is the perfect choice for a varied multi-centre holiday. Whether you’re marvelling at the Pyramids of Giza, haggling in the bustling bazaars of Cairo, exploring the underwater world of the Red Sea or setting sail down the Nile, Egypt offers history, adventure, and plenty of ways to relax in between.  We’ve handpicked our top 10 places to explore in Egypt:

 

Top 10 Egypt in a nutshell:

• Giza Plateau: Incredible ancient wonders including the Great Pyramid and the mighty Sphinx.
• Cruise or Sail the Nile: Breath-taking temples and tombs as you sail along the legendary river.
• Cairo: Lively city with vibrant bazaars and the Egyptian Museum’s fascinating collection.
• Luxor: Egypt’s ‘open-air museum’ with majestic temples and picturesque riverfront.
• Valley of the Kings:  Luxor’s royal burial ground for Egypt’s pharaohs including Tutankhamun’s tomb.
• Aswan: Relaxed city with Nile views and ancient temples.
• Relax on the Beaches: Sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters and pure relaxation.
• Alexandria: Coastal city with Mediterranean charm and the Library of Alexandria.
• Diving/Snorkelling: Stunning coral reefs and underwater world of the Red Sea.
• St Catherine’s Monastery: UNESCO World Heritage site with biblical significance.

 

Giza Plateau: The Pyramids of Giza & The Sphinx:

The Giza Plateau is home to Egypt’s most famous landmarks, including the Great Pyramid and the Sphinx, built around 4,500 years ago. Located just outside Cairo, it’s perfect for a day trip from the capital and undoubtedly one of the must-see attractions when visiting the city. The plateau is home to three main pyramids. The Great Pyramid (also known as the Pyramid of Khufu) is the largest and most famous, and the only one you can venture inside. Although it was looted centuries ago, it’s still fascinating to see the King’s Chamber, the final resting place of Pharaoh Khufu, with the granite sarcophagus at its centre.

The Pyramid of Khafre is slightly smaller and is guarded by the iconic Sphinx, the huge lion-headed statue with the face of Pharaoh Khafre, famously – and mysteriously – missing its nose. The Pyramid of Menkaure is the smallest of the three, but no less impressive. In addition to these iconic pyramids, the plateau also features several smaller queen’s pyramids, tombs, and mortuary temples. The best way to explore the site is by taking a guided tour to help you navigate the immense site and gain a deeper understanding of the history and significance of each monument.

 

The Nile: Cruise or sail the iconic river                                

The Nile, stretching over 4,000 miles, is the longest river in the world and has been central to Egyptian life for thousands of years. Flowing from south to north through the country, it has provided much-needed water in an otherwise dry and arid landscape, making it crucial to Egypt’s economy and transportation. A cruise along the Nile offers a unique way to experience some of the country’s landmarks with a relaxed experience along its typically smooth and serene waters, taking in the country’s ancient wonders along the banks.

There are a variety of Nile cruises to suit different preferences and budgets. You can choose from short 1- or 2-day sails focusing on a specific section, or take a longer cruise for a more leisurely, in-depth experience. These longer cruises typically last 4- to 7 days, offering a mix of sightseeing and leisurely sailing, with the most popular 7-night routes starting in Luxor and sailing to Aswan before returning to Luxor, whereas the shorter cruises finish in Aswan. There are plenty of choices, from luxurious, five-star options with spacious cabins and fine dining to more middle of the road options.  For a more intimate experience, you could choose from smaller, more boutique cruises which have fewer passengers and which often give you access to unique, off-the-beaten-path sites. During your cruise, you’ll usually visit a selection of Egypt’s most iconic sites, such as the Luxor Museum, Temple of Karnak, and the Valley of the Kings, as well as the Temple of Horus in Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Temple of Philae in Aswan.

 

Cairo: Bustling Bazaars & The Egyptian Museum

Located along the banks of the Nile River, Cairo is Egypt’s energetic capital, where you’ll find both modern day hustle and bustle and ancient history. The city spreads across both sides of the river, offering plenty to explore. The Egyptian Museum is one of the must-see attractions, especially if you’ve just explored the sites of the Giza Plateau. It’s the perfect place to deepen your understanding of ancient Egypt, bringing to life the stories behind the pyramids and monuments. Inside the museum, you’ll find mummies, statues, and relics from various pharaohs and dynasties, including the famous treasure of Tutankhamun, including his golden death mask, jewellery, and other artefacts from his tomb.

To truly get under the skin of the city, a visit to Cairo’s bazaars is essential. The streets come alive with the sights and sounds of market sellers, the fragrance of spices filling the air, and the lively hum of haggling echoing through the winding alleys. Khan el-Khalili is the city’s most famous market, where you’ll find everything from textiles and jewellery to traditional souvenirs and teas. As you wander through the maze of stalls, be prepared to haggle – it’s all part of the experience and a fun way to chat to the locals and maybe secure yourself a bargain or two!

 

Luxor: Karnak and Luxor Temples

Luxor is often called the world’s largest open-air museum, and with so much to explore, it’s easy to see why. The must-see attractions in the area include the Temple of Karnak, Luxor Temple, and the Valley of the Kings (but more on this later!). The Temple of Karnak is one of the largest religious complexes in the world, located on the east bank of the Nile. Built over 2,000 years ago, it was primarily dedicated to the god Amun-Ra, the king of the gods in ancient Egyptian mythology, and served as a place of worship, ceremonial events, and offerings. The temple complex spans more than 200 acres, filled with structures such as the Hypostyle Hall, which contains 134 massive columns as well as sacred lakes used for ritual purification and hieroglyphs that adorn the walls. The sheer scale and incredible design of the site makes it an absolute must-see.

Luxor Temple is also located along the river and is especially impressive at night when it’s illuminated and its glow shines over the surrounding Nile riverbank and the towering statues of the pharaohs guarding the entrance.

Aside from the monumental temples, Luxor is also home to bustling markets, excellent restaurants, and the Nile Corniche, a scenic waterfront promenade along the banks of the river. With stunning views and a backdrop of the city’s skyline, it’s lined with palm trees, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a popular spot for a stroll, a boat ride, or to catch the sunset as the sun dips below the horizon.

 

Valley of the Kings: Tutankhamun’s tomb

Located on the west bank of the Nile just outside of Luxor, the Valley of the Kings is an incredible and breath-taking archaeological site, home to the tombs of numerous pharaohs, queens, and nobles from the New Kingdom period – roughly spanning from the 16th to the 11th century BCE. This vast burial site was chosen for its remoteness, believed to offer protection from tomb thieves, with tombs carved into the rock and nestled deep within a desert valley surrounded by cliffs.

Among the most famous tombs here is that of the young pharaoh Tutankhamun, discovered almost fully intact in 1922. As you pass through its narrow corridors and chambers (be prepared to crouch at times!), you’ll reach the tomb’s most famous feature: the burial chamber, where Tutankhamun’s sarcophagus and golden mummy mask were originally housed and are now displayed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. You can also visit the tombs of Ramses II, Seti I, and other notable pharaohs. To fully appreciate the site, we highly recommend taking a guided tour to learn about the fascinating art of ancient Egyptian burial practices and gain a better understanding of the symbolism of the murals and hieroglyphs.

 

Aswan: Relaxed pace & High Dam

Aswan offers a slightly slower pace and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the frenetic cities of Cairo or Luxor. Located in southern Egypt along the Nile river, one of the city’s most famous modern-day landmarks is the High Dam. Built in the 1960s, the dam created Lake Nasser, one of the largest artificial lakes in the world which plays a crucial role in flood control, irrigation, and electricity generation. Standing on the viewing platform at the top of the dam, you get a real sense of its huge scale, with sweeping views of the lake on one side and the river on the other. Another must-see site in the city is the Temple of Philae, dedicated to the goddess Isis. Originally located on Philae Island, the temple was painstakingly relocated to Agilkia Island after the construction of the High Dam. The temple complex includes impressive hieroglyphs, intricate carvings, and a glimpse into the ancient Egyptian worship of Isis. Other interesting sites in the city include Elephantine Island with its ruins and colourful Nubian village, the Unfinished Obelisk, and the Monastery of St. Simeon. To reach the monastery, you can take a camel ride through the desert. (Jeeps are also available if you fancy a more comfortable journey!) The monastery offers fascinating insights into ancient Christian history and stone-carving techniques. To learn more about the city’s culture, visit the Nubian Museum, with artefacts from ancient Nubian culture and explore the vibrant Aswan Market, with local goods, fresh food and lively atmosphere.

Aswan is also one of the best places in the country for a felucca ride along the Nile, a traditional wooden sailing boat that’s been used for centuries for transport and trade and is now popular for tourist cruises and a great way to experience the Nile, particularly at sunset.

 

Relax on Egypt’s beaches: Sun, Sand & Crystal-Clear Waters

Egypt’s beaches are blessed with clear waters, soft sandy stretches, and a year-round sunny climate, making them the perfect place to relax after days spent exploring the country’s ancient sites. The Red Sea coast is home to some of the country’s most popular beach destinations, including Sharm El Sheikh, with its luxury resorts, world-class diving, and snorkelling. Further along the coast, Dahab and Hurghada also offer stunning beaches, lively resorts, and a wide range of water sports, ideal for unwinding and enjoying some serious relaxation.

With everything from all-inclusive beachfront hotels to exclusive, private retreats, there is a huge choice of places to stay, all with easy access to the fascinating underwater world. Beyond the Red Sea, Alexandria’s urban beaches offer a different experience, with relaxing stretches of sand, and lively promenades and markets. If you’re looking for something a bit off the beaten path, Marsa Matrouh, located on the Mediterranean coast, is a popular summer destination for local Egyptians and is still relatively untouched by international tourists, offering an authentic experience with beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.

 

Alexandria: City, Beach & Remarkable Library

Alexandria is a coastal city along the Mediterranean and Egypt’s second-largest city. In ancient times, it was a leading intellectual hub, home to the legendary Great Library of Alexandria, one of the largest and most famous libraries of the ancient world, as well as the Museum of Alexandria, which focused on the study of science, philosophy, and the arts. While neither of these institutions exist today, their legacy is preserved through the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, built near the original site.  This incredible library houses a vast collection of books, exhibitions, and a museum dedicated to continuing Alexandria’s legacy of knowledge and culture.

The city also boasts some remarkable ancient sites, including the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, which date back to the 2nd century AD. These underground tombs are a mix of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman architectural styles, reflecting Alexandria’s fascinating multicultural history. Pompey’s Pillar, a Roman triumphal column made of red Aswan granite, symbolises Alexandria’s important role in the Roman Empire.

For some of the best views of the city, head to Fort Qaitbey, built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the city. As a coastal city, Alexandria offers wonderful opportunities to relax on its beaches after a day of sightseeing, soaking up the sun’s rays and enjoying the lively atmosphere of the promenade.

 

Diving and Snorkelling: World-class opportunities

The Red Sea coast is a world-renowned destination for diving and snorkelling, offering excellent visibility, warm temperatures, incredible coral reefs, fascinating dive sites, and an abundance of marine life. The most popular resorts in Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Dahab provide diving opportunities for all experience levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, you’ll find everything from shallow reefs to deep shipwrecks, including the Thistlegorm wreck near Sharm El Sheikh, a WWII cargo ship, and the Dunraven wreck near Dahab.

If you’re looking to complete a diving certification, Egypt is an ideal location for earning your PADI licence. Many resorts and dive centres offer courses, with the option to complete the classroom portion online before your trip. This way, you can focus entirely on the exciting and fun practical dive training once you arrive.

For those who prefer not to scuba dive, there is no need to worry, as there are plenty of opportunities for snorkelling along the coast or on guided trips to some of the most beautiful reefs where you explore vibrant coral gardens and a wide variety of fish species just beneath the surface.

 

St Catherine’s Monastery:  Biblically significant UNESCO site

Located at the foot of Mount Sinai in the Sinai Peninsula, St Catherine’s Monastery is one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world that is still in operation today. Near the town of Saint Catherine, it’s about halfway between Sharm El Sheikh and Dahab, making it an ideal day trip from either beach resort.

The monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was built between 548 and 565 CE, during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I and as such is a great example of Byzantine architecture with its towering walls and intricate mosaics. It is also home to an ancient olive tree in its courtyard that is believed to have been planted over 1000 years ago. The monastery houses a remarkable collection of ancient manuscripts, icons, and religious artefacts.  It is also considered biblically significant because it is believed to be the site where Moses encountered the burning bush and received the Ten Commandments from God and is therefore a popular destination for Christian pilgrims.

 

If our top 10 list of Egypt’s must-do things to see and do has sparked your interest and you’d like us to start crafting your very own tailor-made multi-centre trip to Egypt, please get in touch. We’re here to help you plan every detail and ensure that your holiday to Egypt is filled with as many ancient wonders, stunning landscapes and beautiful beaches as you wish – all with minimum hassle and maximum enjoyment!