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Egypt's Top 10 Ancient Sites

If you're planning a trip to  Egypt , make time for exploring the country's myriad ancient treasures. The civilization of Ancient Egypt lasted for more than 3,000 years, during which time its rulers made their mark upon their kingdoms with a series of increasingly impressive monumental building projects. The architects of Ancient Egypt were so advanced that today, many of these monuments still survive - some of them in remarkably good condition. For thousands of years, the pyramids, temples, and sphinxes of the long-gone pharaohs have acted as an irresistible draw for visitors from all over the world. 

Pyramids of Giza

Located on the outskirts of Cairo , Giza comprises three different pyramid complexes. These are the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre and the Pyramid of Menkaure. The Great Pyramid is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the only one still standing today. Each complex houses the tomb of a different Egyptian pharaoh, and in front of them lies the Sphinx, whose Arabic name translates as "Father of Terror". Incredibly, this cat-like sculpture is carved from a single block of stone. Giza's pyramids and the Sphinx were constructed approximately 4,500 years ago during the fourth dynasty of Egypt's Old Kingdom. It is thought that the Pyramid of Khufu alone required 20,000 laborers and two million blocks of stone. 

Karnak Temple Complex

In ancient times, the  Karnak Temple Complex  was known as "the most select of places", and dedicated to the worship of the King of all Gods, Amun-Ra. Part of the ancient city of Thebes, the complex was built over approximately 1,500 years, from the time of Senusret I to the Ptolemaic period. It was the most important place of worship for ancient Thebans, and today the complex ruins sprawl across a vast area measuring well over 240 acres. It includes spectacular temples, chapels, kiosks, pylons and obelisks, all dedicated to the Theban gods. It is the second largest ancient religious complex on the planet, while the Hypostyle Hall in the Great Temple of Amun is considered to be one of the world's greatest architectural masterpieces.

Temple of Luxor

The Temple of Luxor sits on the east bank of the Nile in the center of  Luxor , a city known in ancient times as Thebes. Construction was started by the New Kingdom pharaoh Amenophis III in approximately 1392 BC, and completed by Ramesses II. The temple was used to celebrate festivals and rituals, including the annual Theban festival of Opet. During this festival, statues of Amun-Ra, his wife Mut and their child Khonsu were carried in procession from Karnak to Luxor in a celebration of marriage and fertility. The Temple of Luxor survived as a temple under the Greeks and Romans, was once a church, and today a Muslim mosque remains in one of its halls. Luxor Temple is beautifully lit at night so it's worth visiting the site at sunset.

From the 16th to the 11th century BC, the Egyptian pharaohs abandoned the idea of pyramids as burial places and decided to celebrate the afterlife in the Valley of the Kings . The valley is located opposite Luxor on the west bank of the River Nile . Here, the pharaohs were mummified and buried in deep tombs along with their favorite pets and sacred artifacts. Of these, the tomb of  Tutankhamun  is perhaps the most famous, but to date, no fewer than 64 tombs and chambers have been discovered within the valley . The Valley of the Queens lies at the southern end of the necropolis, which is where the queens and their children were interred. Many more tombs are located here, including that of Ramesses II's wife  Queen Nefertari . ​

Located in southern Egypt, the Abu Simbel temple complex is one of the ancient world's most recognizable monuments. The temples were originally carved into a solid rock cliff during the reign of Ramesses II . It is thought that they were built to celebrate the king's victory over the Hittites in the Battle of Kadesh. The Great Temple is 98 feet (30 meters) high and has four colossal statues of Ramesses sitting on his throne wearing the crowns of both Lower and Upper Egypt. The Small Temple is dedicated to Ramesses' wife, Nefertari. After the Aswan Dam was built in the 1960s, the archaeological site was cut into large blocks, which were then moved one by one to higher ground and reassembled in order to prevent flood damage. 

Pyramid of Djoser

The Pyramid of Djoser is located in the Saqqara necropolis of Ancient Egyptian capital Memphis . Constructed in the 27th century BC, it is the earliest known pyramid, and its stepped sides became a prototype for the sleeker, smooth-sided pyramids at places like Giza. It was designed to hold the remains of Pharaoh Djoser by his architect, Imhotep, who set several precedents with his innovative design. At 204 feet (63 meters), it was the highest building of its time, and it is also thought to be one of the earliest examples of stone architecture. For his great achievement, Imhotep was later deified as the patron god of architects and doctors. In its heyday, the pyramid would have been covered with polished white limestone. 

Temple of Horus at Edfu

The Temple of Horus at Edfu is considered to be the best preserved of all Ancient Egyptian monuments. It was built between 237 and 57 BC during the Ptolemaic dynasty and honors the falcon-headed god ​ Horus . Horus fulfilled many different roles and was known as the god of the sky as well as the god of war and hunting. The temple complex is huge, and has an impressive pylon and birth house, with excellent reliefs and carvings depicting the various stories of Horus. Inscriptions called building texts were also preserved and narrate the history of the Temple's construction. Edfu is located about halfway between Aswan and Luxor and is a very common stop on Nile River cruises.​

Temple of Kom Ombo

The Temple of Kom Ombo is unusual in that it is a double temple, with two symmetrical halves dedicated to two different triads of gods. One half is dedicated to Horus the Elder, Tasenetnofret and their child Panebtawy. The other half is dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile deity of creation and fertility, and his family Hathor and Khonsu. The temples are impressive in part because of their perfect symmetry and also because of their beautiful riverbank location. Construction was initiated by Ptolemy VI Philometor in the early 2nd century BC. Both temples depict their respective gods along with their families and were built using local sandstone. The temples offer excellent examples of hieroglyphs, carved columns, and reliefs.

Temple of Dendera

The Dendera complex houses one of the best-preserved Ancient Egyptian temples, the Temple of Hathor. Hathor was the goddess of love, motherhood, and joy, commonly depicted in the form of a cow with a sun disc. The Temple of Hathor was constructed during the Ptolemaic dynasty, although it is thought that the foundations may have been laid down during the Middle Kingdom. It's a huge complex, covering more than 430,500 square feet (40,000 square meters). The Dendera Zodiac originates from this site, and there are some great paintings and reliefs, including depictions of Cleopatra and her son Caesarion. The temple is just north of Luxor and is often the first stop for those cruising the River Nile.

Temple of Isis

The Temple of Isis was built on the island of Philae, where the cult of Isis dates back to the 7th century B.C. Today's temple dates back to 370 B.C., while the most important aspects were begun by Ptolemy II Philadelphus and added to until the rule of Roman emperor Diocletian. Smaller sanctuaries and shrines near the main temple celebrate the deities involved in the Isis and Osiris myth. Philae was one of the last outposts of Egyptian religion, surviving two centuries after the Roman Empire converted to Christianity. The goddess of motherhood and fertility, Isis was a popular deity whose cult spread throughout the Roman empire and beyond. Today, the temple has been relocated to nearby Agilkia Island to prevent flooding. ​

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Ancient Egypt Bucket List: 20 Must-See Ancient Egyptian Sites

There are literally hundreds of incredible Ancient Egyptian sites dating back thousands and thousands of years peppered all over modern day Egypt, and it’s almost impossible to see them all in one trip.

But which are the most important and the most impressive? Well, we created a bucket list of just that: the twenty most jaw-dropping Ancient Egyptian sites that exist today. So whether you’re a traveller trying to see as much as you can in one trip, or a local who’s slowly but surely seeing ticking off site by site, this list will help lead you in the right direction.

1. The Pyramids of Giza & Sphinx

Well, this is a no-brainer. Also known as the Giza necropolis, this desert plateau on the outskirts of Cairo is home to the three Pyramids of Giza (Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure), their associated pyramid complexes, the Great Sphinx, a workers’ village and several cemeteries. The Pyramids of Giza were built in the 4th Dynasty of the Old Kingdom, and the pyramids of Khufu (the Great Pyramid) and Khafre are the two largest pyramids in Egypt (Khufu’s pyramid is also the last remaining ancient wonder of the world!).

Read more: Visiting the Pyramids of Giza - A Local's Guide to Everything You Need to Know

2. Karnak Temple

The temple complex of Karnak is the largest religious building ever built, and was constructed over a span of 2,000 years. Construction started in the Old Kingdom and was continuously added to up until the Ptolemaic era, with approximately 30 different pharaohs contributing. It’s the second most visited site in Egypt after the Pyramids of Giza.

It’s also home to the Open Air Karnak Museum -- for more important museums in Egypt, head here.

3. Step Pyramid of Saqqara & Saqqara Necropolis

The necropolis at Saqqara is home to the famous Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest pyramid in Egypt. It’s also where you’ll find the mastaba tombs of government officials and palace workers, as well as the pyramids of Unas and Teti, the only two pyramids in Egypt with Pyramid Texts inscribedin their inner walls.

The Step Pyramid is thought of as the initial prototype for the later smooth-sided pyramids; the architect was Djoser’s vizier Imhotep, thought of now as the founding father of Egyptian pyramids, and the design is six mastabas of decreasing size atop one another. Mastabas were how pharaohs and other Egyptian royalty and VIPs were buried before the invention of the pyramids -- mastabas were rectangular, flat-roofed tombs.

Read more: Saqqara, Egypt - A Local's Guide to Visiting the Step Pyramid of Djoser & the Saqqara Tombs

4. Valley of the Kings

In the former ancient Egyptian capital of Thebes (now modern-day Luxor in Upper Egypt), is the infamous Valley of the Kings. For a period of 500 years in the New Kingdom (1550 BC - 1069 BC), pharaohs were buried in rock-cut tombs in the Theban Hills, hidden from plain view. 62 tombs have been excavated to present day, with King Tut’s tomb being the most famous (but ironically, not the most impressive). Note: not all the tombs are open to the public, and some are on rotation.

Read more: 8 Best Ancient Egyptian Tomb Sites in Modern Egypt

5. Valley of the Queens

Nearby to the Valley of the Kings is the Valley of the Queens, where the wives of the pharaohs were buried during the same period. The main valley has 91 tombs discovered to date, and they’re generally smaller than the tombs in the Valley of the Kings.

6. Abu Simbel

Abu Simbel is comprised of two massive rock temples, about 3 hours from Aswan. The twin temples were constructed in the 19th Dynasty of the New Kingdom as an everlasting monument to Ramses II and his Great Royal Wife Nefertari. The massive temples were relocated from their original spot in an international effort to save the ancient monuments from Nile flooding, and are one of Egypt’s 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

7. Deir el Bahri

Known primarily for the mortuary temple of the female pharaoh Hatshepsut of the New Kingdom, Deir el Bahri was originally chosen as the location for the mortuary temple of the pharaoh who founded the Middle Kingdom, Mentuhotep II. Hatshepsut’s temple though is the star of the show, and the massive terraced monument is surrounded by a steep cliff. It was in this cliff that archaeologists found a cache of royal mummies, moved in antiquity from the Valley of the Kings.

Read more: 12 Most Impressive Ancient Egyptian Temples Still Standing Today

8. Luxor Temple

Constructed around 1400 BC (more than 3,400 years ago), Luxor Temple differs from most other ancient Egyptian temples due to the fact that it wasn’t built for worship of a particular god or pharaoh. It was mainly used as a place where pharaohs were coronated and crowned, sometimes even conceptually (for example, Alexander the Great claimed he was crowned there but no evidence suggests he was ever there).

During medieval times, the Muslim community built on the Luxor Temple site, and until now a functional mosque remains part of the temple complex (you can read more about Egypt’s most beautiful mosques here ).

9. Philae Temple

The temple complex at Philae in Aswan was primarily built during Ptolemaic times, and finished during the Roman conquest. It’s known for being the last place where hieroglyphs were written, and the last place where the Ancient Egyptian religion was practiced. Christianity became present in Philae starting the 4th century, where it first was practiced alongside the Ancient Egyptian religion and then solely. Today you can see both the original Ancient Egyptian temples and the temples that were converted into churches.

Read more: 12 Most Interesting Things To See And Do In Aswan

10. Bent Pyramid and Red Pyramid

Not very far from the Giza and Saqqara pyramids you’ll find the necropolis of Dahshur, home to the Red Pyramid and the Bent Pyramid, both built by the pharaoh Sneferu. The Red Pyramid, received its moniker due to its reddish hue, although it wasn’t always red. The entire pyramid used to be encased in white limestone, which you can still see at the base.

The Bent Pyramid was built right before the Red Pyramid. Archaeologists believe that the Bent Pyramid represents a transitional form between the step pyramid and smooth-sided pyramid. The ‘bent’ appearance is due to its base having a 54 degree inclination, but the top section having a narrower 43 degree angle. There are different theories as to why it was built this way: one was that as the builders reached the top, the top section started to show instability, so they narrowed the angle.

Read more: Dahshur Pyramids - A Local's Guide to Visiting the Bent Pyramid, Red Pyramid & Black Pyramid of Egypt

11. Deir el Medina

This necropolis is often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors, the Valleys of the Kings and Queens, but you’d be doing yourself a huge disservice by not visiting Deir el Medina while in Luxor. Also known as the Valley of the Artisans, it’s home to the tombs of the artists, builders and craftsmen who worked on the tombs in the Valleys of the Kings and Queens.

12. Temple of Hathor at Dendera

Known for its still-startling blue more than 2,000 years later, the Temple of Hathor is the most impressive site at the temple complex at Dendera. Built in the Ptolemaic era, it shows Ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman influences and has several shrines to different gods. It’s also known for the clear depictions of Cleopatra and her son Caeserion, fathered by Julius Caesar.

13. Medinet Habu

Ramses III is widely considered the last truly powerful pharaoh of the New Kingdom, and his mortuary temple dominates the archaeological site of Medinet Habu in Luxor. The temple is especially known for the depictions of Ramses III defeating the ‘Sea Peoples’, invaders of Ancient Egypt whose origins are unknown.

14. Edfu Temple

Built during the Ptolemaic times, the Temple of Horus at Edfu (or Edfu Temple) is one of the best preserved temples in all of Egypt. It’s also the largest temple dedicated to Horus. The wall inscriptions provided archeologists with important information about Ancient Egyptian religion and language during the Hellenistic/Ptolemaic era.

15. Memphis

Memphis was the first capital of Egypt and was established by Mena (Menes), the first pharaoh and uniter of Upper and Lower Egypt. Memphis, besides being the capital, was known for being a holy center of worship for the god Ptah. The city started to decline during the New Kingdom and the rise of Thebes in the south.

Today what remains of Memphis is mainly ruins, but the great colossus of Ramses II is definitely worth seeing, as is the rest of the open-air museum.

16. Unfinished Obelisk

The Unfinished Obelisk is the largest obelisk built in Ancient Egypt, and if it had been completed it would’ve reached 42 meters (around 137 feet), which is one third larger than any other existing obelisk.

Commissioned by the female pharaoh Hatshepsut, it was carved out of bedrock in a stone quarry, but cracks appeared in the granite during its construction, leading to its abandonment.

You can still see it in its original quarry, giving interesting insight into the stone-working techniques of the Ancient Egyptians.

17. Colossi of Memnon

These are the remains of two massive stone statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III that date back to the 18th Dynasty of the New Kingdom. They were originally guarding the gate of Amenhotep III’s mortuary temple, which at the time was the largest and most awe-inspiring temple in Egypt — the Ramesseum (below) and Medinet Habu paled in comparison, and even Karnak Temple was smaller.

Sadly years of flooding and earthquakes completely destroyed the temple, and later earthquakes also damaged the Colossi of Memnon, leaving them faceless.

18. Ramesseum

The Ramessum is the mortuary temple of Ramses II (the same pharaoh who built Abu Simbel, and Seti I’s son). It was built with the intention of being a place of worship after Ramses II died, so his memory would be kept alive; this was of the utmost importance in the Ancient Egyptian religion.

19. Kom Ombo

Kom Ombo, about an hour’s drive from central Aswan, is an unusual double temple dating back to the Ptolemaic era. A ‘double’ temple means it has two sets of halls, sanctuaries and rooms dedicated to two different gods; in the case of Kom Ombo, the two gods were Sobek (the crocodile god) and Horus (the falcon god). Over 300 crocodile mummies were found at the site, and they’re now in the adjacent Crocodile Museum.

Kom Ombo also has engravings of what it is believed to be the first representation of medical tools and surgical instruments in the world.

20. Temple of Khnum at Esna

Khnum was the Ancient Egyptian ram-headed god who created the world on his potter’s wheel, and this temple to him was built during Ptolemaic times but added to by the Romans. Because it was such a deeply religious site, inscriptions on the temple walls instruct visitors that to enter they must have trimmed fingernails and toenails, wear linen, remove body hair, wash their hands with natron (a type of salt) and not have had sex for several days (makes modern-day places of worship seem like a walk in the park).

You might also like: Visiting the Pyramids of Giza - A Local's Guide to Everything You Need to Know

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10 of the Best Ancient Attractions to See in Egypt

From the world famous pyramids of giza to the mask of tutankhamen at cairo's museum of egyptian antiquities, follow in the footsteps of the pharaohs in our guide to the best ancient egyptian attractions to see..

Peta Stamper

08 nov 2022.

The heartland of Egypt – the Nile River valley – was once home to one of the world’s earliest urban and literate societies. From 4,000 BC, the Ancient Egyptians thrived for some 3,000 years and, even after the region was conquered by Alexander the Great in 323 BC, continued to be integral to the Hellenistic world.

This period of pharaohs, pyramids and crocodile gods has left a wealth of unmissable Ancient Egyptian monuments and sites to discover. These ancient gems include the world famous sites of Giza, Abu Simbel and Saqqara, as well as Luxor Temple, Abydos and the Valley of the Kings.

To help you get started, we’ve put together a guide to our top 10 Ancient Egyptian attractions to explore.

Of all the Ancient Egypt sites, Giza’s pyramids are definitely the most renowned and include the world’s largest pyramid, that of Khufu. Khufu’s pyramid is Giza’s oldest and, at its great size of 145 metres, became known as ‘The Great Pyramid’.

Visitors can enter each of the pyramids or view them together from the dramatic panorama point, while the the Great Sphinx is also located nearby.

2. Abu Simbel

Known as Ramesses the Great, Ramesses II is one of the most famous Egyptian pharaohs and formed part of the Nineteenth Dynasty.

From 1279 BC, he built the temples at Abu Simbel as a way to immortalise himself, a feat he certainly seems to have achieved with these two vast structures and the large statues of himself which guard it.

Saqqara in Egypt is the ancient necropolis of the city of Memphis, the capital of  Ancient Egypt , which was founded in 3000 BC by Menes. It contains a host of burial chambers and pyramids, and is the oldest complete stone building complex in history.

Saqqara is filled with historical treasures, not least of which is the Serapeum, where the Egyptians buried the sacred bulls of Apis. The Egyptians believed these bulls were reincarnations of the deity,  Ptah , and they are today perfectly mummified in enormous granite coffins.

4. Luxor Temple

Constructed in the 14th century BC by Amenhotep III, the ninth pharaoh of the Eighteenth Dynasty, the Luxor Temple was part of the Ancient Egyptian city of Thebes.

From its Avenue of the Sphinxes to its looming archways and giant statues, the enormous Luxor Temple is a breath-taking site.

Abydos is an important Ancient Egyptian site located about 50 miles north-west of  Luxor  which contains a wealth of tombs, temples and other archaeological remains.

Abydos continued to be an important city and site of pilgrimage right up to the late Roman period and ruins have been found from throughout the long history of the site.

6. Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings in Luxor, Egypt, was once part of the Ancient Egyptian city of  Thebes . The Valley of the Kings was the burial site of almost all of the  pharaohs of the 18th, 19th, and 20th dynasties (1539-1075 BCE), from Thutmose I to Ramses X.

The treasures which were exhumed from Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922 vividly indicate how rich the burial of a great pharaoh of the empire must have been in its heyday…

7. Karnak Temple

Sprawling over 2 square kilometres, the site known as the Karnak Temple was built in dedication to the  god Amun  and expanded by a succession of pharaohs, from those of the Middle Kingdom (1965-1920 BC) to the Ptolemaic dynasty (305 BC to 30 BC).

The result? An incredible maze of temples, sanctuaries, sphinxes, columns and pylons amidst other ancient buildings, and its name translates in Arabic as ‘fortified village’.

A royal necropolis found in the desert west of the River Nile, Dahshur was once home to 11 Ancient Egyptian pyramids, of which few have survived. However, for those wishing to view Egypt ’s pyramids in peace and quiet, Dahshur is the place to go.

Unlike the more popular Giza and Saqqara, Dahshur has not become a tourist hotspot, despite its ancient attractions, including the Red Pyramid and the Bent Pyramid. Visitors to Dahshur can tour the Red Pyramid and the more recently opened Bent Pyramid as well.

9. Cairo Museum of Egyptian Antiquities

The Cairo Museum of Egyptian Antiquities contains the most comprehensive and important collection of Ancient Egyptian artefacts in the world. Indeed, it is said to have over 100,000 pieces in all.

Perhaps the most famous part of the Cairo Museum of Egyptian Antiquities is its Tutankhamen collection, which includes the iconic funereal mask of the boy king as well as several other objects related to this pharaoh.

10. Temple of Horus

The Temple of Horus, also known as the Edfu Temple, is an incredibly well-preserved monument to one of Ancient Egypt’s most important deities, Horus.

Worshipped as the child of Isis and Osiris, Horus was depicted with the head – and often the body – of a falcon.  He was the ruler of the skies and the deity of the pharaohs.

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.

Pyramids of Giza

Luxor's temples & tombs, cruising the nile, diving the red sea, explore historic cairo, south sinai's beach life, egyptian museum, white desert, abydos temple, st. catherine's monastery, red sea beaches, coptic cairo, wadi al-hitan, temple of hathor, 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.

More on Egypt

The Ultimate Ancient Egypt Itinerary

• Egypt , Travel Tips
• October 24, 2022
• Ancient Egypt , Archaeology , Itineraries

Last Updated on: 16th December 2023, 09:52 pm

T h ere’s no other destination in the world quite like Egypt. But with thousands of years worth of monuments to see, how does one go about planning a visit? If you’ve been dreaming of visiting the Land of the Pharaohs and don’t want to miss a thing, then this Ancient Egypt itinerary is for you. 

Rather than ask: ‘ How much of Egypt can I see in X days? ‘ this Egypt itinerary focuses on a different question:  ‘ How long it would take to see the best of Ancient Egypt? ‘ The answer, it turns out, is about three weeks. But as we’ll go over below, you can extend this itinerary by another week or shorten it by several days if necessary.

This Egypt itinerary can largely be carried out independently, except for several days when hiring a driver or going on a day tour will be necessary. Regarding long-distance transport, you can get around the country by train fairly cheaply and easily. No flying is involved in this itinerary aside from your flights in and out of Cairo.

Most tourists to Egypt will get single-entry visas that allow them to stay in the country for up to 30 days. While less time than most other countries give you, it’s enough to visit a majority of the open Ancient Egyptian sites – both famous and obscure – with some extra time to spare.

A few things to know about this itinerary:

• This is an intense, full-on itinerary intended for the true Ancient Egypt enthusiast. Following this itinerary will ensure you get the most out of Ancient Egypt’s most important locations, though you’ll have little time to rest.
• This itinerary covers all the major Ancient Egyptian sites one can visit in the country, plus plenty of minor ones. Missing, however, are sites officially closed to the public, such as Abu Sir or Abu Rawash. While technically possible to visit, you typically need to join a specialized long tour that has permission to access them (no such day trips exist).
• There are also a few open archaeological sites that, for logistical or cost reasons, do not appear in the main itinerary. You can learn more about them in the Additional Travel Ideas section below, along with how to fit them into your Egypt itinerary.
• For whatever reason, the Egyptian government has taken down their official price list from the internet, but this link seems to contain the most up-to-date entry fees as of 2022.
• The Cairo/Giza and Luxor portions of this itinerary assume you’ll be purchasing Cairo and Luxor Passes.
• The more prior research you do on the Ancient Egyptian civilization, the more you’re going to get out of your travels. Be sure to check out our recommended reading list .

Day 1: Arrive in Cairo

Day 2: a day at the egyptian museum, day 3: a day at giza, day 4: a second day at giza, day 5: a day at saqqara, day 6: dahshur and memphis.

• Day 7: A Day Trip Meidum, El Lahun and Hawara

Day 8: Onward to Luxor

• Day 9: Around Luxor’s East Bank
• Day 10: Exploring Luxor’s West Bank
• Day 11: Exploring Luxor’s West Bank (Cont.)

Day 12: Even More of the West Bank

Day 13: a day trip to dendera & abydos.

• Day 14: Onward to Aswan With Stops Along the Way
• Day 15: The City Center & Elephantine Island

Day 16: A Day Trip to Abu Simbel

Day 17: more around aswan, day 18: philae temple and new kalabsha, day 19: take it easy in aswan, day 20: back to cairo, shortening the above egypt itinerary, additional travel ideas.

Upon arrival at the airport, get a ride to your hotel and, if you still have any energy, spend the rest of the day exploring the city on foot. This is going to be a jam-packed itinerary, so you’ll want to get a good night’s rest and get into the habit of waking up early each morning.

WHERE TO STAY:  One option is to spend the night in Cairo, ideally staying near Tahrir Square. This would allow you to easily walk to the Egyptian Museum the next day.

If you’re looking to splurge, consider the Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir Cairo . Those on a stricter budget might want to try the City View Hotel . And if you’re really on a shoestring, the top-rated hostel in the area is Tahrir Square Hostel .

On the other hand, if you dislike moving around a lot with all of your luggage, you could head straight from the airport to Giza, where you’ll also be spending the next several nights (see more below). To visit the Egyptian Museum the following day, you could simply take an Uber back and forth.

With the Grand Egyptian Museum on the Giza Plateau still not open at the time of writing, the Egyptian Museum at Tahrir Square is still the premier archaeology museum in the country. And in any case, it’s going to remain in operation even after the new museum opens.

The Egyptian Museum will serve as a great introduction to many of the places you’ll be visiting over the next few weeks. While you could easily visit by yourself, a lot of the artifacts lack proper labeling or context. As such, you may prefer to hire an Egyptologist guide to tour the museum with.

Another important reason to begin your trip at the Egyptian Museum is because it’s one of the few places where you can buy the Cairo Pass, which allows access to every historical site in the Greater Cairo Area for five consecutive days. (While the pass can also be obtained at Giza, getting the pass in advance will allow you to walk right to the pyramids upon opening.)

Confusingly, there is now yet another archaeological museum in central Cairo called the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. This is where the mummies of important pharaohs that had long been kept at Tahrir Square have recently been moved.

If you finish your tour of the Egyptian Museum with time to spare, you can hail an Uber and make it to the other museum in 15-20 minutes.

WHERE TO STAY: As you’ll want to get started on the Giza Plateau as early as possible, spending your second night at a hotel in Giza would be a good idea.

If you’ve spent the previous night in Cairo, retrieve your luggage at your hotel following your visit to the museum, and head over to Giza via Uber.

In regards to where to stay in Giza, you’ll want to stay as close to the entrance as possible so you can arrive right when the site opens. Giza has two entrances: the North Entrance and the Sphinx Entrance. Staying near either one would be fine.

If budget is not a major concern, consider one of Giza’s most prestigious hotels, the Marriott Mena House .

You can also find some excellent mid-range hotels which offer clear views of the plateau. The Hayat Pyramids View Hotel and the Great Pyramid Inn are highly-rated hotels that offer spectacular views while also being right near the ticket gate.

Those on a tighter budget should consider the Abo Stait Pyramid View Homestay . While the bathroom is shared, you’ll stay in a spacious private room with the Sphinx Gate just a few minutes away on foot.

This is your time to explore the Giza Plateau to your heart’s content. The site is open from 8:00-16:00 in the winter and from 7:00-17:00 in warmer months. As the tour groups start arriving from 9:00 or 10:00, it’s highly recommended to get there as early as possible.

Ideally, you’ll already have your Cairo Pass in hand, allowing you to walk right in. You can then use the pass to enter whatever pyramids happen to be open at the time (usually two out of the three), along with tombs.

Unfortunately, many tourists visit as part of a rushed guided tour which also typically includes Saqqara, Memphis and Dahshur on the same day. As such, many travel writers falsely claim that a few hours at Giza is enough. 

But if you’re a serious ruins enthusiast, you’ll easily find enough to keep you busy until closing time. And if you’re like me, even a full day won’t be enough!

Note : The Egyptian weekend is Friday and Saturday, and Giza gets packed with locals during this time. If the third day of your trip happens to fall on one of these days, consider switching it with Saqqara or Dahshur/Memphis, which fewer Cairo residents tend to visit.

Are two days at Giza a bit heavy-handed? I think not, as there’s a lot more to see and explore than just the pyramids. (See here for more information).

If you finish early, you can do some exploring in Cairo or try souvenir shopping in Giza.

To switch things up a little bit, you may want to visit Saqqara on the 4th day, while revisiting Giza a day or two later.

Saqqara is located about 26 km south of Giza. While the ride should take around 40 minutes under normal conditions, there’s nothing predictable about traffic in the Greater Cairo Area.

While relatively easy to reach by Uber, you’ll want to hire a driver for the day. As mentioned in our Saqqara guide , the site is massive and a vehicle is required to get from area to area. And of course, you’ll need to eventually make it back to your hotel.

Hiring a private driver to Saqqara is preferable to both a taxi/Uber and a guided day tour. Saqqara has A LOT to see, but most guided tours will only take you to a fraction of it.

A driver for the day could range anywhere from $40-80 USD, so be sure to ask around. This private driver can be booked online in advance for around $40.

Saqqara is open from 8:00-17:00 in warmer months and from 9:00-16:00 in winter. Note that a full day might not even be enough, but you can make another visit to see what you missed after your Dahshur/Memphis excursion.

WHERE TO STAY:   Your same hotel in Giza. But if you don’t mind moving around so much, staying in the village of Abu Sir would also be a good idea, as this would give you a head start for days 5-7. 

I recommend Sakkara Inn , located near the Abu Sir pyramids (officially closed to the public).

The sites of Dahshur and Memphis are commonly visited on the same day, whether you’re traveling independently or as part of a tour.

Dahshur, home to the Red and Bent Pyramids (along with numerous inaccessible Middle Kingdom pyramids) is located just south of Saqqara. The ancient capital of Memphis, located in the village of Mit Rahina, is just east of Saqqara.

Again, a private driver is the way to go here, as it’s hard to find a tour that solely takes you to these sites and lets you take your time.

As mentioned above, you should have time for an additional stop at Saqqara during the day to see anything you’ve missed. Just be sure to communicate this to your driver and agree on the price beforehand.

Note : This will be the last day of your Cairo Pass validity. But the pass wouldn’t work for our Day 6 destinations anyway, as they’re too far out of the city.

Day 7: A Day Trip Meidum, El Lahun & Hawara

This is the first excursion of the itinerary that takes you well off the beaten path to some fascinating sites that few tourists see.

All three sites are located to the south of Saqqara and you shouldn’t have a problem visiting them all in a day. (Learn more about  Meidum  here and  El Lahun/Hawara  here.)

While I visited with a private driver, I would actually recommend going  with a private tour . There are some parts of Egypt where foreign tourists need a local police escort on certain roads. And this is one of them (another being Abydos).

If you hire a private driver, he may not be aware of the situation and will likely be asked by the police to hand over money for the escort. You will then be expected to pay him back. But by going with an established tour company, these ‘security fees’ should be included in the initial price.

It’s time to take a short break from sightseeing to focus on reaching your next destination: Luxor.

While there’s a lot of conflicting information online, it is indeed possible for foreigners to ride ordinary trains in Egypt during the day. Just be sure to purchase your ticket online in advance rather than at the station. 

While night trains are also an option, the day trains are far more economical.

You don’t need to head all the way back to Cairo and can simply hop on the train when it passes through Giza. Understand, however, that the train station in Giza is at least a thirty-minute drive from the Giza pyramids.

The train to Luxor takes 9-10 hours, so it will already be dark by the time you arrive.

Luxor is divided into two halves: the East and West Banks, with the train station and modern city center on the east. You’ll want to stay as close to the ferry port as possible so you can easily get back and forth throughout your stay.

Fortunately, the ferry port is walkable from the train station (just be careful of all the touts on the way). Check in to your hotel and get a good night’s sleep, as it will be another early start tomorrow.

WHERE TO STAY: To make the most out of your time in Luxor, stay as close to the ferry port as possible. If budget isn’t a major concern, the Sofitel Winter Palace is arguably Luxor’s most iconic hotel. Built in the Victorian style, the hotel is located on the East Bank right by the ferry port and Luxor Temple.

If the Winter Palace is out of your budget, nearby is the Iberotel Luxor , which offers a luxurious atmosphere at a more modest price.

Those on a tighter budget should consider the highly-rated Sun Flower Guest House , located on the West Bank. Not only is it within minutes on foot from the ferry, but staying here will give you a head start to reach the various West Bank attractions throughout your stay.

Day 9: Around Luxor's East Bank

This day will be spent exploring Egypt’s two most prominent temples from the New Kingdom period: Karnak and Luxor Temple , both of which open as early as 6:00 throughout the year.

If you’re staying on Luxor’s West bank, you’ll first need to take a ferry to the other side of the river.

Reaching the other side, you’ll be able to see Luxor Temple from the road. However, you should start the day with Karnak for one major reason: Karnak Temple sells the Luxor Pass while Luxor Temple does not.

Luxor and Karnak temples are located about thirty minutes apart on foot from one another, so you may want to take a taxi.

As one of the largest temples in the world, Karnak will take up the majority of your day. Eventually, you’ll want to make it back to Luxor Temple and spend an hour or two there. But with your Luxor Pass, you’ll be able to revisit as many times as you want.

I felt that one long visit at Karnak was enough while Luxor Temple, which is considerably smaller, should be seen on multiple occasions under different lighting conditions.

As Luxor Temple is open until quite late, you can visit the nearby Luxor Museum either before or after.

Day 10: Exploring Luxor's West Bank

To fully explore Luxor’s West Bank, you will need three full days, while a fourth could be spent visiting some distant sites in addition to revisiting Luxor Temple. 

(As recently as April 2021, Egyptian authorities announced the discovery of the Lost Golden City. But as it has yet to open to the public, it’s been left off this Ancient Egypt itinerary.)

All of the sites around the West Bank can be visited independently by bicycle. If this is something you’re interested in, it’s often best to go directly to a rental shop near the ferry port instead of asking at your hotel, as they’ll likely charge you more.

If you’d rather hire a driver or customizable private tour , you can still visit the locations in more or less the same order as outlined below.

Let’s start the day by biking down the main road from the ferry port area toward the desert. On the way, stop at the Colossi of Memnon.

Then head west to visit the temple of Medinet Habu . If you get there early enough, you should be the only visitor there. Conveniently, there are some cafes out front if you missed breakfast.

Next, head further north to the Valley of the Queens . There are only four tombs to see here, including the extra special (and expensive) tomb of Nefertari.

Then head a bit east down the road to the workers’ tombs of Deir el-Medina. See the few tombs that are open in addition to the Ptolemaic temple.

Next, ride back to the main road connecting most of the main temples. Head toward the Ramesseum (though you can stop at Merenptah’s temple along the way if you wish).

After the Ramesseum, just across the road are the ‘ Tombs of the Nobles .’ Only around five tombs are open here at any given time. (There are many other tombs scattered throughout the West Bank that belonged to nobles, though each little cluster aside from this one has its own unique name.)

This would be a good place to call it a day. But if you have fewer days in Luxor than are included in this Egypt itinerary, try to see whatever you can nearby before things close around 16:00.

Departing at around 7:00, expect to finish at roughly 14:30.

Day 11: Exploring Luxor's West Bank (Cont.)

If you’re getting around by bicycle, this is going to be a tiring day. But it’s manageable if you’re reasonably fit. If you’re not feeling too energetic, you may want to hire a driver .

Wake up early and get to the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut as early as possible. The site opens from 6:00. If you get there before 8:00, you should be able to photograph the temple facade without too many people in the shot.

But in regards to the temple interior, the lighting is better in the afternoon. That’s why we’ll include a return trip later (be sure to have that Luxor Pass!).

If you’re really into tombs, you can stop at the nobles’ tombs of Asasif on the way back to the main road. There are three tombs here with some nice artwork, but they’re not essential.

Next, head to the  Valley of the Kings . You’ll first have to return to the main road and then head further north before making a left.

It’s a long uphill bike ride to the valley, though the ride back down is a lot of fun. If you have the Luxor Pass, you can see every tomb (around 12), but normal tickets only allow visitors to see three. 

If you don’t have the Luxor Pass, visit three regular tombs and also buy the extra ticket for Ramesses VI’s tomb, which is the best after Seti I’s. You’ll also want to visit Tutankhamun’s tomb, though largely just for the name value.

On the way back, you can stop by the nobles’ tombs of Roy and Shuroy. These are some of the best nobles’ tombs in Luxor.

If you still have any energy, you could also return to the East Bank at night to see an illuminated  Luxor Temple  if you haven’t yet.

With the Luxor Pass, it’s worth revisiting Luxor Temple on the East Bank, as seeing it in the early morning before the crowds arrive is a very special experience.

Back on the West Bank, start with Seti I’s Mortuary Temple if you haven’t seen it yet. You can then head back along the main road, stopping at various places on the way.

At the intersection nearby the Seti I temple is the Carter House, which includes a full replica of King Tut’s tomb. If you like, you can revisit the Valley of the Kings, touring the tomb of Seti I again if you have the PREMIUM pass. 

Later in the day, you could also check out various minor temples (like that of Thutmosis III) or nobles’ tombs (such as Kokha and Drabu el-Naga ). You may also want to revisit the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut to see the reliefs in afternoon lighting.

Another option is to take a leisurely bike ride over to Malkata Palace and the Roman Isis Temple . You may want to add an entire extra day to the itinerary just for this, which would give you time for some much-needed relaxation in the afternoon.

Dendera and Abydos , located north of Luxor, are two of Egypt’s most spectacular temples and are commonly visited together as a day trip.

If you’re staying on Luxor’s West Bank, I recommend booking a driver with the tour company Classic Tour Services. Otherwise, you can book a tour online such as this one and this one .

Just be aware that some of the cheaper tours may cancel on you at the last minute if they can’t find enough people.

Booking transport in Luxor in person, expect to pay over $100 USD for just a driver. Part of the reason it’s so expensive is that the price includes the fee for the mandatory police escort in the Abydos region.

On the East Bank, you should also be able to find private drivers hanging out near the Winter Palace Hotel with whom you can agree on a price a day or two in advance.

Day 14: Onward to Aswan (With Stops Along the way)

The train ride between Luxor and Aswan lasts just a few hours. But if you’re a true Ancient Egypt enthusiast, be sure to book a private driver who can take you to some fascinating sites along the way, such as the temple of Esna , the tombs of El Kab and the temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo . 

While I didn’t visit myself, you’d probably even have time for the ancient sandstone quarry of Gebel el-Silsila as well.

Again, I booked a driver with Classic Tour Services. Visiting the four locations followed by a drop-off at my Aswan hotel cost $150 USD. Otherwise, you can book a tour online here .

WHERE TO STAY:   Aswan is a mid-sized city by Egyptian standards. While its highlights are pretty spread out, they’re mostly walkable, regardless of where you’re staying. Another popular option is to stay on Elephantine Island in the middle of the Nile River.

One of Aswan’s highest-rated and best-located hotels is Citymax Hotel Aswan . It’s located within easy walking distance of the city center and train station, as well as the ferry which takes you across the Nile.

Those looking to splurge should consider the Mövenpick Resort Aswan , located on Elephantine Island. Situated at the edge of the island, you’ll be able to enjoy some of the best views the region has to offer.

Back on the mainland, another well-known hotel is the Old Cataract , where none other than Agatha Christie stayed and wrote Death on the Nile .

For whatever reason, Aswan’s hotels are a bit pricier than elsewhere in Egypt. So even if you’re not much of a hostel person, you may want to consider David Hostel if you’re on a budget. While a bit out of the center, most of Aswan’s main landmarks will still be walkable. Best of all, the owners can give you great advice on getting around Aswan like a local.

Day 15: The City Center & Elephantine Island

While you can visit the locations in Aswan in any order you like, the rest of this Egypt itinerary will give you ideas if you’re not sure of where to start.

Let’s begin the day by visiting the Unfinished Obelisk in the morning, within easy reach of the city center. Then, head over to the ferry port and spend a few hours exploring Elephantine Island , the mythological home of creator god Khnum.

Returning to the mainland, visit the Nubian Museum in the evening to learn about how deeply intertwined Nubia’s history is with that of Ancient Egypt.

While you don’t necessarily have to visit Abu Simbel on this particular day, it can be a bit tricky to arrange, so you might want to get it out of the way early.

The magnificent temple is several hours south of Aswan, not far from the border with Sudan. You can easily book a tour there online or at your hotel if you don’t feel like planning anything.

But what if you want to experience Abu Simbel without the crowds? The best way to do this would be to take a public bus from Aswan which departs at 7:00. 

By taking the 7:00 bus, you’ll get there after 11:00, just around the time the crowds start to dwindle. And you’ll still have plenty of time to make it back to Aswan in the afternoon. (Many tour groups arrive extra early in the morning in case participants need to catch a flight later in the day.)

Visiting Abu Simbel is a full-day excursion, so don’t plan anything else for this day.

Aswan may not have the ‘wow’ factor of Giza or Luxor, but the area has several more ancient sites that history enthusiasts should enjoy.

On the city’s west bank are a set of tombs known as the Tombs of the Nobles , which range from the Old Kingdom to Middle Kingdom periods. And while not Ancient Egyptian, you can walk or take a camel ride across the desert to the fascinating Monastery of St. Simeon.

Back on the east side, you can check out the newly-opened Isis Temple in the southern part of the city, which is not far from the ferry port to Seheil Island . The island, long used as a granite quarry by numerous pharaohs, is best known for the Famine Stele.

No visit to Aswan is complete without a trip to Philae Temple. Situated on its own island, this unique temple can be reached by a combination of taxi and ferry.

While Philae is widely known, very few visitors are aware of the set of rescued and rebuilt temples of New Kalabsha. You can get there via yet another boat ride.

If you’re interested, you can also end the day trip with a visit to the Aswan High Dam.

To arrange this day trip, you have two options: hire a taxi driver for several hours and haggle with the boat drivers at each port. Or, you can book this tour online which also includes a visit to the Kalabsha temples.

By now, you’ve seen most of the Ancient Egyptian sites in Aswan and in the country as a whole. But if you’re like me, you’ll find the laidback pace of Aswan so refreshing that you won’t want to leave. 

Extending your stay by another day, you can see anything mentioned above that you may have missed as well as a number of other sites.

A few examples are the Botanical Gardens on Kitchener’s Island, the Nubian Village , the Old Cataract Hotel and a sunset felucca ride.

Finished in Aswan, you can take a morning train back to Cairo. This is a long journey of about 13 hours, so be sure to leave as early as possible (of course, you can also just fly).

Back in Cairo, you can explore more of the city while using it as a base for a number of exciting excursions (more below).

What if you don’t have three weeks to travel but still want to see as much of Ancient Egypt as possible? The only answer is to remove some days from the above Egypt itinerary – but which ones?

This is a tough one, but from the Giza portion, you could remove the second day at the plateau, as well as the Meidum/Hawara/El Lahun day trip (as much of a bummer that would be).

From Luxor, you could remove a few days from the West Bank portion, solely focusing on the main sites like the Valley of the Kings, Tombs of the Nobles and the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut.

And you’d also be fine removing a couple of days from the Aswan portion, though Abu Simbel and Philae are still musts.

If you think you can make it back to Egypt in the future, you may want to just stick to only the Greater Cairo Area and/or Luxor while saving the south for a future trip.

After finishing the three-week Ancient Egypt itinerary above, you’ll still have another week or so before your tourist visa expires. If you’re fortunate enough to be able to extend your trip, there are plenty of more adventures you can have – both within Cairo and by using it as a base.

Below is a list of some – but certainly not all – of the ways you can spend the rest of your time in the country.

If you’re already a big Ancient Egypt aficionado, you’ll notice a major omission from the above itinerary: Amarna , the short-lived capital of the ‘heretic king’ Akhenaten.

Amarna is indeed accessible for tourists, with tours like this one departing from Cairo or Giza. So if you’d like to visit Amarna as a day trip, simply add an extra day to the Cairo/Giza portion of the itinerary and book a tour.

The reason it was left off the above Egypt itinerary is because these tours are incredibly long, departing early in the morning and returning to the city well after dark. And despite the length of the journey, you’ll only have enough time for a few tombs and temples.

So what if you want to explore for longer? The nearest city to Amarna is Minya, located about 270 km south of Giza, so you could theoretically stop there for a night or two on your way to Luxor. The problem is that no Amarna tours that depart from Minya seem to exist, while online information about booking a local driver is nonexistent.

If you do manage to figure something out, other Ancient Egyptian sites to see near Minya include Beni Hasan and Tuna el-Gebel.

While you could theoretically spend weeks exploring Islamic Cairo, the highlights can be done in a day. Check our guide here for more information.

Also known as Old Cairo, the area has long been home to Egypt’s Coptic Christian community. Highlights include the Coptic Museum, along with numerous churches and a synagogue located within Babylon Fortress.

One of the most popular tours to take from the Cairo area is a trip to the White and Black deserts, located about 500 km west of Cairo. In addition to viewing some mindblowing scenery, you’ll also get to spend a night camping in the otherworldy White Desert.

Check our guide here for more details. While many hotels can arrange the whole thing for you for around $130 USD, you can also book a tour like this one in advance.

Currently home to around 5 million people, this Mediterranean city was founded by Alexander the Great himself. While the legendary Library of Alexandria may be long gone, history enthusiasts will surely enjoy the Kom el-Shouqafa Catacomb, among other historical monuments.

Alexandria can be reached via train from Cairo, the fastest of which takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes. If that sounds like a hassle, you could also go as part of a history-focused day tour from Cairo like this one or this one .

Of course, you may also decide to spend a night or two in the city to really get a feel for it.

The Siwa Oasis is home to numerous natural wonders along with the Temple of Amun, where Alexander the Great once traveled to speak with its famous oracle.

But at around 8 hours one-way from Cairo, a trip to Siwa requires at least two nights. This is one of the most economical and highly-rated tours online.

For those who can’t get enough of Ancient Egypt, another excursion worth considering is a day trip to Tanis and Bubastis. While largely in ruin today, Tanis is home to some fascinating broken colossi, while Bubastis (also known as Tel-Basta) was once the abode of Egypt’s cat goddess, Bastet.

Located north of Cairo, getting to these places as an independent tourist can be tricky due to the security situation. The best option, therefore, is to take a tour, but they unfortunately don’t come cheap.

If you’re interested, this popular tour includes an Egyptologist guide.

Rather than fly out of Cairo, you may also choose to end your Egypt trip in either one of the popular resort towns of Sharm  El-Sheikh or Hurghada. Both cities are fairly well-connected internationally, so you may not need to return to the capital again to get back home.

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Egypt Landmarks: 20 Famous Landmarks in Egypt You Should Visit

Planning to travel to Egypt? Here are the most famous landmarks in Egypt that should be on your Egypt bucket list from the Giza pyramids to the ancient temples.

Home to the ancient Pharaohs and artifacts which are over 7,000 years old, Egypt is endowed with so much history and treasure that will fascinate anyone that travels to this great destination.

Other than the pyramids of Giza, there are so many Egyptian landmarks that have made Egypt a popular destination for history lovers.

From the famous tombs, countless temples, to the Giza pyramids, here is a detailed list of landmarks in Egypt that every traveler should visit on their trip to the land of the Pharaohs.

Disclaimer* All prices listed were accurate by the time this post was written but they can change any time. So please check the official websites for the current prices. Thank you!

Famous Landmarks in Egypt

1. pyramids of giza.

The pyramids of Giza are undeniably the most famous landmarks in Egypt that are top on almost every traveler’s bucket list.

Actually, when you mention Egypt , the first thing that comes to everyone’s mind is the pyramids of Giza .

Built over 4,500 years ago, the pyramids of Giza which feature The great pyramid of Giza also known as the pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre and the Pyramid of Menkaure (which is the smallest of the three)  are the only remaining wonder from the seven wonders of the ancient world.

The pyramids of Giza were constructed on directives of Pharaoh Khufu, Pharaoh Khafre and Pharaoh Menkaure respectively in preparation for their next life as they believed that they would be gods in the afterlife.

Up to now, the pyramids of Giza are still a wonder that amazes everyone on how the ancient men were able to put together an estimated 2.3 million stone blocks each weighing an average of 2.5 to 15 tons.

It is something that even today’s scientists haven’t been able to find out after countless researches.

The Giza pyramids are approximately 1 hour from Cairo city and it costs 160 EGP (Egyptian pounds) for adults and 80 EGP for students to enter the site.

For an additional 360 EGP (180 EGP for students), you get to enter inside the great pyramid of Khufu, and 100 EGP to enter either the Pyramid of Khafre or the Pyramid of Menkaure.

Related post: Tips for visiting the Giza pyramids

2. The Great Sphinx of Giza

Just in front of the Giza pyramids lies the Sphinx of Giza. Straddling at 240 feet(73 meters) long and 66 feet (20 meters) high, the sphinx of Giza is not only one of the greatest and largest Egyptian monuments but also one of the largest in the world.

The sphinx is a mythological creature with the head of a human and the body of a lion.

In ancient Egypt, the sphinx was a spiritual guardian and it is believed that the great sphinx of Giza was constructed to guard the Pharaohs’ tombs.

Dating back in the 2603 BC, the sphinx was constructed by Pharaoh Khafre and it is also believed that the head and face of the sphinx resembles a life-size statue of Khafre which was found in the Valley Temple.

Since the sphinx is at the same place as the Giza pyramids, the entrance fee to the Giza pyramids gives you direct access to the great sphinx as well.

Related post: Things to know before traveling to Egypt

3. Luxor Temple

Located on the banks of River Nile in the city of Luxor , Luxor Temple is one of the Egypt landmarks which was also one of the largest and most significant religious places in ancient Egypt.

The temple’s construction which was started by pharaoh Amenhotep III in 1390 BC and fully completed in 1279 BC by Rameses II is one one of the most preserved Egyptian monuments with large amounts of structure, statuary, and relief carvings still intact.

Luxor temple is just a few minutes walk from Luxor city center and it costs 140 EGP to enter the temple for adults and 70 EGP for children.

Check out some amazing tours in Luxor .

4. Abu Simbel

Abu Simbel is one of the famous landmarks of Egypt and also an ancient complex temple comprising of two temples constructed during the reign of Ramesses II.

The two massive rock temples serve as lasting monuments to the king and his queen.

The bigger temple (which stands at 98 feet(30 meters) high and 115 feet (35 meters) long) represents King Ramesses and the smaller temple (which stands at 40 feet (12 meters) high and 92 feet (28 meters) long) represents his queen Nefertari.

The front entrance of the great temple is adorned with four seated colossi – 2 at each side showing Ramesses II on his throne.

And what makes the temple more interesting are the engravings on the interior walls that depict Ramesses and Nefertari making sacrifices to the gods.

Abu Simbel is located on the western bank of Lake Nasser in a small village of Nubia about 230km southwest of Aswan.

It costs 400 EGP to be granted access to both of the Abu Simbel temples.

Related post: Big mistakes to avoid while traveling in Egypt

5. Valley of the Kings

Located on the West bank of the River Nile opposite Luxor, the valley of kings is one of the landmarks of ancient Egypt and also one of the historical places in Egypt.

Also known as the Valley of Gates of Kings, ancient Egyptians excavated rock cuts tombs for Pharaohs and great nobles at a time – something that took almost 500 years to realize from the 16th to the 11th century BC.

The valley consists of 2 valleys – the East valley which has the most number of royal tombs and the West valley which makes up the other tombs totaling up to 63.

During the period of 1539- 1075 BC, the valleys became a royal burial ground for the pharaohs and high priests.

It is also important to know that most of the famous Egyptian pharaohs like Tutankhamen, Seti I,  Ramesses II, and others were buried here which has made the valley of kings one of the major tourist spots in Egypt for individuals who want to learn more about Ancient Egypt and its Pharaohs.

The entrance fee to the Valley of the Kings is 200EGP which includes access to 3 tombs from any of these; Ramses I, IV, VII, IX, Seti II, Tawsert/ Sethnakhte, Tuthmosis III, IV, Saptah, Horemoheb, and Menttuherkhopshef.

Before you go, please note that only 18 out of the 63 tombs are open to the public and not all are open all the time and some of the treasures have been moved from the valley to the Egyptian museum.

This is done by the authorities to reduce the damaging effect of mass tourism.

Related post: How to spend 2 days in Cairo

6. Egyptian Museum

Housing over 120,000 artifacts, (although not all of them are on display since they have to be kept in certain conditions not to be destroyed ) including but not limited to Mummies, Sarcophagi, jewelry, and Pharaoh Tutankhamen’s treasures, the Egyptian museum is one of the Egpyt landmarks that everyone should add to their African bucket list .

Located in Tahrir square in the heart of Cairo city , the Egyptian Museum houses the Royal mummy room which showcases 11 mummies including the recently discovered one – that of Hatshepsut.

The Museum also showcases thousands of sculptures that were recovered from Egypt’s famous archeological sites including the pyramids, temples, desert sands, and others.

The Egyptian museum also has an entire section dedicated to the boy king – Tutankhamen who is undeniably the most famous Pharaoh in Egypt including the Sarcophagus and golden death mask which are the most important items in the Museum.

The entrance fee to the Egyptian museum is 160EGP plus an extra 180EGP if you want to access the mummies room.

But to get the most of your Museum tour, I’d recommend booking a tour guide who will explain in details all the artifacts in the museum.

Related post: Best places to visit in Cairo

7. Karnak Temple

Gradually built over centuries from the Middle Kingdom (20140- 1782 BCE) throughout the Ptolemaic Dynasty (323 – 30 BCE), Karnak (historically known as the Temple of Amun) is the largest religious building in the world covering over 200 acres of land making it one of the greatest landmarks of Egypt.

Karnak has a number of buildings but the Great Temple of Amun is the Temple’s main building with Karnak Open-Air Museum which is a collection of shrines lying directly north of the Temple of Amun’s Great court.

Some of the other sites to see in the Karnak temple complex include; Avenue of sphinxes, Kiosk of Sesostris which is one of the oldest structures in the temple complex, Temple of Ptah which was constructed by Tuthmosis III, Temple of Montu which is unfortunately so ruined that it’s hard to figure out the ground plan, Temple of Ramses II which is also badly ruined and a couple of other temples in the complex.

To get to the Karnak temple complex, you can walk from downtown Luxor along the Nile-side road or take a taxi.

The entrance fee to the Karnak Temple is 150 EGP, an additional 80EGP if you want to access the Karnak open-air museum and 250EGP more to enjoy the Karnak Sound and Light show .

8. Monastery of St Catherine

Located in Qesm Sharm Ash Sheikh in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, the Monastery of St Catherine is believed to enshrine the burning bushes from which God first revealed himself to Moses.

It is also believed to be the oldest Christian monastery in the world.

The monastery is surrounded by a huge wall which was constructed by Justinian in the 6th century as a way of protection from the Marauders since the location was rather too open.

Though the unburnt bush was transplanted a few meters away from its original location, it still lives on over a protective stone wall and being catered for by the monks from time to time.

Some of the places to see at the Monastery of St Catherine are;

• The Chapel of the burning bush which is the holiest part of the monastery though it is sometimes closed to the public and people who get a chance to enter are required to take off their shoes as Moses did.
• The well of Moses also known as the well of Jethro where Moses met his wife Zipporah which is up to now still the main source of water for the monastery.

The best way to get to St Catherine Monastery is by booking a tour .

This is one of the best tours from Sharm el sheikh to St Catherine monastery to opt for.

Related post:  Best China landmarks to visit

9. Mt. Sinai

Although there is some controversy about where the “true Mt Sinai” is located, most scholars believe that Mt Sinai is located in South Sinai in Egypt and not Saudi Arabia as some suggested.

Mt Sinai (also known as Mount Moses) is a 2,285 meter (7,497 ft) high mountain in the Sinai region nex to St Catherine monastery.

It is a significant site and a place of pilgrimage to Christians as it is where Moses received the Ten commandments making it one of the Egypt landmarks that you should visit.

The summit of mt. Sinai has a mosque that is currently used by the Moslems and a Greek Orthodox chapel which was constructed in 1934 on the ruins of the 16th-century church although it is not open to the general public.

A hike to the mount summit is doable with 2 possible routes; the longer and the shallower route taking about 2 and half hours on foot but camels can also be used.

Related post: What to wear in Egypt plus the complete packing list

10. Abydos Temple

Located in one of the oldest cities of ancient Egypt, Abydos (162 km north of Luxor), Abydos Temple (also known as the Temple of the first city) is considered one of the most archeological sites in Egypt.

The sacred city of Abydos was a site of many ancient temples which later became the most important burial site for ancient Egypt.

One of the most fascinating temples in Abydos is the Temple of Osiris which showcases spectacular artistic treasures of ancient Egypt.

If you want to run away from the crowds but still experience one of Egypt’s historical places, then head to Abydos temple since it gets a few visitors compared to other nearby temples in Luxor.

To get to Abydos Temple, you can hire a private taxi from Luxor or join one of the popular tours. Entrance to Abydos Temple is 100EGP.

11. Saqqara

Though the Giza pyramids are the most common pyramids in Egypt, they are certainly not the only ones in the country.

Located 30km south of Cairo, Saqqara covers an area of over 6km with a number of pyramids and tombs scattered around.

Saqqara features numerous pyramids including the famous Step Pyramid of Djoser,(also referred to as the step Tomb), the Bent Pyramids, and the Red pyramids. Saqqara was also an important burial ground for ancient Egypt featuring various tombs of court administrators, nobles whose tombs can be traced at the northern side of the Saqqara plateau.

The Saqqara can be reached by taking a private taxi from Cairo city center and the entrance fee is 150EGP.

12. Temple of Kom Ombo

Built during the Graeco-Roman period of 180–47 BC during the Ptolemaic dynasty, Kom Ombo is a double temple located in Aswan Governorate, Upper Egypt.

The temple, dedicated to Sobek the crocodile god in the southern half and Horus the falcon-headed god in the northern half, is a double temple with each side having its own entrance making the temple unique and worth a visit.

Since the temple is dedicated to two gods, everything in the temple is in twos; two identical entrances, two linked hypostyle halls, two courts, two sanctuaries, and two rooms for the two gods.

The best way to get to the Temple of Kom Ombo is by booking a day trip with a tour operator and if you book a Nile cruise, chances a high that a stop at the temple of Kom Ombo will be included in the itinerary. The entrance fee to the temple is 100EGP.

13. White Dessert

Located just a few hours away in the megalopolis city of Cairo in Western Egypt (in Farafra to be exact), this white desert is a natural wonder where chalk shaped mountains have been formed due to centuries of erosion and sandstorms.

The snow-white chalk rocks have been given names due to how they were formed with the most characteristic one being the “chicken and tree ” set.

Other rocks that resemble food have been given names like “Icecream cone”, Mushroom and many others.

While a visit to the white desert can be treated as a day trip, most people opt for camping to be able to experience the awe moments at sunrise and sunset when the sun lights them up with the orangey-pink hues or under a full moon proving that the white desert is one of the ultimate picturesque Egypt landmarks.

Related post: Best Landmarks in Africa

14. Cairo Tower

Standing at 187 meters (614 ft) with 90 floors, Cairo tower is a free-standing concrete tower in Cairo city.

It was the tallest structure in Africa for ten years until 1971 when it was surpassed by Hillbrow Tower in South Africa.

The Cairo tower is one of the most recognizable modern monuments in Cairo and hence becoming a popular tourist attraction in Egypt.

The tower offers 360 degrees views of the entire city of Cairo – it is actually the best spot for the best views in the entire city.

The tower also has a 360 revolving restaurant at the top  (for an amazing dining experience) whose full revolution takes 70 minutes for a single rotation.

Cairo tower can be reached by taking a taxi or even by walking if you want to explore the city more. The entrance to the tower is 60EGP.

15.  Cairo Citadel

Built by Salah ad-Din and further developed by other subsequent leaders, the Citadel of Cairo also known as the Citadel of Saladin is a medieval Islamic-era fortification in Cairo that should not miss on the list of landmarks to visit in Egypt.

Dating back in the 12th century, the Citadel provides a glimpse into Islamic Cairo.

It is also home to 4 museums and 3 mosques with the highlight being the Mosque of Muhammad Ali.

The mosque of Mohammad Ali is an architectural marvel that was commissioned by Muhammad Ali Pasha between 1830 and 1848  to rival the Hagia Sofia in Istanbul .

The mosque has a huge chandelier hanging from the domed ceiling – a feature that leaves visitors in awe.

The other mosque to visit at the Citadel is the Sultan al-Nasir Muhammad ibn Qala’un mosque which was originally built in the 14th century for Sultan al-Nasir for his daily prayers.

Just in front of the mosque, there is a grand terrace which offers panoramic views of Cairo city, the old Islamic Cairo which is just below the Citadel, the Nile and partial views of the Great Pyramid of Giza on very clear days.

The Citadel of Cairo can be accessed from Cairo downtown by taking a taxi and it costs only 140EGP to enter this amazing place.

16. Dendera Temple Complex

Located 2.5 Kilometers southeast of Dendera, Dendera Temple complex is one of the best-preserved temple complexes in Egypt and one of the famous landmarks in Egypt.

Built around 54 BC, the temple depicts signs of Roman, Greek, and European influence that makes it stand out from the rest.

Though the temple complex has 2 temples (Hathor temple and the temple of the birth of Isis) and other various features, the most dominant one is the temple of Hathor which was dedicated to Hathor, the Egyptian goddess of love and fertility.

The architectural design of the Hathor temple is a masterpiece with the Hypostyle hall being probably the most captivating as twenty-four massive columns, each with the head of Hathor, support the stunning blue ceiling.

It is believed that the modern Archaeologists took years of meticulous time to clean out the dust to show the ceiling’s original colors because it was being covered with 2,000 years of uncountable dust particles.

With the history attached to the Dendera Temple Complex and the significance it plays in the country’s history, it’s so clear that it’s one of Egypt’s famous landmarks.

To visit this Egyptian landmark, you only need to part with 120 EGP.

17. Philae Temple Complex

Philae Temple Complex is one of the interesting ancient Egypt landmarks.

It was originally situated on Philae Island, a small island in the Nile River but due to floods, the temples were transferred to Agilika Island, 12 kilometers south of Aswan where tourists can still admire it from. 

Though the complex has a number of buildings, the most notable one is the Temple of Isis .

The temple was dedicated to the goddess Isis, the wife of Osiris, and mother of Horus who played a very important figure in the ancient Egyptian world.   

To take in all the wonders of Philae Temple Complex, you’ll need 75 EGP.

18. The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa

If you are looking for unusual but famous landmarks of Egypt to visit, then visiting the Catacombs will definitely give you a thrilling experience.

Located in Alexandria, the Catacomb of Kom EI Shoqafa is one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages.

Though it is believed that the catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa were initially built for a single affluent family, they were later expanded into a public burial site acting as the main burial site in Alexandria between the 2 nd and the 4 th centuries A.D.

Today, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Alexandria and also a famous landmark in Egypt at large.

Though the Catacombs of Kom EI Shoqafa have a close resemblance to the Valley of Kings in design, they portray a mix of Egyptian, Roman, and Greek design creating an amazing style that all architectural lovers appreciate.

The entrance fee to the Catacombs of Kom EI Shoqafa is 35 EGP with opening hours starting from 9 am to 4:30 pm daily.

19. Suez Canal

Suez Canal is one of Egypt’s greatest engineering marvels standing at the crossroads of Asia, Europe, and Africa, connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea.

A trip to Cairo would be incomplete without discovering this beautiful masterpiece opened in 1869 by the French explorer and engineer “ Linant de Bellefonds”.

Since its inception, this 193.30 km waterway that connects Asia and Europe became a very important Egyptian landmark, especially to world trade.

Each year, around 12% of the world’s trade passes through this canal which means that without the Suez Canal, European companies would have to travel an extra 6,000 miles to Africa to deliver crude oil which would add up to almost $300,000 in their fuel cost. All this goes to show how important the Suez Canal is.

And besides being an important trade landmark, the Suez Canal is a beautiful spot offering spectacular views to its visitors.

While cruising on this beautiful human-made marvel, you will witness the scenic beauty of the Nile Delta to your west, and the arid landscape of the Sinai Peninsula to the East.

20. Khan El-Khalili Market

Located in the Islamic district of Cairo and near Al-Azhar, Khan EI-Khalili market is a famous open bazaar in Cairo that has become increasingly popular among tourists.

Being the best place in Cairo for shopping bees, this place offers countless shopping opportunities. From basic market items, souvenirs, food spices, to unique antiques, you will find everything here.

The best part about visiting Khan El-Khalili Market is that it’s absolutely free to enter! All you need is to carry enough money to buy all the souvenirs you need.

So if you were looking for places to visit, make sure that you add Khan El-Khalili market to the list of Egyptian famous landmarks not to miss.

Final Thoughts on the Famous Landmarks in Egypt

There you have it, friends, those were some of the famous landmarks in Egypt that make this North African country an ultimate bucket list destination.

With all the history, culture, and beauty that lives in Egypt, it would be a shame not to visit! So don’t wait up, start planning your trip and I guarantee that you’ll have a trip of a lifetime.

Have you been to any of these Egyptian landmarks? Which one did you love the most? If not, which one are you most excited about visiting? Either way, let me know in the comments below!

More posts to inspire your wanderlust

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• How to spend 2 days in Cairo
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• Things to do in Dahab, Egypt
• Things to know before traveling to Egypt

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The 8 best places to visit in Egypt

Aug 18, 2023 • 8 min read

There's much more to Egypt than the pyramids at Giza, but you certainly don't want to miss them © Hady Nyah / Getty Images

From diving the Red Sea’s crystal blue waters and stargazing amid the vastness of the desert to floating down the Nile River and standing in awestruck wonder before the ruins of one of the world’s most ancient civilizations... When it comes to travel experiences, Egypt is a destination that leaves visitors spoiled for choice.

With so much to see, the struggle for many visitors is just where to begin – as always, we’re happy to help! Here is our pick of the 8 best places to visit in Egypt.

Egypt’s bustling capital city is layered with cultural, religious, architectural and even culinary history. Its wonders stretch far beyond the walls of its famous museums. You can take in centuries worth of sights just by walking down the city streets, and discover untapped wonders just by saying hello to a stranger. Then there are the Pyramids of Giza , truly a wonder of the world.

At the epicenter of history in the core of the city is Islamic Cairo, the city's most atmospheric quarter. Just grab your camera and venture down its vibrant alleyways. Take in the views from the Citadel and the old city gates – known as Bab Zuweila , Bab al-Futuh and Bab an Nasr – and admire the intricate details of the area’s stunning mosques. The ancient Mosque of Muhammad Ali , Ibn Tulun Mosque and Al-Hakim Mosque are particularly incredible. Islamic Cairo is also home to monument-lined Muizz Street and Khan El-Khalili bazaar – great spots to grab some souvenirs (if your haggling skills are up to the task).

A more under-the-radar-spot is Coptic Cairo, home to the Coptic Museum , the Hanging Church , the towers of the vanished Babylon fortress – the focal point of Egypt’s tiny Christian minority since the first century CE.

Local tip: By night, Cairo transforms thanks to its buzzing nightlife scene – sip a drink in historic downtown bars or take in live performances at hip clubs and art spaces.

2. Marsa Alam

Life is definitely better when you’re scuba diving through colorful corals and swimming with dolphins, dugongs and sea turtles in Marsa Alam ’s beautiful blue waters. A serene escape on the western shore of the Red Sea, Marsa Alam is one of the top spots in Egypt for underwater escapes . Popular dive spots include the Elphinstone reef and Abu Dabbab, one of the world's top beaches for snorkeling .

For land-based adventures, head to Wadi el Gemal National Park, where you can lay back by the water at Hankorab Beach or safari, hike or bike through rugged, mountainous terrain. Keep an eye out for camels at Sharm El Luli Beach or take in the beautiful scenery at the resort town of Qulaan.

To learn about Marsa Alam’s local Bedouin community, visit the Ababda House Cultural Museum or have dinner and an aromatic cup of Jebena coffee with the locals.

Detour: If you're looking for interesting souvenirs, head to Ghosoun and Hamata and meet local tribeswomen making unique hand-woven crafts and jewelry (each tribe has its own unique patterns and styles). 

The site of the magnificent ancient city of Thebes, Luxor is said to preserve a third of the world’s ancient monuments between the pillars of its majestic temples. Dubbed the world’s greatest open-air museum, the capital of Upper Egypt recently celebrated the grand reopening of the 2.7km (1.7 mile) Avenue of the Sphinxes, an ancient thoroughfare connecting Karnak Temple , home of the famed Temple of Amun-Ra , and the impressively preserved Luxor Temple .

A sunrise hot air balloon ride will give you a captivating bird's-eye view of this city of ancient wonders. Once you're back on the ground, head to Hatshepsut Temple and Medinet Habu – two massive ancient architectural wonders that feature prominently on travelers' Instagram feeds – and cross the river to the Valley of the Kings , the royal burial site of Tutankhamun, Seti I and Ramses II.

Palm trees and patches of greenery cling to the dusty riverbanks of Aswan , one of Egypt’s most tranquil locations, celebrated for the unmatched hospitality of its Nubian community. Sail your way to any of the 20 river islands accessible by felucca, the traditional wooden sailboats that ply the river Nile.

To learn more about Nubian culture, visit the island of Gharb Soheil or stroll around the colorful streets of Aswan's Nubian Village. Sample homestyle veggie-based or chicken tagines in local cafes, or purchase aromatic spices from the vibrantly colorful Aswan spice market.

Aswan is famed for its stunning sunsets, which you can watch from any of the islands or while sailing the Nile on a felucca. Another top spot for watching the sunset is the restaurant at the iconic Sofitel Legend Old Catarac t where English author Agatha Christie penned her famous mystery, Death on the Nile .

Local tip: If you’re willing to wake up at 3am for the journey south across the desert, a day trip to Abu Simbel is a history buff’s dream; the whole temple complex was moved when the valley was flooded by the Aswan High Dam in the 1960s. If you’d rather let the sun wake up before you, explore Aswan’s Temple of Isis , also moved from its original location on Philae Island.

5. Black and White Deserts

The appeal of Egypt’s Black and White Deserts is quite literally black and white. These monochrome landscapes are like something out of a sci-fi movie, but the surreal scenery is a product of natural geology – the White Desert’s uniquely shaped limestone rock formations give the illusion of a snowscape, while the Black Desert features small black volcanic stones scattered over bright orange-colored sand.

A visit to either of these desert areas is perfect for a stargazing camping trip – it's the ultimate escape for anyone who’s had their fill of temples and big city traffic. The White Desert and Black Desert lie just south of the Bahariya Oasis , in Egypt’s Western Desert , which is accessible by bus from Cairo.

Local tip: While you’re out there, make sure you visit Crystal Mountain, a natural rock arch surrounded by glittering walls of quartz crystals, and Djara Cave, one of the country's most impressive, stalactite-filled caves. You’ll need to crouch down to enter the cave, but once inside, the ceiling looks like it’s coated in giant icicles. 

6. Egypt's Mediterranean Coast

Egypt’s northern shoreline – affectionately known as El Sahel, meaning "The Coast" – is the ultimate summer escape on the shores of the Mediterranean. This sun-kissed coastal strip comes alive from May to September every year, drawing hordes of beach bums by day, and a veritable who’s who of Egypt’s party people by night.

The strip is lined with luxurious hotels and resorts, upscale residential compounds and world-class restaurants such as The Smokery Beach at Stella di Mare  and  Kiki's Beach at Hacienda White. The shores of Sahel are where you’ll find most of Cairo’s millennial and Gen Z crowd on Egypt’s hottest summer days.

7. Siwa oasis

Far removed from the mayhem of Egypt's big cities, this little gem of an oasis is home to Siwan Bedouin people who follow a largely traditional way of life, and the town has thus far been only lightly touched by tourism. The locals are Amazigh tribespeople, who have managed to preserve much of their linguistic and cultural heritage thanks to the isolated location of their oasis home.

Siwa is often described as "the Sunset Oasis", and its sunsets are indeed unparalleled in Egypt. Whether you find a vantage point atop Dakrour Mountain or the ruined Shali Fortress , or take in the scenery and serenity of Taghaghien Island or Fatnas Island, you’re promised an unforgettable sunset. You can also expect a lot of mosquitos, so don’t forget your repellent.

Siwa is a prime destination for tourists looking to escape the winter chill and it's a leaping off point for the Great Sand Sea (the world’s third-largest dune field), swimmable hot and cold springs and crystal clear salt lakes where you can float effortlessly, supported by the saline waters.

Siwa is also famed for producing some of the country’s best dates, and you may be able to sample straight from the tree – just ask locals first. Every November, Siwa holds the Siwi Palm Date Festival.

Local tip: Try the local Abu Mardem chicken or lamb – a spiced dish that’s marinated for eight hours before being put into an iron pot and buried under the sand to cook.

8. El Gouna

It’s always sunny in this fully-integrated little town along the pristine shoreline of the Red Sea, just north of Hurghada. El Gouna has become the base for a multinational community of digital nomads, young families, and expats convinced that life is better by the water.

El Gouna has great aquatic activities, and lots of options for hiking and safaris in the surrounding desert landscapes, appealing to younger travelers. It also has bougie boutiques, cultural events and top-tier culinary experiences thanks to its many upscale restaurants, appealing to an older set.

With its world-class services, restaurants and living spaces, it's a great place to visit but also a fine place to set up your seaside office. There are plenty of coworking spaces and solid wifi connections, and lots of ways to keep busy outside of work hours – why work from home when you can work from El Gouna?

This article was first published Jan 10, 2022 and updated Aug 18, 2023.

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10 of the best ancient ruins to see in Egypt

Egypt is full of ancient ruins that will define every traveler’s experience. And with an expert Egyptologist joining all our tours, you’re guaranteed to never miss an educational moment.

by Go Ahead Tours team

May 27, 2022

No destination will make you feel like you’ve stepped firmly into the past quite like  Egypt . A country rich in 5,000 years of history, Egypt is full of ancient ruins that will define every traveler’s experience, including those who’ve chosen to  visit on their own . Unforgettable bucket-list attractions that reveal millennia of cultural grandeur show themselves at nearly every turn, from sky-piercing pyramids to cavernous temples full of eras-old secrets. And with an expert Egyptologist joining all our tours, you’re guaranteed to never miss an educational moment. On our immersive  trips to Egypt , prepare for the adventure of a lifetime, and like traveler Carmen, you might just find yourself realizing that Egypt is “more fabulous than expected!”

Read on to learn about the ancient ruins in Egypt that you simply can’t miss on our trips to Egypt .

10. The Great Pyramid of Giza

Did you travel to Egypt if you didn’t see the pyramids? All of our  Egypt itineraries  (including our brand-new  Egypt & Nile River Cruise for Solo Travelers Tour ) make a stop at this iconic ancient ruin. It’s full of enduring stories and  fascinating bits of trivia .

For example: The Great Pyramid of Giza is the largest pyramid in Egypt, and when it was first built in the 26th century BC, it stood at over 480 feet. For 3,800 years, it was the tallest building in the world. That it still stands today is testament to the exceptional engineering of that time. You’ll see this marvel from the outside and have a change to explore even further on your own. Take traveler Matthew’s word for it: “Getting to climb inside of the Great Pyramid of Giza will be an experience that we will hold in our hearts forever.”

9. Great Sphinx of Giza

Do you want to see the world’s largest monolith statue? Whether you’re on our classic  Egypt & River Nile Cruise tour  or the new  Ancient Egypt: Giza, Luxor & Cairo tour , you’ll get to marvel at one of the most sought-after Egyptian ruins. Made of carved limestone, the majestic reclining sphinx stands 66 feet tall, and while the nose has been broken for centuries now, it’s still monumental. First built during the reign of Khafre around 2500 BC, it is one of the oldest Egyptian ruins you’ll have the privilege of seeing on our Egypt tours .

8. Karnak Temple Complex

Once part of the ancient city of Thebes, Karnak was built over the course of 1,000 years (30 pharaohs contributed to it). At its peak, it was the most important religious complex in all of Egypt. As far as ancient temples in Egypt and our Egypt & the Nile Travel Guide are concerned, this might be the most sought-after attraction. It has been said that after the pyramids in Giza, Karnak is the most visited ancient ruin in Egypt. It is so vast, that much of it isn’t even open to the public. What you can visit is spectacular, including an avenue lined with countless sphinxes.

Want to take your visit to Karnak to the next level? We offer a once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon ride over these Egyptian ruins. “It was exciting and beautiful, especially at sunrise over the Nile,” said traveler Sally.

7. Luxor Temple

Located directly down the river from Karnak, Luxor Temple was where many of ancient Egypt’s great leaders were crowned. So, it only makes sense that the amount of history woven into the architectural fabric of these Egyptian ruins is immense. Construction on Luxor Temple took hundreds of years, with pharaohs from Amenhotep III to Tutankhamun adding on to the complex during their reign. Walking along the Great Colonnade Hall—nearly 200-feet long, flanked with 21-foot-high columns—will be one of the most unforgettable moments of your  trip to Luxor .

6. Valley of the Kings

A massive collection of tombs dedicated to history’s most important pharaohs, this ancient ruin in Egypt is tucked away near the West Bank of the Nile River, not far from the temples of Luxor. You’ll get to explore the burial grounds of some of ancient Egypt’s greatest leaders, including Tutankhamun and Ramesses II. There are more than 60 tombs here, each grander than the last, with beautiful carved hieroglyphics and bright paintings boasting Old World rituals. If you want to elevate the experience, make sure you sign up to get into King Tut’s tombs. There’s an extra surcharge (don’t forget to bring some cash), but it’s well worth it to see his famous sarcophagus.

5. Temple of Kom Ombo

Perched close to the Nile’s rushing waters, this temple was dedicated to both Sobek, the crocodile god, and Haroeris, the god of the sky. It was constructed mostly during the Ptolemaic dynasty, between 180 and 47 BC, but some features were likely added during Rome’s occupation of these lands. Because it was built in homage to two deities, you’ll find a symmetrical blueprint running along the temple’s main axis. There are two sets of relief sculptures mirroring each other: one dedicated to Sobek, the other to Haroeris. There are also chambers, built with double entrances, that lead to the sanctuaries of both gods.

4. Temple of Philae

Originally located near the First Cataract of the Nile, constant threat of flood damage forced the relocation of these ancient ruins to nearby Agilkia Island. Getting to Philae offers a unique sense of arrival: You approach it by boat. And when you do, prepare to be stunned. Perched over the water and surrounded by lush foliage, the site of the temple (which legend says is one of the burial grounds of the god Osiris) is truly one of the most picturesque. And if you want to see it in an even more unique setting, you’ll want to return at night, when the temple is fully lit up.

Located just south of Cairo, this massive archaeological site in  ancient Egypt  was only recently discovered. Egyptologists are in fact still unearthing all sorts of incredible ancient treasures, including the funerary temple of Queen Nearit, wife of the first pharaoh of the Sixth Dynasty of Egypt, as well as hundreds of ancient coffins. But one of the most important things they found in Saqqara might be the six-tier Pyramid of Djoser, the earliest colossal stone building in the country. It is also among the oldest Egyptian ruins, built in the 27th century BC.

2. Edfu’s Temple of Horus

Cruising along the Nile  includes a lot more than just relaxing on the lido deck: There is so much to  do along the Nile River , and sailing it is actually the quickest way to reach ancient temples all over Egypt. There are many that dot the banks of the river, including Edfu’s Temple of Horus. One of the country’s most beautifully preserved ancient ruins, the Temple of Horus was completed in 57 BC, making it one of the “newest” sights you’ll find in Egypt. In fact, the temple was built during a period when Egypt was part of Greece.

As you approach it, you can’t miss its splendor. The massive gateway—flanked by towering statues of Horus in his full falcon glory—is 118-feet tall. Within, you’ll find intricate relief carvings, ceremonial chambers, imposing columns, and wall inscriptions that tell of Horus’ legend.

1. Abu Simbel

Like Philae, flooding forced the relocation of these Egyptian ruins.  They are now located 180 miles from Aswan, on the edge of Lake Nasser. A  trip to Abu Simbel  requires a bit of a detour, but you’ll know right away that it’s worth it. (And that’s why it’s an add-on available on most of our  Egypt itineraries , including the brand-new  A Week in Egypt: Giza, Nile River Cruise & Cairo Tour .)

Larger-than-life Abu Simbel was constructed in honor of Ramesses II and his wife Nefertari. The sprawling, floor-to-ceiling hieroglyphics retell his military victories. But nothing will compare to the mammoth sculpture carved into the entrance of the Great Temple. They welcome you with imposing grandeur like no other ruins in Egypt. Take it from traveler Lindsay: “All of the sights make you feel like you’re about an inch tall, but Abu Simbel really seemed enormous.”

Ready to jump into the past? Explore the  best tours of Egypt  now.

About the author.

Go Ahead Tours team

We’re a team of passionate travel experts, dedicated to helping people explore the world. From inspiring stories to tips for an amazing trip, the topics we cover are all about getting you out there and making discoveries.

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7 underrated sites in egypt worth visiting, according to an archaeologist.

N o one travels to Egypt for the beaches or the wildlife — everybody comes for the ancient sites. From the Pyramids at Giza to the Valley of the Kings and the Luxor Temple, the country is filled with immense, millennia-old structures often shrouded in mystery. But, despite being the objects of myths and legends, these beautiful, ancient monuments are far from being kept secret. In fact, they’re so well-known that they’re almost constantly swarmed with visitors and vendors. These crowds often take away from the amazement one should feel when looking at these structures. Thankfully, there are still a few sites that aren’t covered in tour buses and camel ride offers.

To get the under-the-radar tour, we spoke with Christina Chavez , an archaeologist in the Greater Southwest Region of the US. Her knowledge of working in the desert and overall archaeological experience took her to Egypt five times to work on a large archaeological project project run by the NYU Institute of Fine Arts archaeological research program in Abydos. During her multiple visits, she was trained by egyptologists and became fascinated with the country’s history. She also had the chance to travel around Egypt several times and visit many lesser-known sites with immense historical and cultural value. These are a few of her favorites that you shouldn’t miss.

1. The Temple of Horus in Edfu

The Temple of Horus is located in the town of Edfu on the West Bank of the Nile. Although it’s only 68 miles south of the famous city of Luxor, this site is often missed by tourists who travel directly by bus or train from Luxor to the very popular Abu Simbel temples.

Photo: Anton_Ivanov /Shutterstock

Built out of sandstone between 237 and 57 BC, it’s one of the best-preserved monuments in all of Egypt. The temple was dedicated to Horus, an ancient god in the form of a falcon, whom you can see depicted in the reliefs on the temple’s pylon and as large granite statues at the entrance to the monument. Past the gateway is a large courtyard surrounded by carved columns and decorated with reliefs. At the end of the courtyard, the doorway to the temple’s library, halls, and tenebrous chambers, is guarded by a statue of Horus.

Photo: Victor Iniesta /Shutterstock

Inside, visitors can admire incredibly ornate rooms where altars and shrines that were used to worship Horus still stand. From inside one of the halls, go up the steps to get to the rooftop to take in the view of the Nile. Chavez recommends the Temple of Horus because it’s not as busy as other ancient sites, but also because it’s a great place to see 2,000-year-old carving, reliefs, and hieroglyphs in beautiful conditions and learn about Egyptian mythology.

2. The Temple of Hathor at Dendera

Photo: Dmitry Pleshakov /Shutterstock

Only 52 miles north of Luxor on the West Bank of the Nile, the temple of the goddess Hathor is incredibly well-preserved and free of crazy crowds. Hathor was said to be the spouse of Horus and is represented as a cow or as a woman wearing cow horns and a sun disk. Hathor is a significant figure in Egyptian mythology, hence the large temple dedicated to her.

Photo: Oksana Galiulina /Shutterstock

The walls around the temple complex are covered in reliefs and hieroglyphs, including a scene depicting Hathor breastfeeding her son. Through the gate, visitors can access the several buildings that make up the temple complex, as well as the temple itself. The facade of temple is covered in reliefs and decorated with six columns into which the head of Hathor is carved. Note that those six carvings were defaced later on by Christians. As you step in, the first hall, containing 24 columns, is ornate with hieroglyphs and carvings of Hathor that still bear the original paintwork, and is an impressive sight. You can access the rooftop of the temple via a staircase located in the next room. From there, you can see the entire complex.

3. The Red Monastery in Sohag

Photo: Cortyn /Shutterstock

Although vestiges of pharaonic times is what most visitors to Egypt seek, it’s only one part of the country’s rich history. Christianity and monasticism spread through the country as early as 45 AD and Christian communities flourished, rejecting the old pagan traditions.

The Red Monastery, located in Sohag, is a town on the West Bank of the Nile and 150 miles north of Luxor, and is a remnant of the start of monastic life in the world. It’s dedicated to Saint Pishay, its founder. The fourth-century monastery may look austere from the outside, but the inside is spectacularly lavish with paintings and sculptures. After being restored from 2002 to 2014, the Red Monastery is now open to visitors and used by the Coptic community.

4. Petroglyphs from Kharga Oasis

Photo: Christina Chavez

In the same way that the story of Egypt didn’t stop with the pharaohs, it didn’t start with them either. The petroglyphs from Kharga Oasis in the Western Desert are sandstone rock carvings dating back from prehistoric times onward. There are several rock art sites in the area between Al-Kharga and Dakhla Oasis, and getting there isn’t easy, so you’ll need to ask around Al-Kharga for a guide in a 4×4 to drive you to the appropriate spots. One thing’s for sure: there won’t be crowds getting in your way to check out the animals, boats, humans, geometric designs, and inscriptions found on the rocks. Chavez highly recommends that travelers to Egypt check out this area to get a larger picture of the country’s history — if you thought the pyramids were old, you’ll be amazed by the carvings of giraffes, elephants, donkeys, fish, and even hippos from hundreds of thousands of years ago.

5. Siwa Oasis

Siwa Oasis is the perfect spot for those who really want to get away from it all. It’s in the Western Desert, a good eight-hour drive from Cairo, and very close to the border with Libya, so, despite hosting amazing historical sites, it’s not driving the crowds. Chavez suggests that you check out the following two sites in Siwa:

• The Fortress of Shali

Photo: Sun_Shine /Shutterstock

The shell that remains of the 13th-century fortress is an impressive structure built out of a unique material: karshif, a mud produced naturally through the calcification of earth mixed with salt from the lake outside of town. The fortress was inhabited by the people of Siwa until a storm destroyed most of it and forced the locals to move to more modern accommodations in the early 20th century. The site looks like a ghost town maze and is well worth checking out. For a great view of the fortress from above, climb up to the Old Mosque .

• The Temple of the Oracle

The temple of the Oracle, built in the sixth century BC, was dedicated to Amon, a god in the shape of a curly-horned ram. The prophecies of Amon were taken very seriously and brought fame to the small town of Aghurmi. Even Alexander the Great, upon invading Egypt, visited the Temple of the Oracle to hear what life had in store for him. The views of the oasis from the temple are also spectacular.

6. The Temple of Seti I in Abydos

Abydos is a city located about 100 miles north of Luxor on the West Bank of the Nile. Because most historical sites are located along the river, a stop in Abydos can easily be added to an itinerary. And, really, you shouldn’t skip Abydos because the city used to be the center of worship for Osiris, the god of the dead and the afterlife, and one of the most important gods in Egyptian mythology. Abydos was used as a necropolis for thousands of years — this is where the tombs of the first pharaohs of Egypt were found and a place most Egyptians strived to be buried. Also, Abydos is so underrated that Chavez explains that she found herself almost completely alone on her visit to the Temple of Seti.

Photo: Airijo /Shutterstock

The Temple of Seti I is an incredibly well-preserved mortuary that used to be considered one of the most sacred places in all of Egypt. It was built under King Seti I in 1300 BC and was dedicated to the veneration of the king himself and six significant Egyptian gods: Osiris, Isis (Osiris’ sister and wife), Horus (Osiris and Isis’ son), Amon-Ra, Ra-Horakhty, and Ptah. Parts of the L-shaped temple complex have been destroyed (courtyards and pylons), but the portico with a pillared facade still stands, decorated with reliefs where Ramses II (son of Seti I) is shown with the gods. Inside there are columns, gloomy halls, chambers, and seven sanctuaries for each of the divinities reverated here. The walls of the temple are intricately decorated with colored reliefs and hieroglyphs depicting scenes of religious significance. At the back of the temple is the Osireion, a cenotaph to Osiris that is completely flooded and therefore impossible for egyptologists to study in detail.

7. The Shunet El-Zebib in Abydos

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par Abydos Archaeology (@digabydos) le 18 Avril 2018 à 1 :47 PDT

Shunet El-Zebib is the site where Chavez has worked during every one of her trips to Egypt. The Shunet El-Zebib is a funerary cult enclosure for King Khasekhemwy of the Second Dynasty dating back to 2650 BC, located in the sacred city of Abydos. The site covers several square miles and is the only standing funerary enclosure in the necropolis of Abydos. According to the World Monuments Fund , “The structure is one of Egypt’s oldest standing royal monuments and one of the oldest preserved mud brick buildings in the world” and it’s “the only example of this earliest tradition of royal monumental funerary construction that still exists.”

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16 Best Places to Visit in Egypt

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on June 17, 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.

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.

Map of Egypt

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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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Discover Egypt: 20 Amazing Locations to Explore

Egypt, a land steeped in history and culture , is a destination that has captivated travelers for centuries. From the majestic pyramids of Giza to the ancient temples of Luxor, Egypt offers a wealth of wonders to explore. This blog will take you on a journey through 20 of the most amazing locations in Egypt , showcasing the country’s rich heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant culture.

Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker , or simply looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, Egypt has something to offer everyone. From the bustling streets of Cairo to the serene shores of the Red Sea, this ancient land will leave you spellbound.

Giza Pyramids and Sphinx

No visit to Egypt is complete without witnessing the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx. So naturally, it had to be the first iconic spot on our list. These iconic structures have stood for thousands of years, a testament to the ingenuity and power of ancient Egyptian civilization.

The Great Pyramid of Giza, the largest pyramid in the world, is a marvel of engineering. Constructed over 2,000 years ago, it remains a mystery how the ancient Egyptians could lift and place the massive stones that make up its structure. The Sphinx, a colossal limestone statue with a lion’s body and a human’s head, is believed to be a guardian of the pyramids. Its enigmatic expression and weathered appearance have captivated visitors for centuries.

Luxor’s Karnak Temple

Karnak Temple in Luxor is one of the most impressive and awe-inspiring ancient Egyptian monuments. This sprawling complex is a testament to the power and grandeur of the pharaohs who ruled Egypt.

As you wander through the temple’s vast courtyards and towering hypostyle halls, you’ll be transported back in time to a world of pharaohs, gods, and rituals. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Avenue of Sphinxes, a long procession of ram-headed sphinxes leading to the temple. Karnak Temple is a must-see for any visitor to Egypt.

The Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings, located on the West Bank of the Nile River near Luxor, is a must-visit destination for any history buff or traveler seeking a unique experience. This ancient necropolis served as the burial ground for many of Egypt’s pharaohs and their families, offering a glimpse into the lives of the powerful rulers who once ruled this ancient civilization.

As you explore the valley, you’ll be transported back thousands of years to a time when pharaohs were considered divine beings. The tombs, carved into the limestone cliffs, are adorned with intricate hieroglyphics, colorful paintings, and statues of gods and goddesses. The most famous tombs include Tutankhamun, Rameses II, and Seti I.

Aswan, a city nestled along the banks of the Nile River, is a timeless oasis that offers a glimpse into ancient Egypt. Known for its stunning temples and serene landscapes, Aswan is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring Egypt.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Aswan is the Temple of Philae , a magnificent ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Isis. Located on a small island in the Nile River, the temple is accessible by boat and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Another highlight of Aswan is the Kom Ombo Temple, a unique double temple dedicated to the gods Horus and Sobek. With its intricate carvings and well-preserved architecture, Kom Ombo Temple is a testament to the ancient Egyptians’ skill and artistry.

Philae Temple

Philae Temple is a stunning ancient monument located on Philae Island in Lake Nasser, Egypt. Originally built on the island of Philae in the Nile River, the temple was relocated to its current location in the 1960s to save it from the rising waters of the Aswan High Dam.

Philae Temple is a masterpiece of Egyptian architecture, featuring intricate carvings, colorful paintings, and towering columns. Visitors can explore the temple’s many chambers, including the Temple of Isis, the Temple of Hathor, and the Kiosk of Trajan. The temple’s serene setting, surrounded by lush gardens and palm trees, adds to its allure.

Nestled in the Nubian Desert, Abu Simbel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a testament to ancient Egyptian engineering and artistry. This remarkable complex of two massive rock-cut temples was originally built by the pharaoh Ramses II to honor himself and the goddess Hathor.

Abu Simbel was relocated to higher ground in the 1960s to protect the temples from rising Nile River levels. The intricate carvings and hieroglyphs that adorn the temple walls remain remarkably well-preserved, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur and power of ancient Egypt. Visiting Abu Simbel is a must for any history enthusiast or traveler seeking a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Cario Tower

Cairo Tower, a 177-meter (581-foot) landmark dominating the Cairo skyline, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surrounding areas. This iconic structure is a must-visit for any traveler seeking a bird’ s-eye view of Egypt’s capital.

As you ascend to the observation deck, you’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas of the Giza Pyramids, the Nile River, and the bustling city streets below. On a clear day, you can even see as far as the ancient city of Memphis. Cairo Tower is a sightseeing destination and a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy a meal or a drink at one of its restaurants.

Alexandria’s Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Alexandria, once a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, has witnessed its fair share of historical ups and downs. However, in recent years, the city has undergone a remarkable transformation, with the construction of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina standing as a testament to its resurgence. This modern marvel is a state-of-the-art library and cultural center that pays homage to the ancient Library of Alexandria, one of the greatest libraries of the ancient world.

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a striking architectural masterpiece, designed to resemble a sailboat with its sloping roof and glass facade. Visitors will find a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and other cultural materials. The library also houses a planetarium, an exhibition hall, and a conference center. Whether you’re a bookworm, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a must-visit destination in Alexandria.

Fort Qaitbey

Fort Qaitbey, a majestic fortress overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in Alexandria, is a testament to Egypt’s rich history and architectural prowess. Built in the late 15th century by Sultan Qaitbay, this imposing structure served as a key defense against Ottoman naval forces.

Today, Fort Qaitbey is a fascinating historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into Egypt’s past. Explore the fortress’s intricate architecture, climb to the top of the citadel for panoramic views of the city and harbor, and learn about its role in Egypt’s maritime history. Visiting Fort Qaitbey is a must for anyone interested in Egypt’s military heritage and coastal culture.

Nestled amidst the vast expanse of the Libyan Desert, Siwa Oasis is a hidden gem that offers a stark contrast to Egypt’s bustling cities. This oasis is home to a unique Berber culture, with traditional mud-brick houses, palm-fringed springs, and ancient ruins.

Visitors to Siwa can explore the ancient temple of the Oracle of Ammon, relax in the natural hot springs, or soak up the peaceful atmosphere of this remote oasis. The surrounding desert landscape is perfect for hiking, sandboarding, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the starlit sky.

 White Desert National Park

White Desert National Park, located in the Farafra Oasis, is a surreal landscape that resembles a moonscape. The park is home to a vast expanse of white limestone rock formations sculpted by wind and sand over millions of years. These formations, known as “mushroom rocks,” create a unique and otherworldly atmosphere.

Visitors to the White Desert National Park can explore the park on foot, by camel, or by 4×4 vehicle. Camping is also permitted in designated areas, allowing you to experience the tranquility of this remote desert wilderness under a starry sky.

Dahab and the Blue Hole

Dahab, a charming coastal town in the Sinai Peninsula, is a paradise for scuba divers and snorkeling enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, Dahab offers some of the best diving conditions in the world.

One of Dahab’s most famous dive sites is the Blue Hole, a deep, circular abyss that plunges to over 100 meters. The Blue Hole is a challenging dive, requiring advanced skills and experience, but it is also a truly awe-inspiring sight. For those who prefer shallower waters, Dahab offers a variety of other dive sites, including the Canyon, the Lighthouse, and the Bells.

The Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan

A Nile cruise is an essential part of any Egypt itinerary. It offers a leisurely and scenic way to explore some of the country’s most iconic ancient sites. As you sail down the majestic Nile River, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, including lush palm groves, towering mountains, and traditional villages.

A typical Nile cruise itinerary includes stops at several must-see destinations like Luxor, Aswan, and Edfu. In Luxor, you can visit the magnificent Valley of the Kings, where the tombs of ancient pharaohs are located. Aswan is home to the towering Philae Temple, which was relocated to an island on Lake Nasser to save it from flooding. Along the way, you’ll also have the opportunity to explore smaller temples and archaeological sites, providing a glimpse into Egypt’s rich history.

The Step Pyramid

The Step Pyramid of Saqqara, located just outside of Cairo, is one of Egypt’s oldest and most impressive pyramids. Built as a tomb for the pharaoh Djoser, it is a marvel of ancient engineering with its unique stepped design. The pyramid’s intricate architecture and well-preserved condition offer a glimpse into the sophisticated knowledge and skills of the ancient Egyptians.

A visit to the Step Pyramid is a must for any traveler to Egypt. As you explore the site, you can imagine the bustling activity that once took place here thousands of years ago. Be sure to take your time to admire the pyramid’s intricate details and learn about ancient Egypt’s history and culture.

Abydos Temple

Abydos, located in Upper Egypt, is home to one of the most well-preserved ancient Egyptian temple complexes. Dedicated to the god Osiris, Abydos was considered a sacred site associated with the afterlife. The temple’s most impressive feature is the Avenue of Sphinxes, a long processional way lined with hundreds of sphinx statues.

Visitors to Abydos can explore the temple’s numerous chambers and courtyards, including the Hypostyle Hall, the Osiris Chapel, and the Tomb of Seti I. The walls of these structures are adorned with intricate hieroglyphics and colorful paintings depicting scenes from Egyptian mythology and the afterlife. A visit to Abydos offers a glimpse into the ancient Egyptians’ beliefs and reverence for the gods.

The Red Sea Riviera

The Red Sea Riviera, a stretch of coastline along Egypt’s eastern border, is a paradise for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, this region offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Popular destinations along the Red Sea Riviera include Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Marsa Alam. These towns offer a variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, sailing in crystal-clear waters, or relaxing on the beach and soaking up the sun.

St. Catherine’s Monastery

Nestled amidst the rugged peaks of Mount Sinai, St. Catherine’s Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously operating monasteries in the world. Founded in the 6th century, the monastery is named after Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a Christian martyr said to have been executed on the mountain.

The monastery is a history and culture treasure trove, boasting a magnificent collection of Byzantine icons, manuscripts, and liturgical objects. Visitors can explore the ancient chapel, the burning bush chapel, and the well where the Virgin Mary is said to have quenched her thirst. The surrounding area is also a popular destination for hiking and camping, offering stunning views of the Sinai Peninsula.

Kom Ombo Temple

Kom Ombo Temple , located on the banks of the Nile River, is a unique and fascinating archaeological site. Unlike most Egyptian temples dedicated to a single deity, Kom Ombo Temple is a double-headed temple, honoring both the crocodile-headed god Sobek and the falcon-headed god Horus.

The temple’s symmetrical design is a marvel of ancient architecture. It has two courtyards, hypostyle halls, and sanctuaries, each dedicated to a different deity. Visitors can explore the temple’s intricate carvings, hieroglyphs, and well-preserved statues. Kom Ombo Temple is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient Egyptian history and architecture.

Fayoum Oasis

The Fayoum Oasis is a hidden gem located just west of Cairo. This lush oasis starkly contrasts the surrounding desert landscape, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. The oasis is home to ancient sites, including the Qarun Lake, the Magic Lake, and the Tuna el-Gebel necropolis. Visitors can also enjoy boating on the Qarun Lake, exploring the mudbrick villages, or simply relaxing in the serene atmosphere of the oasis.

Al-Azhar Mosque

Al-Azhar Mosque, located in Cairo’s historic Islamic Cairo district, is one of the Islamic world’s most important religious and educational institutions. Founded in 970 AD, the mosque has preserved and promoted Islamic knowledge for centuries.

The mosque’s architecture is a stunning blend of Islamic styles, with intricate carvings, colorful mosaics, and towering minarets. Visitors can explore the mosque’s grand courtyard, admire the beautiful stained glass windows, and witness the daily prayers performed by hundreds of worshippers. Al-Azhar Mosque is a place of worship and a symbol of Islamic culture and heritage.

Egypt, a land shrouded in mystery and intrigue, offers a journey through time like no other. With its ancient pyramids, bustling bazaars, and breathtaking landscapes, Egypt is a destination that captivates the imagination. From the majestic Nile River to the serene desert oases, something fascinates every traveler.

So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on a journey through time. With so many unique locations to explore, Egypt is a destination that will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

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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

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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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.

10 wonders of ancient Egypt

September 16, 2020

The appeal of these stunning sites is far from ancient history

1. The Pyramids of Giza

Part of the Giza Necropolis – Egypt’s most-visited tourist attraction – are the three large Pyramids of Giza. The largest is the Great Pyramid of Giza – also known as the Pyramid of Khufu or the Pyramid of Cheops. A royal tomb standing nearly 140 m high, it was built from more than two million blocks of limestone, most likely mined from nearby quarries. This reflects the influence of the Fourth Dynasty in Ancient Egypt, which reigned more than 4,000 years ago. The pyramids’ original smooth limestone exteriors have long since weathered away, but the chance to explore the site is a chance to reconnect with the past.

2. The Great Sphinx

Also located in Giza, the 73m tall Great Sphinx is a monument to the Egyptians ancient myths and religion but its origins remain mysterious. Facing due east and carved into a solid block of limestone in the Giza plateau, it depicts a human head on the body of a lion. The head may be that of the pharaoh Khafre, who also had built the second-largest pyramid in Giza. Another theory is that was built to honour the ancient Egyptian sun god, Ra. Its name literally translates to ‘The Father of Dread,’ which perhaps says it all.

A complex of temples not far from Luxor, Karnak is a fantastic site for exploration, boasting a diverse mix of ruins, columns and obelisks. The former capital of ancient Egypt, Karnak – then Thebes – was constructed over centuries and retains its impressive spectacle. Visit Karnak if you want a comprehensive history lesson or, are hoping to spot a familiar backdrop from one of the many Hollywood movies that have used it as an otherworldly location.

4. Tutankhamun

The resident of Egypt’s most famous pharaoh’s tomb – the only one on record to be discovered almost fully preserved and not raided by thieves – remains in his final resting place, but his treasures are on display at the Egyptian Museum. The most stunning artifact uncovered remains his gold and blue funerary mask but there is plenty more to explore. Not least are the remnants of the life of a pharaoh who was the son of siblings, began his reign while still a child and whose death marked the end of one of ancient Egypt’s noble family lines.

5. Abu Simbel Temples

Two gigantic structures carved from mountainside rock, the Abu Simbel temples take their place among Egypt’s most notable landmarks. The temples have an imposing authority that reflects the leader who built them: Ramesses the Great, a 19th dynasty monarch who reigned for seven decades until 1213 BC. Four seated pharaohs, carved onto the outside wall of the larger temple, greet visitors before they journey inside to marvel at a remarkable array of inscriptions, painting and statues within both temples. Equally impressive was the project was undertaken in the 1960s to relocate both structures from their original site and avoid flooding.

6. Kom Ombo Temple

All ancient Egyptian temples are unique, but the Kom Ombo Temple is the only one that honours two gods with a symmetrical design. Haroeris, the falcon god, and Sobek, the crocodile god, were both enduring figures in Egyptian mythology and led to the construction of this structure’s two sets of gateways and chapels. Built during the 1st century BC, it is a relatively modern structure that survived ancient Egypt’s final, 19th dynasty by honouring centuries of tradition, culture and religion.

7. Luxor Temple

Located near the former capital of ancient Egypt, Luxor is a beautiful city with plenty of modern tourist attractions. At its centre, its ancient temple has stood the test of time as its most recognisable landmark. Built from sandstone during the 2nd century BC, it features a series of open courtyards and impressive statues of Ramesses the Great and other Egyptian icons. Open until late, it’s a treat to watch the sunset over its columns but not the civilisation that it preserves.

8. The Valley of the Kings

Possibly the largest number of pharaohs you’ll find commemorated in one place – which for Egypt is a truly impressive claim – is in the Valley of the Kings. Constructed over the course of nearly 500 years the Valley is a series of tombs each dedicated to ancient Egyptian leaders. The site was maintained until the 11th century BC and has been excavated and maintained for more than 200 years in the modern era. Among more than 60 tombs and numerous chambers are many startling designs and opulent interiors which, at the time, were filled with valuables. The wall markings alone provide a fascinating lesson in life and death in Ancient Egypt.

9. Philae Temples

One for true explorers and ancient history aficionados, Philae is an island located in a reservoir, with much of what surrounded it at one point now submerged underwater. Surviving today is its iconic temple complex with its largest structure honouring Isis, the ancient Egyptian goddess whose worshippers spread into Italy, Greece and Hungary. The Temple of Isis was part of another relocation project to avoid further flooding and covers about a quarter of the island. It also contains other fascinating remnants of what was a strategic outpost for the Egyptian empire.

10. The Nile

While the monuments of ancient Egypt are important for remembering what was built, equally fascinating is the river running through its history. No civilisation can flourish without water to sustain itself, something the Nile provided by creating a route for trade and a source of food. Journeying along the river is not only an opportunity to see the sights – many are not far from its banks – but to tap into the consciousness of ancient Egypt. The rising of its tide was attributed to the tears of Isis, one of Egypt’s many myths and customs.

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The most beautiful archaeological sites of ancient Egypt

Temples, pyramids, necropolises… Mighty remains of the pharaonic civilisations, these Egyptian ruins are still being unearthed. From north to south, here are the ten archaeological sites to see while travelling to Egypt.

The pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx

• country: Egypt
• Nearest airport: Cairo International Airport

On the left bank of the Nile, about ten kilometres from Cairo in Egypt, the Giza plateau is home to the royal tombs of three major pharaohs of the 4 th dynasty: Khufu, the father, Khafren, the son, and Mykerinos, the grandson. They have shared this immense pyramid complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site , for the past 4,500 years. The largest, the pyramid of Khufu, is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing. At 137 metres high, it remained the tallest building in the world until the 12 th century. At its feet, carved from limestone, the Sphinx of Giza has kept watch over the tombs since 2500 BC.

The necropolis of Saqqara

Another key site in the vicinity of Cairo, Saqqara is the oldest and largest necropolis in Egypt. The complex is home to the majestic step pyramid of Djoser, which reopened to the public in 2020 after 14 years of restoration work. The pyramid is surrounded by several pavilions, temples, courtyards and galleries to marvel at.

The Abydos sanctuary

This site is full of archaeological treasures: as the sanctuary of Osiris, one of the most popular gods of the Egyptian pantheon, the site of Abydos brings together remains from all periods of ancient Egypt, some of which are extremely well preserved. The Temple of Pharaoh Sethi I has some of the finest relief work in the country.

The temple of Dendera

North of Luxor, the archaeological site of Dendera is home to the Temple of Hathor, a superb example of late Egyptian architecture: most of the complex dates back to the reign of Ptolemy IX (1 st century BC), but many elements, including Trajan’s mammisi – a small chapel dedicated to the ruler’s divine birth – date back to the Roman era. The whole complex is very well preserved.

The temples of Karnak, near Luxor

Built in the Nile Valley sometime between 2200 and 360 BC, the immense complex of Karnak (123 hectares) is the largest temple in Egypt and one of the most interesting archaeological sites to visit: the Great Temple of Amun is the collective creation of many pharaohs, all of whom were quick to leave their mark on this edifice dedicated to the most powerful god in Egypt. The great hypostyle hall is breathtaking with its 134 stone columns.

The Valley of the Kings

Unearthed in the 19 th century, the Valley of the Kings is, along with the Valley of the Nobles and Queens, the burial site of the main rulers of the New Kingdom: only a dozen tombs are open to the public, but all the pharaohs of the 18 th , 19 th and 20 th dynasties, including Tutankhamun , are buried here. The tombs of Seti I, Ramses III, Amenhotep II and Thutmose III are worth the detour.

The Temple of Edfu

Some ways away from the tourist trail, the temple of Edfu, dedicated to the god Horus, is well worth a visit during a cruise on the Nile between Luxor and Aswan. It is the second largest temple in Egypt after Karnak, and it has remained buried under a dozen metres of sand for centuries, making it one of the best preserved in Egypt.

The Temple of Haroeris and Sobek in Kom Ombo

Built during the reign of Ramses II north of Aswan, this sanctuary in Kom Ombo is dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile-headed god, and Haroëris, the falcon-headed god, making it the only known Egyptian construction dedicated to two different deities. Surrounded by a magnificent palm grove, the temple offers a superb view of the Nile and the surrounding city of Kom Ombo.

The Temple of Isis in Philæ

The temple of Isis, goddess of love, has a particularly interesting recent history: nestled on the small island of Aguilkia, accessible only by boat, it was until 1974 on the neighbouring island of Philæ, which was swallowed up by the waters after the construction of the Aswan High Dam. Under the aegis of UNESCO, the temple was moved stone by stone, saving it from a watery grave.

The Temples of Abu Simbel

Parfaitement préservés, les temples d’Abou Simbel, dédiés à Ramsès II Perfectly preserved, the Abu Simbel temples, dedicated to Ramses II and his wife Nefertari, are the grandiose testimony of the wealth of the Ramesside pharaohs. The Great Temple’s façade, the four colossi, the great hall and its eight Osirid pillars are awe-inspiring. The nearby Temple of Hathor, dedicated to Queen Nefertari, is also worth a visit. Like the Temple of Philæ, these two buildings were saved from the waters in the 1960s.

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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.

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Must-See Attractions in Egypt: A Traveler’s Guide

Egypt, a land of ancient wonders and breathtaking landscapes, has long been a dream destination for travelers seeking to unravel the mysteries of its past. Whether you’re exploring the majestic pyramids or cruising the serene Nile, Egypt Tours offer an unparalleled glimpse into a civilization that has captivated the world for millennia. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the must-see attractions that make Egypt a truly unforgettable experience.

The Pyramids of Giza: Timeless Wonders of the World

No trip to Egypt would be complete without visiting the iconic Pyramids of Giza . Standing tall on the outskirts of Cairo, these ancient structures have fascinated historians and adventurers alike for centuries. The Great Pyramid , the last remaining wonder of the ancient world, is a testament to the architectural prowess of the Egyptians. Nearby, the enigmatic Sphinx guards the plateau, its stoic gaze adding to the mystique of this ancient site.

The Valley of the Kings: Tombs of the Pharaohs

Journey to Luxor , where the Valley of the Kings lies hidden within the rugged mountains. This necropolis was the burial ground for Egypt’s mighty pharaohs, including the famous tomb of Tutankhamun . As you descend into these ancient tombs, the vibrant hieroglyphics and intricate carvings on the walls tell tales of a civilization that revered the afterlife as much as life itself.

The Temples of Abu Simbel: Monuments of Grandeur

Located near the Sudanese border, the Temples of Abu Simbel are a marvel of ancient engineering. These massive rock-cut temples were constructed by Ramses II and are adorned with colossal statues that stand guard at the entrance. The interiors are equally impressive, with detailed carvings and inscriptions that celebrate the achievements of this legendary pharaoh. A visit to Abu Simbel is often a highlight of many Egypt Tours , particularly during the twice-yearly solar alignment that illuminates the inner sanctum.

The Nile River: Lifeblood of Egypt

The Nile River , often referred to as the lifeblood of Egypt, offers a unique way to explore the country’s rich history. A Nile Cruise takes you on a journey through time, passing by ancient temples, vibrant cities, and tranquil rural landscapes. Whether you’re sailing in a traditional felucca or a luxury riverboat, the Nile offers a serene and picturesque backdrop to your Egyptian adventure.

The Red Sea: A Diver’s Paradise

For those seeking adventure beyond the historical sites, the Red Sea offers some of the best diving spots in the world. The crystal-clear waters are home to vibrant coral reefs and a diverse array of marine life. Popular destinations like Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada provide ample opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and enjoying the sun-soaked beaches.

Adventurer’s FAQ

Q: What is the best time to visit Egypt? A: The best time to visit Egypt is during the cooler months, from October to April, when temperatures are more comfortable for exploring the outdoor attractions.

Q: How should I dress when visiting Egypt? A: Modest clothing is recommended, particularly when visiting religious sites. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are ideal for the hot climate.

Q: Are Egypt Tours safe? A: Yes, Egypt is generally safe for tourists, especially when traveling with a reputable tour operator. It’s always advisable to stay informed about local conditions and follow travel advisories.

Top Experiences & Tours in Egypt

5 days cairo and luxor tour.

Experience the best of Cairo and Luxor on this 5-day tour, perfect for those short on time but eager to see Egypt’s most iconic sites. Explore the bustling streets of Cairo, marvel at the Pyramids of Giza, and dive into history with a visit to the ancient temples in Luxor. Discover the Full Itinerary and Book Your Tour

7-Day Egypt Tour: Cairo, Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor

This 7-day adventure takes you through Egypt’s most famous cities and along the majestic Nile River. Start in Cairo with its rich history, then embark on a scenic Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor, stopping at ancient temples and breathtaking landscapes along the way. Explore the Journey and Reserve Your Spot

8 Days Cairo, Aswan, Nile Cruise, Luxor and Alexandria Tour

Immerse yourself in the wonders of Egypt with this 8-day tour that covers Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, and Alexandria. From the Great Pyramids to the coastal beauty of Alexandria, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Egypt’s diverse attractions, complemented by a relaxing Nile cruise. See Full Itinerary and Secure Your Adventure

9-Day Egypt Tour: Explore Cairo, Luxor, Aswan & Majestic Abu Simbel

Dive deep into Egypt’s ancient wonders with this 9-day tour, which includes visits to the monumental temples of Abu Simbel, the bustling city of Cairo, and the historic sites of Luxor and Aswan. This tour is perfect for travelers looking to explore the full breadth of Egypt’s heritage. Unveil the Secrets of Egypt and Book Now

10-Day Wonders of Egypt & Cruise on Nile

The ultimate Egyptian experience, this 10-day tour combines the best of Egypt’s historical sites with a luxurious cruise on the Nile. Visit Cairo’s timeless monuments, explore the ancient cities of Luxor and Aswan, and witness the grandeur of the temples along the Nile. Join This Unforgettable Journey – Check Availability

A Journey Through Time: Egypt Awaits

Embarking on Egypt Tours is more than just a vacation; it’s a journey through one of the most storied civilizations in human history. From the majestic pyramids to the tranquil Nile, each destination offers a unique window into the past, making Egypt a truly timeless adventure.

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How to Spend Five Days in Egypt: A Guide to Cairo and Luxor

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Explore Timeless Pyramids and Temples in Egypt

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The Official Site to Visit Egypt

Best 18 Cairo Egypt Places To See and visit

Egypt’s capital, Cairo, is a historical and culturally rich city. Travelers can enjoy a genuinely unique experience at this location, with its vibrant marketplaces, recognizable monuments, and historic sites. There is something in Cairo for every traveler, whether they are drawn to the historical pyramids or the cutting-edge museums. highlight some of the top Cairo Egypt places to see , in this guide, along with advice on how to make the most of your time spent seeing this intriguing city.

Interesting Facts About Cairo Egypt

The City of Cairo offers a historical laid-back medieval vibe but also has an upbeat persona depending on the particular area of the city and time of day. The top 5 facts about Cairo, and reveal most of the attractions in Cairo.

• Cairo has a long and varied history that dates back to ancient times. 

The city has been shaped by pharaohs, Islamic emperors, and other foreign forces, resulting in an intriguing cultural mosaic.

• More than 20 million people are living in Cairo. 

Cairo is one of the world’s most populous cities and a bustling metropolis with lively neighborhoods and streets.

• Cairo hosts the largest food court in the world

Oasis Restaurants and Entertainment in Cairo is a foodie’s paradise! Imagine 41,000 square meters of a sea of different foods to sample! This place has 25 restaurants and can seat up to 4,223 diners at a time.

While at Oasis, you can enjoy a meal and relax while the kids play in the beautiful Kid’s Zone or go to the movies in the courtyard.

• Cairo has one of the world’s most beautiful Islands

Blessed by the Nile, Cairo is home to some incredibly beautiful islands. These hidden treasures provide a distinctive and tranquil haven in the middle of the city. The proximity of places like Garden City and Downtown Cairo to the river makes it seem as though you could reach out and touch the water.

• One of the tallest structures there ever was in Africa is found in Cairo

The Cairo Tower is 614 feet tall and is located near downtown Cairo, on Gezira Island in the Nile River.

This free-standing concrete tower was the tallest structure in Africa for ten years until 1971. It also holds the title of “Tallest Structure in Egypt and North Africa for 50 Years”.

• Cairo’s cultural and artistic landscape is flourishing. 

There are many theaters, art galleries, and music venues in the city that present both regional and global talent and this is one of the most

Cairo Egypt Places To See

Cairo is a city that offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and beauty by fusing the ancient and the modern. A list of some of the must-visit locations is provided below:

1. The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx

One of the most iconic landmarks of Cairo Egypt places to see and the final of the historic Seven Wonders of the World is the Great Pyramid of Giza. It was constructed over twenty years, during the reign of King Khufu (2589–2566 BCE, also known as Cheops), of the 4th Dynasty, on the Giza plateau close to the present-day city of Cairo.

2. Khan El-Khalili Bazaar

Its inception dates back to 1382 , when Emir Dyaharks El Khalili gave the order to build a sizable caravanserai, or khan. The inns where the merchants halted and where rooms were available for the remaining animals and cargoes to be left were called by this name.

The winding lanes will enchant you, and they all lead to unexpected discoveries. There are secret courtyards, each with a distinct beauty of its own. While some provide a calm oasis, others are teeming with activity. It’s possible that you will come to a classic tea establishment where you can enjoy a cup of mint tea and people-watch. Or maybe you’ll come into a workshop where talented craftspeople are producing beautiful handicrafts.

3. The Egyptian Museum

With more than 170,000 artifacts, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo (EMC) is the oldest archeological museum in the Middle East. It is home to the world’s biggest collection of Pharaonic artifacts.

The Pre-Dynastic Period through the Graeco-Roman Era (c. 5500 BC – AD 364) is covered by the museum’s displays.

4. The Grand Egyptian Museum

Upon visiting Cairo’s current Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, you will observe that this opening represents a clear transition from the 19th to the 21st century. The new museum, which cost $1 billion and features a glass and concrete exhibition area, replaces the old one, which served as a treasure trove. It takes visitors on a journey akin to the one that Howard Carter had when he found the Boy King’s tomb a century ago. The new location, on the Giza plateau on the outskirts of the Western Desert, outside of metropolitan Cairo, overlooks the world-famous pyramids and adds even more atmosphere.

5. Coptic Cairo

The Babylon Fortress, the Coptic Museum, the Hanging Church, the Greek Church of St. George, and numerous other Coptic churches and historical sites, which is a part of Old Cairo. According to Christian tradition, the Holy Family traveled through this area and stayed at the site of the Church of Sts. Sergius and Bacchus (Abu Serga). Since most of its churches were built during the Muslim invasion of Egypt in the seventh century, Coptic Cairo served as a stronghold for Christianity in Egypt both before and during the Islamic era.

6. The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization

To create lasting relationships with every one of our guests, NMEC strives to vividly illustrate the rich tapestry of tangible and intangible Egyptian legacy within a dynamic cultural, artistic, and scientific framework.

7. Felucca Rides

A typical approach to go on an intriguing voyage through the ancient land of the Egyptian Pharaohs is by taking a Nile Felucca cruise. When it comes to river cruising in Egypt, there are many options, but none compare to the traditional Felucca boat experience.

8. Salah El Din Citadel

Built by Salah ad-Din (Saladin) and expanded upon by other Egyptian kings, the Citadel of Cairo, also known as the Citadel of Saladin (Arabic: قلعة صلاح الدين, romanized: Qalaʿat Salāḥ ad-Dīn), is a fortification from the medieval Islamic era located in Cairo, Egypt. From the 13th century until the 19th century, when Abdeen Palace was built, it served as Egypt’s capital and the home of the country’s kings. Situated close to Cairo’s center on a promontory of the Mokattam hills, it enjoys a strategic position that allows it to dominate the city’s skyline.

9. Islamic Cairo

Islamic Cairo: Qāhira al-Muʿizz, lit. ‘Al-Mu’izz’s Cairo, also known as Medieval Cairo, officially Historic Cairo, refers primarily to the parts of Cairo, Egypt, that were constructed between the Muslim conquest in 641 CE and the city’s modern expansion in the 19th century during Khedive Ismail’s rule. These areas include the central portions of the old walled city, historic cemeteries, the vicinity of the Cairo Citadel, portions of Bulaq, and Old Cairo .

10. Gayer-Anderson Museum

Situated adjacent to the Ibn Tulun Mosque, this museum features a unique collection of Islamic and Oriental art, arranged in a tastefully renovated 17th-century home.

11. The Cairo Tower

Standing at the highest point in Egypt and North Africa, the Cairo Tower provides a 360-degree panorama of the city. From the summit, distant sites like the Nile River and the Pyramids are visible. This is the highest point in Cairo Egypt places to see the full sunset and sunrise with a perfect view.

12. Art Excursions

There are several galleries in Cairo that feature modern Egyptian artists, and the city is home to a growing art scene. You can learn more about the city’s contemporary artistic manifestations by taking a guided art tour.

13. Manial Palace Museum

One of Egypt’s most exquisite and significant historical museums is the Museum of Prince Muhammad Ali’s Palace in Manial. The museum’s architectural style is distinctive and showcases a significant era in the history of contemporary Egypt. Its contemporary Islamic design blends Mamluk and Persian influences. Along with Ottoman design, it was also influenced by Andalusian, Moroccan, and Syrian elements. Thus, the structure harmonizes several Islamic architectural traditions.

14. Dahshur and Saqqara

The oldest pyramid in the world, the Step Pyramid of Djoser, is located in Saqqara, a short drive from Cairo. The Red Pyramid and the Bent Pyramid, two amazing examples of early pyramid construction methods, are located close to Dahshur.

15. Cross the Qasr El Nil Bridge to traverse the Nile River

Take a stroll across the Qasr El Nil Bridge across the Nile River. It connects Gezira Island with the heart of Cairo and provides an amazing perspective of the city.

16.  Al-Azhar Park

Al-Azhar Park is a wonderfully designed oasis with lush foliage, fountains, and walkways that is a hidden gem in the city. You may take in expansive views of Cairo’s skyline and its historic mosques from the park.

17. The Village of Pharaonic

Visitors can have a first-hand view of ancient Egypt in this fascinating living museum. The Pharaonic town, an island in the Nile recreates a traditional Egyptian town with performers depicting everyday life in antiquity.

18. District of Zamalek

Zamalek, an affluent neighborhood on Gezira Island, is well-known for its thriving cultural scene, quaint cafés, and stunning colonial-era architecture. It’s a wonderful place to stroll around and experience the native way of life.

How Long Should You Spend in Cairo Egypt?

A three to four days should be plenty to see the main sights, including the Egyptian Museum, the Pyramids of Giza, and the bustling bazaars.

But, if you want to spend more time learning about Cairo’s rich past and present, five to seven days would give you the chance to visit more museums, discover lesser-known areas, and take it more slowly.

In the end, figuring out how long to stay ultimately comes down to your own interests and the time you have available for the trip.

Do You Need to Hire a Guide for Cairo?

Although you can tour Cairo on your own, having a guide can make a big difference in how much of an experience you have. Travel books and the internet provide a wealth of information on the city, which is a well-liked tourist destination. 

• Self-Guided Tours: A lot of Cairo’s most popular sights are clearly marked and simple to find on your own. Online resources abound regarding the background and importance of these locations.
• Public Transportation: The metro and buses in Cairo make up a respectable public transportation network. You may easily navigate the city without a guide with a little preparation.
• Local Information: Most Cairo residents are amiable and accommodating. Never be afraid to approach a local for advice or directions if you’re lost or have any questions.

1. When is the ideal time to travel to Egypt?

When the weather is pleasant and agreeable, spring (March–May) or fall (September–November) are the ideal times to visit Cairo. Though Cairo is a well-liked travel destination all year round, expect large crowds, particularly during the busiest travel times.

2. Is traveling to Cairo safe?

Although travelers can travel safely in Cairo, it’s nevertheless advisable to exercise caution, just like in any other large city. Keep an eye on your surroundings, don’t go alone at night in strange places, and heed the authorities in your area.

3. What to do in Cairo besides the Pyramids

Enjoy the Regional Cuisine

• Foul Medames: Savor this filling breakfast of spices, olive oil, and fava beans.
• Try the national cuisine of Egypt, koshary, a tasty concoction of rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas topped with tomato sauce and crunchy onions.
• Street Food: Take a detour to find undiscovered gems of street food including grilled kebabs, falafel, and kofta.

Discover the Modern Side of Cairo

• Take in expansive city views from Cairo Tower, a famous landmark.
• Al-Azhar Park: Unwind in this verdant haven right in the middle of Cairo.
• Opera House: Take in a show at this opulent venue that hosts a range of cultural activities.
• Relax and de-stress
• Nile River Cruise: Take a relaxing trip down the Nile while admiring the skyline and important historical sites of the city.

4. What Are Some Free Places To See Near The Great Pyramids Of Giza In Cairo, Egypt?

Giza Plateau perspective

 Although a ticket is needed to enter the pyramids themselves, the Giza Plateau perspective offers a breathtaking view of all three pyramids. It’s a wonderful location to capture pictures and appreciate the site’s beauty.

Panorama Area

There’s a panoramic area with an amazing wide-angle view of the pyramids right outside the main gate. From afar, you can even get a view of the Sphinx.

Local Villages

Have a walk through the Giza region’s local villages. It’s a genuine way to observe daily life at such a famous location. The streets are brimming with vivid sceneries, street food vendors, and small businesses that offer you a glimpse into the daily life of Egyptians.

Viewpoints in the Desert

 If you walk a little way into the periphery of the desert, you can locate elevated terrain that offers a distinct and serene perspective of the pyramids. It provides a serene atmosphere for introspection and is less congested.

5. Where To Go After Cairo? 

Alexandria: Known as the “Jewel of the Mediterranean,” 

Alexandria is a thriving, historically and culturally rich city in Egypt. Bibliotheca Alexandrina and Pompey’s Pillar, two well-known locations that were formerly a part of the Ptolemaic Kingdom, are located there. Alexandria’s breathtaking beaches and Mediterranean atmosphere offer a unique blend of the old and the new.

The “Greatest Open-Air Museum in the World” is Luxor.

Luxor is the ideal destination for everyone who enjoys history. The Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Karnak, and the Colossi of Memnon are located in this city, which is a treasure mine of ancient Egyptian relics. Take a trip along the Nile to enjoy the serene beauty of the river and the environs.

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Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL TRENDS , EGYPT / Created : Sep 4, 2024, 19:06 IST

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The Great Pyramid of Giza, located near Cairo, is the last remaining wonder of the ancient world. Built between 2700 BC and 2500 BC for Pharaoh Khufu, it stands as a marvel of ancient engineering. The methods used in its construct … Read more

The Great Pyramid of Giza, located near Cairo, is the last remaining wonder of the ancient world. Built between 2700 BC and 2500 BC for Pharaoh Khufu, it stands as a marvel of ancient engineering. The methods used in its construction remain a topic of debate among scholars and engineers. Read less

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The Great Pyramid of Giza, located near Cairo, is the last remaining wonder of the ancient world. Built between 2700 BC and 2500 BC for Pharaoh Khufu, it stands as a marvel of ancient engineering. The...