Discover Egypt
Explore ancient pyramids, fascinating temples, the River Nile, beautiful Red Sea beaches, historic cities and unforgettable Egyptian culture with our complete Egypt travel guide.
Egypt Travel Guide
Egypt is one of the world's most fascinating travel destinations, combining thousands of years of history with vibrant cities, the River Nile, desert landscapes and beautiful coastlines.
A trip to Egypt can be as varied as you want it to be. Explore the pyramids and museums around Cairo and Giza, discover ancient temples in Luxor, cruise the Nile towards Aswan or relax beside the Red Sea in Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh.
Egypt is also an excellent destination for travellers interested in archaeology, history, culture, food, diving, beaches and adventure.
Egypt at a Glance
- Capital: Cairo
- Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP)
- Language: Arabic
- Best for: Ancient history, pyramids, temples, Nile cruises, beaches and diving
- Popular destinations: Cairo, Giza, Luxor, Aswan, Alexandria, Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh and Dahab
- Ideal travel seasons: Autumn, winter and spring are generally popular for sightseeing
Best Places to Visit in Egypt
Egypt offers a remarkable range of destinations, from ancient archaeological sites and busy cities to peaceful Nile towns and Red Sea resorts.
Cairo & Giza
Cairo is Egypt's bustling capital and an ideal starting point for discovering the country's history, culture, museums and food.
Giza, just across the Nile from central Cairo, is home to the famous pyramids and Great Sphinx.
Don't miss: Giza Pyramids, Great Sphinx, Egyptian Museum, Grand Egyptian Museum, Khan el-Khalili and historic Cairo.
Luxor
Luxor is one of Egypt's most important destinations for ancient history and archaeological sites. The city sits on the Nile and is divided broadly between the East Bank and West Bank.
Don't miss: Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens and the Colossi of Memnon.
Aswan
Aswan offers a more relaxed Nile experience with beautiful river views, islands, temples and Nubian culture.
Don't miss: Philae Temple, Nile felucca trips, Nubian villages, Elephantine Island and the journey to Abu Simbel.
Alexandria
Alexandria sits on Egypt's Mediterranean coast and offers a different atmosphere from Cairo and the Nile Valley.
The city has a long history connected with the ancient Mediterranean world and is known for its waterfront and cultural attractions.
Don't miss: Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the Corniche, Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa and Qaitbay Citadel.
Hurghada
Hurghada is one of Egypt's best-known Red Sea resort destinations, offering sunshine, beaches, boat trips, snorkelling and diving.
Best for: Beach holidays, families, water sports, diving and resort breaks.
Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh is a popular Red Sea resort known for its clear waters, coral reefs, diving, beaches and large choice of hotels and resorts.
Don't miss: Ras Mohammed National Park, Red Sea snorkelling, diving, beaches and the resort areas.
Best Things to Do in Egypt
Egypt has experiences for history lovers, beach travellers, adventure seekers and anyone interested in experiencing a very different culture.
See the Pyramids of Giza
No first trip to Egypt would be complete without seeing the pyramids. The Giza Plateau contains the famous pyramids of Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure, together with the Great Sphinx.
Explore Ancient Temples
Luxor is one of the best places in Egypt to experience ancient temples and monuments. Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple are major highlights, while the West Bank contains famous tombs and monuments.
Take a Nile Cruise
A Nile cruise provides a relaxing way to travel between some of Egypt's most important ancient sites. Cruises commonly operate between Luxor and Aswan and combine sightseeing with time on the river.
Visit Abu Simbel
Abu Simbel is one of Egypt's most spectacular archaeological sites. The temples are located in southern Egypt near Lake Nasser and can be visited as part of an Aswan itinerary.
Go Snorkelling or Diving
The Red Sea is a major attraction for underwater activities. Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh and other coastal destinations offer opportunities for snorkelling, diving and boat trips.
Explore Egyptian Markets
Markets and bazaars provide an opportunity to experience everyday Egyptian life while browsing spices, souvenirs, textiles, jewellery and traditional products.
Experience the Desert
Egypt's desert landscapes offer a completely different experience from the Nile Valley and coast. Depending on the destination, travellers can explore desert scenery, oases and mountain landscapes.
Take a Felucca Ride
Traditional felucca sailing is a relaxing way to experience the Nile, particularly around Aswan. A sunset sailing trip can be a memorable addition to a Nile Valley itinerary.
Egyptian Food You Should Try
Egyptian cuisine is hearty, flavourful and varied, with dishes based around rice, beans, vegetables, bread, spices and meat. Trying local food is an important part of the Egypt experience.
Koshary
A popular Egyptian dish combining rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, tomato sauce and crispy onions.
Ful Medames
A traditional dish made from cooked fava beans and commonly served with bread and a selection of seasonings.
Ta'meya
Egyptian-style falafel made primarily from fava beans and commonly served with bread, vegetables and sauces.
Molokhia
A traditional dish made using finely chopped jute leaves, typically served with rice or bread and accompanied by meat or poultry.
Fattah
A filling dish combining bread, rice and meat with a seasoned sauce. It is particularly associated with celebrations and special occasions.
Egyptian Desserts
Try traditional sweets such as basbousa, kunafa and other pastries often prepared with nuts, syrup or cream.
Best Red Sea Destinations in Egypt
Egypt's Red Sea coast is ideal for travellers who want to combine sunshine, beaches and water activities with the country's historic attractions.
Hurghada
Hurghada is a popular resort destination with a wide selection of hotels, beaches, restaurants, boat trips, diving and snorkelling.
Best for: Families, couples, resorts and water sports.
Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh is particularly well known for its marine life, coral reefs and access to Red Sea diving and snorkelling.
Best for: Diving, snorkelling, resorts and beach holidays.
Dahab
Dahab has a more relaxed atmosphere and is known for diving, snorkelling, outdoor activities and its location along the Gulf of Aqaba.
Best for: Diving, adventure, independent travellers and a relaxed atmosphere.
Marsa Alam
Marsa Alam offers access to quieter Red Sea landscapes and is a popular option for travellers interested in diving, marine life and resort relaxation.
Best for: Diving, snorkelling and peaceful beach holidays.
El Gouna
El Gouna is a planned resort destination on the Red Sea with hotels, restaurants, lagoons and water-based activities.
Best for: Couples, families, resorts and water sports.
Red Sea Activities
Popular activities along the coast include diving, snorkelling, boat trips, fishing, swimming and relaxing on the beach.
Choosing a Red Sea Destination
For diving: Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab and Marsa Alam are strong choices.
For families: Hurghada and many of its surrounding resort areas offer a wide range of accommodation and activities.
For a relaxed atmosphere: Dahab can be a good option for travellers looking for a more laid-back destination.
For a resort holiday: Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh offer a large selection of hotels and holiday resorts.
Getting Around Egypt
Egypt is a large country, so the best way to travel depends on your itinerary. Cairo, Luxor, Aswan and the Red Sea resorts can be combined using a mixture of flights, trains, cruises, buses and private transfers.
Domestic Flights
Flying can save time when travelling between Cairo and destinations such as Luxor, Aswan or Red Sea resorts.
Trains
Rail travel can be useful for certain journeys along the Nile Valley, particularly between Cairo and cities further south.
Nile Cruises
A Nile cruise can combine transportation and sightseeing between Luxor and Aswan while allowing travellers to visit important archaeological sites along the river.
Private Transfers
Private transfers can be convenient when travelling between airports, hotels and attractions, particularly for families or travellers with limited time.
Taxis and Ride Services
Taxis and app-based transport services can be useful within larger cities. Agreeing the fare or confirming the price before travelling is sensible when using local taxis.
Egypt Travel Budget
Egypt can accommodate different travel budgets, from simple guesthouses and local restaurants to luxury Nile cruises and five-star Red Sea resorts.
| Travel Style | Typical Experience |
|---|---|
| Budget | Simple hotels or hostels, local restaurants, public transport and independent sightseeing. |
| Mid-range | Comfortable hotels, organised tours, restaurants, private transfers and a mixture of independent and guided travel. |
| Luxury | Five-star hotels, luxury Nile cruises, private guides, premium transfers and high-end dining. |
How to Save Money in Egypt
- Travel outside the busiest holiday periods.
- Compare hotels in different neighbourhoods before booking.
- Eat at reputable local restaurants as well as tourist restaurants.
- Use trains or domestic transport where practical.
- Compare organised tour prices before booking.
- Consider combining a city sightseeing trip with a resort stay.
10-Day Egypt Itinerary
This 10-day itinerary combines Egypt's most famous ancient attractions with a Nile experience and time beside the Red Sea.
Days 1–3: Cairo & Giza
Start in Cairo and explore the city's major attractions. Visit the Giza Pyramids and Great Sphinx, explore museums and spend time discovering historic Cairo and its markets.
Days 4–5: Luxor
Travel to Luxor and explore the East and West Banks. Visit Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple before discovering the Valley of the Kings and other ancient monuments.
Days 6–7: Aswan
Continue south towards Aswan. Visit Philae Temple, enjoy a felucca ride and explore the Nile islands. If time allows, take a trip to Abu Simbel.
Days 8–10: Red Sea
Finish your trip beside the Red Sea. Choose Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh or another coastal destination and spend the final days relaxing, swimming, snorkelling or diving.
Egypt Travel Tips
Plan Around the Weather
Egypt can be extremely hot during parts of the year, particularly when sightseeing in desert and archaeological areas. Plan outdoor activities around comfortable times of day where possible.
Start Early at Major Attractions
Popular archaeological sites can become busy and hot later in the day. Early starts can make sightseeing more comfortable.
Drink Plenty of Water
Egypt's climate can be hot and dry, particularly when visiting ancient sites. Carry water and stay hydrated.
Dress Respectfully
Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country. Dress more conservatively when visiting religious sites and traditional neighbourhoods.
Allow Enough Travel Time
Egypt is a large country. Avoid trying to fit Cairo, Luxor, Aswan and the Red Sea into an overly tight schedule.
Consider a Local Guide
A knowledgeable guide can add useful historical context when visiting large archaeological sites and museums.
Carry Small Notes
Having smaller Egyptian pound notes can be useful for everyday purchases and small services.
Check Current Travel Information
Before travelling, check current entry requirements, local guidance, transport information and any travel advice relevant to your nationality and destinations.
Egypt Holiday Phrasebook
A few useful Arabic phrases can make everyday moments in Egypt easier, from checking into your hotel and ordering food to taking a taxi or asking for help. Tap a phrase to hear it spoken using an Arabic voice available on your device.
Pronunciation note: The English spellings are approximate. Arabic pronunciation and everyday wording can vary by region. The audio uses your browser or device's available Arabic speech voice, so the voice can differ between devices.
Frequently Asked Questions About Egypt
What is the best place to visit in Egypt?
It depends on your interests. Cairo and Giza are essential for first-time visitors interested in pyramids and history, Luxor is excellent for ancient monuments, Aswan is ideal for a quieter Nile experience and the Red Sea resorts are perfect for beaches and water activities.
What is Egypt famous for?
Egypt is famous for the pyramids, ancient temples, pharaohs, archaeological sites, the River Nile, museums, deserts and the Red Sea.
Is Egypt good for a family holiday?
Yes. Egypt can work well for families, particularly when combining sightseeing with a resort stay. Red Sea destinations offer beaches and water activities, while Cairo, Giza and Luxor provide fascinating historical experiences.
How many days do I need in Egypt?
Around 7–10 days can provide a good introduction to Egypt. Two weeks allows more time to combine Cairo, Luxor, Aswan and the Red Sea without rushing.
Can I take a Nile cruise?
Yes. Nile cruises are a popular way to travel between Luxor and Aswan while visiting ancient sites along the river. Traditional sailing experiences are also available.
Where are the best beaches in Egypt?
The Red Sea coast is particularly well known for beaches and underwater activities. Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab and Marsa Alam are popular choices.
Is Egypt expensive?
Egypt offers options for different budgets. Costs depend heavily on accommodation, transport, tours, restaurants and whether you choose independent travel or luxury experiences.
What should I eat in Egypt?
Popular dishes to try include koshary, ful medames, ta'meya, molokhia and fattah, along with traditional Egyptian breads and desserts.
Is Egypt suitable for a beach holiday?
Yes. The Red Sea resorts provide excellent opportunities for beach holidays, snorkelling, diving, boat trips and relaxing in the sunshine.
Ready to Discover Egypt?
From the pyramids of Giza and the temples of Luxor to the Nile and the beaches of the Red Sea, Egypt offers an unforgettable combination of history, culture, adventure and relaxation.
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