For millennia, Egypt has beckoned travelers from across the globe, drawn by the allure of its magnificent pyramids, awe-inspiring temples, and breathtaking natural landscapes. The life-giving River Nile, the world’s longest, meanders through the country, offering a lifeline of sustenance and transportation. Along the Red Sea coast, a vibrant playground awaits, enticing visitors with luxurious resorts and thrilling water sports adventures. At the very core of Egypt’s cultural identity lies Cairo, a dynamic and cosmopolitan capital where ancient churches, majestic mosques, and world-class museums stand shoulder to shoulder with opulent hotels and exquisite restaurants. Embark on a journey of discovery and uncover the wonders that await in this captivating land. Let’s explore the 25 Top Things to Do in Egypt.
- Dive for Ancient Ruins Around Alexandria
Venture beneath the waves off the coast of Alexandria and discover a submerged world of ancient wonders. While many of Egypt’s historical treasures stand proudly above ground, a significant number remain hidden beneath the sea, near the city founded by Alexander the Great. Ongoing discoveries continually unveil secrets, such as the remarkable city of Thonis-Heracleion, rediscovered by intrepid divers in the early 2000s.
Although the water’s clarity may not always be optimal, divers are rewarded with extraordinary sights. Marvel at the remnants of Cleopatra’s palace, once a symbol of power and opulence, and the legendary ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. To ensure a safe and unforgettable experience, seek out a PADI-certified dive shop that can arrange a guided tour of these underwater marvels.
- Dine on the Nile
Even if a multi-day voyage along the majestic Nile River isn’t in your travel plans, you can still savor the beauty and ambiance of this iconic waterway by booking a delightful dinner cruise from Cairo. These cruises typically last around two hours, offering breathtaking views of the city as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple.
As you glide along the Nile, be captivated by live musical performances, mesmerizing belly dancing, and the captivating Tanoura, a traditional dance characterized by the swirling of a vibrantly colored skirt. Dinner is usually served buffet-style, offering a delectable array of Egyptian and international cuisine. With a plethora of cruise operators to choose from, it’s advisable to research and read reviews to select the perfect Nile dining experience.
- Ride Quads in the Desert
Immerse yourself in the dramatic beauty of the Egyptian desert, an awe-inspiring landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see. While exploring on foot is certainly an option, a thrilling quad bike tour offers a unique and exhilarating way to traverse the sandy terrain. These sturdy 4×4 vehicles provide a fun and efficient means of covering vast distances, allowing you to fully appreciate the sights and sounds of the desert.
Quad or ATV tours from Cairo often lead adventurers past the iconic pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx, offering a unique perspective on these ancient monuments. Many tours also include excursions to other nearby attractions, such as Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt, or Sahara City, a desert oasis offering a glimpse into traditional Bedouin life. Some tours even include thrilling activities like camel rides and sandboarding.
- Venture Through the Valley of the Queens
While the Valley of the Kings serves as the final resting place for pharaohs, the Valley of the Queens is the designated burial site for the wives of pharaohs and several of the female pharaohs who reigned throughout Egyptian history. Located near Luxor, this ancient necropolis holds over 90 tombs, the most impressive of which is the Tomb of Nefertari, the beloved wife of Ramesses II. This tomb is renowned for its size and the exquisite paintings that adorn its walls. Although not as widely known as the Valley of the Kings, the Valley of the Queens also served as the burial site for many royal princes and princesses.
- Chill Out in Dahab
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and unwind in the tranquil resort town of Dahab, a hidden gem nestled on the Gulf of Aqaba, at the northern tip of the Red Sea. This idyllic destination offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with a wide range of laid-back and family-friendly resorts where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the refreshing waters of the Gulf.
For those seeking adventure, the nearby mountains beckon with opportunities for hiking and exploration. Scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts will be delighted by the incredible dive sites, including the world-famous Blue Hole, a breathtaking underwater sinkhole accessible from the shoreline.
- Learn About Cairo’s Multicultural History
Cairo’s rich and complex history is a testament to its strategic location and its role as a crossroads of civilizations. Throughout its long and storied past, Cairo has been occupied by Romans, Byzantines, Coptic Christians, Islamic caliphs, Mamluks, Ottomans, and British colonialists, each leaving their indelible mark on the city’s culture and architecture.
A walking tour of the medieval citadel offers a fascinating glimpse into Cairo’s past, while visits to landmark religious sites, such as the Hanging Church and Al-Azhar Mosque, reveal the city’s diverse religious heritage. For a comprehensive overview of the country’s ancient history, a visit to the Egyptian Museum is an absolute must.
- Experience Contemporary Cairo in Zamalek
For a taste of modern Cairo, head to the trendy Zamalek neighborhood, located on Gezira Island in the heart of the River Nile. This vibrant district is home to contemporary art galleries, five-star hotels, and world-class restaurants, catering to a sophisticated and cosmopolitan crowd.
El Sawy Culture Wheel is a hub for concerts, plays, and lectures, showcasing the city’s thriving arts scene. The Museum of Modern Egyptian Art and the Cairo Opera House are also located nearby, offering further opportunities for cultural enrichment. For a unique dining experience, visit Le Pacha 1901, a floating venue boasting no fewer than nine gourmet riverfront restaurants.
- Shop for Souvenirs at Khan El-Khalili Bazaar
Step back in time at Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, a bustling marketplace that has remained largely unchanged since its foundation in the 14th century. Located in the heart of Islamic Cairo, this authentic souk is a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells.
Narrow cobbled streets wind through the bazaar, opening into alcoves packed with fragrant spices, handcrafted silver jewelry, and a myriad of other treasures. Haggling is an expected part of the shopping experience, so be prepared to negotiate for the best prices. After your shopping spree, unwind with a cup of mint tea or Arabic coffee at the famous Fishawi’s café, a beloved institution in the heart of the bazaar.
- Marvel at the Ancient Pyramids of Giza
No trip to Egypt is complete without a visit to the iconic Pyramids of Giza, located on the outskirts of Cairo. These colossal structures, built over 4,500 years ago, stand as a testament to the ingenuity and ambition of the ancient Egyptians.
The largest of the three pyramid complexes is the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing today. In front of the pyramids lies the Sphinx, a mysterious creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human, carved from a single block of stone.
- Visit the Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara
For those with a passion for pyramids, a visit to the Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara is an absolute must. Located just south of Cairo, Saqqara is the necropolis of ancient Memphis, the former capital of Egypt.
The Pyramid of Djoser, built in the 27th century BC, is a unique stepped pyramid that predates the smooth-sided pyramids at Giza. It is the oldest stone-cut monument in the world, and a remarkable feat of engineering. The best way to visit Saqqara is on a day tour from Cairo, allowing you to explore the entire necropolis and learn about its fascinating history.
- Walk Amongst Luxor’s Ancient Monuments
The modern city of Luxor, situated on the east bank of the River Nile, stands atop the ancient pharaonic capital of Thebes. Its temples, statues, and monuments offer a captivating glimpse into the city’s past grandeur.
The top attraction in Luxor is undoubtedly Luxor Temple, commissioned by Amenhotep III in the late 14th century BC. Monumental statues of Ramesses II guard the temple gate, and walking between them is a truly awe-inspiring experience.
- Explore the Karnak Temple Complex
Located just north of Luxor, the Karnak temple complex is a vast and sprawling site that served as a place of great religious importance for the pharaohs of the 18th Dynasty. It became the main place of worship for the ancient Thebans, and today, visitors can explore an astonishing collection of sanctuaries and temples dedicated to the Theban Triad.
The largest and most impressive of these temples is the Temple of Amun-Ra, a colossal structure adorned with towering columns, intricate carvings, and imposing statues.
- View Ancient Tombs in the Valley of the Kings
Across the river from Luxor lies the Theban necropolis, home to the Valley of the Kings. This desolate valley contains more than 60 subterranean tombs, built for the mummies of New Kingdom pharaohs from as early as the 16th century BC.
The pharaohs were buried with their worldly treasures amidst spectacular hieroglyphs, ensuring their safe passage into the afterlife. For an additional fee, visitors can explore the most famous tomb of all – that of the boy-king Tutankhamun.
- Uncover Ancient and Modern History at Philae
The Philae temple complex, built by Nectanebo I and expanded by Ptolemaic and Roman rulers up until the 3rd century AD, provides a unique architectural account of Egypt’s transition from paganism to Christianity.
In modern times, the temple was moved brick by brick from its original location on Philae Island to nearby Agilkia Island after the former was flooded during the construction of the Aswan Dam. A day tour from Aswan offers a comprehensive overview of the temple’s history and significance.
- Admire Incredible Reliefs at the Temple of Horus
The Temple of Horus at Edfu may not be the oldest structure in Egypt, but it is undoubtedly one of the best-preserved. This sandstone temple was built between 237 and 57 BC by the Ptolemaic kings, who dedicated it to the cult of the falcon god Horus.
When paganism was banished, the abandoned temple began to fill with desert sand, which miraculously preserved its fabulous reliefs and statues, providing a glimpse into the artistic prowess of the ancient Egyptians.
- Discover the Symmetrical Temple of Kom Ombo
The Temple of Kom Ombo is unique in that it is divided into two symmetrical halves, one dedicated to Horus the Elder and the other to the crocodile god Sobek. Each half contains an identical entrance, hypostyle hall, and sanctuary, reflecting the dual nature of the temple’s dedication.
Many of the temple’s reliefs still show traces of their original color, adding to the site’s visual appeal. Don’t miss the nearby Crocodile Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of mummified crocodiles.
- See it All on a Full Nile River Cruise
One of the most atmospheric ways to experience the ancient sights between Luxor and Aswan is to embark on a multi-day River Nile cruise. There are countless options to choose from, ranging from historic steamships like the S.S. Sudan to luxury cruisers like the Oberoi Zahra.
Budget travelers can opt for a no-frills tour on a traditional felucca, a small wooden sailing boat that has been used on the Nile for centuries.
- Stand in Awe Before the Abu Simbel Temples
The two temples at Abu Simbel, built during the 13th century BC as monuments to Ramesses II and his queen Nefertari, are a testament to the pharaoh’s power and ego. The temples were relocated to higher ground in the 1960s to prevent flood damage.
The entrance of the Great Temple is guarded by four colossal statues of Ramesses II, each depicting the pharaoh in a different stage of his life. Inside, eight more enormous statues represent the pharaoh in his deified form.
- Experience Berber Culture at Siwa Oasis
Venture off the beaten path and experience the unique Berber culture of Siwa Oasis, a desert settlement located near the Libyan border. The town is known for its abundant date and olive plantations and the ruined temple of the ancient Oracle of Ammon, once visited by Alexander the Great.
- Make the Pilgrimage Up Mount Sinai
Located near Dahab on the Sinai Peninsula, Mount Sinai is a place of pilgrimage for Christians who believe that this is where Moses saw the Burning Bush and later received the Ten Commandments.
At the foot of the mountain lies St. Catherine’s Monastery, with its museum full of religious icons and relics. There are two routes to the summit: the challenging Steps of Repentance, or the more forgiving Camel Trail.
- Soak Up the Atmosphere in Cosmopolitan Alexandria
Founded by Alexander the Great in 332 BC, Alexandria was once one of the most important cities in the ancient world, home to iconic landmarks such as the Lighthouse of Alexandria.
After a period of decline, Alexandria is once again a thriving port with an enviable culinary scene and several excellent cultural venues, including the Bibliotheca Alexandrina.
- Cross the Suez Canal in Port Said
The coastal city of Port Said marks the northern entry into the historic Suez Canal. Wander along the port’s waterfront boardwalk to view the supertankers preparing to make the journey from the Mediterranean to the Red Sea.
To experience a crossing for yourself, hop aboard the free ferries that run from Port Said to Port Fuad, traversing the border between Africa and Asia.
- Learn to Scuba Dive in Sharm El-Sheikh
Egypt’s entire Red Sea coast is a treasure trove for scuba divers, and the peninsula resort town of Sharm el-Sheikh is a great place to learn. There are plenty of different dive schools to choose from, offering access to beginner-friendly shore diving sites and spectacular reefs in nearby Ras Mohammed National Park.
- Dive the Wreck of the S.S. Thistlegorm
Experienced divers can explore the S.S. Thistlegorm, often ranked as one of the best wreck-diving sites in the world. The freighter was sunk by German bombers in 1941, with ammunition, armored vehicles, and military motorcycles on board.
- Stay in a Luxury Hurghada Resort
Hurghada is a popular getaway for divers, watersports enthusiasts, and sun worshippers. It’s also home to several luxurious 5-star resorts, offering landscaped grounds, sprawling swimming pools, fine-dining restaurants, and excellent spa and water sports amenities. The offshore Giftun Islands are an idyllic day-trip destination.
Egypt, with its 25 Top Things to Do in Egypt, promises an unforgettable journey through time and culture. From the ancient wonders of Giza and Luxor to the modern vibrancy of Cairo and the Red Sea resorts, Egypt offers a diverse and captivating experience for every traveler.
