Things to do Egypt

Top Things to Do in Egypt: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Egypt is a land where history whispers from every corner, the sun warms ancient stones, and the Nile carries stories of civilizations past. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore more, Egypt promises unforgettable experiences. From the Pyramids of Giza to diving in the Red Sea, here’s your ultimate list of things to do in Egypt.

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🏜️ 1. Explore the Pyramids of Giza

A visit to Egypt is incomplete without standing before the Great Pyramids of Giza—one of the last remaining wonders of the ancient world. Marvel at the sheer size and precision of these 4,500-year-old tombs, and don’t forget to snap a photo with the Sphinx.

📍 Location: Giza, near Cairo
🎫 Tip: Visit early in the morning or at sunset to avoid crowds and heat.

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🏺 2. Visit the Egyptian Museum in Cairo

Home to the treasures of King Tutankhamun, royal mummies, and thousands of ancient artifacts, the Egyptian Museum is a must for history lovers. It offers a glimpse into the rich legacy of the Pharaohs.

📍 Location: Tahrir Square, Cairo
🎫 Tip: Hire a local guide for deeper insight.

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🛥️ 3. Cruise the Nile River

One of the most relaxing and scenic things to do in Egypt is taking a Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan. Along the way, you’ll visit majestic temples like Karnak, Edfu, and Philae—all while enjoying luxury onboard comfort.

📍 Duration: 3 to 5 nights
🎫 Tip: Choose a 5-star cruise with a rooftop deck for stunning sunsets.

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🏰 4. Wander Through Luxor’s Ancient Temples

Luxor is often called the world’s largest open-air museum. Visit the grand Karnak Temple, the atmospheric Luxor Temple, and cross the Nile to explore the Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs were buried in richly decorated tombs.

📍 Location: Southern Egypt
🎫 Must-see: King Tutankhamun’s tomb (extra ticket required)

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🏖️ 5. Relax and Dive in the Red Sea

For beach lovers and divers, Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh, and Dahab offer crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Snorkel with tropical fish or dive among sunken wrecks in the Red Sea—some of the best diving in the world.

📍 Best Time: March to May, September to November
🎫 Tip: Dahab is great for budget travelers and laid-back vibes.

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🕌 6. Explore Islamic Cairo

Step into the spiritual heart of Cairo by visiting Islamic Cairo, filled with mosques, madrasas, and bustling souks. Don’t miss the Citadel of Saladin and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali for panoramic views of the city.

📍 Top Sites: Al-Azhar Mosque, Sultan Hassan Mosque
🎫 Tip: Wear modest clothing and be respectful when entering religious sites.

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🛍️ 7. Shop at Khan El Khalili Bazaar

Lose yourself in the centuries-old market of Khan El Khalili. This vibrant bazaar is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs like spices, jewelry, lanterns, and handmade crafts.

📍 Location: Cairo
🎫 Tip: Bargaining is expected, so negotiate with a smile!

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✝️ 8. Visit Coptic Cairo

Egypt is also rich in Christian heritage. Explore Coptic Cairo, home to the Hanging Church, St. Sergius Church, and the Coptic Museum. These landmarks reflect the deep roots of Christianity in Egypt.

📍 Location: Old Cairo
🎫 Tip: Combine this visit with a trip to the Ben Ezra Synagogue nearby.

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🧗‍♂️ 9. Climb Mount Sinai

For spiritual seekers and adventurers alike, climbing Mount Sinai at sunrise is a powerful experience. It’s traditionally believed to be the site where Moses received the Ten Commandments.

📍 Location: Sinai Peninsula
🎫 Tip: Wear warm clothes; nights in the desert can be cold.

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🐪 10. Experience a Desert Safari

For something unique, head into the White Desert or Black Desert in Egypt’s Western Desert. Camp under the stars, ride camels, and admire surreal rock formations shaped by the wind.

📍 Location: Farafra or Bahariya Oasis
🎫 Tip: Go with a licensed desert tour operator for safety.

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🍲 11. Taste Traditional Egyptian Cuisine

Egyptian food is hearty, flavorful, and diverse. Must-try dishes include:

• Koshary – A mix of pasta, rice, lentils, and crispy onions.

• Ful Medames – Mashed fava beans with olive oil and garlic.

• Molokhia – A green leafy stew served with chicken or rabbit.

📍 Top Eats: Abou Tarek (Cairo), El Sayadin (Hurghada), and El Masry (Luxor)

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🌍 Egypt Tour Packages – Explore the Best of Egypt

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Egypt highlights

1. Cairo: The Heartbeat of Egypt

Start your journey in Cairo, the vibrant capital city that serves as the gateway to Egypt’s rich history and modern-day culture. Explore the historic neighborhoods of Islamic Cairo, where narrow alleyways lead to hidden mosques, medieval bazaars, and centuries-old madrasas. Marvel at the imposing Citadel of Saladin, which offers panoramic views of the city and houses the magnificent Muhammad Ali Mosque.

Venture into Old Cairo, home to Coptic churches and synagogues that stand as testaments to Egypt’s religious diversity. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Hanging Church, one of the oldest churches in Cairo, and the Ben Ezra Synagogue, which is said to have been built on the site where baby Moses was found.

2. Luxor: The World’s Greatest Open-Air Museum

Journey south to Luxor, often referred to as the world’s greatest open-air museum, where the remnants of ancient Thebes await. Explore the vast Karnak Temple complex, where towering columns and intricately carved reliefs tell the story of Egypt’s gods and pharaohs. Cross the Nile to the West Bank and discover the Valley of the Kings, where the tombs of pharaohs, including Tutankhamun, were hidden beneath the desert sands for millennia.

Nearby, you’ll find the stunning mortuary temple of Hatshepsut, a testament to the power and ambition of one of ancient Egypt’s few female pharaohs. End your day with a leisurely stroll through the Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues that once guarded the entrance to Amenhotep III’s mortuary temple.

3. Aswan: The Jewel of the Nile

Continue your journey south to Aswan, a picturesque city nestled on the banks of the Nile. Explore the majestic Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, which was dismantled and relocated to its current island location to save it from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. 

For a truly unforgettable experience, embark on a journey to Abu Simbel, home to the iconic temples built by Ramses II. Marvel at the colossal statues that guard the entrance to the temples and admire the intricate carvings that adorn their walls, telling the stories of Egypt’s military victories and religious beliefs.

4. The Red Sea: A Diver’s Paradise

Escape the heat of the desert and head to Egypt’s Red Sea coast, where a world of underwater wonders awaits. Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine life in some of the world’s top diving and snorkeling destinations. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a novice snorkeler, the Red Sea offers unparalleled opportunities to explore its pristine underwater ecosystems.

5. The Western Desert: Land of Endless Adventure

For those seeking adventure off the beaten path, Egypt’s Western Desert beckons with its otherworldly landscapes and ancient wonders. Embark on a desert safari to the White Desert, where wind-sculpted rock formations create a surreal lunar landscape. Camp under the stars and immerse yourself in the silence and serenity of the desert, far from the hustle and bustle of city life.

6. Egyptian Cuisine: A Gastronomic Journey

No visit to Egypt would be complete without savoring its rich and diverse cuisine, which reflects the country’s long history and cultural influences. Indulge in traditional dishes like molokhia, a savory stew made from the leaves of the molokhia plant, and kofta, seasoned meatballs grilled to perfection. Be sure to sample street food favorites like taameya (Egyptian falafel) and koshari, a hearty mix of rice, lentils, pasta, and crispy onions topped with spicy tomato sauce.

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🌍 Best Egypt Tour Packages

To get the most out of your visit, many travelers choose guided tours. Here are popular options for those planning to travel to Egypt: