Most of us will know about Egypt in terms of the pyramids and the Ancient Egyptians – one of the most fascinating civilizations in history. For over three thousand years, the Egyptian people created a rich and vibrant culture that was renowned for its art, architecture, and cosmology. The Egyptians were also masters of engineering, and their accomplishments include the construction of the pyramids and the Sphinx.
Top Places to Visit in Egypt
But there is plenty more to discover about this beautiful country than simply what you learnt at school. Amongst the fascinating tombs and ancient artefacts lie stunning beaches, world-famous dive spots and amazing water sports – when you combine this with all the historical aspects, you simply won’t be able to fit everything you want to do all in one trip.
With so many places to visit, you might be struggling to narrow down your perfect holiday itinerary. If that’s the case, a good starting point is to consider what you want from your trip. Do you want to see all the hidden spots, tick off the most popular bucket list places, or focus on the scenery? Or try to squeeze in all three? If you’re struggling to decide, then take a look at our must-visit locations and let them spark your imagination.
#1. The Pyramids of Giza
Even if you want to give your trip to Egypt a more modern edge, you won’t want to miss its most famous attraction. The Pyramids of Giza are synonymous with the Egyptian landscape, and for good reason – the largest one is the only item remaining from the seven wonders of the ancient world. It’s been fascinating historians and tourists alike for many years due to its colossal size, and even to this day remains an impressive architectural feat. In case you desire to visit the pyramids, you should consider Egypt tours to enhance your experience!
Understandably, this is one of the spots that will always be busy, so come prepared to share your photos with plenty of other tourists. Usually, a tactic to avoid this would be to visit early in the morning, but the haze around the pyramids at this time can mean that you don’t get the photo-worthy shot that you might be after, unless the weather is clear.
#2. Luxor
If you want to spend your day wondering what it was like to live in Ancient Egypt, then head to Luxor. This amazing place has so many things to see that it leaves you feeling like you’re walking through an open-air museum.
Situated on the banks of the Nile, Luxor is home to a wealth of Ancient Egyptian ruins, including the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Karnak, and the Temple of Hatshepsut. Visitors can explore these fascinating sites on guided tours, or simply wander through the impressive ruins on their own. In addition to its historical significance, Luxor is also a beautiful city, with plenty of green spaces and scenic views. Whether you're interested in history or just looking for a beautiful place to relax, Luxor is definitely worth a visit.
#3. Diving in the Red Sea
For those that want an active holiday, or to try something new, diving in the Red Sea is widely considered to be one of the best dive experiences in the world. With its clear waters and abundant marine life, including dolphins and manatees, the Red Sea offers a truly unique diving adventure. Whether you're exploring coral reefs or sunken shipwrecks, there's something to tempt everyone into the water.
The best time to dive in the Red Sea is from November to February, when visibility is at its best. Water temperatures are also pleasant at this time of year, making it ideal for beginners. If you're looking for an unforgettable holiday adventure, the Red Sea is definitely worth a visit.
#4. Cairo
More than simply just a gateway to the pyramids, Egypt’s bustling capital has plenty to offer its visitors. As well as plenty of artefacts on display in the many museums, Cairo also boasts several stunning mosques and churches.
Al-Azhar Mosque is one of the most important religious sites in Cairo, and it is well worth a visit. The mosque was founded in the 10th century, and it remains an active place of worship to this day. In addition to its religious importance, the mosque is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate Islamic art. Visitors are welcome to explore the mosque at their own pace, and there are often guided tours available if you would like to learn more about the history and significance of the site.
Wrap Up: Your Egyptian Adventure
We’ve only touched the surface of the things you can see and do in Egypt – and each of them could easily take up a day at a time. So whether you’re a history buff, want to explore the world under the waves, interested in the vegan food scene (we wrote about this on our sister site) or are simply looking to soak up the sun, you’re sure to enjoy a trip to this fascinating destination.
What about you, have you ever been to Egypt? Feel free to share any tips & advice below!
ABOUTME
We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.
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