Best things to do in Egypt

Egypt is the Nile, and the Nile is Egypt, or so the saying goes. But there is much more to this ancient land than that. Egypt has long exercised a potent spell over ordinary people. It has inspired poetry and literature, architecture and more. Here is our guide to the best things to do in Egypt.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guides guidebooks — your essential guides for visiting the world.

1. Visit Abu Simbel

The monumental sun temple of Ramses II is the most spectacular of the Nubian antiquities that were relocated to higher ground on the shores of Lake Nasser. The mostly Nubian village of Abu Simbel south of Aswan, has some restaurants and cafés, as well as a few comfortable hotels. It is a relaxed kind of place, where people play backgammon in cafés or listen to Nubian music at night.

The lake looks beautiful at different times of the day, but it’s especially wonderful to visit the temple at the crack of dawn before the crowds arrive, or late afternoon.

2. Explore the Valley of the Kings

The walls and ceilings of the royal tombs in the Valley of the Kings show amazing scenes like the descent into the Underworld, the Judgement of Osiris, and the rebirth of the pharaoh. After being embalmed and mummified, the New Kingdom pharaohs were taken in a solemn procession to this hidden tomb in a secluded wadi in the Theban hills.

You can enter the valley from the visitors' center. Guides there will tell you all about the history of the Valley of the Kings. A small train can take you to the entrance, but it's also easy to walk.

3. Taste local street food

Egyptian street food is tasty, cheap, and filling. People in Egypt love to eat and share meals. Street food here includes a variety of dishes, from savory snacks and sandwiches to sweet desserts and drinks. Some popular street food items are:

• Falafel: Deep-fried balls or patties made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices. It's often served in a sandwich with vegetables and sauces.
• Shawarma: Thin slices of grilled meat, usually chicken or lamb, served in pita bread with vegetables and sauces.
• Koshary: A popular dish made from a mix of rice, lentils, and macaroni, topped with spicy tomato sauce and fried onions.
• Feteer: A type of savory pastry made from thin layers of dough, filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables.

4. Watch mesmerising bellydancing

The centuries-old tradition of raqs sharqi is best seen at clubs where locals go. Egyptian belly dancing is known for its controlled and precise movements. Watching this art form will give you a glimpse into the country’s colorful culture.

Bellydancing is an ancient art form with roots in various cultures and traditions, and it has evolved over time to include different styles and techniques. In Egypt, belly dancing is often part of traditional celebrations and ceremonies, and it's also a popular form of entertainment at restaurants and events.

5. Discover the Karnak Temple

The Karnak Temple is an ancient temple complex located in Luxor, Egypt. It's dedicated to the ancient Theban Triad of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. This vast complex reached its peak during the New Kingdom and is one of the largest and most impressive temple complexes in the world. It's a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Egypt.

The complex includes a number of temples, chapels, and other structures, all surrounded by massive walls and gates. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visiting Karnak Temple is one of the best things to do in Egypt, especially for those interested in ancient history and architecture.

6. Enjoying jeep or camel safaris is one of the most exciting things to do in Egypt

Head into the dunes of the Western Desert or the canyons of Sinai for an adventure. You can easily arrange overnight trips or major expeditions. Jeep safaris involve driving a 4x4 vehicle through the desert, stopping at various points of interest along the way. These safaris can be full-day or multi-day tours and might include visits to oases, sand dunes, and ancient ruins.

Camel safaris, on the other hand, involve riding a camel through the desert, often stopping at local villages and other interesting spots. Both jeep and camel safaris offer a unique way to experience the western desert and its culture, and they can be customized to fit what you like.

7. Explore Islamic Cairo

Cairo is known as the city of a thousand minarets and has a rich and fascinating history. You can visit the Khan el-Khalili bazaar or the Citadel to see some of the city's many architectural treasures.

Centuries of Muslim rule have left Cairo with an amazing legacy of Islamic architecture. There are plenty of things to do in Egypt for those interested in history and culture.

Many mosques built around tombs of important religious figures have become sites of local pilgrimage. The tomb of Sayyida Zeinab is inside a large mosque and is one of the most popular. Up to a million people gather here in the first two weeks of October, when Sayyida is venerated.

8. Take a feluccas cruise on the Nile

In Egypt, one of the best things to do is to hire a felucca — a traditional sailboat. Spend a few hours watching the sunset or go on two to four-day cruises with visits to temples along the way. Feluccas offer a unique and peaceful way to explore the Nile River and experience the natural beauty and culture of Egypt.

They usually carry six to eight passengers and two to three crew members. The boatmen will also cook local meals like foul, falafel, hummus, and pitta bread, and advise where it is safe to swim.

9. Drink local fresh juice

Most towns have juice bars or carts where you can quench your thirst with whatever’s in season. From freshly pressed oranges and mangoes to strawberries and sugar cane. Freshly squeezed asir (juice) is excellent and very cheap. The most widely available juice is asir laymun (fresh lemon or lime), usually served sweetened unless you say otherwise. Usually, there will also be a choice of asir burtuqan (freshly squeezed winter or summer oranges), moz (banana), gazar (carrot), and gawafa (sweet guava).

10. Explore the catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa

Underneath the Karmous quarter of Alexandria, you'll find the spookiest tombs in Egypt. These tombs have a unique mix of pharaonic, Greek, and Roman designs, showing the city's ancient diversity.

They make up the largest Roman-period burial site in Egypt and date back to around the 2nd century AD.

11. Camp in the White Desert

In the Farafra Oasis, there are strange rock formations shaped by wind and rain over thousands of years. These formations look like giant white ghosts rising from the desert. Many people visit on overnight safaris from the nearby Bahariya Oasis.

If you have a 4x4 vehicle, it's a popular weekend trip from Cairo. Spending a couple of nights camping in the desert is a great experience. If you don’t have your own vehicle, joining an organized tour from Cairo is the best way to see this amazing area.

12. Take a hot air balloon ride

Seeing the Theban Necropolis on Luxor’s west bank from a hot air balloon is one of the best things to do in Egypt. These rides are popular with tourists, especially in the Luxor area, which is in the southern part of the country. Luxor is famous for its ancient ruins, like the Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings.

Hot air balloon rides offer a unique way to see these sites and the surrounding countryside. It's also a chance to experience the calm and beauty of the desert from a different view.

13. Visit the famous burial grounds in Abydos

Abydos is one of the oldest religious centers in Egypt. It has the mortuary temple of Seti I, which has amazing bas-reliefs. These are some of the best-preserved artworks from the New Kingdom. Abydos is linked to the legend of Osiris.

From the Middle Kingdom onwards, every pharaoh and many pilgrims left something at Abydos. They hoped to win favor with Osiris, who was the Judge of the Court of the Hereafter. The area is filled with funeral stele, burial grounds, old temples, and memorials.

14. Relax in Aswan

Aswan has been Egypt’s gateway to Nubia since ancient times. Its islands, markets, and riverside restaurants are great for relaxing between trips to places like Abu Simbel. Aswan is a laid-back and warm place, perfect for spending a few days at the end of a Nile trip.

The markets are more relaxed and less pushy than in other Egyptian towns. There is a hint of Africa in the souvenirs for sale. There are many things to do in Egypt's southernmost city. You can take a felucca around the islands, enjoy the scents of the botanical garden, and listen to Nubian children sing as the sun sets behind the desert.

Try our tailor-made tour to five-star Egypt through the ancient wonders of Giza, Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Start and end your trip in beautiful Cairo, exploring the surroundings before heading down to Aswan. You will spend four nights on a luxurious Nile cruise ship, discovering ancient sites such as Abu Simbel.

Where to stay in Aswan:

• Best for peaceful stays: The Mango Guest House
• Best for stunning views: Eco Nubia

15. See the sunrise from Mount Sinai

Mount Sinai is a special place where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments from God. There are two main paths to the top, and it takes about two-and-a-half hours each way. The longer and less steep path, Siket El Bashait, can be traveled by camel. The steeper, more direct path, Siket Sayidna Musa, is up the 3,750 “steps of penitence.” These steps are rough stone steps likely built in the 6th or 7th century.

The view from the top is amazing, especially at dawn or sunset. Many visitors book tours that arrive around 1 am at the foot of the mountain to climb to the top and watch the sunrise.

16. Visit the Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum is home to amazing treasures like Tutankhamun’s gold mask, huge statues from ancient times, and even royal mummies. It was first opened in 1835 to stop people from stealing artifacts from archaeological sites.

There’s a lot to see here, including cool objects from the Royal Tombs found in Tanis in 1939. If you have plenty of time, try to see everything. But if you’re in a hurry, go left when you enter to check out the Old Kingdom treasures.

17. Take a tour of the pyramids of Dahshur

The pyramids of Dahshur are less famous than the ones at Giza, but they’re just as interesting and not as crowded. The Bent Pyramid, where Snofru was buried, has a unique angled top. The peaceful palm groves around Dahshur have attracted many people from Cairo who have built homes there.

The best time to visit is mid-winter when a lake forms near the Black Pyramid. This pyramid was built by Amenemhet III but never used. Its dark color comes from losing its original white limestone covering.

The view of the pyramid across the lake is one of the most beautiful in Egypt and worth the 5km drive from Saqqara. Its inscribed capstone is in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.

Dreaming of seeing the ancient sites of the world? Don't miss our guide to the lost cities of the world.

18. Enjoy scuba diving in Ras Mohammed National Park

Egypt’s oldest marine nature park has amazing shark reefs and the wreck of the Dunraven. Ras Mohammed is famous for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and rich marine life, making it a popular spot for scuba diving. The park has a variety of coral reefs, shipwrecks, and other underwater attractions, making it perfect for diving fans.

To scuba dive in Ras Mohammed, you need a diving license, which you can get from a certified diving school. There are many dive schools and centers in the area that offer diving courses and guided dives. Dive sites in the park vary in depth and difficulty, so there is something for divers of all levels.

Where to stay near the Ras Mohammed National Park:

• Best for the variety of activities: Sunrise Montemare Resort
• Best for families: Naama Bay Hotel

19. Explore Alexandria

There’s a lot to discover in this Mediterranean port city. Alexandria has great seafood, vintage coffee houses, a dazzling new library, and the chance to dive into the ruins of Cleopatra’s Palace. A visit to Alexandria, even if only for a couple of days, is a perfect break from the busy life in Cairo. With its beaches and Mediterranean vibe, Alexandria is more relaxed and a good place to chill out.

Today’s Alexandria has interesting museums, and over the past few years, the city, which has more than 5.2 million people and is the Mediterranean’s largest urban center, has seen a lot of improvements and has regained some of its former glory.

Where to stay in Alexandria:

• Best for hospitality: Eastern Al Montazah Hotel
• Best for classy atmosphere: Steigenberger Cecil Hotel

20. Visit St Catherine’s Monastery

Hidden beneath Mount Sinai, St Catherine’s has several holy relics. For example, it holds the burning bush that appeared to Moses in the Bible. It is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery was founded in the 6th century and is named after St Catherine of Alexandria, a Christian martyr believed to be buried there.

The monastery is known for its rich history and cultural significance. It is also known for its beautiful architecture and stunning location at the foot of Mount Sinai. It is an important pilgrimage center for Christians.

Travelling to Egypt is popular not only because of its rich culture and wide range of activities to suit all tastes but also because of its affordability.

21. See the Giza Pyramids and the Great Sphinx

The Giza Pyramids and the Great Sphinx are some of the most famous monuments in the world. People have been curious about them for centuries. The Great Pyramid of Giza is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, a list made by ancient Greek and Roman scholars of the most impressive structures and natural wonders.

The Great Sphinx is a large stone statue near the pyramids. It has the body of a lion and the head of a human and was carved around 2500 BC. The Great Sphinx is one of the largest and most well-known statues in the world and represents ancient Egyptian culture.

You can marvel at the pyramids in Giza, explore the busy city of Cairo, sleep on a luxurious sleeper train, and visit more temples near Luxor on this special introduction to Egypt.

22. Relax on South Sinai beaches

South Sinai is a chill-out zone known for diving, beach cafés, and camel and jeep safaris into the rugged interior. With its two coasts, oases, mountains, and historic sites, South Sinai is a popular destination. The wide sandy beach of Ras Sedr is a favorite spot, with several hotels. Many people from Cairo have holiday homes here.

Sharm el-Sheikh is a city on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. It is a popular vacation spot known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and warm climate. The city is on the Red Sea and is famous for excellent scuba diving and snorkeling.

For more information about this Egyptian destination, read our guide to exploring Egypt's Sinai Peninsula.

23. Enjoy the springs in Siwa Oasis

Siwa Oasis is known for its unique culture, hilltop citadel, and spring-fed pools. Many people consider it the best of Egypt’s oases. Located 780km west of Cairo, Siwa is the most remote and perhaps the most engaging of Egypt’s oases. It has a distinct culture and its own language, related to the Berber languages of North Africa.

Among the orchards, palm, and olive groves, there are many bubbling springs. The water is so plentiful at Siwa that large salty lakes have formed, and drainage is a major problem. Follow the track to the Temple of Jupiter Amun, and you will reach Ain Juba, the ancient Cleopatra’s Spring or Fountain of the Sun, whose crystal-clear waters are said to have purifying properties.

24. Go on a Nile cruise

Taking a cruise on the Nile is a great way to see temples and ancient sites while enjoying the calm life along the river. You'll spot local farmers, fishermen, small villages, and stunning views of the deserts and hills next to the Nile. If you're lucky, you might even catch a beautiful sunset under clear skies.

Many ships now travel along the Nile, mostly following the same route but offering different types of accommodation to fit any budget. It's a good idea to book your cruise before you go to Egypt because it's often cheaper to buy them as part of a package.

Explore Egypt at a relaxed pace on a dahabieh, a traditional sailing ship, with our custom Cairo & luxurious Dahabieh sailing cruise. In Cairo, visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, and in Giza, see the pyramids. Cruise to famous sites and discover hidden gems like Luxor’s tombs, el Kab, and Gebel Silsileh’s Temple of Horemheb.

25. Visit Royal Jewelry Museum

The Royal Jewelry Museum is in Cairo, Egypt. It's also called the Cairo Jewelry Museum or the Egyptian Museum of Jewelry. The museum has a collection of precious and semi-precious stones, gold and silver jewelry, and other decorative items used by Egypt's royal families over the years.

Visitors can explore the museum's collection and learn about the history and cultural importance of the pieces on display. The museum also offers guided tours and educational programs for those interested in learning more about the history of jewelry in Egypt. Visiting the Royal Jewelry Museum is a top activity in Egypt for anyone interested in history, art, and jewelry.

Ready for a trip to Egypt? For more travel tips, check our Rough Guide books. Also, read about the best time to go and the best places to visit in Egypt. For ideas, use itineraries from our local travel experts. If you want to know more, learn about getting there, getting around the country, and where to stay once you arrive.

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Egypt without any effort, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip is just like you dream it to be.

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