Top 7 Things to Do in Egypt

The roots of Egypt’s cultural wealth runs deep as one of the oldest civilizations of the Mediterranean. The legends of pharaohs, the Sphinx, temples, and pyramids continue to capture the imaginations of people from all over the world. Many of these attractions remain preserved hidden in the desert landscapes, and on display in mesmerizing museums. The cultural heritage across the country reflects more than just the ancient life as it traces the timeline of the nation with alluring mysteries and continued traditions. From Coptic Christians and Muslim culture to the foundations of ancient kingdoms, heritage lays at your feet.

Best Places to Visit for Cultural History: Cairo | Luxor | Aswan | Abu Simbel | Alexandria

Best Time to Visit: February | March | April | September | October | November

Egyptian cuisine surprises and delights you with its blend of preserved traditions, cultural representations, and diverse flavors captured with an array of herbs and spices. Delicacies can range from familiar dishes like mashed fava beans to unique specialties like Mish, a cheese fermented with milk and seasoning, which contrasts the elements of typical Nubian dishes that have incorporated accessible, local ingredients with mouthwatering, aromatic results.

Best Places to Visit for Food: Cairo | Alexandria | Aswan

Best Time to Visit: February | March | April | September | October | November

Shopping in Egypt is a mesmerizing experience in and of itself. What can feel like a chore at home becomes an exciting adventure on a grand scale taking you to new levels of browsing, bargaining, and cultural immersion as you experience a historic and traditional aspect of Egyptian life. Even if you are not a shopping fan, visiting the marketplaces around Egypt show you the true hustle and bustle of present-day daily life in the shadow of the past.

Best Places to Visit for Shopping: Cairo | Aswan | Sharm El Sheikh | Luxor

Best Time to Visit: January | February | March | April | September | October | November

Scuba diving and snorkeling are two of the best-kept secrets in Egypt but unveil some of the world’s most prized destinations along the Red and Mediterranean seas. The sensational reef systems in the Red Sea immerse you in the marine world of colorful fish, vibrant coral, and a unique vertical cavern. The Mediterranean possesses historic shipwrecks and treasures connected to ancient cities. Whether you are interested in seeing hammerhead sharks or hints of Cleopatra’s Alexandria, scuba and snorkeling is emblematic of Egypt’s draw.

Best Places to Visit for Snorkeling/Scuba Diving: Sharm el Sheikh | Hurghada | Dahab | Ras Mohammed National Park | Marsa Alam | Alexandria Eastern Harbour

Best Time to Visit: March | April | May | September | October | November

The beaches in Egypt are more than a sun-drenched escape and instead combine the luxuries of lazy days on golden sands with the decadent heritage of ancient culture. Rugged and rolling desert terrain meets soaring mountains along the Sinai Peninsula for fabulous views over the water connecting to the surprising joys of hiking, camel trekking, sailing, or simply enjoying the sunlight washing over the coastline against the Red or the Mediterranean seas.

Best Places to Visit for Beaches: Naama Bay | Dahab Lagoon | El Gouna | Mamoura Beach | Marsa Matruh

Best Time to Visit: April | May | June | September | October | November

Tombs are scattered throughout Egypt with entire regions dedicated to laying the ancient nobility to rest. By visiting the tombs around Egypt, you dive into the depths of famous archeological sites and wander down halls draped in exquisite decoration dating as far back as 4,400 years ago. Whether following in the footsteps of excited archeologists or stepping away from the trodden path to visit a lesser-known tomb, Egypt is truly unique in its preservation, discovery, and display of its immersive history.

Best Places to Visit for Tombs: Valley of the Kings | Valley of the Queens | Giza | Abu Simbel

Best Time to Visit: January | February | March | April | October | November

While a scenic exploration of Egypt may not be the first thing you think of, the diversity of the landscapes and coastlines have a unique allure that adds to the luster of one of the world’s oldest tourist destinations. The monuments across the country are legendary but the landscape is absolutely dramatic ranging from azure waters to soaring mountains, pristine sand dunes to desert rock carved by wind. While the scenic views may not come to mind first, they are equally important to the culture, heritage, and beauty of Egypt.

Best Places to Visit for Scenery: White Desert | Desert Breath | Blue Desert | Mount Sinai | Aswan Botanical Gardens | Wadi el-Gemal National Park

Best Time to Visit: January | February | March | April | October | November

Egypt is an idyllic oasis that embraces the desert’s sparse splendor, the Nile’s elegant beauty, and preserved marvels of history. Whether you want a family-friendly adventure marveling at the pyramids or a vintage Nile Cruise as a couple’s getaway, Egypt reveals an enduring culture easily reached by a variety of transportation options. Our Egypt Travel Guide can give you more helpful tips for your perfect trip. If you would like to plan a trip, you can speak to an Egypt travel specialist by filling out a Trip Request or by calling our team at 1-888-265-9707.