Plan on traveling this summer, but have no destination in mind? Egypt is always a good idea! Egypt is one of the most visited countries in Africa, famously known as one of the oldest civilizations of the world. A nation that dates back to about 5500BC, and was once ruled by the mystical pharaohs. Later, the country also became an outpost for the Greek and Roman empires. Needless to say, that Egypt is a very hotspot for tourists, mostly seeking archeological remains and traces from the world’s old civilizations. And the best part? You can visit at any time of the year! From famous landmarks to Mediterranean locations, indulge your wanderlust and uncover some hidden gems by checking out our list for the best places to visit in Egypt.
White Desert, Farafra
It’s almost unbelievable that the beautiful attraction of the Sahara Desert is natural. Giant formations of chalk ranging from pure white to cream colour, shaped by wind erosion for several years, are abundant in the region. There are also sand dunes of the great sand sea and the cliffs of the Farafra depression. With endless beauty, it is certainly one of the most beautiful places to visit in Egypt.
Citadel Cairo, Central Cairo
Cairo is the capital of Egypt, and therefore the ideal place if you wish to experience great Cairo attractions. The Citadel of Saladin or Citadel Cairo ismedieval Islamic-era fortification built by the famous Ayubid ruler Saladin to protect the Cairo and the first Egyptian capital under the caliphate, Fustat against crusaders. The large fortification is surrounded by several watchtowers, houses, several beautiful mosques and the well of Joseph.
Pyramids of Giza
Want to discover the best of Egypt? The three pyramids, which house the tombs of ancient pharaohs are one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, and among the famous places in Egypt. Located on the Giza plateau, the pyramids have mysteriously remained intact over thousands of years. These pyramids are the jewels of Egypt tourist attractions and one of the most popular sightseeing places in Egypt.
Aswan
This elegant capital of the Aswan Governorate on the Nile River is a must for tourists to hang at the beach as well as visit Egyptian souks and historical monuments. In Ancient Egypt, it housed the stones that were used to build the famous pyramids. However, in these modern times, Aswan is now known for its breath-taking views of the desert dunes and the River Nile. The colourful and radiant Nubian villages in Aswan are also great tourist destinations.
The Egyptian Museum
In a country with so many tourist attractions options to choose from, Egyptian Museum or Museum of Cairo, in Cairo, Egypt. Visting the museum is on top of the list for the best things to do in Cairo, Egypt’s capital. Egypt is a historically diverse country, and the Egyptian Musuem form what is perhaps its most ultimate destination to see and experience the best collection of ancient Egyptian antiquities. The Ancient cities of Egypt have been excavated by archaeologists to reveal palaces, temples and tombs thousands of years old, so are you wondering where all these treasures went? Well to the museum! As Egyptians were well known for burying their dead with all kinds of things, the Egyptian museum is packed with ancient gold, golden artifacts, books and so on and the treasures are really spectacular.
Alexandria City
Egypt’s port city is an eternal favourite with visitors for its stunning Mediterranean location, iconic heritage and lively atmosphere. Alexandria city in Egypt once housed the world’s biggest library and was an important outpost for the Greek and Roman empires. Since then, the city has become one of the best Egyptian destinations away from the dusty aura of the rest of the Egyptian cities.
Ras Muhammad National Park, Sinai
Apart from being the most famous National Park in Egypt, Ras Muhammad is also one of the most popular diving sites in the world. The park is surrounded in part by the Red Sea as well as the inland desert of Sinai. It has crystal clear waters that aid divers and other adventurous enthusiasts to choose the best spots and observe all kinds of marine species.
Tanis, Cairo
One Cairo’s best shopping malls is located here, and round every corner you can discover new shops and bars. It is also one of the very interesting places to visit in Egypt, with the most interesting one being the Tanis Egypt Ark of the Covenant. This Ark of the Covenant has attracted tourists from all over the world, gathering to visit the wooden chest which is covered in pure gold. There are also many other myths and legends associated with Tanis which you probably shouldn’t believe until you visit and see for yourself.
Mount Sinai (Jabal Mousa)
Jabal Mousa is Egypt’s world-famous holy mountain is definitely worth the trip and has a different feel than the rest of the country. The Mount Sinai is a very popular tourist location because of its huge religious significance, having been mentioned several times in the Bible and the Quran. If you’re a Christian, you’ll recall that this is where Moses received the Ten Commandments.
Hurghada
Travel the 40km along Egypt’s Red Sea coast for some of the best scenic views and adventure activities Hurghada has to offer. The city of Hurghada is famous for its sucba diving. Hurghada is also home to many luxurious resorts like Makadi Bay, Sahl Hasheesh and El Gouna which makes it the perfect location if you want to be pampered. There are also many luxurious restaurants, tourist attractions and accommodation options to choose from in the region.
Abu Simbel
Even in a country filled with temples, the Abu Simbel still stands out as special. Also known as Ramses II’s great temple, it is adorned by well decorated wall paintings and a statutory guard outside. It is also known for its incredible feat, having disappeared under the water and moved from its original place because of the Aswan Dam, during the 1960’s in a massive UNESCO operation that took about four years. The Seti Abu Simbel Lake Resort also provides excellent accommodation to travellers.
Saint Catherine’s Monastery
Located just below Mount Sinai, Saint Catherine’s Monastery is one of the oldest and most important tourist sites in Egypt because it is in fact, the oldest functioning monastery in the world. The most important spot at the monastery is the well where Moses met his wife.
Luxor
There are only a few places in the world that can be called an open – air museum and the Egyptian city Luxor is definitely one of them! The number of the ornaments and their preservation in the city of Luxor is almost unmatched anywhere in the world and a vacation would be incomplete without a visit. One of the best times to visit this beautiful Egyptian city is in March to April and between October and November, for its nice weather, and more affordable accommodation rates. Like Cairo, its attractions are very traditional and authentic.
The River Nile
Easily one of Egypt’s greatest tourist attractions – The Nile, home to a multitude of archaeological sites, ancient history, landscapes, terrains, and adventures. This famous landmark in Egypt, is among the world’s longest waterways. The best way to explore the River Nile is on a boat cruise that will last for a few days. A trip along the Nile is one things to do in Cairo, it will also give you an insight into the rural parts of country, and several famous temples.
Dahab
Dahab is a laid-back resort town located on the Sinai Peninsula. The beautiful town attracts all kinds of travellers because of the incredible natural beauty of the place, its sandy beaches and beautiful ocean views that stretch across the Gulf to Saudi Arabia’s Hijaz mountains. Most visitors flock to the district to experience one of the world‘s most infamous dive sites – the Blue Hole. Indulging the diving sport here, can be as extreme as you want it to be.
