Guide across the country
Egypt
Discover Egypt with our concise recommendations. Our guide has compiled the best cities for your vacation, must-see sights, and helpful tips for tourists.
About the country
Egypt one of the oldest and most contrasting countries in the world, where mystical pyramids coexist with luxurious resorts, the desert smoothly dissolves into the horizon, and another, bright and vibrant world hides underwater.
The country is located in North Africa and has a population of about 112 million people, making it the most densely populated Arab country.
Capital and cities
Capital: Cairo
Popular cities: Alexandria, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh, Dahab, Marsa Alam
Top 10 Most Interesting Places in Egypt
1. Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
The country's main calling card and one of the seven wonders of the world. The complex includes three great pyramids and a huge Sphinx. It's best to come in the morning when there are fewer people and less heat.
2. Temple of Karnak (Luxor)
One of the largest temple complexes in the world with giant columns. In the evening, a light show tells the history of Egypt. It’s good to combine with a visit to the Luxor Temple via the Avenue of Sphinxes.
Abu Simbel
Two temples of Ramesses II, completely relocated to save them from flooding by the Nile. Inside, statues of gods and reliefs of military victories have been preserved. It's best to go early in the morning – the journey from Aswan takes about 3 hours.
4. Siwa Oasis
A remote oasis with salt lakes and ancient ruins. Known for its tranquility and almost complete absence of mass tourism. You can visit the Temple of Amun-Ra and the Shali Fortress.
5. White Desert
A nature reserve with white chalk rock formations of unusual shapes. Overnight tours in the open desert are popular. The best time for photos is sunset and early morning.
6. Sharm El Sheikh and Ras Mohammed National Park
Some of the best places in the world for diving and snorkeling. There are viewpoints and lagoons with clear water. Convenient to visit from Sharm El Sheikh by boat or bus.
7. The Egyptian Museum of Cairo
It contains a collection of artifacts, including Tutankhamun's gold mask. The exhibits cover thousands of years of Egyptian history. It is recommended to allocate at least 2-3 hours for a visit.
8. Valley of the Kings (Luxor)
Here are the tombs of the pharaohs, including Tutankhamun. The murals inside are well-preserved and show scenes of the afterlife. You can visit 3–4 tombs with one ticket; the others require separate tickets.
9. Mount Sinai
Popular route for a night ascent to meet the sunrise. Two trails: the Monk's Staircase and the gentler Camel's Path. St. Catherine's Monastery is located at the base.
10. Alexandria and the Library of Alexandria
A Mediterranean city with a rich history. The Library of Alexandria is a symbol of knowledge and science. Nearby is the Citadel of Qaitbay, standing on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria.
Where to go?
Route 1: Main
Cairo → Giza → Luxor → Hurghada/Sharm El-Sheikh
Ideal for those visiting Egypt for the first time.
You will see the pyramids, the Egyptian Museum, the ancient temples of Luxor, and you can conclude your trip with a relaxing beach vacation.
Route 2: Extended
Cairo → Aswan → Abu Simbel → Nile Cruise → Luxor → Marsa Alam
This is the choice of travelers who want to immerse themselves deeper in history.
Abu Simbel, the Temple of Philae, a Nile cruise, and the tranquil beaches of Marsa Alam – it's a rich and atmospheric experience.
Route 3: Author's
Cairo → Bahariya Oasis → White Desert → Gray → Alexandria
An itinerary for those who prefer unconventional travel.
The White Desert with its surreal chalk formations, the salt lakes of Siwa, and the Mediterranean Alexandria – Egypt from another side.
What to see?
Discover The most popular excursions in Egypt. Want to travel in comfort? Choose Skyline tours – it's twice as cheap as booking at the hotel!
When to go?
Best months: March-June and September-November — pleasant weather, warm sea, comfortable for beach and diving. Winter: mild, the sea often remains warm, comfortable for excursions and walks. Summer: hot, but the sea is excellent, the water is clear, good for beach and water sports. Autumn: also a convenient time — the sea is still warm, the heat subsides, fewer tourists.
Tips for tourists
Drink only bottled water, use sunscreen with a high SPF, and wear special shoes on coral beaches. Download offline maps from apps like Maps.me because mobile internet can be unreliable in tourist areas and deserts. Install a taxi-hailing app (like InDrive) in advance – it's much more honest with pricing than local independent drivers at the airport. Learn a couple of Arabic phrases («shukran» - thank you, «laa» - no) – tourists who know even a little are less likely to be scammed.
Transport
Taxis and apps (Uber, Careem, InDrive): the most convenient and safest option. minibuses (marshrutkas): cheap but chaotic - suitable for experienced travelers. Car rental: possible, but traffic is intense and disordered. Buses and trains: well-developed between cities, inexpensive and quite convenient.
Food
Egyptian food is simple, hearty, and very flavorful. Try ful — stewed beans, and koshari — a mix of rice, pasta, and lentils in tomato sauce. There are plenty of fresh seafood dishes on the coast, and those with a sweet tooth will enjoy baklava and knafeh.
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You might also be interested in: France, Spain, USA, China, Italy, Turkey, Mexico, Thailand, Germany
The most popular cities in the country: Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor, Aswan, Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh, Dahab, Marsa Alam