Egypt is an ancient land steeped in millennia of archaeology and culture. From the vast desert to the fertile Nile Valley, all the way to the stunning coastlines, Egypt’s vivid contrasts and beauty will amaze you. When you go, check out these top five tourist attractions.
- The Pyramids of Gizakhalid almasoud / Foter / CC BY-NC
Pyramids of Gizeh at Cairo
The last remaining of the seven wonders of the ancient world is the great Egyptian pyramid just outside of Cairo. Right next to it is the famous Sphinx, so plan a day trip to marvel at both of these sites.
Another must-see in Cairo is the Egyptian Museum, which boasts the world’s largest collection of Egyptian and Greco-Roman artifacts.
Greco-Roman Ruins in Alexandria
Founded in 331 BC, by Alexander the Great, the Greeks and Romans spent years developing Alexandria into a luxurious city. Wars took their toll, but many remains still exist for us to enjoy today.
Walk through incredible ruins from that era, and check out even more artifacts retrieved from the sea. Tour stunning Montaza Palace and its grounds, now open to the public.
Valley of the Kings at Luxor
The Valleys of the Kings and Queens are filled with some of the world’s best stone work, where centuries of Egypt’s royalty lie buried. For those interested in details of daily Egyptian life, visit the Valleys of the Nobles and the Workers. The reliefs and written records in these two “lesser” valleys are fascinating.
Explore the Temples of Luxor and Karnak, then visit the Luxor Museum to see artifacts from those temples. Check out the Temple of Hatshepsut, the first female Pharaoh. While you’re here, you can also take a hot air balloon or Felucca ride down the Nile.
Mt. Sinai at Sharm el-Sheikh
Mt. Sinai is located in the Sinai Peninsula, behind the city of Sharm el-Sheikh.
Hike Mt. Sinai and watch the sunrise from the top. Tour nearby St. Catherine’s Monastery, built centuries ago around Moses’ burning bush. Snorkel, para-sail and play in the Red Sea, or take a glass-bottom boat out for a tour.
And don’t expect to rough it in Sharm el-Sheikh, either. You can Like Royal Holiday on Facebook to see the type of luxury accommodations available in the area.
Abu Simbel in Aswan
Abu Simbel is a pair of massive stone monuments erected by Rameses II to commemorate himself and his queen Nefertari. They are an easy day trip from the gorgeous city of Aswan.
Famous for the beauty of the River Nile, and with a relaxing small town feel, Aswan is a great place to stay. Picnic in Firyel Garden or stroll the Nile Road through this scenic town. Nearby is the Temple of Isis, as well as the famous Aswan Dam. To learn about local culture, tour a Nubian village, or the Nubian Museum.
Aside from its most famous attractions, much of Egypt’s charm is hidden in its local markets and older sections of town. Don’t forget to get off the tourist path, too — these areas are often where you will find the real treasures of your visit.
