Things To Do
in Egypt
Egypt is a cradle of ancient civilization where pyramids, temples, and timeless deserts sit alongside bustling cities along the Nile. The country blends millennia of history with a welcoming, modern culture that thrives in markets, cafes, and coastal resorts. From the Great Pyramids of Giza to the temples of Luxor and the coral-rich Red Sea coast, Egypt invites discovery at every turn.
Visitors leave with a sense of wonder, awe at human achievement, and a desire to return to its hospitable shores.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Cairo International Airport and transfer to your hotel. Settle into your room and unwind after the flight. Enjoy a light breakfast at the hotel to fuel your exploration.
Visit the renowned Egyptian Museum and marvel at its vast collection of antiquities. See the treasures of Tutankhamun and learn about the pharaohs’ legacy through captivating displays. Capture photos of golden statues and ancient relics under expert guidance.
Dine at a riverside restaurant overlooking the Nile while sampling traditional Egyptian dishes. Take a leisurely stroll along the Corniche to soak in the evening breeze. Return to your hotel for a restful first night in Cairo.
Start early with a drive to the Giza Plateau to witness the Great Pyramid bathed in morning light. Explore the interiors of the Chephren and Mykerinos pyramids for an up-close view. Enjoy a camel ride around the monument for a unique perspective.
Visit the enigmatic Great Sphinx and learn about its myths and history from a local guide. Walk along the desert landscape for panoramic views of all three pyramids. Stop at a lookout point to capture photos of this iconic archaeological complex.
Attend the Sound and Light Show at Giza for a dramatic retelling of ancient Egyptian tales. Savor dinner at a nearby restaurant with pyramid views at sunset. Head back to your hotel to relax and reflect on the day’s wonders.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🏨1-night mid-range hotel | $40-90 |
| 🚇Local transport pass | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Timeless history and world-class ruins
- Warm, hospitable people
- Diverse experiences from deserts to reefs
- Reasonable costs and strong value for money
- Crowded cities and heat in peak season
- Long travel times between distant sites
- Occasional tourist scams in markets
- Dust and air quality can vary in desert regions
- "Ahlan wa sahlan" - Welcome
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam al-thaman?" - What is the price?
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
Places to Visit in Egypt
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic silhouettes against desert skies; best light at sunrise or sunset.
Dramatic skyline views and elegant domes with expansive city backdrops.
Massive columns and sunlit courtyards yield grand perspective shots.
Ruins glowing under the fading light, offering a cinematic atmosphere.
Ancient tombs and rugged rock landscapes provide intimate portrait opportunities.
Monumental rock-cut temples with dramatic facades carved into cliff faces.
Soft water reflections and silhouettes of boats along the calm river.
Food in Egypt
Egypt Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved mash-up of rice, pasta, lentils, tomato sauce, chickpeas, and crispy fried onions.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked fava beans seasoned with olive oil, lemon, garlic, and cumin; typically served with pita.
Egyptian falafel made from mashed fava beans, usually served in pita with tahini or salad.
Vegetables such as zucchini, peppers, and cabbage stuffed with herbed rice mixture.
A green leafy stew often paired with rice and sometimes chicken or shrimp.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market district where you can sample spices, sweets, and savory bites, plus shop for souvenirs.
Ancient street market area with coffee houses, pastry shops, and local snacks.
Riverfront market known for jewelry, spices, textiles, and fresh produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms, especially in religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered for women and men in many temples and mosques.
Salutations are warm; use the right hand for handshakes and giving/receiving items.
Haggling is common in markets, but keep it friendly and patient.
Keep displays modest in public spaces; private affection is less common in more conservative areas.
Safety
Tipping in Egypt
Ensure a smooth experience
Baksheesh is common for porters, guides, and drivers. In restaurants, check for a service charge; if not included, a 5-10% tip is appreciated.
Credit cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants, but cash (Egyptian pounds) is widely used in markets and smaller eateries. ATMs are common in cities; carry small denominations for tips and street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot days, especially inland. Hydration is essential; plan outdoor activities for early mornings and late afternoons, and use sun protection.
Milder days with cooler nights, particularly in desert areas. Pack layers and a jacket for evening outings.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming scenery along the Nile; good for outdoor exploration and photography.
Comfortable weather with lower humidity and clear skies; ideal for sightseeing and long walks.
Egypt at Night
Hiking in Egypt
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic sunrise hike with sweeping views over the Sinai Peninsula.
Otherworldly chalk formations ideal for dramatic photography and easy day hikes.
Rugged coastal routes with scenic viewpoints and snorkeling access.
Airports
How to reach Egypt by plane.
Main international gateway serving Cairo and national routes.
Gateway for southern Egypt; convenient for Luxor and Aswan access.
Popular for Red Sea resorts; direct connections to Europe.
Key hub for Red Sea coast tourism.
Alternative gateway for Alexandria region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Arab, majority Muslim with a significant Coptic Christian minority; urban and rural communities with regional diversity.
Growing community from Europe, the Middle East, and beyond; concentrated in Cairo, Luxor, Sharm el-Sheikh, and Hurghada.
Distinct communities in southern Egypt and the Sinai with unique languages and customs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport with fervent local and national matches.
Strong club scene and competitive playing culture.
Widely enjoyed along the Nile and Red Sea coast.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Egyptian dishes are vegetable-forward; look for koshari, falafel, lentil soups, and stuffed vegetables. Request dishes without meat stock and clarify if ghee or clarified butter is used.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Egypt.