Things To Do
in Aswān
Aswan sits on the Nile in southern Egypt, known for its dramatic riverscape and rich Nubian culture. The city is home to ancient temples, dramatic dam architecture, and scenic felucca journeys that float along the Nile. Nubian artisans, bustling markets, and desert landscapes surround the town, offering a calm, sun-soaked base for exploration.
Expect warm hospitality, sweeping views, and a pace that invites you to slow down and absorb the riverine charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Egyptian dishes like ful medames and ta'ameya. After breakfast, take a stroll through the bustling streets of Aswān, where vibrant markets sell spices, textiles, and handcrafted goods. Visit the Unfinished Obelisk, where you can witness ancient stone-carving techniques and learn about the significance of these monumental structures.
Enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant with stunning views of the Nile, relishing fresh fish and local specialties. Spend the afternoon at the Aswān Museum, where you can explore exhibits detailing the region's rich history and ancient civilizations. Following the museum, take a relaxing felucca ride on the Nile, allowing the gentle breeze to soothe you as you glide past picturesque landscapes.
As the sun sets, head to the Nubian Village, where you can experience the vibrant culture and hospitality of the Nubian people. Enjoy a traditional dinner featuring local dishes, accompanied by music and dance performances. Cap off your evening by watching the sunset over the Nile, a moment that will leave you in awe of Aswān's beauty.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a boat ride to the stunning Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. As you approach the island, marvel at the temple's magnificent architecture and the surrounding turquoise waters of Lake Nasser. Spend the morning exploring the temple's intricate hieroglyphs and learning about the myths that envelop this ancient site.
After your temple visit, enjoy a picnic lunch on the island, surrounded by lush gardens and palm trees, allowing the serene environment to rejuvenate you. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the nearby Kalabsha Temple, which offers insight into the ancient Egyptian civilization and spectacular views of the lake. Wrap up your explorations by visiting the Nubian Museum, which showcases artifacts and history related to the Nubian culture.
Return to Aswān and indulge in dinner at a local restaurant known for its traditional Egyptian cuisine. As the evening unfolds, consider a stroll along the Nile Corniche, where you can admire the twinkling lights and enjoy the lively atmosphere. End your day by relaxing at a café, sipping on mint tea and taking in the sounds of the city.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-50 |
| 🧊Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1.0 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.3-1.5 |
| ☕Tea or coffee at cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Nubian culture and scenic Nile landscapes
- Wide range of river-based activities and temple sites
- Very hot summers; some sites have limited operating hours in peak heat
- Tourist services outside city center may vary in reliability and pricing
- "Salam Alaikum" - Hello/Peace be upon you
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlak / Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam al-thaman?" - How much is this?
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ana la afham" - I don’t understand
- "Hal yumkinuka irtidā' al-tilmitha?" - Could you repeat that?
Places to Visit in Aswān
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic temple complex on an island with the Nile circling it; best at sunrise or golden hour for soft light.
Colorful Nubian houses, narrow alleys, and riverside life perfect for portraits and architecture shots.
A striking contrast of modern infrastructure and ancient temple silhouettes on the horizon.
Massive granite block and vertical quarries; dramatic textures and light reflections for close-ups.
A hilltop vantage point offering sweeping views of the city and Nile.
Classic river scenes, ferry crossings, and remnants of ancient forts along the island.
Food in Aswān
Aswān Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh Nile perch prepared simply and served with rice or bulgur.
Must-Try!
Thin sourdough flatbread paired with spicy beans or vegetable stews.
Slow-simmered fava beans with olive oil, lemon, and cumin.
Lentil soup spiced with coriander and lemon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with fresh produce, spices, seafood stalls, and street snacks; ideal for a quick bite and al fresco dining.
Riverfront stalls offering grilled fish, Nubian flatbreads, and homemade sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms by covering shoulders and knees, especially in religious sites and villages.
Ask permission before photographing people; remove shoes when entering mosques if required; greet with a polite 'Salam Alaikum'.
Accept invitations politely; use the right hand for giving and receiving; modesty of behavior in public is valued.
Always ask before photographing people or sensitive spaces; some residents may charge a small fee to be photographed.
Safety
Tipping in Aswān
Ensure a smooth experience
In Egypt, tipping is common. In restaurants, leave 10-15% if service is not included; guides and drivers appreciate small tips; carry smaller denominations for street vendors.
Cash is widely used; many places accept cards in hotels and larger restaurants; ATMs are common in town; some remote areas rely on cash-only transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot with temperatures often in the 40s°C; plan early morning and late afternoon outings; carry water, sun protection, and light clothing.
Mild days and cool nights; ideal for outdoor sightseeing; evenings can require a light jacket.
Pleasant temperatures and comfortable humidity; perfect for Nile cruises and outdoor markets.
Aswān at Night
Hiking in Aswān
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Desert sandstone hill area with ancient quarries; scenic and historical, best with a guide.
Short ascent to a vantage point with panoramic views of Aswan and the Nile.
Low-difficulty desert trails on the Nubian outskirts with desert flora; bring water and a guide.
Airports
How to reach Aswān by plane.
Serves domestic and some international flights; located about 16 km from the city center; taxis and private transfers available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Distinct cultural group with unique language, crafts, and architecture.
Arabic-speaking residents from various parts of the country.
Seasonal visitors attracted by temples, Nile scenery, and Nubian culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; many local teams and informal games.
Common activities along the river; fishing trips are popular with visitors.
Popular along the Nile banks and desert roads near the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aswān.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Egyptian dishes are vegetarian-friendly; choose salads, lentil and bean stews, falafel, and vegetable dishes. Ask for oil-based dressings and avoid ghee-heavy sauces; specify no meat stock when possible.