Think of Egypt and images of sand-covered tombs, towering Giza pyramids, and the iconic Sphinx come to mind. From ancient sights to souks, Red Sea diving and desert safaris, Egypt offers some of the most spectacular sights and one-of-kind experiences found anywhere on the planet. Here's just some of the best things to do in Egypt. Put as many on your To Do list as possible!
Visit the Cairo's ancient sites
A visit to Egypt's awe-inspiring historical sites are an unforgettable highlight of any trip here. Just a short 30-minute trip from Cairo, you can marvel at the last remaining ancient wonders of the world at the Pyramids of Giza, or take a selfie at the feet of the famous Sphinx.
Cruise along the great Nile
In-the-know travellers know the best way to visit Egypt's tombs and temples is with a cruise along the mighty River Nile. Sail down the world's longest river and explore Egypt's sights at the same time. Many cruises begin at the breathtakingly beautiful Luxor, where the two enormous seated figures of Ramses II greet you at the Temple of Luxor's entrance and Karnak's perfectly carved hieroglyphics and obelisks completely live up to their hype. You'll take in the Valley of the Kings, where Tutankhamen was unearthed, as well Edfu, Kom Ombo, and the spectacular Abu Simbel. A Nile cruise often ends at Aswan, where the sunrise will leave you dumbstruck.
Marvel at the natural landscape
Once you've seen Egypt's man-made wonders, you'll think nothing can compare to their ability to make your jaw drop. That is until you've seen what Mother Nature's created here! Stretches of sandy beaches, Siwa Oasis' hot springs, offshore coral reefs that are ideal for diving or a sun rise in one of the vast deserts, there are plenty of things to do in Egypt that take in the country's natural beauty.
Shop for souvenirs in the souks
Enjoy your free time and stroll through the maze of narrow alleys to find a unique souvenir to take home. You'll find souks, or street markets, are open from early morning to sunset, and have everything from jewellery to miniature pyramids.
Step back in time at Egypt's museums
Talk a walk around the Egyptian Museum and see one of the world's most important collections of ancient artefacts. From mummies to Tutankhamun's iconic death mask, it's a real adventure through time the whole family will enjoy. It's well worth visiting one of the many other museums in Egypt too, like the Egypt Papyrus Museum and Solar Boat Museum.
Explore two religions
Once you've visited all ancient Egypt has to offer, stroll around some of the most important medieval sites of Islam and Coptic Christianity. Take a tour around one of the many Coptic sites, some are at least 1600 years old and still used as convents, churches and monasteries. The historic Monastery of St Anthony, Hanging Church and Coptic Museum are all worth a visit. Discover some of Islam's oldest and most beautiful architecture too, like the Ibn Tulun, Al-Mu'ayyad Shaykh, Al-Azhar, Al-Hakim, and Al-Aqmar mosques.