Egypt attractions
Egypt is a country where every era has left its unique mark. Its history begins over 5,000 years ago with the rise of one of the greatest civilizations of antiquity—the kingdom of the pharaohs, which gave the world pyramids, hieroglyphs, and a unique religious and cultural system. After the decline of the pharaonic era, Egypt became part of the Hellenistic world, then Byzantium, and in the 7th century, it became part of the Arab Caliphate, which defined its Islamic identity.
A special mark was left by the Mamluk era (13th–16th centuries)—warrior-slaves who created a powerful state with the magnificent architecture of Cairo. Modern Egypt combines Arab traditions, Islamic heritage, and the memory of its ancient roots.
Cities and Their Heritage: Essential Stops on the Map
Cairo – The Pulsating Capital of Contrasts
A noisy, chaotic, and endlessly charming metropolis. Cairo is a showcase of Egypt`s entire history: from the ancient pyramids on its outskirts to medieval Islamic palaces and modern skyscrapers on the banks of the Nile.
• The Pyramids of Giza and the mysterious Sphinx—the country`s calling card.
• The Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza with the treasures of Tutankhamun and the Cairo Museum.
• Saqqara—the most ancient necropolis with the Step Pyramid of Djoser.
• Islamic Cairo with the Saladin Citadel and the vibrant Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
• Coptic Cairo with the Hanging Church.
Luxor – The Greatest Open-Air Museum
Ancient Thebes, the former capital of Egypt during its peak of prosperity. The city is literally divided by the Nile into two worlds: the "City of the Living" on the east bank with its grand temples and the "City of the Dead" on the west, where pharaohs found eternal rest in rock-cut tombs.
• East Bank: Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple.
• West Bank: Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, Temple of Hatshepsut, Colossi of Memnon.
Aswan – The Gateway to Nubia and an Oasis of Tranquility
The southernmost city of ancient Egypt, possessing a special aura of serenity. Here, the Nile is particularly picturesque, framed by granite boulders and palm-covered islands. Aswan is the heart of Nubian culture and the starting point for trips to the great temples of Abu Simbel.
• The temples on Philae Island, dedicated to the goddess Isis.
• The Aswan High Dam—a grand 20th-century engineering feat.
• Nubian villages with brightly painted houses.
• Recommendation: take a traditional felucca ride at sunset.
Essential Tours from Aswan:
• Abu Simbel Temple: the colossal rock-cut temples of Ramses II and Nefertari.
• The temples at Edfu (Temple of Horus) and Kom Ombo (the double temple).
Alexandria – The Mediterranean Pearl
A city with European charm and a distinct climate, founded by Alexander the Great. It was the intellectual capital of the ancient world, a hub of Hellenistic culture, and a place where the histories of Cleopatra, Archimedes, and Arab conquerors intertwine. Its atmosphere is strikingly different from the rest of Egypt.
• The New Alexandria Library (Bibliotheca Alexandrina).
• The Citadel of Qaitbay on the site of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria.
• The Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.
• The Montaza Palace with its beautiful gardens.
Beach Holidays: From the Red Sea to the Mediterranean
The Red Sea – An Underwater Kingdom of Coral Reefs
This is Egypt`s main resort destination, famous for its crystal-clear water, reliably sunny weather, and one of the world`s richest underwater ecosystems. The coastline stretches for hundreds of kilometers, offering both lively tourist centers and secluded lagoons. It`s a paradise for divers, snorkelers, and water sports enthusiasts.
• Sharm El-Sheikh: The most developed resort on the Sinai Peninsula with impeccable infrastructure, Naama Bay, the Ras Mohammed Nature Reserve, and the possibility of a trip to St. Catherine`s Monastery.
• Hurghada: A budget-friendly resort on the mainland, a center for diving and snorkeling, and the departure point for trips to the Giftun Islands.
• Dahab: A mecca for kite- and windsurfers, a place with a unique boho-chic atmosphere and affordable guesthouses. Nearby is the famous Blue Hole.
• Makadi Bay and Soma Bay: Quiet resort bays south of Hurghada, focused on relaxed family holidays and golf.
• El Gouna: "The Egyptian Venice," an elite resort with canals, lagoons, and villas built on islands.
• Marsa Alam: The southernmost resort, famous for its pristine coral reefs (the Samadai National Park) and the chance to see dugongs and sea turtles.
The Mediterranean Sea – Mild Climate and Historical Backdrop
The Mediterranean coast offers a completely different kind of vacation: greener landscapes, a cool sea breeze, and rich history within easy reach. The beaches here are often spacious and sandy, and the resorts are particularly popular among Egyptians and Cairenes seeking respite from the summer heat.
• Alexandria and its surroundings: The beaches here are more urban (Montaza, Maamoura). For comfortable relaxation, it`s better to choose resort complexes west of the city.
• The North Coast (Sahel, or "Saied"): An extensive resort zone west of Alexandria with modern compounds, private villas, yacht clubs, and vibrant nightlife during the season.
Unique Nature Excursions
The White Desert (El-Sahra al-Bayda)
A surreal place 500 km from Cairo, where the wind has carved "sculptures" from white limestone that resemble an alien landscape. What the tour includes (2-3 days): overnight camping under an incredibly bright starry sky, visiting the Black Desert, the Crystal Mountain, and the Bahariya Oasis.
Egypt is a country of amazing contrasts, where you can see both ancient pyramids and vibrant coral reefs in one trip. To manage everything and avoid getting tired, it`s best to make a plan in advance. For example, dedicate a few days to exploring the main historical sites—Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan—and then head to the sea for relaxation. Choose a resort to match your interests: Sharm El-Sheikh is great for nightlife and excellent diving, Hurghada for family vacations, and Dahab for surfers and lovers of an informal atmosphere.
