There’s an old saying: Egypt is the Nile, and the Nile is Egypt. But there’s so much more to this ancient land than just its legendary river. For centuries, Egypt has cast a powerful spell, inspiring poetry, literature, and breathtaking architecture. Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Egypt.
The monumental sun temple of Ramses II is the most spectacular of the Nubian antiquities that were relocated to higher ground on the shores of Lake Nasser. One of the essential Egypt travel tips is to visit the temple at dawn, before the crowds arrive, or late in the afternoon when the light softens the stonework.
The mostly Nubian village of Abu Simbel, south of Aswan, has some restaurants and cafés, as well as a few comfortable hotels. It’s a relaxed kind of place, where people play backgammon in cafés or listen to Nubian music at night. This is one of the best Egypt tours to take.
You can fly from Aswan (about 45 minutes) or Cairo (around 1.5 hours) into Abu Simbel Airport, then take a short taxi ride to the temples. If you’d rather go overland, you can join a convoy from Aswan—expect the drive to take around 3.5 hours. Organized tours and buses run this route regularly. Some Lake Nasser cruise boats also stop here. Flights tend to book up quickly, so try to lock yours in early.
Go between October and April when it’s not as hot. Early morning (around 6 AM) is ideal for cooler weather and fewer people, or you can come late in the afternoon when the light turns warm and golden.
Avoid the peak of summer—temperatures can easily top 104°F (40°C). The twice-yearly sun alignment happens on February 22 and October 22.
Nefertari Temple in Abu Simbel, Egypt © Anton_Ivanov/Shutterstock
The walls and ceilings of the royal tombs in the Valley of the Kings depict incredible scenes — pharaohs descending into the Underworld, the Judgement of Osiris, and their rebirth into the afterlife. After embalming and mummification, New Kingdom pharaohs were carried in a solemn procession to their hidden tombs in a secluded wadi in the Theban hills.
You can enter the valley from the visitors' center, where guides share insights into its rich history. A small train runs to the entrance, though it's an easy walk. As one of the best places to visit in Egypt, the Valley of the Kings offers a glimpse into the grandeur and mystery of ancient royalty.
The valley sits on Luxor’s west bank, about 20 minutes from town. You can get there by taxi or as part of a guided tour—most hotels can help you arrange transport. If you’re feeling active, you can even cycle through the villages to get there. From the visitors' center, it’s about a 10-minute walk or a short ride on the tourist train to the tombs. This is one of the best tours of Egypt that you can take.
October to April has the most comfortable weather. In summer, it’s best to start as early as possible. Give yourself at least 3–4 hours. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are usually quieter. Not all tombs are open daily, so check ahead.
Hieroglyphs on the wall in King Tut's Tomb © bleung/Shutterstock
Egyptian street food is tasty, cheap, and filling. People in Egypt love to eat and share meals. Street food here includes a variety of dishes, from savory snacks and sandwiches to sweet desserts and drinks. Some popular street food items are:
Street food is easy to find in Egyptian cities. Look for busy stands near mosques (especially after Friday prayers), in bustling areas like Downtown Cairo, market streets in Luxor, or along Alexandria’s Corniche. Hotel staff can also point you to reliable vendors.
Evenings during Ramadan are especially good, with seasonal dishes you won’t find at other times. Local festivals also bring out some unique choices.
Shawarma with chicken on wood table © MOUTASEM PHOTOGRAPHY/Shutterstock
The centuries-old tradition of raqs sharqi is best seen at clubs where locals go. Egyptian belly dancing is known for its controlled and precise movements. Watching this art form will give you a glimpse into the country’s colorful culture.
Belly dancing is an ancient art form with roots in various cultures and traditions, and it has evolved over time to include different styles and techniques. In Egypt, belly dancing is often part of traditional celebrations and ceremonies, and it's also a popular form of entertainment at restaurants and events.
You’ll find performances at traditional restaurants in Islamic Cairo, hotels along the Nile Corniche, and cultural centers in Alexandria. For a more local experience, check out the traditional cafés in the Khan el-Khalili area. Some Nile cruise boats also feature evening belly dancing shows. Ask around—locals usually know which venues are more authentic.
Shows generally start around 9 PM and run late into the night, especially on weekends. During Ramadan, you’ll sometimes catch special performances. The cooler months are more comfortable for going out in the evenings. Thursday to Saturday is when the performances are liveliest, and you’re more likely to be in the crowd with locals rather than just tourists.
Belly dancer in Egypt © Waleed Shah/Shutterstock
The Karnak Temple is an ancient temple complex located in Luxor, Egypt. It's dedicated to the ancient Theban Triad of Amun, Mut, and Khonsu. This vast complex reached its peak during the New Kingdom and is one of the largest and most impressive temple complexes in the world. It's a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Egypt.
The complex includes a number of temples, chapels, and other structures, all surrounded by massive walls and gates. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visiting Karnak Temple is one of the best things to do in Egypt, especially for those interested in ancient history and architecture.
Karnak is on the east bank of the Nile in Luxor and easy to reach. You can take a taxi, horse-drawn carriage, or even walk if you’re staying nearby. It’s about 2 miles (3km) north of Luxor Temple. Local buses and microbuses also run this route throughout the day, and most guided tours include transport.
The gates open at 6 AM, and that’s the best time to visit if you want to avoid the heat and get nice lighting for photos. October through March is the most comfortable time to explore. Plan for at least 3–4 hours to see everything.
If you’re up for something different, the evening sound and light show runs all year—just check the seasonal schedule.
Karnak Temple, Egypt © serpetko/Shutterstock
Head into the dunes of the Western Desert or the canyons of Sinai for an adventure. You can easily arrange overnight trips or major expeditions. Jeep safaris involve driving a 4x4 vehicle through the desert, stopping at various points of interest along the way. These safaris can be full-day or multi-day tours and might include visits to oases, sand dunes, and ancient ruins.
Camel safaris, on the other hand, involve riding a camel through the desert, often stopping at local villages and other interesting spots. Both jeep and camel safaris offer a unique way to experience the western desert and its culture, and they can be customized to fit what you like.
You can arrange desert safaris through local tour companies in Cairo, Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh, or Siwa Oasis. Most include hotel pickup and gear. If you're heading into the Western Desert, Bahariya Oasis is usually where trips begin. For Sinai, most tours start out of Dahab or Sharm el-Sheikh. It’s important to check that your operator is licensed and insured.
October through April is the most comfortable time for desert trips. Summer heat can be intense and even dangerous. If you’re planning a multi-day tour, cooler months are much more manageable. You might catch wildflowers in bloom during spring (March–April). Nights in the desert, especially in winter, can be cold—bring layers.
Camel safari in Egypt © Banana Republic images/Shutterstock
Cairo is known as the city of a thousand minarets and has a rich and fascinating history. You can visit the Khan el-Khalili bazaar or the Citadel to see some of the city's many architectural treasures.
Centuries of Muslim rule have left Cairo with an amazing legacy of Islamic architecture. There are plenty of things to do in Egypt for those interested in history and culture.
Many mosques built around tombs of important religious figures have become sites of local pilgrimage. The tomb of Sayyida Zeinab is inside a large mosque and is one of the most popular. Up to a million people gather here in the first two weeks of October, when Sayyida is venerated.
Hop on the Cairo Metro and get off at Bab el-Shaaria or Al-Azhar stations, then walk into the historic district. You can also take a taxi or use Uber. A good place to begin is either the Khan el-Khalili bazaar or the Citadel of Saladin—both are solid landmarks to get your bearings.
Most major sites are close together around the Fatimid and Mamluk quarters. See our guide to the best area to stay in Cairo.
Plan to go between October and April when the weather is more comfortable for walking. Fridays, especially afternoons, tend to get crowded around mosques. During Ramadan, evenings take on a different energy, with food stalls and family gatherings, but some places may open or close at different times. Give yourself a full day if you want to explore thoroughly.
Detail of a wall, Khan el-Khalili souk © Eric Valenne geostory/Shutterstock
In Egypt, one of the best things to do is to hire a felucca — a traditional sailboat. Spend a few hours watching the sunset or go on two- to four-day cruises with visits to temples along the way. Feluccas offer a unique and peaceful way to explore the Nile River and experience the natural beauty and culture of Egypt.
They usually carry six to eight passengers and two to three crew members. The boatmen will also cook local meals like foul, falafel, hummus, and pita bread, and advise where it is safe to swim.
You’ll find feluccas in a few main areas: along the Corniche in Aswan, the east bank riverfront in Luxor, and around the Nile islands in Cairo. In Aswan, head to the docks near the Old Cataract Hotel. In Luxor, just walk down to the Corniche, and you’ll see boats. Longer, multi-day trips typically leave from Aswan.
October through April is a great time to sail—the breeze is nice, and it’s not too hot. A sunset sail is a good bet, both for the light and the cooler air. In the summer, the heat can make daytime trips uncomfortable. If you're doing an overnight cruise in winter (December–February), bring warm clothes and enough bedding.
Felucca boat, Nile river in Aswan, Egypt© Raimonds Romans raymoonds/Shutterstock
Most towns have juice bars or carts where you can quench your thirst with whatever’s in season. From freshly pressed oranges and mangoes to strawberries and sugar cane.
Freshly squeezed asir (juice) is excellent and very cheap. The most widely available juice is asir laymun (fresh lemon or lime), usually served sweetened unless you say otherwise. Usually, there will also be a choice of asir burtuqan (freshly squeezed winter or summer oranges), moz (banana), gazar (carrot), and gawafa (sweet guava).
Fresh juice stands are easy to find—they’re on just about every street in cities and towns. Look for busy ones with locals lined up, which usually means good quality. You’ll find lots near universities, market streets, and downtown neighborhoods. Places near hotels tend to be more expensive but might follow stricter hygiene practices.
Juice is available year-round, but what’s in season changes. Summer is great for mango and guava, while winter has some of the best oranges and strawberries.
Drinking local juice from the fresh oranges is one of the best things to do in Egypt after a busy day © Shutterstock
Underneath the Karmous quarter of Alexandria, you'll find the spookiest tombs in Egypt. These tombs have a unique mix of pharaonic, Greek, and Roman designs, showing the city's ancient diversity.
They make up the largest Roman-period burial site in Egypt and date back to around the 2nd century AD.
The catacombs are in Alexandria’s Karmous district. You can take a taxi from the city center—it’s about a 15-minute ride (see our guide to getting around Egypt). If you’re taking public transport, the tram to Karmous station gets you close. It’s also near Pompey’s Pillar, so it’s easy to combine both. If you’re up for it, it’s about a 30-minute walk from central Alexandria. Local buses run frequently, too.
Go sometime between October and April for more pleasant weather. The catacombs themselves stay cool year-round, so they’re fine to visit even when it’s hot out. Set aside 1–2 hours to explore the site. It pairs well with other nearby stops like the Alexandria National Museum. Mornings are usually quieter if you want to avoid crowds.
Catacombs in Kom el-Shoqafa, Eegypt © Justina Elgaafary/Shutterstock
In the Farafra Oasis, there are strange rock formations shaped by wind and rain over thousands of years. These formations look like giant white ghosts rising from the desert. Many people visit on overnight safaris from the nearby Bahariya Oasis.
If you have a 4x4 vehicle, it's a popular weekend trip from Cairo. Spending a couple of nights camping in the desert is a great experience. If you don’t have your own vehicle, joining an organized tour from Cairo is the best way to see this amazing area.
You’ll need to drive from Cairo to Bahariya Oasis first (about 4 hours), then head to Farafra Oasis (another 2 hours), where most tours begin.
The easiest way is to join a 4x4 tour from Cairo or Bahariya—these usually include camping gear and meals. If you’re going on your own, make sure you have a high-clearance vehicle, solid navigation skills, and the right permits from the tourist police in Farafra.
Go between October and April—days are warm, nights are cool, and conditions are good for camping. Summer can hit over 113°F (45°C), so it’s best to avoid that time. Winter nights can get below freezing, so bring warm layers if you’re camping. March and April usually have the most comfortable weather.
White desert, Farafra, Egypt © sunsinger/Shutterstock
Seeing the Theban Necropolis on Luxor’s west bank from a hot air balloon is one of the best things to do in Egypt. These rides are popular with tourists, especially in the Luxor area, which is in the southern part of the country. Luxor is famous for its ancient ruins, like the Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings.
Hot air balloon rides offer a unique way to see these sites and the surrounding countryside. It's also a chance to experience the calm and beauty of the desert from a different view.
Balloon rides usually start on Luxor’s west bank near the Valley of the Kings. Most companies pick you up from your hotel, no matter which side of the river you’re staying on.
It’s best to book through your hotel or a known tour operator so you’re covered with safety standards and insurance (see our guide to finding the right accommodation in Egypt). Rides can fill up fast in peak season, so it’s worth booking ahead.
They run year-round, always at sunrise when the wind is calmest—usually between 5–6 AM depending on the season. October through April is cooler and more comfortable for early starts. In summer, rides launch even earlier to beat the heat. Keep in mind flights are weather dependent, so it helps to keep your schedule flexible in case of cancellations.
Colossi Memnon, Egypt © Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH/Shutterstock
Abydos is one of Egypt’s oldest religious centers, steeped in history and myth. The highlight is the mortuary temple of Seti I, home to some of the most stunning bas-reliefs from the New Kingdom — amazingly well-preserved and packed with intricate detail. The site is deeply tied to the legend of Osiris, the god of the afterlife.
From the Middle Kingdom onwards, pharaohs and pilgrims alike left offerings here, hoping to earn Osiris’s favor in the afterlife. The area is scattered with funeral stelae, ancient burial grounds, and temple ruins,
Abydos is about 100 miles (160 km) north of Luxor. Most people visit on a day trip with a guide, but you can also take a private taxi (around 2.5 hours each way) or catch a train to Balyana, then taxi to the site (another 45 minutes).
The road to the temple passes through farmland, so guided tours are often more straightforward and give you background on the history along the way.
Aim for October to April when it’s cooler. Arriving early gives you better light for seeing the reliefs and helps you avoid crowds. Plan to spend at least 2–3 hours at the Temple of Seti I. If you’re visiting in summer, start as early as possible—it's a dry, hot area, and the midday sun is intense.
Seti Temple in Abydos, Egypt © akimov konstantin/Shutterstock
Aswan has been Egypt’s gateway to Nubia since ancient times. Its islands, markets, and riverside restaurants are great for relaxing between trips to places like Abu Simbel. Aswan is a laid-back and warm place, perfect for spending a few days at the end of a Nile trip.
The markets are more relaxed and less pushy than in other Egyptian towns. There is a hint of Africa in the souvenirs for sale. There are many things to do in Egypt's southernmost city. You can take a felucca around the islands, enjoy the scents of the botanical garden, and listen to Nubian children sing as the sun sets behind the desert.
You can fly from Cairo to Aswan in about 90 minutes, then take a 15-minute taxi into town. The sleeper train from Cairo takes around 12 hours, or you can drive along the Nile (about 10–12 hours). Many Nile cruises either start or end in Aswan. Once you’re there, it’s easy to get around on foot or by felucca—those traditional sailboats that cross the river to places like Elephantine Island.
October to March is the most comfortable time to be outdoors. In summer, temperatures often top 113°F (45°C), so walking around isn’t easy. Winter is a good time for boat rides and sitting outside by the river. The shoulder months—October-November and March-April—are quieter and still have good weather, especially in the evenings.
Nile river, Aswan, Egypt © Marcel Bakker/Shutterstock
Mount Sinai is a special place where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments from God. There are two main paths to the top, and it takes about two-and-a-half hours each way. The longer and less steep path, Siket El Bashait, can be traveled by camel. The steeper, more direct path, Siket Sayidna Musa, is up the 3,750 “steps of penitence.” These steps are rough stone steps likely built in the 6th or 7th century.
The view from the top is amazing, especially at dawn or sunset. Many visitors book tours that arrive around 1 am at the foot of the mountain to climb to the top and watch the sunrise.
Fly into Sharm el-Sheikh, then drive about 2.5 hours to Saint Catherine. You can also come from Cairo, but it’s a longer trip—around 6 hours by car. Most travelers stay overnight in Saint Catherine village before starting the early morning hike. Many tours from Red Sea resorts and Cairo include transport.
October to April is best for hiking—nights are cold but manageable, and the sunrise views are usually clear. To catch the sunrise, start hiking around 2–3 AM. It’s not a good idea to go in summer due to the heat. In winter, be ready for cold winds at the summit and pack warm clothes. Weather can change fast, so check the forecast before heading up.
Mount Sinai, Egypt © Anton Kozlovsky/Shutterstock
The Egyptian Museum is home to amazing treasures like Tutankhamun’s gold mask, huge statues from ancient times, and even royal mummies. It was first opened in 1835 to stop people from stealing artifacts from archaeological sites.
There’s a lot to see here, including cool objects from the Royal Tombs found in Tanis in 1939. If you have plenty of time, try to see everything. But if you’re in a hurry, go left when you enter to check out the Old Kingdom treasures.
You’ll find the Egyptian Museum right in Tahrir Square, central Cairo. It’s easy to get there by Cairo Metro—just hop off at Sadat Station—or by walking if you’re staying downtown. Uber is widely used and usually more comfortable than negotiating with local taxis, though both will get you there. The building’s a large pink structure, so it’s hard to miss.
Try to arrive right at opening time (9 AM) to get ahead of the crowd, especially if you want a quieter look at the Tutankhamun rooms.
Set aside at least 3–4 hours to see the highlights, or more if you’re into archaeology and want to explore in detail. Fridays can be hectic in the afternoon due to school groups. If you want to take photos, you’ll need to buy a separate photography pass.
Golden Pharoah Tutankhamun mask, Egypt © Sean M Smith/Shutterstock
The pyramids of Dahshur are less famous than the ones at Giza, but they’re just as interesting and not as crowded and are one of the best day trips from Cairo. The Bent Pyramid, where Snofru was buried, has a unique angled top. The peaceful palm groves around Dahshur have attracted many people from Cairo who have built homes there.
The view of the pyramid across the lake is one of the most beautiful in Egypt and worth the 2-mile (5 km) drive from Saqqara. Its inscribed capstone is in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. Dreaming of seeing ancient sites?
Dahshur is about 25 miles (40km) south of Cairo. It’s easiest to reach by tour, taxi, or rental car—it takes around an hour from central Cairo. Public transport doesn’t go all the way, so having your own ride is best. It’s close to Saqqara (about 3 miles/5km away), so a lot of tours include both sites, often with a stop at Memphis too.
The best time to visit is mid-winter when a lake forms near the Black Pyramid. This pyramid was built by Amenemhet III but never used. Its dark color comes from losing its original white limestone covering.
Dahshur © Shutterstock
Egypt’s oldest marine nature park has amazing shark reefs and the wreck of the Dunraven. Ras Mohammed is famous for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and rich marine life, making it a popular spot for scuba diving. The park has a variety of coral reefs, shipwrecks, and other underwater attractions, making it perfect for diving fans.
To scuba dive in Ras Mohammed, you need a diving license, which you can get from a certified diving school. There are many dive schools and centers in the area that offer diving courses and guided dives. Dive sites in the park vary in depth and difficulty, so there is something for divers of all levels.
The park sits at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, not far from Sharm el-Sheikh. Most people go by dive boat from Naama Bay, which takes about 30 minutes. You can also drive (about 12 miles/20km) or take a tour bus. If you’re diving, most dive shops in Sharm head here regularly. Day passes are needed to enter the park.
You can dive here year-round, with water temps ranging from 72°F to 82°F (22–28°C). The best surface conditions are usually from October to April. Summer is warmer, but it also brings more people. If you’re hoping for calmer seas and fewer crowds, aim for spring or autumn. Visibility is usually excellent, and conditions are good for both beginner and experienced divers.
Scuba divers entering a shipwreck Dunraven © Anna segeren/Shutterstock
There are plenty of things to do in Alexandria. This port city has great seafood, vintage coffee houses, a dazzling new library, and the chance to dive into the ruins of Cleopatra’s Palace. A visit to Alexandria, even if only for a couple of days, is a perfect break from the busy life in Cairo. With its beaches and Mediterranean vibe, Alexandria is more relaxed and a good place to chill out.
Today’s Alexandria has interesting museums, and over the past few years, the city, which has more than 5.2 million people and is the Mediterranean’s largest urban center, has seen a lot of improvements and has regained some of its former glory.
You can catch the fast train from Cairo—it takes about 2.5 hours and is the easiest way to go. Driving along the desert highway takes around 3 hours. There are also buses from Cairo and other cities, or you can fly from elsewhere in Egypt. Once you’re in the city, trams, taxis, and walking will get you to most of the sights.
The cooler months from October to April are great for exploring on foot. In summer, many Egyptians head here to escape Cairo’s heat, so it’s busier—but the sea breeze keeps things fairly comfortable. Winters are mild, though sometimes rainy. Spring and fall are ideal if you want mild weather and fewer people.
Library in Alexandria, Egypt © Shutterstock
Hidden beneath Mount Sinai, St Catherine’s has several holy relics. For example, it holds the burning bush that appeared to Moses in the Bible. It is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monastery was founded in the 6th century and is named after St Catherine of Alexandria, a Christian martyr believed to be buried there.
The monastery is known for its rich history and cultural significance. It is also known for its beautiful architecture and stunning location at the foot of Mount Sinai. It is an important pilgrimage center for Christians.
The monastery sits in South Sinai at the foot of Mount Sinai. Most people go by organized tour from Sharm el-Sheikh (around 3 hours by car) or from Cairo (about 6 hours). There are buses that run to Saint Catherine village, and if you have a rental car, that works too—but desert driving takes a bit of experience. The village has simple places to stay and is close enough to walk to the monastery.
It’s only open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday mornings from 9 AM to noon, so plan ahead. The cooler months (October to April) are the most comfortable for walking and sightseeing. Many travelers pair this with a sunrise hike up Mount Sinai. Try to avoid major Islamic holidays, as access can sometimes be restricted. It’s worth arriving early—visitor numbers are capped to help protect the site.
St Catherine monastery in Sinai, Egypt © Mildax/Shutterstock
The Giza Pyramids and the Great Sphinx are some of the most famous monuments in the world. People have been curious about them for centuries. The Great Pyramid of Giza is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, a list made by ancient Greek and Roman scholars of the most impressive structures and natural wonders.
The Great Sphinx is a large stone statue near the pyramids. It has the body of a lion and the head of a human and was carved around 2500 BC. The Great Sphinx is one of the largest and most well-known statues in the world and represents ancient Egyptian culture. Standing before it is another unforgettable highlight among the many things to do in Giza.
The Giza Plateau is about 12 miles (20km) southwest of downtown Cairo. The easiest way to get there is by taxi or Uber—expect about a 45-minute ride depending on traffic.
Some people also book group tours through hotels or travel agencies. There’s a metro line that takes you to Giza station, but from there, you’ll need a taxi to reach the site itself. The main entrance is on the east side. If you're staying nearby, you can get there early or late in the day when it’s less crowded.
Try to arrive right at the 8 AM opening or later in the afternoon for fewer people and better lighting. October to March is the most comfortable time to walk around, especially if you want to go inside the pyramids.
In summer, it gets extremely hot with little shade—start early if you're visiting then. You’ll want at least a few hours, or even the whole day, if you're planning to explore the interiors or walk across the plateau.
Seeing the Sphinx Pyramid is one of the essential things to do in Egypt © Raimonds Romans raymoonds/Shutterstock
South Sinai is a chill-out zone known for diving, beach cafés, and camel and jeep safaris into the rugged interior. With its two coasts, oases, mountains, and historic sites, South Sinai is a popular destination. The wide sandy beach of Ras Sedr is a favorite spot, with several hotels. Many people from Cairo have holiday homes here, and these are often thought of some of the best beaches in Egypt.
Sharm el-Sheikh is a city on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. It is a popular vacation spot known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and warm climate. The city is on the Red Sea and is famous for excellent scuba diving and snorkeling. There are plenty of things to do in Sharm el-Sheikh outside of the beaches as well.
Fly into Sharm el-Sheikh for beaches further south or into Taba if you’re heading to the northern coast. From either airport, taxis can get you to your hotel or resort. There are also buses from Cairo, though the ride is long. Renting a car is another option if you want to explore multiple places along the coast. Most resorts can arrange transfers if you’re staying for a few nights.
The best time to go is from October to April when it’s warm (around 68–77°F / 20–25°C) but not too hot. Summer brings intense heat, but also crowds, especially from Europe. If you’re into water sports or diving, winter’s a good time—the Red Sea stays warm enough to swim year-round .
Dahab, Sinai peninsula, Egypt © Shutterstock
Siwa Oasis is known for its unique culture, hilltop citadel, and spring-fed pools. Many people consider it the best of Egypt’s oases. Located 780km west of Cairo, Siwa is the most remote and perhaps the most engaging of Egypt’s oases. It has a distinct culture and its own language, related to the Berber languages of North Africa.
Among the orchards, palms, and olive groves, there are many bubbling springs. The water is so plentiful at Siwa that large salty lakes have formed, and drainage is a major problem. Follow the track to the Temple of Jupiter Amun, and you will reach Ain Juba, the ancient Cleopatra’s Spring or Fountain of the Sun, whose crystal-clear waters are said to have purifying properties.
Siwa is about 485 miles (780km) west of Cairo, close to the Libyan border. You can take a bus from Cairo (8–10 hours) or from Alexandria (around 6 hours). Some travelers go with organized tours that cover transport and accommodation.
You can drive yourself in a 4x4, but desert driving isn’t recommended unless you have experience—it's a long, remote route, so going in a group is safer.
October to April is the most comfortable time for visiting the springs and getting around the oasis. Summer can reach over 113°F (45°C), so it’s not ideal. Evenings in winter can get chilly, so bring layers. The hot springs are great year-round, but the weather is especially pleasant in spring and fall.
Siwa oasis, Egypt © Shutterstock
Taking a cruise on the Nile is a great way to see temples and ancient sites while enjoying the calm life along the river. You'll spot local farmers, fishermen, small villages, and stunning views of the deserts and hills next to the Nile. If you're lucky, you might even catch a beautiful sunset under clear skies.
Many ships now travel along the Nile, mostly following the same route but offering different types of accommodation to fit any budget. It's a good idea to book your cruise before you go to Egypt because it's often cheaper to buy them as part of a package. This is a great thing to do in Cairo if you're based there.
Most cruises run between Luxor and Aswan. You can fly to either city from Cairo—flights take about 1.5 hours. Many cruises include airport or hotel transfers, especially the larger boats. Departures usually happen from the harbors in Luxor or Aswan.
Smaller, traditional boats like dahabiehs sometimes use different starting points, so check the details before you book. Planning ahead helps with cabin choices and prices.
Cruises run all year, but October to April has the most comfortable weather for being on deck and doing excursions. December to February gets busier, especially with holiday travelers. Spring and fall still have good weather but fewer crowds.
Summer cruises do run, but it can get too hot to enjoy time outside—even with air conditioning on board.
Nile cruise in Egypt © Shutterstock
The Royal Jewelry Museum is in Cairo, Egypt. It's also called the Cairo Jewelry Museum or the Egyptian Museum of Jewelry. The museum has a collection of precious and semi-precious stones, gold and silver jewelry, and other decorative items used by Egypt's royal families over the years.
Visitors can explore the museum's collection and learn about the history and cultural importance of the pieces on display. The museum also offers guided tours and educational programs for those interested in learning more about the history of jewelry in Egypt. Visiting the Royal Jewelry Museum is a top activity in Egypt for anyone interested in history, art, and jewelry.
The Royal Jewelry Museum is located in the Zizinia neighborhood of Alexandria, not Cairo. Visitors can reach it via taxi, ride-sharing services, or public transportation. From downtown Alexandria, take the tram to Ramleh Station, then a short taxi ride. The address is 27 Ahmed Yehia Pasha Street, Zizinia.
Visit weekday mornings (9 AM to 11 AM) for fewer crowds and a better viewing experience. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM, and closed on Mondays and national holidays
Egyptian jewellery © Shutterstock
written by
Rough Guides Editors
updated 03.06.2025
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From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Egypt
