Top 8 Must-Visit Spots in Egypt

Experience the Red Sea's crystal-clear waters, gaze at the desert stars, cruise down the Nile River, and marvel at the remnants of one of history's most ancient civilizations. Egypt promises unforgettable travel adventures.

With so much to explore, many travelers face the challenge of where to start. We're here to guide you! Check out our top 8 recommended destinations in Egypt.

1. Cairo

Egypt's vibrant capital city is rich with cultural, religious, architectural, and culinary heritage. Beyond its renowned museums, the city offers a walk through centuries of history. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza, a true marvel of the world.

In the heart of Cairo's historic center lies Islamic Cairo, the city's most enchanting district. Explore its lively streets with your camera in hand, and take in views from the Citadel and historic gates like Bab Zuweila, Bab al-Futuh, and Bab an Nasr. The area’s exquisite mosques, including the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, Ibn Tulun Mosque, and Al-Hakim Mosque, are especially remarkable. Don't miss Muizz Street and the Khan El-Khalili bazaar for unique souvenirs and a bit of haggling fun.

Discover Coptic Cairo, a lesser-known gem that has been the center of Egypt's Christian community since the first century CE. Visit the Coptic Museum, the Hanging Church, and the remains of the Babylon fortress towers.

Local tip: Cairo’s nightlife is vibrant after dark. Enjoy drinks at historic bars or experience live music and performances at trendy clubs and cultural venues.

2. Marsa Alam

Experience the thrill of scuba diving among vibrant corals and swimming with dolphins, dugongs, and sea turtles in the stunning blue waters of Marsa Alam. Located on the western shore of the Red Sea, this tranquil destination is a premier spot for underwater adventures. Popular dive sites include Elphinstone Reef and Abu Dabbab, renowned for its exceptional snorkeling opportunities.

For terrestrial adventures, visit Wadi el Gemal National Park. Relax at Hankorab Beach, or explore the rugged terrain by safari, hike, or bike. Spot camels at Sharm El Luli Beach and enjoy the picturesque landscapes around Qulaan resort town.

Discover Marsa Alam’s Bedouin culture at the Ababda House Cultural Museum.

Detour: For unique souvenirs, visit Ghosoun and Hamata to see local women crafting distinctive hand-woven items and jewelry, each tribe with its own unique designs and styles.

3. Luxor

Home to the ancient city of Thebes, Luxor is renowned for its extraordinary collection of monuments, boasting a third of the world’s ancient treasures. Known as the greatest open-air museum, it recently celebrated the grand reopening of the 2.7km (1.7-mile) Avenue of the Sphinxes. This ancient road links the Karnak Temple, famous for the Temple of Amun-Ra, and the beautifully preserved Luxor Temple.

For a breathtaking view, take a sunrise hot air balloon ride over this ancient city. On land, explore Hatshepsut Temple and Medinet Habu, which frequently appear on travelers' Instagram posts, and cross the river to visit the Valley of the Kings, the burial place of Tutankhamun, Seti I, and Ramses II.

4. Aswan

Nestled along the serene riverbanks of Aswan, this peaceful haven is renowned for its warm Nubian hospitality. Explore the 20 river islands by felucca, traditional wooden sailboats that navigate the Nile.

Immerse yourself in Nubian culture by visiting Gharb Soheil Island or wandering through Aswan's vibrant Nubian Village. Enjoy homestyle veggie and chicken tagines at local cafes, or pick up fragrant spices from the bustling Aswan spice market.

Aswan is known for its breathtaking sunsets, best viewed from the islands or a felucca on the Nile. The Sofitel Legend Old Cataract’s restaurant is a prime sunset spot and is famously linked to Agatha Christie’s novel Death on the Nile.

Local tip: For a history-filled adventure, consider a 3am trip to Abu Simbel, where the entire temple complex was relocated due to the Aswan High Dam flood in the 1960s. Alternatively, visit the Temple of Isis, which was also moved from Philae Island, allowing you to sleep in a bit longer.

5. Black and White Deserts

Egypt's Black and White Deserts offer strikingly unique landscapes that look like they're straight out of a sci-fi film. The White Desert features limestone formations that resemble a snowy landscape, while the Black Desert is adorned with scattered black volcanic stones over vivid orange sand.

For a true escape from the hustle and bustle of temples and city life, visit these desert regions. They provide the perfect backdrop for a stargazing camping adventure. Located just south of the Bahariya Oasis in Egypt's Western Desert, both deserts are accessible by bus from Cairo.

Local tip: Don’t miss Crystal Mountain, a stunning natural rock arch encased in sparkling quartz crystals, and Djara Cave, one of Egypt’s most breathtaking stalactite-filled caves. Although you'll need to crouch to enter, the interior features a ceiling resembling enormous icicles.

6. Egypt's Mediterranean Coast

Egypt’s northern coastline, known as El Sahel or 'The Coast,' buzzes with activity from May to September. This vibrant stretch attracts beach lovers during the day and Egypt’s nightlife elite after dark.

The coastline is dotted with upscale hotels, exclusive residential areas, and top-notch dining spots like The Smokery Beach at Stella di Mare and Kiki's Beach at Hacienda White. During the peak summer days, Sahel is the go-to destination for Cairo’s millennial and Gen Z crowd.

7. Siwa Oasis

Nestled far from Egypt's bustling cities, Siwa Oasis is a tranquil retreat inhabited by the traditional Siwan Bedouins. This oasis remains relatively untouched by tourism, and its Amazigh residents have preserved much of their unique culture and language due to their remote location.

Known as 'the Sunset Oasis,' Siwa is famed for its breathtaking sunsets. Whether you view them from Dakrour Mountain, the ancient Shali Fortress, or enjoy the peaceful landscapes of Taghaghien Island or Fatnas Island, you’re in for a spectacular experience. Be prepared for mosquitoes and bring repellent.

Siwa is a sought-after winter escape, serving as a gateway to the Great Sand Sea, one of the world’s largest dune fields. Visitors can enjoy swimmable hot and cold springs, and float effortlessly in the clear salt lakes.

Siwa is renowned for its exceptional dates, which you might even sample fresh from the tree with a local’s help. The Siwi Palm Date Festival is held every November to celebrate this local specialty.

Local tip: Don't miss the Abu Mardem chicken or lamb – a traditional dish marinated for eight hours, then slow-cooked in an iron pot buried under the sand.

8. El Gouna

Always basking in sunshine, El Gouna sits on the pristine Red Sea coast, just north of Hurghada. This vibrant town has attracted a diverse community of digital nomads, young families, and expats who cherish life by the sea.

El Gouna offers a wealth of water activities, plus hiking and desert safaris, making it popular with younger adventurers. Its upscale boutiques, cultural events, and high-end restaurants also cater to a more sophisticated crowd.

El Gouna offers top-notch services, dining, and living options, making it an ideal destination for both a getaway and a seaside workspace. With abundant coworking spaces, reliable wifi, and numerous activities for leisure, why stay home when you can work from this vibrant town?