10 Must-Visit Attractions in Egypt

Egypt is not limited to pyramids and historic tombs. It’s a country where ancient temples, mesmerising Nile views, lively markets, desert landscapes and clear Red Sea waters come together and make it a perfect country to explore. We’ve covered the top 10 attractions to explore while you’re in Egypt. 

1. Giza Pyramids and the Great Sphinx

The Great Sphinx And The Pyramid Of Kufu

The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx are the most famous and iconic landmarks of Egypt. The pyramids are masterpieces of ancient Egyptian engineering, built as royal tombs for 4th Dynasty pharaohs. 

The Great Sphinx, carved directly from bedrock during the same Dynasty, adds a fascinating and mysterious side to the site.

Location: Giza, near Cairo

Highlights

  • Great Pyramid of Khufu
  • Pyramid of Khafre
  • Great Sphinx
  • Pyramid of Menkaure
  • Giza Plateau Views

2. Valley of the Kings 

Aerial View Of The Valley Of The Kings

The Valley of the Kings is one of the most significant and famous ancient sites in Egypt. The place is known for the hidden tombs of New Kingdom pharaohs. The valley has more than 60 tombs, with many of these having carved passages and painted walls showing ancient Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife.

Location: Luxor

Highlights

  • Tomb of Tutankhamun 
  • Tomb of Seti I
  • Tomb of Ramesses
  • Desert Valley Setting

3. Abu Simbel

The Great Temple Of Ramesses Ii Abu Simbel

Abu Simbel is one of the most fascinating highlights of Egypt. It’s popular for its giant rock-cut temples that were built for Ramesses II and Queen Nefertari. It is well-known for its four colossal statues of the pharaoh guarding the entrance.

Location: Near Lake Nasser, south of Aswan

Highlights

  • The Colossal Facade
  • The Solar Alignment
  • The Battle of Kadesh Reliefs
  • Temple of Hathor
  • Lake Nasser backdrop

4. Karnak Temple

Karnak Temple In Egypt

Karnak Temple is one of the largest and most magnificent temple complexes in Egypt. Its stunning carved walls, tall obelisks, open courtyards and massive columns are what make it stand apart. 

Location: Luxor

Highlights

  • Hypostyle Hall
  • The sacred lake
  • Obelisks of Hatshepsut 
  • Avenue of Sphinxes

5. Luxor Temple 

Luxor Temple

Luxor Temple is quite a popular tourist attraction in Egypt. The temple is easily accessible, making it a convenient option for travellers to visit. The temple looks stunning during both day and night, with its grand columns and ancient carvings creating a memorable experience. 

Location: Luxor City Centre

Highlights

  • Avenue of Sphinxes
  • The Entrance & First Pylon
  • Great Court of Ramesses II 
  • Colonnade of Amenhotep III 

6. Egyptian Museum

Egyptian Museum In Cairo

If you want to understand the history of Egypt, visiting the Egyptian Museum would be a great option to start with. The Egyptian Museum is the oldest archaeological museum in the Middle East and has the largest collection of Pharaonic antiquities in the world. 

Location: Tahrir Square, Cairo

Highlights

  • Statue of Khafre
  • Statue of Djoser
  • The Narmer Palette 
  • Ancient coffins and funerary objects

7. Nile River

Nile River Cruise In Egypt

Taking up a multi-day Nile Cruise is one of the best ways to see Egypt at a slower pace. You can just relax and enjoy Egypt’s countryside while passing through traditional villages, ancient sites, and palm groves along the riverbanks.

Nile River Cruise Route: Between Luxor and Aswan

Highlights

  • Nile River Valley and cruise
  • Traditional feluccas
  • Breathtaking sunset views over the Nile 
  • River villages

8. The Philae Temple 

Philae Temple

The Philae Temple is Egypt’s most beautiful temple on water. It is dedicated to the goddess Isis and is one of the most beautifully preserved temples in Egypt. The temple was carefully relocated to its present island by UNESCO to save it from the rising waters of the Aswan Dam.

Location: Aswan

Highlights

  • Dramatic setting
  • The First Pylon
  • The Hypostyle Hall
  • Trajan’s Kiosk

9. Khan el-Khalili Bazaar

Khan El Khalili Bazaar

If you love street shopping, the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar should be added to your travel itinerary. This ancient market has been part of Cairo for hundreds of years and is well-known for its traditional shops, narrow streets and local vibes.

Location: Islamic Cairo, near Al-Hussein Mosque

Highlights

  • Traditional Egyptian Souvenirs
  • Lamps, brassware and handmade crafts
  • Authentic spices and exotic perfumes 
  • Vibrant and traditional cafés 

10. Red Sea Beaches

Red Sea Beach In Egypt

Egypt’s Red Sea beaches are perfect for travellers who want to relax after a busy day of sightseeing and exploration of temples, tombs and busy cities. These beaches are a great spot for family holidays, water activities and resort stays.

Location: Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh

Highlights

  • Snorkelling and diving
  • Boat trips to nearby islands
  • Clear blue water and coral reefs

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