Best Things to Do in Egypt

1. Pyramids of Giza

The Pyramids of Giza are shrouded with mystery and astonishment. Construction began during Egypt's Old Kingdom when Pharaohs were thought to be Gods who needed these majestic tombs in their afterlives. The Great Pyramid is the oldest and only surviving landmark from the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

People from around the world travel to Giza to see these impressive structures still standing. The site includes three pyramids, the Great Pyramid being the largest, the Great Sphinx of Giza, the Solar Barque Museum, as well as smaller pyramids and tombs. It stands as a reminder of a once great kingdom and the legacy it left behind.

2. Abu Simbel

The history of the Abu Simbel temples is an interesting one. It was constructed during the reign of Ramesses II during the 19th dynasty. The temples were created by cutting into the side of a sea cliff along the Nile River. The complex is made up of two structures called the Great Temple and the Small Temple. In the 1960’s, the site was carefully relocated due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam. The exquisite detailing and sheer size of these landmarks draws the attention of travelers from around the world who wish to catch a glimpse of Egypt’s ancient past.   

3. Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings is sometimes referred to as “the Gateway to the Afterlife” and rightfully so. The site offers a profound insight on ancient Egypt’s culture and its emphasis on the afterlife. It is located off the West Bank, near Luxor. The valley serves as a burial site for Egypt's royalty and religious figures during the era of the New Kingdom.

The site can be explored mostly on foot. The most popular tomb at the Valley of the Kings is King Tut’s but visiting the Tomb of Ramesses VI is a must since most of its inscriptions and decorations are left largely intact. When visiting the Valley of the Kings, you cannot help but to feel an all encompassing feeling of awe of its historical importance.

4. Karnak Temple Complex

The Karnak Temple Complex was built for worshipping practices and is one of the largest ancient religious sites in the world. Once part of the ancient and powerful city of Thebes, it is now located near present day Luxor by the East Bank of the Nile River. This excavation site has numerous temples. All of which highlight ancient Egypt’s fascinating mythology.  The largest and most sacred temple in the complex is the Temple of Amun. But don’t forget to explore the Temples of Ptah, Ramses II, Khons, Osiris and many more.

5. Egyptian Museum

Located in downtown Cairo, the renowned Egyptian Museum is a must-see for any visit to Egypt. The museum has one of the largest displays of artifacts that date back to the time of the Pharaohs. The museum prides itself on its preservation of these priceless archeological discoveries for their cultural and historical significance.  

And walking through their many galleries, you cannot help but to marvel at their beauty. The museum houses nearly 160,000 ancient artifacts so just make sure you give yourself plenty of time exploring. The site also includes a detailed display of King Tut’s, as well as other royalties’, tombs during the New Kingdom era.  

6. Ras Muhammad National Park

Ras Muhammad National Park is located on the southern edge of the Sinai Peninsula. Its coral reefs are one of the healthiest in the world due to its unique location and protection. Shark and Yolanda Reef are the most popular snorkeling and diving locations in the area. Besides its beautiful coral reefs, the park also has bird watching and even remains of a sunken military ship. So if you want to explore the secrets of the Red Sea like Jacques Cousteau, you should definitely check out this protected park one day.

Note: Due to political unrest in the area, it is advised you do not visit the Sinai Peninsula. (Updated 2018)

7. Saint Catherine's Monastery

Located outside Egypt’s main cities within Mount Sinai, Saint Catherine's Monastery offers a slight detour from ancient Egyptian history. Built around 565 AD, this monastery is a significant establishment for many religious faiths. The land which it was built on has been referred to in the Old Testament making it a sacred location.

It also has the oldest functioning library and some of the oldest Biblical texts in the world. In 2002, due to its historical significance, it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Saint Catherine's Monastery is a prime example of Egypt’s culturally diverse history and a must-see for any well-rounded trip to Egypt.

8. Mosque of Muhammad Ali

As one of the top tourist attractions in Cairo, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali is valued for its stunning Ottoman architecture and religious importance among the Islamic faith. Located in Cairo’s Citadel, it is easily accessible for those in the area. Built in the 19th century by Muhammad Ali, its exterior stands out among other nearby structures for its unique domes and towering Minarets.

The interior does not have a blank wall in sight. Each section is intricately designed and its beautiful lighting fixtures brightens each room in an serene luminosity. The architecture and history of the Mosque of Muhammad Ali makes it a great stop when exploring Cairo.

9. The Step Pyramid of Djoser Complex

The Step Pyramid of Djoser tends to be overshadowed by larger structures in Egypt, but being over 4,000 years old and the first constructed pyramid, it is the framework of future Egyptian monuments including the Pyramids of Giza. It was built for King Djoser around 2630 B.C.E. as a tomb for himself. This began the ancient Egyptian tradition of creating large burial sites for royalty.

This impressive site also includes the ruins of temples, rooms, statues, and courtyards. Compared to other tourist attraction spots, this site is far less crowded. This makes visiting here much easier to explore. The Step Pyramid of Djoser Complex exhibits humanity’s archaeological and cultural evolution which transcends beyond ancient Egypt.

10. Nile River Cruise

One of the best and most popular ways to see Egypt is via a river cruise down the Nile. When you travel down these ancient waters, you see why this river is held in such reverent prestige by the Egyptian people and the essential place it has in Egyptian culture. When you travel down the Nile you’ll get to explore many of the attractions listed here. Temples dot the landscape as you travel through the Valley of the Kings - it is quite an experience to feel all that palpable history so close up. Explore ancient stone chambers decorated with hieroglyphics, and learn about their significance from knowledgeable guides and Egyptologists.