Egypt is a destination that features on many traveler’s bucket lists and is one of the best places to visit in the world. However, deciding on the places to visit in Egypt and the number of days all depends on your itinerary.
Most travelers go to Egypt to explore world-class diving and abundant culture. However, there are a host of hidden locations and offbeat places that you need to know when planning a trip to this ancient land.
October to April offers warmer temperatures, and sunshine, and is a popular time to visit. However, December and January are cooler and allow you to explore the beauty of this place without too many crowds. Below is everything you need to know when visiting this stunning country.
First-timer’s Guide: The List of Must-Sees
A well-crafted 8-day Egypt tour package allows you to take in the beauty of the Pyramids, ancient tombs, and temples whose walls are covered in hieroglyphics. A history buff’s dream, Egypt offers several architectural marvels complete with spice souks and even local markets that offer an array of spices, crafts, and local treasures.
Of course, traveling in Egypt, especially for first-time visitors can be quite challenging if you don’t know where to go or what to do. To make your trip seamless, here are some of the most popular places in Egypt to visit to get the most out of the country.
1. Cairo
Travelers will need at least two days in Cairo to explore this place properly. Devote the first day to the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx in the morning, followed by the Memphis Museum and the funerary complex of Sakkara.
On day two, visitors can explore the renowned Al-Azhar and the magnificently severe Ibn Tulun mosques, the Citadel, and end the day with local shopping at Khan El-Khalili market.
Must visit: Don’t miss out on the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, the Grand Egyptian Museum, and the Pyramid of Unas.
2. Aswan
Aswan can be reached by a short connecting flight from Cairo and then a short flight to Abu Simbel. Here, travelers can visit the Ramses II’s staggering temples, and then board the short early afternoon flight back to Aswan.
Aswan, being a frontier town, offers the temple of Philae, centered on the powerful cult of Isis worship. There is also the St. Simeon’s Monastery, the elegant, pink granite Nubian Museum, Elephantine Island, and a walk atop the Unfinished Obelisk.
Must visit: The Aswan market is small but offers the freshest, most varied spices sourced directly from all over Africa. So, stock up before you head to your next destination.
3. Luxor
Considered one of the best places to visit in Egypt, Luxor offers a ton of Egyptian antiquities and was the ceremonial capital of the country. Make sure to visit the renowned Karnak complex. Be sure to check out the Luxor Temple, and the pharaonic tombs of Ramses VI, Nefertari, and Seti I.
You should also see the stunning Deir el-Bahri, the mortuary temple of Hatshepsut, and the Tombs of the Nobles. You may not want to miss the temples of Medinet Habu, and the Ramesseum which are much less crowded.
Must visit: The Avenue of the Sphinxes is worthwhile. It took 70 years to restore the originally lined 1,057 sphinxes and ram-headed statues from Karnak to Luxor Temple.
4. Nile Cruise
The Nile Cruise is a must if you want to experience the best places to visit in Egypt. You can cruise on a large ship with ample amenities. Or, you can go for a traditional flat-bottomed, two-masted dahabiya which is the preferred choice.
Most dahabiyas leave from the south of Luxor and sail upstream to Aswan. You can even board in Aswan and sail downstream to Esna which is shorter. All the boats stop at the temples of Kom Ombo and of Horus at Edfu. You will be enamored by the beautiful scenic views of the river and palm-lined shores.
Must visit: Some dahabiyas can also take you to a secluded stretch of the Nile shoreline. This allows you to set up an impromptu picnic along with a walk to the nearby town. The best part? There are absolutely no crowds.
5. Giza
A short journey from the River Nile to Giza, home of the Pyramids, most travelers look for hotels with a view of the Pyramids. From here, travelers can visit the Grand Egyptian Museum, which displays around 50,000 ancient artifacts, including King Tut’s chariots.
Don’t miss out on exploring the Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, Menkaure, the Sphinx, and the Valley Temple. If possible, you may want to choose to go inside the Great Pyramid.
Must visit: The Sound and Light Show at the Giza pyramids provides an engaging way to learn about ancient Egyptian history. This is a great way to also enjoy a spectacular sunset.
Best Places to Visit in Egypt: What to Expect
If you’re wondering how many days for Egypt is perfect, then 8 days should be ideal. This will give you enough time to cover the country’s popular and offbeat places. You will also have the best experience in Egypt.
Here are some of our favorite places to visit in the ancient city.
1. The Valley of Kings
The Valley of the Kings is tucked on the sandy cliffs on the west bank of the Nile. Visitors can climb down steep passages into the elaborately decorated burial rooms and even see Tutankhamun’s tomb.
2. Hot air balloon ride
While several companies offer hot air balloon rides, local guides are the most reasonable. Remember that most tours will also arrange a sunrise or a sunset hot air balloon ride for you. Visitors can see the orange hues of the desert sun dance between ancient landmarks, the pristine River Nile, and the desert mountains in the distance.
3. Temple of Hatshepsut
The Temple of Hatshepsut in Luxor was built directly into the natural rock face. Travelers can marvel at its magnificent terraces, adorned with ramps and statues, and explore the depictions of Queen Hatshepsut lining the entrance.
Places to Visit in Egypt: Re-kindle Your Love for Travel
Armed with the knowledge of the best places to visit in Egypt, you are ready for a trip of a lifetime. Whether you’re looking to cruise the Nile in a traditional dahabiya, visit the bent Pyramid of Dahshur, or enjoy a private tour of Luxor, Anubhav Vacations has the perfect itinerary.
You can enjoy the slow-paced itinerary that enables you to see everything that Egypt has to offer without feeling rushed. The best part is that you will be in the company of like-minded fellow travelers who too want to enjoy the top places to visit in Egypt without feeling burdened.
