For countless generations, the awe-inspiring pyramids and famous waters of the Nile have inspired wanderlust. Just look at these pics and you’ll see why the exotic wonders of Egypt have had a permanent place on all of everyone’s bucket lists.
Wandering the vibrant streets of Cairo is an essential and expected stop on every tourist’s agenda. I recently had a whirlwind five-day adventure through Cairo and the Pyramids and loved every moment of it.
As much as I adore the Egyptian capital, however, it’s far from the only place worth exploring in Egypt. From the shores of the Mediterranean to the sun-soaked desert towns, this North African gem has so much to offer.
Ready to see the greatest wonders of the ancient and modern world? Here are 10 places to add to your Egypt itinerary.
Alexandria
Far from the chaos of Cairo, you’ll find this slightly quieter city by the sea. It’s home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Great Library of Alexandria, as well as Necropolis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages.
A world away from the typical tourist traps, the sites of Alexandria are the kind of places that simply take your breath away. For me, just following the 4500-year-old footsteps of countless explorers before me is truly magical.
Luxor
Famous for its Nile cruises, Luxor is the starting point for countless travelers looking to set sail during the world’s most famous river. It’s also the entry point into the Valley of the Kings, where history buffs can lay eyes on the tombs of Tutankhamen and Nefertari.
While there was fierce competition, the iconic sites of Luxor and Giza are a couple of the places that remain at the top of my Ultimate Africa Travel Bucket List.
Aswan
At the southern border of ancient Egypt, Aswan has been a cultural and trade hub since camel caravans transported Egyptian gold and spices.
The area is also a prime base for exploring the nearby Nubian ruins.
Plan at least a couple of days to take a felucca (traditional eastern Mediterranean wooden sailboat) trip down the Nile River, then explore the wonders of the Nubian Museum, Philae Temple, Unfinished Obelisk, Qubbet el-Hawa, and Nubian Village.
Hurghada
While Egypt might call to mind images of sweeping deserts and dusty pyramids, it also has some outstanding diving sites. The beach resort town Hurghada is one of the prime spots on the Red Sea for scuba diving.
Planning Tip: Have extra time? Diving the Red Sea in Aqaba with Deep Blue Dive Center was one of the best scuba experiences of my life! If you can swing it, I’d highly recommend lingering around the Red Sea.
Ready to get onto dry land? From traditional markets (souks) to hopping nightclubs, Hurghada has something for everyone.
Siwa Oasis
A world away from the tourist traps and busy streets of Cairo, Siwa Oasis is a breath of fresh air. Wander amongst the sand dunes and soak in the otherworldly beauty of the turquoise hot springs and lakes.
Plan time to dig deeper into the culture here. As you explore the desert, you’ll have the opportunity to take in the wonders of the traditional local Berber culture of the region.
Al-Sahaba Mosque in Sharm El Sheikhs Old Market Area
Sharm el-Sheikh
Egypt’s most famous resort town, this city by the sea is home to some of the most beautiful coral you’ll ever see and it’s easily one of the most impressive diving destinations in the world.
Explore the Ras Mohammed National Park, which is considered to be amongst the most beautiful marine parks in the world just after the Great Barrier Reefs of Australia. When you’re ready to dry off, head out to Colorful Canyon.
Planning Tip: Learning to dive has taken my travel experiences to a whole new level — literally! Some of the most beautiful sites I’ve ever seen in my life have been below sea level. Grab my guide to diving around the globe and experience a whole new side of the world.
Sinai Peninsula
A day trip from Sharm el-Sheikh, you’ll find the wonder of St. Catherine’s Monastery. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the oldest working Christian monasteries in the world.
With world-famous Byzantine art, this fascinating piece of Greek Orthodox culture has been a peaceful retreat since 330 AD.
Planning Tip: While it can get sultry here, be sure to dress appropriately for a religious place. To enter, you’ll need to cover your legs and arms. And, before you go, grab my guide to What to Pack for a Trip to a Conservative Country.
Suez
Sure, I wouldn’t normally go all of the way around the country to see an engineering wonder, but the Suez Canal is something else. Between Africa and Asia, the Isthmus of Suez is an essential stop.
Take the ferry from Port Said to Port Faud then explore the 6th Pharaonic history dating back to the 25th Century B.C.
Debating when to book that flight? Here’s what you should know about the best time to go to Egypt.
Saqqara Entrance
Saqqara
Just 17 miles (27 kilometers) south of central Cairo, Saqqara is well worth the detour. Home to the Memphis necropolis in the capital of Ancient Egypt, this place will transport you back in time.
Plan at least one day to explore the archaeological wonders of the Pyramid of Teti, Mastabas of Kagemni and Ti, as well as The Serapeum. Once you’ve seen it all firsthand, pay a visit to the Imhotep Museum to get a deeper understanding of the history and culture.
Marsa Matruh
A beautiful Mediterranean city built by Alexander the Great, Marsa Matruh is a perfect pick for beach lovers. Soak in the sun, splash in the shores, and take in the gorgeous view.
Marsa Matruh is also famous for its markets.
Sitting at the frontier of the Western Desert of Egypt, you can get rare desert herbs here that are famous for curing anything that ails you. Located on the Egyptian-Libyan border, you’ll also find a range of trinkets from across the border.
Ready to walk like an Egyptian? Then you definitely need my guide to the ten things you’ve gotta know before your first trip to Egypt!
