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7 Unmissable Experiences in Egypt

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By Carrie Hawes


Egypt is a captivating destination for travellers eager to explore ancient history, vibrant culture and spectacular landscapes. From the timeless wonders of the Nile and the awe-inspiring monuments of the pharaohs to the colourful coral reefs of the Red Sea, Egypt offers an extraordinary variety of experiences that never fail to impress.

Egypt is hands down one of my favourite places to holiday in the Middle East and if you’re planning a holiday here, here are some of my top things to see and do in this remarkable country. Prepared to be astounded at every turn!

Visit the Pyramids of Giza

The Pyramids of Giza are unquestionably Egypt’s most famous attraction, and for good reason. Dating back to around 2,500 BC, the pyramids are a remarkable testament to the ingenuity and skill of ancient Egyptian engineering. The largest of the three, the Great Pyramid originally stood at an impressive 147 metres tall and is the only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World.


Next to the pyramids stands the Great Sphinx, an enormous limestone statue with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, silently guarding the plateau for thousands of years. Visitors to Giza can explore the vast complex, admire these iconic monuments up close, and gain a deeper understanding of the fascinating history and cultural significance behind Egypt’s most celebrated landmarks.


Top Tip: For a meal with a view, Khufu's Restaurant is hard to beat. Overlooking the Great Pyramid of Giza, this modern Egyptian restaurant offers one of the most iconic dining settings in the world. I recommend reserving a table well in advance to enjoy this fantastic spot!


 

General view of pyramids from the Giza Plateau

Delve into Culture in Cairo

Cairo is home to a wealth of fascinating museums that offer insight into Egypt’s rich history and culture. The newly opened (November 2025) and highly acclaimed Grand Egyptian Museum, located just outside the city, is the largest archaeological museum in the world. It houses an extraordinary collection of ancient artefacts, including mummies, jewellery, sculptures. The highlight is undoubtedly the complete collection of treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun, on display together for the first time since being uncovered by British archaeologist Howard Carter and his team in 1922.


 

View of Giza Pyramids from the interior of the Grand Egyptian Museum
Grand Egyptian Museum

Beyond its museums, Cairo’s bustling streets come alive with experiences, from traditional souqs, where vibrant stalls overflow with spices, textiles, jewellery and handcrafted souvenirs, to lively cafés and street food vendors offering the irresistible flavours of authentic Egyptian cuisine. Make sure to allow time to explore Islamic Cairo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most impressive collections of Islamic architecture in the world. Home to The Citadel of Saladin, an impressive 12th Century fortress and Cairo’s oldest market Khan el-Khalili, this historical centre should not be missed. 


Top Tip: I suggest taking a break from Khan el-Khalili’s labyrinth of lively market stalls at the charming Naguib Mahfouz Café. Opened in 1989 as a tribute to the famous Egyptian writer, who was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature, this timeless eatery celebrates authentic Egyptian cuisine in beautiful surroundings.


 

Cairo downtown and the Nile river, aerial view

Discover Alexandria's Rich & Varied History

Once arguably the most important city in the world, Egypt’s historic Mediterranean port Alexandria, blends rich heritage with a lively coastal atmosphere. Visitors can explore remarkable sites such as the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, the Roman Amphitheatre, Pompey’s Pillar, and the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina. With palm-lined streets, bustling markets, and vibrant cafés along the Corniche, Alexandria combines history, culture, and seaside charm.


Top Tip: Delve deeper into Alexandria's fascinating history with a knowledgeable guide on our Private Alexandria Discovery tour, which departs from Cairo. It's a long but interesting day trip.


 

Montazah Palace, Alexandria

Sail the Nile River

The Nile River is the lifeblood of Egypt, and a cruise along its waters offers a wonderfully unhurried way to explore this magnificent country. As visitors sail gently downstream, the scenery constantly shifts - from traditional riverside villages and lush green fields to the dramatic desert landscapes beyond. Stretching across the length of Egypt, the River Nile has shaped the culture, history, and natural beauty of the regions along its course since ancient times.


Top Tip: The same boat will typically cruise between Aswan and Luxor in both directions. Once you've decided on your Nile cruiser, if you’re debating which direction to choose, it's worth knowing that travelling downstream from Aswan to Luxor is usually the faster option. You’ll still make the same sightseeing stops, but you’ll complete the journey in three nights instead of the four it typically takes to travel upstream from Luxor against the current. The slower pace offered by travelling in the opposite direction does allow a little more downtime on board - meaning more time to soak up those mesmerising river views from the sundeck.


 

Nile riverbank near Aswan and traditional sailboat

Marvel at Luxor's Temples

Situated on the banks of the Nile, Luxor was once the capital of ancient Egypt and today stands as a centre of historical and cultural tourism. Often described as an open-air museum, the city is home to some of Egypt’s most remarkable temples and ruins. The Temple of Karnak, the largest temple complex in the country, is a must-visit for its awe-inspiring architecture and intricate carvings. Across the river, the Valley of the Kings invites visitors to explore the tombs of pharaohs and gain insight into ancient burial rituals, offering a fascinating glimpse into Egypt’s rich past.


Top Tip: For an experience of a lifetime, take to the skies of Luxor in a hot air balloon. Watching the sun rise over the Valley of the Kings and the glistening Nile is a truly magical experience and one I would urge you not to miss.


 

Luxor Temple courtyard and the statues of Ramses II

Reflect beside the Nile in Aswan

Set along the southern Nile, Aswan is a city of serene beauty and laidback charm. It offers a perfect mix of history and nature, from the relocated Philae Temple to the gentle flow of the river dotted with traditional feluccas. Visitors can explore Elephantine Island, wander through botanical gardens, or soak in the peaceful riverfront atmosphere that has inspired travellers for centuries. Aswan can also be used as a base to explore the incredible temple complex of Abu Simbel, with its colossal statues and masterfully carved red rock face it is arguably one of Egypt’s most impressive sights.


Top Tip: Although most travellers opt for the short flight from Aswan to Abu Simbel, it is possible to transfer there by road. Whilst it involves a very early start and a long drive through fairly featureless scenery, watching the sun rise over the desert is wonderfully atmospheric. The best bit though is it usually means you reach Abu Simbel before the first flight (and the crowds) arrive.


 

Aerial panoramic view of the Nile river with Feluccas

Relax by the Red Sea

Egypt is not just about ancient history, it is also home to picturesque beaches and vibrant coral reefs. The Red Sea is a popular destination for snorkelling and scuba diving, thanks to its clear waters and diverse marine life. 


The resort town of Hurghada is one of the most sought-after spots for both watersports and beach relaxation, renowned for its high-end resorts and excellent facilities. Meanwhile, Sharm El Sheikh offers a similarly inviting combination of sun, sea and leisure, and is easily paired with a city break in Cairo - making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking both adventure and relaxation.


Top Tip: Work up an appetite with a pre-breakfast snorkel. In the morning, the Red Sea is at its calmest, visibility is at its clearest, and marine life is at its most active.


 

woman snorkeling underwater, coral reef

For more inspiration, take a look at our Egypt Holidays pages.


 

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Written by Carrie Hawes

Carrie is the Head of Content at Trailfinders and based in our Kensington head office. Carrie has worked at Trailfinders since 2003 and has travelled to 86 countries (and counting!). Her favourite destinations include India, Rwanda and Easter Island.

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