Explore Egypt

Top Cities & Places to Explore

Cairo

Egypt’s largest city and bustling capital is home to one of the oldest civilizations in the world. Multiple ruling dynasties, wars, invasions and colonialism have shaped its history and culture. Today, it is a unique blend of many different languages and people.

Iconic tours include a visit to the Egyptian Museum, which showcases more than 100,000 Egyptian antiquities, such as papyrus, coins, mummies, and to the Mosque of Ibn Tulun, one of the oldest mosques. Built between 876 and 879 AD, the mosque features exceptional archtecture.

The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) officially opened in late 2025 and occupies a massive, five-million-plus square feet (4,645,152 m2) facility.

It is an archaeological and national museum that houses the most valuable Egyptian artifacts from the Predynastic Period to Coptic Egypt, spanning 5,000 years. Many items are on public display for the first time. Over 13,000 artifacts are arranged by time period (c.3100 BCE to 400 BCE).

Highlights include: carved reliefs, objects of everyday life, artifacts from Tutankhamun’s tomb, including the iconic gold mask, colossal statues of Ramses II, objects of Queen Hatshepsut, mummies and jewelry. 

The Al Azhar Park, a 74-acre (30-hectare), lushly landscaped multi-use green space, was once a garbage dump. Learn about its transformation and the role it plays in the city’s effort to fight climate change. Enjoy lunch at one of the park’s restaurants. Near the park is Khan el-Khalili bazaar, amarketplace with cobblestone alleyways filled with shop owners selling anything imaginable – souvenirs, jewelry and decorative objects. The smell of spices permeates the air, inviting you to experience traditional dishes at a local restaurant.

Baron Empain Palace’s opulent design was inspired by Hindu templesElectric power companies were the source of his wealth. Around the turn of the last century, Baron Empain’s Egyptian business was awarded a government transportation contract for an electric tramcar system. Many symbolic sculptures and icons are featured at the palace.

Citadel of Saladin, a fortress dating back to the Middle Ages, offers visitors a 360º view of the city. The impressive Islamic architecture served as the backdrop for the many rulers who resided here in earlier times. Discover museums and monuments added over the years, including the Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha.

Travel to Old Cairo to discover and explore Coptic Cairo and its language, dating back to ancient times. The Babylon Fortress, built by the Romans, is near the Coptic Christian’s Hanging Church, built atop its gatehouse. The center of the church is suspended over a passageway. Magnificent mosaics and architectural elements depict scenes from the life of Jesus, sharing historical events. Old Cairo is also home to Islamic mosques and a Jewish synagogue. The latter is a unique blend of architecture representing all three religions.

Memphis or Mit Rahina Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features over 3,000 years of ancient history, including the Temple of the ka of Ptah.

The Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan was built in 1357 by the sultan whose family then ruled Egypt; he was assassinated before completing his namesake mosque. It is reputed to be the most significant Islamic building globally. The Mamuk-era architecture is representative of the ruling power. The details are exceptional, with the patterned mosaic-paved courtyard serving as one of many examples.

At the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization discover approximately 400 ancient artifacts from different historical periods:  Predynastic, Graeco-Roman, Coptic, Islamic and modern times. Learn about Egypt’s agriculture, ships and boats, music, art, architecture, commerce, gods and more. 

The Sakkara/Saqqara Necropolis historic site is home to the Djoser Step Pyramid, the first pyramid built by the ancient Egyptians and the oldest known ancient stone structure.

Giza

Located southwest of Cairo, the complex showcases multiple pyramids. The first one built was the largest at 455 feet (139m) high and is known as the Great Pyramid, Pyramid of Khufu or Pyramid of Cheops and the last remaining Seven “Ancient” Wonders of the World.

Bearing the name of Khufu’s ruling son is the Pyramid of Khafre. He is known for building the Sphinx to guard the temples. The smaller structure is the Pyramid of Menkaure. The pyramids were designed to be the burial grounds for the kings and their dynasties, along with their possessions.

While the Pyramids of Giza are a spectacular attraction during daytime hours, the evening sound and light show provides another dimension. During this magical experience, visitors travel back in time. This massive mythical creature has witnessed many events, having stood over the temples for millennia, guarding the kings’ burial grounds, possessions and dynasties.

Part entertainment, part history lessons, discover Egypt’s rulers: King Khufu, who built the Great Pyramid, King Khafre, his son, who built his namesake structure and King Menkaure, who oversaw the creation of a smaller pyramid. Leave the show with a deeper understanding of the temple’s undiscovered mysteries and secrets, as revealed by archaeologists. Shows are offered each evening, weather permitting. 

Luxor

Closer to Cairo, Luxor is at the crossroads of trade routes. Fertile farm ground surrounds the city,  whose more than 250,000 residents live and work primarily in the East Bank.

During earlier times, Luxor was known as Thebes. Its ruins lie within present-day Luxor. Great strides have been made to preserve Luxor’s cultural heritage through conservation. 

Hotels, restaurants and shops are on the East Bank. Across the Nile, visitors can experience the desert while exploring the Valley of the Kings. Take a look back at Egyptian civilizations, pharaohs and their tombs. Egypt’s rich history, architecture, art, cultural heritage and spiritual connections are thoughtfully preserved.

Shop on the opposite end of the Market in Old Town for spices and textiles to avoid the crowds and vendors hawking their wares. At Luxor Souk, watch artisans at work and negotiate for a bargain

Luxor Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Housed on the East Bank of the Nile River in Luxor, it was the ancient capital of Egypt during the Middle Kingdom (2040-1782 BCE)* and New Kingdom (1570-1069 BCE)*.

Luxor Temple is dedicated to the Thebian god Amun, who was a protector of the city. The statues of Amun, his wife, Mut, and son, Khonsu, a moon god, were brought here to celebrate the reaffirmation of the king’s rule with ceremonial rituals.

Constructed mainly during Amenhotep III’s 18th-century reign (1860-circa 1815 BCE)*. Additions were made during the 18th Dynasty (the first Dynasty of the New Kingdom) and later by Ramsesses II (circa 1279-1213 BCE). Each successive pharaoh continued expanding the complex devoted to other deities and desiring to secure their place in Egyptian history. After the 11th century, changes were made, and portions of Luxor Temple were buried, only to be rediscovered during a 19th-century archaeological dig by British archaeologist Howard Carter, who also discovered Tutankhamun’s tomb.

Luxor Temple’s entrance features two colossi (larger-than-life) seated statues of Ramses and a large obelisk. Intricately decorated interior courtyards and colonnades showcase Egyptian motifs and play with the light and shadows. The site also has pylons – two large structures separated by a gateway, relief carvings portraying Ramses’ military might, including the triumphant Battle of Kadesh.

Luxor Temple is connected to Karnak Temple via the Avenue of Sphinxes, a 1.5-mile (2.5 km) processional pathway.

The complex’s architecture is historically significant, reflecting the religious, spiritual, social, and political importance of those time periods. The layout symbolizes water, creation, balance and order.

Aswan

Aswan, the largest city in Southern Egypt with a population of 1.3 million people, sits on the east bank of the Nile River. Its location means it plays a significant role in water transportation and the movement of goods in and out of ancient Egypt.

Today, the city is protected by the Aswan High Dam, which, when created, formed Lake Nasser to its south, closer to the Sudan border. Between the dam and Aswan lies the Philae Temple, relocated to the island of Agilkia from where it was initially built. 

Aswan is home to the Nubian people, with brightly painted homes, traditional music, customs and dance and warm hospitality, contrasting with the stone monuments. Many were forced to relocate with the building of the dam.

Aswan’s ancient monuments, Egyptian antiquities, historic museums, ruins and artifacts are a driving force in the economy. Revenues from conservation works help fuel more projects. In Aswan, past and present co-exist with ease.

Nature lovers have ample opportunities. Residents can fish for the largest freshwater fish, the Nile perch, or go kayaking or participate in biking sports. Aswan has the unique distinction of being on migratory routes for animals and birds; as such, birdwatching is a popular activity.

Two reserves are located nearby: Wadi Allaqi Biosphere Reserve, National Parks in Africa, southeast of Aswan, and Saluga and Ghazal Reserve; it is situated on islands north of Aswan.

Aswan High Dam
As with many rivers, flooding can be an issue. The Nile River is no different. Over 10 years, from 1960 to 1970, the Aswan High Dam was built at the southern end of the Nile River in Egypt after more than 50 years of discussion.

During Egyptian President Nasser’s term in office, he sought to develop the dam for hydroelectric power and reduce the risk of flooding of agricultural land, increasing output; however, the outcome was not without controversy. Nubian communities were forced to relocate from their ancestral homes along the river in Egypt and Sudan, which impacted their livelihoods and lifestyles. 

The Nubia Museum, opened in 1996, exhibits the archaeological, historical, cultural and environmental heritage of Nubia. The building’s design reflects local resources and traditional Nubian architecture. A garden with water channels demonstrates the relationship between the Nile River and a Nubian village with a reconstructed home.

The Nile’s ecosystem of marine life and naturally occurring ecosystems was disturbed, resulting in a reduction of nutrients flowing downstream. This necessitates replacing once fertile soil created from flooding with chemicals and fertilizers.

The project required the relocation of communities, as well as the Temple of Abu Simbel. When completed, the dam created Lake Nasser. It is one of the largest man-made lakes and is 2.4 miles (3,830m) long, .6 miles (980m) wide and 364 feet (111m) tall. More than 55 years later, some question if the good outweighs the bad.

The Great Temple of Abu Simbel
A UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in Southern Egypt in the Nubia area dates back to 1264 BC. It is one of the most impressive archaeological sites. Commissioned by King Ramesses II, Egypt’s 19th Dynasty, the temple is carved into the rock. At its main entrance, four larger-than-life-size statues in seated positions greet visitors.

Continuing inside, standing statues line the main foyer and lead to four god-like versions of the king. Twice each year, on February 22nd and October 22nd, the sun’s rays enter the temple and illuminate the statues.

The nearby Small Temple is dedicated to the king’s wife, Queen Nefertari and Hathor, the goddess of motherhood, love, fertility and music. Similar to the king’s colossi, the queen is also featured on the facade of her temple.

The construction of the Aswan High Dam threatened the temples, which forced their relocation to ensure they would be saved for future generations to enjoy.

Hurghada

Located on the west coast of the northern Red Sea, Hurghada is one of Egypt’s premier beach destinations. Visitors enjoy beautiful resorts, snorkeling and desert excursions. It has easy access to nearby reefs and islands.

Dive liveaboards based here can bring serve recreational and tec divers desiring to visit shipwrecks including SS Thistlegorm, Abu Nuhas, home to Carnatic, Kimon M, Chisoula K and Giannis D. While small in size, Gubal Island features three dive sites for those certified to handle strong currents. Bluff Point features corals – hard and soft and unique topography.

The Hurghada Museum is the first antiquities museum in the eastern desert between the Nile River and the Red Sea. Its 2,000 artifacts showcase Egypt’s beauty in history through time – Ancient Egypt, Graeco-Roman, Jewish to Christian, Islamic and modern.

Marsa Alam

Located on the southern Red Sea coast, offers a quieter alternative to Hurghada and serves as a gateway to many southern Red Sea liveaboard itineraries. Less populated dive sites in the Deep South are St. John’s, Zabargad and Rocky Island. A bit further north, in the Central and Southern Red Sea, but easily access from Marsa Alam, are Elphinstone, Brothers Islands and Daedalus Reef.

This are of the Red Sea is known for pristine reefs, healthy coral gardens, dugongs, dolphins and exceptional diving.

Sharm el-Sheikh

Situated at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, Sharm El Sheikh is famous for luxury resorts, dramatic desert mountains, and spectacular diving in Ras Mohammed National Park and the Straits of Tiran.

Sharm al-Sheikh Museum highlights specific topic relevant to this rich trade route where a cross section of cultures traversed: Grand  Hall – ancient Egyptian civilization’s preoccupation with science, mathematics, industry, crafts, family life, and love for and reverence of animals; Hall of Civilization – outer and inner coffins, papyrus collections, cosmetics and objects of the Sinai cultural heritage.

Ras Mohammed is Egypt’s first national park. It is a popular among day-trip divers due to its accessibility. Dive liveaboards can help avoid the crowds. Two reefs – Shark and Yolanda – are reputed to be the one of the most beautiful dives on the planet. Divers will discover vast numbers of fish and dolphins and impressive, colorful corals. 

The Strait of Tiran east of the peninsula is home to four exceptional Egyptian reefs – Jackson, Thomas Woodhouse and Gordon.

Alexandria

Located 137 miles (220 km) northwest of Cairo, Alexandria is Egypt’s second-largest city. Founded in 331 BCE by the Greek ruler Alexander the Great. Its strategic location as a Mediterranean port has led to occupation by Greeks (Ptolemaics), Romans and Byzantines, Islamic/Muslim Arabs, and the French and British. Alexandria’s buildings showcase the finest of each ruler.

Famous names associated with the city include the Ptolemaic Cleopatra, who courted the Roman Julius Caesar, and Mark Antony, who was defeated by Octavian. 

The Graeco-Roman Museum, housed in the Greek Revival Al-Muntazah Palace, was established to keep Alexandria’s antiquities within the city. It is the only museum dedicated entirely to Egyptian civilization during the Greek and Roman periods. Highlights include Coptic art, the economy, Alexander the Great, Ptolemaic Rule, the Roman Period, life and art of the Byzantine Period, Ras el-Soda, religious life, science and intellectuality, and the afterlife.  

Rome’s Egyptian cultural activities are represented at the Roman Amphitheater in Kom el-Dikka, an area of the modern city, home to the only surviving open-air museum from the Roman and Byzantine periods. The site’s focal point is the only one of its type in Egypt:  a well-preserved Roman theater.

Nearby are remains of a bath complex built with advanced engineering skills and a hypocaust (underfloor heating) system, and early Roman villas. The Villa of the Birds features floor mosaics of birds and various patterns.

Lecture halls, believed to be part of a school or university, illustrate academic life. Thirty-six artifacts and sculptures of the ancient city, recovered from sunken ruins at the site of Qaitbay Fort, are also on display.

Descend from ground level via a spiral staircase into the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the underground burial ground for Alexandria’s wealthy and notable residents. Here, view its chambers and stone coffins. Used during the Roman Period from 2 to 4 AD, it is reputed to be the oldest and largest of its kind, once holding up to 300 bodies. Its architectural style blends Hellenistic elements. Iconography, reliefs and statues feature ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman influences and symbolism. 

The Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven (7) Wonders of the Ancient World, was located off Pharos Island but was destroyed in 1303 following an earthquake.

The Citadel of Qaitbey (or Fort Qaitbay), located on the eastern tip of the Pharos Peninsula, is a 15th-century, tri-level fortress built between 1477AD and 1479 AD by Sultan Qaitbay on the ruins of the Lighthouse of Alexandria. It sits on the western end of the crescent-shaped coastal Corniche overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. As was common, its location provided an expansive view of the sea in anticipation of naval attacks. The citadel was designed in Maluk Islamic military style and reflects exceptional engineering and defensive features.

Bibliotheca Alexandria is housed in a stunning modern building, with millions of books and is renowned for its classical antiquities.

The Alexandria National Museum, designed in Italianate style, features exhibits spanning from prehistoric to the modern era: Pharaonic artifacts in the basement, with a chronological ascent through the Greco-Roman, Coptic (Byzantine), and Islamic periods to the present day.  Antiquities recovered from the sunken Abu Air Bay, Egyptian arts and crafts, metal, ceramic, glass, coins and jewelry are displayed.

With its exquisite architectural style, Abu Abbas al-Mursi Mosque dates back to the 13th century, during the time of the Ottoman Empire. Today it is an active mosque, mausoleum and Sufi shrine. Visitors are restricted during prayer time and reminded to remove their shoes before entering; women must wear headscarves as a sign of respect.

The Corniche is a crescent-shaped seaside promenade, home to seafood restaurants, cafes and historic landmarks. It is a popular sunset-watching site. 

Temperature-wise, the city’s location of the coast results in delightful summer weather gaining humidity in July and August. Winters can be cool and storm bring heavy rainfall.

Alexandria is accessible by train, car, bus or plane.https://visitegypt.com/news-blog/alexandria-egypt-historical-sites/