Now, Egypt may be a cheaper country to visit, which is true, but man is it rich in its history that spans thousands of years. Nile River, the longest river in the world that sheltered one of the known ancient civilisations runs through Egypt. The country might have left the coast as time went by, but the river still keeps the country moist and acts as a source of electricity. Unusual white desert, natural floating pools—there’s just so much to explore in this country! We have compiled a list of 16 best places to visit in Egypt for you. Read along to find out all about it!
Great Pyramids of Giza
Egypt is well known for its temperature. The sun scorches down on its people, nonetheless tourists. But the interior of these ancient beauties remains a constant 20 C, the average temperature on earth and you can enter and see it for yourself for a fee.
The Pyramids of Giza are the only remaining wonder among the 7 ancient wonders of the world. It is estimated to have been constructed during 2550 to 2490 B.C, using approximately 2.3 million stone blocks. How they transported all that weight, and the engineering behind this masterpiece are mysteries that remain undiscovered.
Pyramids were built by Pharaohs themselves as burial places for them. Why? Well, ancient Egyptians believed that surviving the afterlife required certain things. And so, they would be buried along with all sorts of treasures. Located south-west of Central Cairo, this has to be one of the top places to visit in Egypt. The view is brilliant!
Aswan
For this one, you’ll need sunscreens. It is the third biggest city in Cairo and rain here is an extremely rare sight. Aswan is a city that remains true to its heritage. Buildings and houses are built in close proximity to each other, and with everyday trade, the city is always alive.
The best places to visit here are the Ptolemaic temples that have been preserved since 300 BC. Out of them, the most visited Philae Temple is a ticket and a boat ride away. The boat ride is known for its iconic views.The Nubian Museum and the unfinished obelisk should also be on your list to check out in Aswan. And when you are done and tired, there are luxury hotels that could shelter you for the night. That’d be a good day, wouldn’t you agree?
Alexandria
You could stand at the coasts of this wonderful city and wonder at the Mediterranean that stretched for miles. That is probably what Alexander the Great did when he rode in his horse, marking his territory—a city that will go on to be known as the second-largest city in Egypt, and one of the most powerful in all of ancient Egypt.
While parts of it are under the Mediterranean Sea(just 4th century things), it now serves as the main gates to Egypt with two airports. The library of Alexandria and Lighthouse of Alexandria, both of which were destroyed by fire and earth respectively, boast the historical prowess of the city.
Apart from a multitude of historic sites, this stunning city welcomes the modern crowd with rooftop bars having a glorious view. Alexandria has to the in the top places to visit in Egypt.
Mosque of Ibn Tulun
Architecture is a visual art and Masjid-Ibn-Tulun speaks for itself. The serenity of its large courtyard amidst a very noisy surrounding, filled with bazaars, and the Mesopotamian archetypal Minaret consisting of an external spiral staircase is sure to wow you!
According to ancient historians, this was the first architecture to make use of a pointed arch on top of the building, even 200-odd years before the European Gothic Arch. This mosque is the oldest mosque in Egypt as it is the only mosque that remained in its authentic state.
Tahrir Square
On a usual day, the Tahrir Square in Cairo is a peaceful gathering spot.People come and spend time with friends, while watching the city move in circles around the roundabouts, suffocating in traffic. On a Friday, you can witness the Muslims offering their Jumu’ah prayers in a corner. But this iconic square played a major role in Egypt’s modern revolution when it became the centre for protests that ousted former President Hosni Mubarak’s 30-year autocratic rule in 2011.
Also known as Hussein Square, it is said that a protest made in one of Cairo’s busiest place will be heard throughout Egypt. You should check it out on your way around the capital.
The Egyptian Museum
Consisting of a huge collection of Pharaonic antiques in the world, the Egyptian Museum is the oldest archaeological site in the whole of the Middle East. The design of this museum was selected through an international competition in 1895, which was won by a French architect.
Not only is the Egyptian Museum home to several awe-inspiring ancient masterpieces, but is also a historic landmark in downtown Cairo. One of the museum’s worthy artefacts is the complete burial of certain significant figures. It was built to honour the unification of the upper and lower Egypt under one king.
Khan El-Khalili
Built in the 14th century, the Khan El-Khalili market is nothing short of time travel to medieval Cairo. It is located in the capital and is only a taxi ride away. If you are a shopping geek, put this on your list already. From incense sticks that smell like an old movie—a good one—and handmade artefacts of famous Egyptian structures, to hand-knit carpets and local jewellery, you will be travelling through the alleys of neverdisappointed-land. Plenty of Cafes for the tummy, and if you are lucky, seasonal Sufi recitals and celebrations are awaiting you in this Egyptian trade spot.
White Desert
I get it. Desert? White? Right? It is true and that is why this wonderful chalk landscape is an entry to a visual dimension like none other. The shapes of the white rocks on the usual yellow desert are so random and equally fascinating—thanks to the stubborn sandstorms that blow them into existence or reshape them once in a while.
Located 45 km north of the dimly populated town of Farafra, this Egyptian wonder is on the list of the top places to visit among travellers from across the globe. It takes you away from the skull-crackling noise of the city and puts you in a place you don’t ever want to leave, oh yes, why not!
Siwa Oasis
Let me tell ask you this. How would you like to float on water? Yes, like the dead sea. If your mind went YESSS, then add the Siwa Oasis to the list of must-visit places—not just in Egypt but the whole world. The Siwa Oasis is a relatively small community situated close to the Libyan border.
The ancient Shali Fortress, which is located at the centre of the city, is a sight to embrace and roam in. Hundreds of salt lakes and moon pools are spread out for you to touch, feel and float on. It is going to be an experience of a lifetime.
St Catherine’s Monastery
The St Catherine’s monastery was among the first of its kind under the jurisdiction of the Jerusalem patriarch. And its independence was hence recognized by Constantinople in around 1575. The number of monks allowed to work here were limited to 36. They lived in annexes, which in the present day are mostly in Cairo and Suez.
This place was a pilgrimage centre during the middle ages. It is why St. Catherine’s makes up a sound history, since the 6th century. The icons painted before the 8th century, and its illuminated manuscripts are the greatest treasures of this monastery. If you end up in Sinai, it will be a valuable addition to your itinerary.
Cairo Tower
Sixteen floors and 187 meters tall, this tower was built in 1961 and remain the tallest structure in all of Africa for ten years after its inception. The Cairo tower was constructed with the use of concrete iron, shaped like a lotus plant. At the time of construction, it cost 6 million Euros for the entire project. If you want a bird’s eye view of the city of Cairo, the Cairo Tower is the place to be.
The view from up there is sure to give you a perspective of the congested capital city of Egypt. And not just the city, the telescope in the tower will show you panoramic views of the Nile River and The Great Pyramids to name some.
Abu Simbel Temple Complex
Constructed by King Ramses II, one of the most powerful rulers of ancient Egypt 3000 years ago, the temple of Abu Simbel is 300 km south of Aswan and 20 km north of the Sudan border. The Temple was not only dedicated to the three significant gods but also built to exhibit the might of the Egyptian King and his eternal glorification. King Ramses II had 8 wives. The small temple on the site was dedicated to his favourite among them.
Nile River
The largest river on earth, the Nile stretches through nine African nations covering a length of 6,650 km. Every history book talks about it. The ancient Egyptians survived at the mercy of its generosity. Even to date, 95% of the population depend on it. Wild-life flourishes at its perils.
The Nile River cruise will be the most prominent one you will ever be in. In one single cruise, it is possible for you to gauge at several breathtaking views–including the Great Pyramids, Luxor, and the Valley of Kings.If there is just one reason for you to visit Egypt, make it this.
Valley of the Kings
It is just another graveyard—but not really because it contains tombstones that are too grand for the modern world. The Valley of the Kings was where the kings and queens of the ancient dynasties of Egypt were put to rest, along with treasures that were believed to help in their transition into the afterlife. Crafted underneath the earth, this burial palace contains tombs of nearly 70 pharaohs.
It is said that the Valley of the Kings played a major role in fuelling Egyptian tourism for the last two centuries. If you want to see the decorations and marvel at ancient wall art and graffiti, then look no further.
Mosque of Sultan Hassan
This mosque isn’t home to some extraordinary architectural achievements of its time, but also one of the largest mosques in the world, making it a must-visit place in Egypt. On each side of the square of this mosque lies four vaulted halls dedicated to the education centres of the four Sunni schools of thought: Shafi, Maliki, Hanafi and Hanbali.
This grand mosque reflects the luxurious lifestyle of the ruler who was just 13 years old when he came to power. The Sultan was assassinated before the completion of this mosque. A collapse of one of the four planned minarets took him and 300 other people.
South Sinai
If you love the oceans, South Sinai is yours to embrace. A range of adventure awaits you on the coast. Scuba Diving, Jet Skiing, Snorkelling, and boat rentals are widely preferred among the many things the city offers for exploring the Red Sea. Ras Mohamed National Park, Mount Sinai—an ancient pilgrimage point, and the St. Catherine’s Monastery are other noteworthy destinations to tour around the city.
Five-star hotels at relatively cheaper prices galore, enriching and endorsing the countries tourism. This must be on your list of top places to visit in Egypt.
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From perusing along with the periodic architectural buildings that still stand, even though it’s been years since construction, to sightseeing while discussing myths and truths, to the coral reefs, Egypt promises to welcome you to a pretty good time. Oh, and they have great falafels.
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