Places To Visit In Egypt

Sites of ancient civilization in Egypt

Egypt has one of the leading collections of ancient sites in the world. The Great Pyramid and Sphinx of Giza is quite literally a symbol of Egypt. Abu Simbel Temple is another such place, related to the great Pharaoh Ramesses II dating back to 1200 BC. The elaborate Valley of Kings, Karnak Temple and Temple of Hatshepsut in Luxor and the Philae Temple in Aswan are must-visit Egypt tourist attractions.

Museums and galleries of Egypt

The Egyptian Museum of Antiquities can be said to be home to an amazing historical collection - something that is the best in the world. Artefacts collected from excavated tombs and places in ancient Egypt, including the mask of Tutankhamun are housed here, along with many other antique items, many of which are 2000-3000 years old. Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo is quite a phenomenon as well. Alexandria National Museum, Nubian Museum and Luxor Museum are definitely worth a visit.

Here are the five best Egypt points of interest to visit.

1. Pyramids of Giza

Pyramids themselves are quite a wonder, and the three Pyramids of Giza are even more so. Located on the Giza Plateau, these structures are more than 4500 years old but have withstood the test of time brilliantly. The Great Pyramid, standing at 138 metres, is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Once you get here, you will see that the pyramids here are guarded by the iconic statue of the Sphinx, one of the most popular Egypt attractions.

2. Valley of Kings, Luxor

Luxor or ancient Thebes is home to the famous Valley of King. Here numerous rock-cut tombs of ancient pharaohs stand side by side. Some of the greatest names like Amenhotep and Tutankhamen had their tombs over here. However, it is mostly an active excavation site, and only a few are open to tourists. Do visit Tutankhamun's tomb, not just because it is one of the most famous Egypt places to visit, but also because it is said to be cursed and makes for a thrilling time.

3. Islamic Cairo

Cairo got the nickname the City of a Thousand Minarets because of its inherent Islamic essence. Islamic Cairo is dotted with numerous mosques, souks and streets with an Arabic or Turkish feel to it. Sultan Hassan Mosque, Al-Azhar Mosque and medieval gate of Bab Zuweila are among the best Egypt destinations.

4. Aswan

The city that supplied the stones for pyramids back in the day is now the most picturesque city of Egypt, set against golden yellow sand dunes and sparkling blue curves of Nile. The tranquil Elephantine Islands and the colourful streets of Nubian villages are perfect getaways for a weekend.

5. Oasis of Siwa

Amidst the busy schedule of Egypt sightseeing, the magnificent Oasis of Siwa is exactly like a drop of water in the middle of the desert. Surrounded by date palms and freshwater springs, Siwa is centred on the towering mud-brick citadel that overlooks the golden ruins of an old town.