Egypt is the site of one of the oldest civilizations in the world. Dating back to 5500 BC, the country was once ruled by the mystical pharaohs. Later, the country was also an important outpost for the Greek and Roman empires. The city of Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great himself in 332 BC. Needless to say, Egypt is a haven for tourists seeking stunning archaeological ruins and landmarks from the world’s classic civilizations of yore, set against the backdrop of the Sahara desert and the ancient river Nile that add a mystical charm to these places to visit in Egypt, Africa. Wondering about the best time to visit Egypt? Fret not as it is a year-round destination. Here is a short Egypt travel guide to the most popular Egypt tourist attractions that you must visit during your holiday here:
17 Best Places To Visit In Egypt 2023
Here are all the fascinating places to visit in Egypt that should top your travel itinerary on your trip to this beautiful country.
1. Pyramids of Giza
The three pyramids, which house the tombs of ancient pharaohs, are one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world and one of the most famous Egypt attractions. Located on the Giza Plateau, the pyramids are the only Wonder to have remained intact over thousands of years. The Great Pyramid, also known as the Pyramid of Khufu, is 138 meters high and is open to tourists via the Robber’s Tunnel. The limestone Sphinx structure is also part of the same complex. The pyramids complex of Giza is the jewel of Egypt tourist attractions and one of the most popular Egypt sightseeing places.
Location: Giza
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry fee: INR 1700 (including all three pyramids and the Solar Boat Museum)
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2. Valley of Kings
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Located on the East bank of river Nile, Luxor was the site of the ancient city of Thebes and is one of the most popular Egypt tourist spots. Hailed as the world’s largest open-air museum, Luxor is best known for the Valley of Kings that houses rock-cut tombs of ancient pharaohs. Famous ancient kings such as Tutankhamun and Amenhotep were buried here. Although there are about 63 tombs that have been excavated, only a small number is open to tourists. Tutankhamun’s tomb, called the KV62, has a separate entry charge. One of the most haunting places to see in Egypt for sure! This is amongst the famous places in Egypt.
Location: Luxor
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM (till 4 PM in winters)
Entry fee: INR 380 for three tombs of choice | INR 760 for KV62
3. Islamic Cairo
The Islamic Cairo district in the capital of Egypt is filled with medieval mosques, monuments, and madrassas, and is one of the foremost Egypt tourist attractions. The Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan is an impressive example and visible reminder of the Islamic heritage of this beautiful city. If you delve deep into the part near the walled city, you can also find workshops and artisan families that have worked there for a millennium, making it one of the best places to visit in Egypt.
Location: Cairo
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4. Citadel of Saladin
One of the many places in ancient Egypt to be declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the citadel was built by the famous Ayyubid ruler Saladin to protect the Cairo and Fustat (the first Egyptian capital under the Caliphate) against Crusaders. The huge fortification is lined by several watchtowers and houses several stunning mosques and the Well of Joseph inside. The Al-Naseer, Sulayman Pasha and the Al Gawhara Palace museum are three places that are a must for Egypt sightseeing tours in Cairo.
Location: Central Cairo
Entry fee: INR 384
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM
5. Aswan
This is one of the most relaxing Egypt holiday destinations in the Southern part. In ancient Egypt, it was called Swenette and housed the stone quarries that supplied material to build the famous pyramids. However, Aswan is now known for its breathtaking views of the desert dunes and the Nile river. The Elephantine Islands are the perfect getaway for a relaxing weekend. The colorful Nubian villages in the center of the island are offbeat Egypt tourist attractions and make for a great evening stroll.
Location: 900 kilometres from Cairo
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6. Rock Temples of Abu Simbel
Rock Temple of Abu Simbel located along the Western banks of the Lake Nasser, the twin temples of Ramesses II and his queen Nefertari were carved right into the mountains and are one of the most popular Egypt places to visit. The rock impressions of the king and the queen sitting on their thrones and overlooking the vastness of the Egyptian mountains is an iconic image of ancient Egypt. The temple was relocated because of the rising waters of the lake in the 60s and receives hundreds of visitors every day.
Location: Abu Simbel, Nubia
Entry fee: INR 615
Timings: 5 AM – 6 PM
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7. Egyptian Museum
The ancient cities of Egypt have been excavated to reveal temples, palaces, and tombs that are thousands of years old, and you may wonder where all the fabled treasure went. After all, the Egyptians were famous for burying their dead with all kinds of things – gold, golden artifacts, books, and so on. Worry not, because the Egyptian Museum is that dream come true. The pyramids tell you only half the story, the other half is housed in this biggest Egypt collection in the world, including the famous excavation from the tomb of Tutankhamun, making it one of the most spectacular Egypt places to visit.
Location: Cairo
Entry fee: INR 460
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
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8. White Desert
It is hard to believe that this surreal Egypt attraction of the Sahara Desert is natural. Enormous formations of chalk ranging from snow white to cream in color abound in the region, which also features the sand dunes of the Great Sand Sea and the cliffs of the Farafra Depression. The white boulders and pinnacles have been shaped by wind erosion for several millennia. The surrounding national park also houses the Rhim and Dorcas gazelle, the last of which roam the arid landscape here. With endless splendor, it is among the most beautiful places to visit in Egypt.
Location: Farafra
9. Abydos
This city is another literal open-air museum and one of the best places to visit in Egypt. The Mother of Pots, also called the Umm el-Qa’ab, is a sophisticated necropolis where the first pharaohs are buried. The area is named so because of excavations that revealed thousands of shards of pots that were littered in honor of the kings. Abydos is also where the temple of Seti I was found, which contains the famous hieroglyphic inscription called the Abydos List.
Location: Abydos, 500 kilometres from Cairo
Entry fee: INR 140 (Abydos Temple) | INR 230 (Seti Temple)
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
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10. Alexandria
Alexandria city once housed the world’s biggest library and was a jeweled outpost for the Greco-Roman empires. Since then, little remains of the fabled places in the city, but the city has become one of the best Egypt destinations away from the grind and dust of the rest of the Egyptian cities. The Pompey pillar square is a great place to hang out, and the streets are lined with chic cafes in a welcome break from the cuisine elsewhere in Egypt.
Location: 200 kilometres from Cairo
11. Bahariya Oasis
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The Bahariya Oasis came to the limelight in 1996 when a massive burial site with over thirty tombs was discovered here. The site contained around 250 “Golden Mummies” dating back to different periods of time throughout history. The site also holds the ruins and remnants of the Temple of Alexander. Other than being found as a burial ground for mummies, Bahariya also acts as a major agricultural center for Egypt, famous for its wine production even till date. Some of the famous attractions in and near Bahariya include the White Desert and the Crystal Mountain, both known for their odd geological structures that tend to fascinate visitors.
Location: El-Wahat el-Bahariya, Western Desert, Egypt
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12. Ras Muhammad National Park
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Other than being the most famous national park within Egypt, Ras Muhammad also happens to be one of the most popular diving sites in the world. The park is tucked amidst the colorful coral reefs and mangroves of the Red Sea as well as the inland desert of the Sinai. It has crystal-clear waters that allow divers and snorkeling enthusiasts to easily spot the vibrant corals as well as vertebrate and invertebrate marine species. If one is to take a boat to go a little further into the sea, they might even be able to spot dolphins, including Risso’s Dolphin. Other than teeming with rich marine creatures and corals, the park is also home to thousands of White Storks.
Location: Sinai, Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
Entry fee: INR 350/-
Timings: 7 AM – 4 PM
13. Karnak Temple
The Karnak Temple in Luxor is one of the most famous places to visit in Egypt. The temple complex is the most astonishing tourist spot and includes the Karnark Open Air Museum. The temple houses three other famous temples within its premises – the Temple of Khons, the Great Temple of Amun and the Festival Temple of Tuthmosis III. Since the complex is a vast open site, it is advisable to spend a minimum of 2-3 hours to explore the entire complex. Among the best places in Egypt, this should definitely be on your list for your next trip.
Location: El-Karnak, Luxor
Timings: 6 AM – 5.30 PM
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14. Ramessum
Ramessum is the great funerary temple of Ramses II. Located on the West Bank of Luxor, it is Luxor’s one of the most promising sites. Well-known for the 57-foot seated statue of Ramses II, the temple was dedicated to the god Amon and the deceased king. The walls of the temple are decorated with reliefs and include scenes depicting the Festival of Min, the Battle of Kadesh and the Syrian wars. It is a must-visit place if you want to explore some interesting places.
Location: Luxor, New Valley Governorate
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15. Zamalek
There are a number of attractions in Zamalek which attracts a huge crowd to this place every year. Go to the best nightclubs in the country to experience the best of Zamalek nightlife. Some of the best clubs have got their special drinks which will energize you inside out. This place is an island for shopping as well. It has got some of the best and the cheapest shops as well as boutiques like AgroDolce, Amuse, making it one of the best places to visit in Egypt with family.
Location: Cairo
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Best Time To Visit: November – April
16. Tanis
Tanis is one of the most interesting places to visit in Egypt. The city offers various attractions. One among them is Tanis Egypt Ark of the Covenant. Many tourists from all over the world come to visit this wooden chest which is covered with gold. There are many myths associated with Tanis which you should not believe until you have seen. Come and explore the city on your own and experience it in person. Make sure to visit the place during daylight so that you are able to see and enjoy everything.
Location: Cairo
Timings: 9 AM – 9 PM
17. Saqqara Necropolis
Saqqara Necropolis is a vast ancient burial ground in Egypt and among the best Egypt tourist places. Located on the West Bank of the Nile, this is one of the most famous Egyptian historical sites and a part of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Step Pyramid of Saqqara is one of the best places to visit in Egypt in summer. Saqqara Necropolis has gained huge number of visitors due to the myths and historical facts attached to this place.
Location: Cairo
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
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Egypt, with its supreme culture and multi-faceted heritage, offers a cathartic experience to travelers. These beautiful places to visit in Egypt should top your bucket list. Knock them off by booking a trip to Egypt. Know any more places to go in Egypt? Pop them in the comments section below.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Egypt
Which month is best to visit Egypt?
The best time to visit Egypt is during the cooler months of November to February, as the weather is more comfortable for exploring attractions like the pyramids, temples, and the Nile River. Avoid the scorching heat of summer if possible.
What is the most visited place in Egypt?
The most visited place in Egypt is the Giza Pyramid Complex, home to the iconic pyramids, including the Great Pyramid of Giza, and the Sphinx. This historical site draws millions of tourists from around the world each year.
Why Egypt is the best place to visit?
Egypt offers the most unusual and exotic experiences to travelers unlike anywhere else in the world. Its history, mysticism, and monuments are a fascination in themselves. Travelers love to explore places like the Pyramids of Giza, Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings, Islamic Cairo, the Nile at Aswan, Abu Simbel, Egyptian Museum, the White Desert, and the Siwa Oasis when they’re here. From the food to spice souks, from the architecture to the heritage, everything here leaves people in awe.
What can you see in Egypt in 7 days?
Some of the most wonderful places you can explore in Egypt in 7 days include Cairo, Aswan, Hurghada, and Luxor. You’ll also be able to take day trips from Luxor to places like Alexandria at that time.
How many days do you need in Cairo?
Ideally, a duration of about 4-5 days is enough for a tour of Egypt in which you’ll be able to cover all the important cities and places here.
Can you go inside the pyramids in Egypt?
Yes, you can definitely venture into the pyramids of here. There are three pyramids of the Queens of Cheops and you can see the interiors of the middle one for free, while you’ll have to pay for the other two.
What is the best currency to take to Egypt?
Euros, dollars, and sterling notes will easily be accepted in most places in Egypt. But it’s always more beneficial to get your currency changed to Egyptian pounds. You’ll find a number of authentic currency exchange shops as well as banks here to get your currency exchanged.
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Kanika has 4 years of experience in writing blogs and marketing content for travel. And when she’s not writing, she’s either exploring new terrains in a different corner of the world, or out in the city freezing urban scenarios in her camera.
