Things to Do in Egypt: 15 Experiences for Your First Trip
Egypt rewards every kind of traveler. In one trip you can stand beside the last surviving wonder of the ancient world, sail the Nile past village life, explore painted tombs, snorkel over coral reefs and sleep under the desert stars. This guide brings together the best things to do in Egypt, with links to help you plan each one.
In and Around Cairo
- See the Pyramids of Giza. The Great Pyramid is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing; read our guide to the Great Pyramids of Giza, where the Sphinx is just a short walk away.
- Visit the Grand Egyptian Museum. Close to the pyramids, the Grand Egyptian Museum brings together a vast collection of ancient Egyptian treasures.
- Explore Saqqara and Dahshur. These older pyramid fields show how pyramid building developed, often with far fewer crowds; see Sakkara.
- Shop in Khan Al-Khalili. Wander the lanes of Cairo’s historic bazaar in Khan Al-Khalili and nearby El Moez Street.
Along the Nile
- Cruise between Luxor and Aswan. A Nile cruise is the classic way to see the temples of Upper Egypt.
- Walk through Karnak. Karnak Temple is one of the largest religious complexes ever built.
- Enter the royal tombs. The painted tombs of the Valley of the Kings are a highlight of Luxor’s west bank.
- Fly over Luxor at sunrise. A Luxor hot air balloon ride gives you a view of the temples and the green Nile valley from above.
- Visit Philae Temple. Reached by boat near Aswan, Philae Temple was rescued from the rising Nile and rebuilt on Agilkia Island.
- Make the trip to Abu Simbel. The rock-cut temples of Abu Simbel are among the most impressive sights in the country.
- Meet Nubian culture. Visit a colorful Nubian village and the Nubian Museum in Aswan.
Sea, Desert and Coast
- Snorkel or dive in the Red Sea. Try snorkeling trips from Hurghada, and read our guide to the Egyptian Red Sea.
- Camp in the White Desert. An overnight safari to Bahariya and the White Desert is unforgettable.
- Discover Siwa Oasis. Palm groves, springs and mud-brick ruins; see cycling around Siwa.
- Enjoy Alexandria. Egypt’s Mediterranean city has a different rhythm; here is what to do in Alexandria.
Planning Tips
- How long to stay: Most first-time visitors need at least a week to combine Cairo with the Nile; read how many days to spend in Egypt.
- When to go: October to April is the most comfortable season for sightseeing; see the best time to visit Egypt.
- Book it together: Our best Egypt vacation packages combine many of these experiences in one itinerary.