Dreamy, mysterious, and exotic are a few adjectives for Egypt. There is an enigma about Egypt that makes it a top holiday destination. It is in a transcontinental region and is a part of the Middle East and Africa. The legendary and longest of its kind, the Nile River flows through it, and 90% of the country is desert. Part of its immense popularity also stems from its status as one of the world’s most ancient and wealthiest civilizations. And one could say no less about the fascinating pyramids that add to Egypt’s mystery. The country’s history, culture, myths, legends, and dramatic landscapes promise an extraordinary holiday. If you plan to visit this East African country, here are the best cities to visit in Egypt.
Top cities to visit in Egypt
From the bustling capital city and coastal cities to lush oasis spots, each of the country’s cities is special in its own right. It is strewn with legends and rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, sure to impress you.
Cairo
Chaotic yet stunning, the capital of Egypt, Cairo, is a place you cannot miss when visiting the country. With a large Muslim population, the capital has numerous mosques, earning its name ‘The City of Thousand Minarets’. For a generous slice of the region’s history and the celebrated Egyptian civilizations, you must definitely visit the Museum of Islamic Art and the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. Make sure you also add must-sees such as Al-Azhar Mosque, Al-Azhar Park, Cairo Tower, and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali to your Cairo program. Shopping at Khan el-Khalili Market in Cairo is also interesting.
Luxor
Ancient Egyptian architecture has always awed the world, and Luxor is one of the must-visit cities in Egypt to admire it. The city was the ancient capital of Egypt. The city is on the east bank of the Nile and is over 4,000 years old. It’s nothing short of an open-air museum with innumerable magnificent buildings and structures.
It houses El-Karnak Temple, the world’s largest temple. The Valley of the Kings, the Valley of the Queens, the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, the Colossi of Memnon, the Tombs of the Nobles, and the Luxor Museum are places you must see here. Riding on a hot air balloon is the perfect way to soak in the elegance and beauty of Luxor.
Alexandria
Alexandria is a coastal city. Named after its founder, Alexander the Great, Alexandria is rich in history, like most of Egypt. You will find several ancient ruins in this city. The city has strong Roman and Greek influences, evident in its architecture and culture.
The places you must visit in this city include Montaza Palace, the Citadel of Qaitbay, the Serapeum of Alexandria, the Alexandria National Museum, and the Ancient Roman Theater. Alexandria has many pretty beaches and a huge lighthouse. Another significant city attraction is the Library of Alexandria, one of the world’s oldest libraries, with an extensive collection of books.
Giza
The Cairo metropolis includes Giza, too. But it can still easily be called a city. The Great Pyramid of Giza is the greatest attraction of the place. It is the sole existing ancient wonder of the world. Additionally, the legendary Sphinx, the ancient city of Memphis, and the Valley Temple are among the city’s standout attractions. While the ancient archaeological sites will keep you hooked in Giza, do make it a point to explore the Giza Solar Boat Museum, the Pharaonic Village, and the Wissa Wassef Art Center to learn more about the city.
Hurghada
Egypt is celebrated for its perplexing array of pyramids and ancient monuments, but the country is much more than that. A fine example of the same is the city of Hurghada. This city on the Red Sea coast is breathtaking for its marine life, with colorful fish species and coral reefs.
Watersport lovers are in for a treat, thanks to its pristine golden beaches offering facilities for kitesurfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and windsurfing. You can also visit interesting places here, such as Hurghada Grand Aquarium, Makadi Water World, Mini Egypt Park, and Mahmya Island.
Siwa Oasis
In western Egypt, the Siwa Oasis lies in the desert. A visit to the place allows you to relax in the desert, covered with palm and olive trees. But the highlight of the place is the crystal-clear salt lakes. Visitors will also have a great time soaking in one of the 300 freshwater springs spread around the area.
Siwa Oasis is also famed for the Temple of the Oracle of Amun, the Mountain of the Dead, and the Shali Fortress, to name a few. Culture and history buffs should definitely check out the Siwa House Museum.
Sharm el-Sheik
If a beach holiday is what you are craving, Sharm el-Sheik is a great place to explore, with some of the country’s most gorgeous beaches characterized by crystal-clear waters. Most beaches here offer water sports and activities like snorkeling and scuba diving.
Shark Bay, Na’ama Bay, Ras Mohammed National Park, and Saint Catherine’s Monastery are a few places to check out here. Sharm el-Sheik is a great place to go on a desert safari. You must also browse the Old Market for some shopping.
Aswan City
Aswan highlights the history, architecture, and myths of Egypt. It’s one of the tourist cities in Egypt, on the banks of the Nile in the southern part of the country. Beyond its dramatic architecture, you can take in its peaceful landscapes and natural scenery.
Places of interest include the Nubian Museum, Aswan Botanical Garden, Unfinished Obelisk, Aga Khan Mausoleum, Kalabsha Temple, and Kom Ombo Temple. You must also check out the markets where you can buy local products such as clay products, beadwork, rugs, and other souvenirs and artworks.
Important things to know before you visit Egypt
- Visiting the country in spring or fall is ideal, when the weather is pleasant.
- Most people traveling to the country must obtain a valid Egypt visa. You can apply for a single- or multiple-entry visa. Citizens of a few countries are eligible for a visa on arrival for short visits to Egypt.
- The Egyptian tourist visa is valid for 6 months and allows you to stay in the country for 30 days.
- Plan your holiday in Egypt to skip all last-minute hassles. Go for an all-inclusive package with accommodations, transfers, guided tours, and a Nile Cruise, or contact an experienced specialist to assemble everything you expect from your Egypt holiday.
- Egypt’s public transport is reliable yet mostly crowded and confusing. If you’ve got time constraints or want to avoid the chaos of exploring cities on your own, you can count on a private vehicle with a driver.
Egypt opens a world that blends mysticism and wonder with modernity. There is no doubt that a holiday here will leave you in awe. So, book your Egypt getaway today and make the most of it.
