Egypt Guide: All You Need to Know Before Traveling

Egypt blends ancient history, rich culture, and modern adventure. From the Pyramids of Giza and Nile cruises, to Luxor, Aswan, and the beaches of Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada, there's something for every traveler. Located in North Africa, Egypt borders Libya, Sudan, Palestine, and has coastlines on the Mediterranean and Red Sea. The best time to visit is October to April.

Cultural tips: dress modestly, ask before photos, and respect religious sites. Use the Egyptian Pound (EGP), carry cash, and buy local SIM cards from Vodafone, Orange, or Etisalat. Tipping is generally from 5% to 10% as a sign of good etiquette and respect across all the facilities.

Most visitors can get a visa on arrival or e-Visa for $25. Egypt is generally safe, especially in tourist areas like Cairo, Alexandria, and the Red Sea. For budget travel, use Uber, eat local, and book with trusted agencies.

Pack light clothes, a scarf, sun protection, a power adapter, and drink bottled water.
In short, Egypt offers unforgettable history, nature, and local charm—perfect for any kind of traveler.

Top Tourist Cities in Egypt

When it comes to exploring Egypt, there’s so much more than just the pyramids and the Nile. From ancient cities rich with history to coastal towns brimming with natural beauty, Egypt is home to a diverse collection of destinations—each offering a unique glimpse into the country’s culture, landscape, and charm. Whether you're drawn to bustling urban life, serene desert oases, or world-class diving spots, here are some of the top tourist cities in Egypt you won’t want to miss.

1- Cairo

• Cairo Overview: The Heartbeat of Egypt
  Cairo is Egypt’s energetic and sprawling capital, where ancient history and modern life blend seamlessly. With over 20 million residents, the city is a cultural and political hub filled with energy, character, and contrast.

• Must-See Attractions in Cairo
  Explore the magnificent Egyptian Museum, stroll through Islamic Cairo, visit the Citadel of Saladin, and marvel at Old Cairo’s religious landmarks, including the Hanging Church and Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque.

• Hidden Gems of Cairo
  Discover peaceful escapes like Al-Azhar Park, the elegant Manial Palace, and the historic charm of Bayt El Suhaymi tucked away in narrow alleys.

• Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Cairo
  For upscale dining, try Kazoku (modern Japanese), Sachi (Mediterranean fusion), or Sequoia, which offers beautiful Nile views and an eclectic menu.

• Culture Through Cuisine: Best Food Tours in Cairo
  Join local food tours that introduce you to authentic dishes like koshari, taameya, and hawawshi, while exploring hidden eateries and markets in Downtown or Zamalek.

• Off the Beaten Path: Local Experiences in Cairo
  Ride a felucca on the Nile at sunset, attend a Sufi music performance, or explore street art and local bookshops in Downtown Cairo.

2- Giza

• Giza Overview: Ancient Marvels & Modern Life
  Giza combines the wonders of the ancient world with the rhythm of modern Egyptian life. It’s where history stands tall—literally—with monuments that have inspired generations.

• Best Attractions in Giza
  Visit the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Solar Boat Museum. Don’t miss the light and sound show for a dramatic nighttime view.

• Hidden Gems in Giza
  Venture into the desert on a quad bike safari, visit the Birqash Camel Market, or explore less-touristy desert areas for stunning photo opportunities.

• Fine Dining with Pyramid Views
  Enjoy elegant meals with unbeatable backdrops at places like 9 Pyramids Lounge, Mena House terrace, or Khufu’s Restaurant.

• Street Food & Local Eats
  Try local favorites like shawarma, liver sandwiches, or koshari from popular street vendors. Don’t forget a glass of fresh sugarcane juice.

• Desert Adventures Beyond the Usual
  Go horseback riding or stargazing, join overnight desert camps, or simply enjoy the serenity and silence of the open sands surrounding the pyramids.

3- Luxor

• Luxor Overview: The Glory of Ancient Thebes
  Once the mighty capital of ancient Thebes, Luxor is now a treasure trove of history where temples, tombs, and monuments tell stories thousands of years old.

• Must-Visit Attractions
  Discover the grandeur of Karnak Temple, the mystery of the Valley of the Kings, and the elegance of Luxor Temple, especially magical when lit at night.

• Hidden Gems: Tombs of Nobles, Banana Island
  Visit the colorful Tombs of the Nobles for lesser-known insights into elite life, or take a relaxing boat trip to Banana Island for a taste of village charm and lush scenery.

• Fine Dining Along the Nile
  Dine at elegant spots like 1886 at the Winter Palace, Sofra, or Nile-side restaurants offering sunset views and authentic Egyptian dishes.

• Traditional Dishes & Local Markets
  Taste molokhia, fatta, and kofta at traditional eateries or explore Luxor’s local markets for spices, handmade crafts, and snacks.

• Offbeat Luxor: Felucca Rides & Village Life
  Sail on a felucca along the Nile, explore West Bank villages, or walk through the farmlands to experience the peaceful side of Luxor beyond the tourist sites.

4- Aswan

• Aswan Overview: Nubian Culture & Natural Beauty
  Aswan is Egypt’s southern gem, known for its calm Nile views, colorful Nubian traditions, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a perfect mix of culture and nature.

• Top Attractions
  Explore the majestic Philae Temple on an island, visit the monumental High Dam, and stroll through the vibrant Nubian Village with its bright houses and handmade crafts.

• Hidden Treasures
  Discover the serene Kalabsha Temple, accessible by boat, and wander around Elephantine Island, filled with ancient ruins and a Nubian museum.

• Nile-View Fine Dining & Romantic Spots
  Dine with a view at places like 1902 Restaurant at the Old Cataract Hotel or Makani, offering candlelit meals by the Nile.

• Nubian Cuisine & Cooking Classes
  Try local specialties like okra stew, Nubian bread, or join a cooking class hosted by Nubian families for an authentic food experience.

• Peaceful Experiences Beyond the Guidebooks
  Take a felucca ride at sunset, visit the monastery of St. Simeon, or relax at Aswan Botanical Garden—a hidden sanctuary on Kitchener Island.

5- Alexandria

• Alexandria Overview: Coastal Charm Meets History
  This seaside city blends Greek, Roman, and Arab legacies with modern-day life, offering a cooler climate and historic flair by the sea.

• Main Sights
  Visit the stunning Bibliotheca Alexandrina, explore the seaside Citadel of Qaitbay, and descend into the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa.

• Lesser-Known Spots
  Don’t miss the Royal Jewelry Museum with its regal collection, or the peaceful Montaza Gardens, ideal for a morning stroll.

• Elegant Restaurants with Sea Views
  Try White & Blue (Greek Club) for sunset dining, or Sea Gull for fresh seafood with panoramic sea views.

• Seafood Markets & Local Bites
  Visit the Anfoushi fish market, or try feteer, kebda Eskandarani, and seafood sandwiches from local vendors.

• Day Trips & Hidden Corners
  Discover Abu Qir, an old fishing village with Roman ruins, or take a quick escape to Borg El Arab for a quieter seaside experience.

6- Hurghada

• Hurghada Overview: Sun, Sand & Sea
  Hurghada is a lively beach destination known for water sports, nightlife, and coral reefs, perfect for both families and adventurers.

• Best Attractions
  Visit Giftun Island for snorkeling, walk the modern Hurghada Marina, and dive into world-class coral gardens.

• Hidden Gems
  Take a desert quad safari, visit Bedouin camps, or explore El Gouna—a nearby town with lagoons and stylish cafés.

• Fine Dining at Beach Resorts
  Enjoy gourmet meals at resorts like Steigenberger Al Dau or The Oberoi, which offer fresh seafood and international cuisine by the sea.

• Seafood & Coastal Flavors
  Try local catches like grilled calamari, sayadeya rice, and freshly fried fish at seaside taverns and fish markets.

7- Sharm EL Sheikh

• Overview of Sharm: Egypt’s Luxury Riviera
  Sharm El Sheikh is a premier resort town offering a blend of luxury, marine beauty, and desert thrills, with top-tier hotels and coral reefs.

• Top Attractions
  Relax at Naama Bay, dive in Ras Mohammed National Park, or enjoy entertainment at Soho Square.

• Secret Spots
  Discover the mystical Blue Hole, chill at Farsha Café, or hike through the colorful rocks of the Colored Canyon.

• Gourmet Dining in Luxury Resorts
  Resorts like Four Seasons and Rixos serve fine cuisine with international menus and world-class service.

• Local Eats & Authentic Experiences
  Enjoy bedouin tea, koshari, or stuffed pigeon in traditional settings—some served in desert tents.

• Unique Adventures
  Go stargazing under the desert sky, hike in Wadi Mandar, or ride camels across dunes at twilight.

8- Siwa Oasis

• Siwa Overview: Ancient Berber Oasis
  Remote and peaceful, Siwa offers a mix of ancient history, natural wonders, and Amazigh (Berber) culture.

• Highlights
  Visit the Temple of the Oracle (once visited by Alexander the Great), float in salt lakes, and climb the ancient Shali Fortress.

• Hidden Gems
  Swim in Cleopatra’s Pool, hike Gebel Dakrur for sunset views, or explore palm groves on bike.

• Organic Farm-to-Table Dining
  Eat fresh dates, olives, and vegetables straight from Siwan farms at eco-lodges and local cafés.

• Authentic Siwan Cuisine
  Try tagella bread, olive stews, and desert herbs, all cooked the traditional Siwan way.

• Off-Grid Adventures
  Go sandboarding, join 4x4 safaris, or camp under the stars in the Great Sand Sea.

9- Marsa Alam

• Overview of Marsa Alam: Tranquil Red Sea Getaway
  Marsa Alam is a serene coastal town popular for its diving, marine life, and uncrowded beaches.

• Must-See Spots
  Swim with turtles at Abu Dabbab, dive with sharks at Elphinstone Reef, and enjoy pristine shores.

• Hidden Diving & Snorkeling Sites
  Explore untouched spots like Shaab Samadai (Dolphin House) or Marsa Mubarak for coral reefs and vibrant fish.

• Fresh Seafood by the Shore
  Enjoy grilled snapper, shrimp tagine, or seafood pasta at laid-back beach cafés.

• Local Cuisine & Seaside Markets
  Visit markets selling spices, handicrafts, and Bedouin snacks, or sip fresh hibiscus tea by the sea.

• Stargazing & Desert Excursions
  Take a desert jeep tour, try camel trekking, or lie under a blanket of stars in the Eastern Desert.

Final Travel Tips for Egypt

• Do’s and Don’ts in Egypt
  ✔️ Do: Greet locals politely, carry small cash, dress modestly.
  ❌ Don’t: Photograph people without permission, show public affection.

• Respecting Local Customs and Religion
  Be mindful during Ramadan, remove shoes in mosques, and avoid loud behavior in holy sites.

• Useful Arabic Phrases for Tourists

  • Hello: Salam Alaykum / Ahlan

  • Thank you: Shokran

  • How much?: Bikam?

  • Yes/No: Aywa / La’

• Transportation Tips
  Use Uber in major cities, trains for long distances, and white taxis (with meters) when necessary. Buses are cheap but often crowded.

• Health, Safety & Insurance
  Drink bottled water, carry basic medications, and get travel insurance before arrival. Avoid tap water and uncooked street food if you have a sensitive stomach.

• Sustainable Travel in Egypt
  Respect nature, don’t litter, support local businesses, and choose eco-friendly tours whenever possible.

Final Thoughts: Why Egypt Should Be Your Next Destination

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a beach lover, an adventure seeker, or simply curious about different cultures, Egypt has something special for everyone. From the timeless wonders of the ancient world to the warm hospitality of its people and the stunning diversity of its landscapes, every corner of this country tells a story worth discovering.

So whether you’re watching the sunrise over the pyramids, diving into the coral reefs of the Red Sea, or sharing tea with a local in a desert oasis, your journey through Egypt will be one you’ll never forget.

Pack your curiosity, open your heart, and come explore Egypt where the past meets the present in the most magical ways.