What to do in Egypt: 20 must-sees and must-dos

Useful links

The Millennium Enigma, The Pyramids of Giza

Of course! The Pyramids of Giza are one of the most emblematic and fascinating sites in ancient Egypt. Located some 20 kilometers from Cairo, these majestic structures stand proudly in the desert, silent witnesses to a thousand-year-old civilization.

On the horizon, the three great pyramids, Khéops, Khéphren and Mykérinos, house the tombs of the ancient pharaohs. The Sphinx, mysterious guardian of these tombs, keeps a watchful eye on visitors who venture into this place of mystery and grandeur.

The Pyramids of Giza are truly a journey through time, transporting you back to the days when the Pharaohs ruled Egypt. You can marvel at the architectural precision of these monumental constructions, testimony to the ingenuity of the ancient Egyptian civilization.

The famous Sphinx

The Sphinx, enigmatic guardian of the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, is a legendary figure who has fascinated people for millennia. This impressive rock-cut statue measures some 20 metres in height and 73 metres in length. With its majestic lion’s body and man’s head, the Sphinx embodies the power and wisdom of ancient Egyptian civilization.

Just a stone’s throw from the pyramids, the Sphinx seems to watch over these ancestral monuments with an aura of mystery. Visitors are captivated by the enigmatic expression on his face, which has survived the ravages of time. Archaeologists and researchers continue to decipher the secrets behind this enigma of the past.

A visit to the Sphinx offers a unique opportunity to delve into the history of ancient Egypt and lose yourself in the mythical tales surrounding this iconic creation. Local guides will share stories and legends about the Sphinx, transporting you to another time.

Hey Yupers! Did you know: The Sphinx is one of the oldest monumental sculptures in the world, dating back some 4,500 years! Its enigma continues to intrigue curious minds the world over.

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo is a priceless treasure trove of ancient Egyptian treasures. Located in the heart of the Egyptian capital, this fascinating museum is a must for all history and archaeology enthusiasts.

As soon as you arrive, you’ll be amazed by the size of its collection, comprising over 120,000 antique objects, some dating back over 5,000 years. The highlight of the visit is undoubtedly Tutankhamun’s treasure room, where you can admire his jewels, his solid gold burial mask and other extraordinary artifacts discovered in his tomb.

Cairo’s Egyptian Museum is a journey through time, allowing you to discover the different periods of Egyptian history, from the first dynasties to the last Pharaonic periods. Each piece tells a unique story, transporting you into the mystical world of this ancient civilization.

The city of Luxor

Luxor, a majestic and emblematic city on the banks of the Nile in Egypt, is an enchanting destination for history buffs and curious travelers alike. Formerly known as Thebes, Luxor was the capital of the mighty Egyptian Empire for many dynasties.

As soon as you arrive, you’ll be dazzled by the magnificent Temple of Karnak, a monumental complex dedicated to the Egyptian gods, with its imposing columns and impressive statues. A walk through the alleys will take you back in time, immersing you in the sacred atmosphere of this ancient place of worship.

Look up and admire the majestic, elegant Temple of Luxor, whose splendour is further enhanced by evening sound and light shows. Hieroglyphics and bas-reliefs tell the story of pharaohs and gods, transporting you into the epic tales of ancient Egypt.

Aswan: jewel of the Egyptian Nile

Aswan, a picturesque Egyptian city in the south of the country, is an enchanting destination brimming with cultural treasures and breathtaking scenery. Nestled along the banks of the Nile, Aswan offers an enchanting setting with its calm waters and verdant islands.

One of the iconic sites to visit here is the majestic Aswan Dam, a feat of engineering that regulates the flow of the Nile and provides electricity to the entire region. The panoramic view from the top of the dam is breathtaking, allowing you to admire the Nile stretching as far as the eye can see.

Don’t miss the temple of Philae, located on a picturesque island in the middle of the Nile. This temple dedicated to the goddess Isis is a true jewel of Egyptian architecture, with its majestic columns and well-preserved bas-reliefs.

Abu Simbel temple

The temple of Abu Simbel is an architectural marvel located in southern Egypt, not far from the border with Sudan. Built by Pharaoh Ramses II over 3,000 years ago, this monumental temple is an impressive testimony to the architectural genius of ancient Egypt.

The main temple is dedicated to Ramses II himself, represented in the form of a colossal statue enthroned at the entrance. The four imposing stone statues of Ramses II majestically guard the entrance to the temple, creating a striking image that is reflected in the waters of nearby Lake Nasser.

Abu Simbel temple is also famous for its astronomical alignment, where the sun can be seen illuminating the statues of Ramses II inside the temple twice a year during the equinoxes. It’s a remarkable feat of engineering that testifies to the precision and expertise of the ancient Egyptians.

Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings, a hidden treasure in the heart of the Egyptian desert, is an iconic site steeped in history and mystery. Located on the west bank of the Nile, near Luxor, this valley is the burial place of many ancient Egyptian pharaohs.

On arrival, you’ll be impressed by the impressive tombs carved into the rocky cliffs. These tombs, richly decorated with hieroglyphs and murals, house the final resting places of powerful pharaohs such as Ramses II, Tutankhamun and many others.

Explore the sumptuous corridors and funerary chambers, discover Egyptian funerary rituals and admire the splendid frescoes recounting epic tales from Egyptian mythology.

Karnak temple

Located in Luxor, this monumental complex is one of the largest in Egypt and one of the most impressive in the world.

As soon as you arrive, you’ll be amazed by the gigantic columns of the Temple of Amun-Ra, testimony to the incredible ingenuity of the ancient Egyptians. Lines of sphinxes, majestic obelisks and imposing statues create a mystical atmosphere that will transport you back to antiquity.

The temple at Karnak was dedicated to the god Amun, a powerful deity of ancient Egypt. The detailed bas-reliefs and finely chiselled hieroglyphs tell epic stories of Egyptian mythology and the exploits of the pharaohs.

The highlight of the temple is undoubtedly the Hypostyle Hall, a forest of massive columns that seem to touch the sky. This monumental hall is an architectural feat, with 134 columns reaching heights of up to 23 metres.

The seaside resort of Hurghada

Hurghada, Egypt’s seaside gem, is an enchanting destination offering a heavenly escape along the shores of the Red Sea. This picturesque seaside resort is a paradise for lovers of fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a warm, relaxed atmosphere. Soak up the bright sunshine and dive into the turquoise waters to explore the magnificent coral reefs, home to an abundance of marine life. Scuba diving and snorkeling are unforgettable experiences that will allow you to admire multicolored tropical fish and majestic manta rays.

Hurghada, Egypt’s seaside gem, is an enchanting destination offering a heavenly escape along the shores of the Red Sea. This picturesque seaside resort is a paradise for lovers of fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a warm, relaxed atmosphere. Soak up the bright sunshine and dive into the turquoise waters to explore the magnificent coral reefs, home to an abundance of marine life. Scuba diving and snorkeling are unforgettable experiences that will allow you to admire multicolored tropical fish and majestic manta rays.

The Red Sea

The Red Sea, an enchanting natural treasure, is one of the world’s most popular destinations for diving enthusiasts and lovers of waterside relaxation. Located between Africa and Asia, this deep-blue sea offers spectacular underwater scenery, making it a veritable paradise for lovers of marine life.

Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea to discover a dazzling underwater world, where colorful coral reefs are home to a multitude of exotic fish, majestic turtles and even graceful whale sharks.

The white sandy beaches and luxurious resorts along the coast invite you to relax and rejuvenate. Enjoy bright sunshine, refreshing sea breezes and warm water for unforgettable moments of idleness.

Dahab oasis

Dahab, a true paradise hidden on the shores of the Red Sea, is a unique destination that attracts travelers in search of authenticity and adventure. Just a few hours’ drive from Sharm El Sheikh, this charming seaside town offers an enchanting mix of relaxation, underwater exploration and traditional Bedouin life.

Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea and discover colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life. Dahab is renowned for its exceptional dive sites such as Blue Hole and Canyon, which offer unique and unforgettable diving experiences.

But there’s more to Dahab than scuba diving. Explore the surrounding desert landscapes on a quad or camel tour, and experience the warm hospitality of the Bedouin, who will welcome you into their camp for an authentic experience of the nomadic lifestyle.

The beauty of Sharm el-Sheikh

The jewel of the Red Sea, it’s a world-renowned seaside destination, offering heavenly beaches and crystal-clear waters. Located in southern Sinai, this Egyptian seaside resort is a veritable paradise for travellers seeking sun, relaxation and adventure.

As soon as you arrive, you’ll be seduced by the palm-fringed sandy beaches, inviting you to relax and unwind. The warm, translucent waters of the Red Sea are a veritable sanctuary for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, with their colorful coral reefs and teeming marine life.

Sharm el-Sheikh also offers a multitude of land-based activities, such as desert excursions to discover the mysteries of this wild land, camel rides for an authentic Bedouin experience, or lively evenings in restaurants, cafés and clubs.

The famous city ofAlexandria

Alexandria, the pearl of the Mediterranean, is an Egyptian city with a unique charm, blending ancient history and modernity. Founded by Alexander the Great over 2,300 years ago, this port city is brimming with historical and cultural treasures.

Take a stroll along the palm-fringed waterfront for a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea. Alexandria’s famous Corniche is a lively gathering place where you can stroll and soak up the city’s relaxed atmosphere.

Don’t miss the Library of Alexandria, a modern reconstruction of the legendary ancient library, a symbol of knowledge and wisdom. This cultural center houses millions of books and manuscripts, as well as a planetarium and fascinating exhibitions.

Mount Sinai: Sacred Sanctuary

Mount Sinai, a majestic and sacred sanctuary, is a legendary mountain on Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula. Known in biblical tradition as Mount Horeb, it has been a place of spirituality and mystery for millennia.

The climb to Mount Sinai is a spiritual and physical adventure. Follow the path of the Repentant Staircase or opt for the more strenuous Camel Trail ascent, to reach the summit and be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise.

At the summit, you’ll be enchanted by the spectacular panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and endless desert. According to tradition, it was here that Moses received the Ten Commandments, making Mount Sinai a place of pilgrimage and prayer for believers the world over.

Siwa thermal waters

Siwa Oasis, a hidden gem in the heart of the Egyptian desert, is a haven of peace and natural beauty. Located at the western tip of Egypt, this oasis is nestled between golden sand dunes and surrounded by lush palm trees.

Siwa’s natural thermal waters are renowned for their healing and relaxing properties. Take a bath in these soothing hot springs, surrounded by the striking scenery of the surrounding desert.

The island of Philae

The island of Philae, an Egyptian island treasure, nestles in the heart of the Nile, near Aswan. This island is a place steeped in mystery and spirituality, home to majestic ancient temples.

To reach the island of Philae, you’ll board a traditional felucca, sailing peacefully on the waters of the Nile – an experience in itself. Once on the island, you’ll be greeted by the sacred and enchanting atmosphere of the temples.

The Temple of Isis, the island’s most famous, is an architectural masterpiece dedicated to the Egyptian goddess Isis, symbol of maternity and protection. The imposing columns, finely carved capitals and detailed bas-reliefs tell epic stories from Egyptian mythology.

Discovering heritage in Islamic Cairo

Islamic Cairo, a fascinating journey through Egypt’s religious and architectural history, is home to emblematic jewels of Islamic heritage. Among these treasures are the Al-Azhar Mosque and the Ibn Tulun Mosque, two emblematic buildings that will transport you back to the glorious past of this thousand-year-old city.

The Al-Azhar Mosque, one of the world’s oldest universities, has been a place of learning and spirituality for over a thousand years. With its passageways and shaded courtyards, this building is an oasis of calm in the heart of the hustle and bustle of the city. You can attend prayers and discover traditional Islamic architecture in all its splendor.

The Ibn Tulun Mosque, located in the historic Sayeda Zeinab district, is an architectural marvel. Its slender minarets and spacious patio will enchant you. Climb to the top of the minaret for a breathtaking panoramic view of Cairo.

Islamic Cairo also abounds in picturesque souks and lively alleyways, where you can immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and discover traditional Egyptian craftsmanship.

Hey Yupers! Did you know: The Al-Azhar Mosque is an important center of Islamic learning, attracting students and scholars from all over the world to deepen their religious knowledge!

The White Desert

Located west of the Nile, this limestone desert is a symphony of dazzling shapes sculpted by wind and time.

As you explore the White Desert, you’ll marvel at the unique rock formations that resemble abstract sculptures. The spectacular limestone “mushrooms” and enigmatic “spheres” create an unreal atmosphere, giving the impression of walking on another planet.

At sunset, the White Desert is transformed into a dreamlike landscape, illuminated by the golden hues of twilight. At night, the starry sky offers a breathtaking spectacle, far from any light pollution.

The Saqqara Necropolis

Saqqarah, a window on ancient Egypt, is a remarkable archaeological site near Cairo. It was here that the first pyramid was built, making Saqqara an emblematic site in Egyptian history.

As you stroll through the Saqqara burial complex, you’ll also discover numerous tombs and mastabas, pyramid-shaped funerary structures that housed the tombs of ancient Egyptian dignitaries and nobles.

The nearby Imhotep Museum immerses you in the history of Egyptian architecture and medicine, with fascinating exhibits and unique artifacts.