5 Best Places to Visit in Egypt from Pyramids to the Nile

5 Best Places to Visit in Egypt from Pyramids to the Nile

Explore one of the most exciting destinations in the world, Egypt, which is filled with ancient wonders, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. The country is full of historical places like the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and massive temples along the Nile River, as well as beaches, markets, and peaceful cruises. You will find an incredible blend of places to visit in Egypt that will surprise you. It’s a must-visit place for anyone interested in history, adventure, and spiritual heritage. Make your journey memorable by exploring every corner of this amazing country.

1. Great Pyramid of Giza

One of the most historical and cultural sites, the Great Pyramid of Giza, is among the most iconic and mysterious monuments in the world. This must-visit destination in Egypt is located near Cairo, on the Giza Plateau, along with two smaller pyramids and the Great Sphinx. It is the oldest and most famous pyramid in Egypt, built over 4,500 years ago for the Pharaoh Khufu, and is the last of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing today. Without any modern machines, the ancient Egyptians built the pyramid by using millions of large stone blocks. It was originally 146 meters (481 feet) tall and was the tallest building in the world for over 3,800 years.

What to See:

• The Great Pyramid (Pyramid of Khufu).

• Pyramid of Khafre and Pyramid of Menkaure.

• The Great Sphinx.

• Solar Boat Museum (temporarily closed/relocated).

What to Do:

• You can see the pyramid up close.

• Go inside and explore its chambers.

• Learn about ancient Egyptian history.

2. Luxor Temple

Luxor Temple is a large and beautiful ancient temple in the Luxor city, Luxor, Luxor Governorate, in southern Egypt. It’s one of the most majestic and well-preserved temples in Egypt, built more than 3,000 years ago, around 1400 BCE, during the New Kingdom period. The temple was mainly used for royal ceremonies, including the crowning of pharaohs, and was built by two famous pharaohs, Ramses II (1279–1213 BC) and Amenhotep III (1390–1352 BC), and later added to by others, including Alexander the Great. The temple is open from 6 AM to 10 PM on all days.

What to see:

• Massive statues of Ramses II and a majestic open courtyard.

• A huge obelisk (its twin is now in Paris).

• Beautiful columns and hieroglyphs.

• A long avenue lined with sphinx statues once connected to Karnak Temple.

• Sanctuary of Alexander the Great.

• Roman Chapel & Mosque of Abu Haggag.

3. Nile River Cruise

A Nile River Cruise is one of the best ways to explore ancient Egypt. It’s a relaxing, beautiful, and photogenic destination from which you can enjoy the stunning sunrises and sunsets. The cruise takes you along the Nile River, the longest river in the world, passing through beautiful scenery, small villages, and some of the most famous historical sites in the country. The cruise also offers amazing cruising opportunities, including multi-day cruise tours of about 3 to 5 days, and mostly go between the cities of Luxor and Aswan. Travel on a comfortable boat that has cabins, restaurants, and a sun deck to relax on with luxury, history, and breathtaking scenery.

What to see:

• Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, Edfu Temple, Kom Ombo Temple, and Aswan’s sights.

You can also enjoy:

• Breathtaking sunsets and sunrises on the Nile River.

• Delicious traditional Egyptian food.

• Live music and dance shows on board.

4. Egyptian Antiquities Museum

The Egyptian Antiquities Museum is also known as the Cairo Museum, opened in 1902, and is located in Tahrir Square, right in the center of Cairo, Egypt. It is one of the world's most significant museums of ancient history, having the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, with over 120,000 historic items on display. It also houses some of the most famous treasures from ancient Egypt’s 5,000-year history. It’s among the most famous and best places to visit in Egypt and is open from Monday to Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday at 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and on Thursday and Sunday at 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

What to see:

• See King Tutankhamun’s treasures, including his famous golden funerary mask.

• View the royal preserved mummies of pharaohs like Ramses II, Seti I, and Merneptah.

• Statue of Khafre, Narmer Palette, and tomb items of Yuya and Thuya from ancient Egypt.

• Artifacts from famous sites like the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings, and Karnak Temple.

• Animal Mummies, like Crocodiles, cats, and baboons mummified and displayed.

Mosque of Mohamed Ali

One of the most famous and beautiful mosques in Egypt, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali is also known as the “Alabaster Mosque.” It is located inside the Citadel of Salah al-Din, in Cairo, a historic fortress on a hill that gives amazing views of the city. The mosque was built in the 1800s by Muhammad Ali Pasha, the ruler of Egypt at the time, featuring a large central dome, tall minarets, and a beautiful Ottoman-style design. It’s one of the best places to visit in Egypt for spiritual enthusiasts and history lovers. The mosque was built in memory of Muhammad Ali Pasha’s son, Tusun Pasha, and symbolizes Egypt’s independence from Ottoman rule.

What to see:

• One of the largest mosques in Cairo with a central dome, hangings of chandeliers, intricate Islamic calligraphy, red carpets, mihrab (prayer niche), and minbar (pulpit).

• Beautiful arcaded courtyard with a central ablution fountain.

• A long-standing historical clock tower.

• Stunning views of Cairo from the courtyard.

• Tomb of Muhammad Ali near the entrance to the prayer hall.

Conclusion

If you are thinking of a place with history, excitement, and adventure, Egypt is the perfect destination for you, full of ancient landmarks, beautiful beaches, bustling markets, and the tranquil experience of a Nile River cruise. Egypt offers something for everyone, from the iconic Great Pyramid of Giza to the spiritual beauty of the Mosque of Mohamed Ali. You will discover the best places to visit in Egypt, such as Luxor Temple, the Egyptian Museum, a scenic Nile River Cruise, and of course, the Valley of the Kings.

It’s time to book your flights to Egypt with Travelpodium and plan your dream trip. Pack your bags, and prepare to be amazed because the best places to visit in Egypt are not just destinations, they are journeys through time.

FAQs about places to visit in Egypt

Q.1: What are the must-visit places in Egypt?

The best places to visit in Egypt include Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Alexandria, Sharm El-Sheikh/Hurghada, and Siwa Oasis.

Q.2: What currency is used and accepted in Egypt?

The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). While major credit cards are accepted in tourist areas and hotels, cash is essential for smaller purchases, markets, and tipping. It is generally best to exchange your money upon arrival in Egypt for a better rate.

Q.3: Are the pyramids open to tourists?

Yes, visitors can enter the Great Pyramid of Khufu with a ticket and can also explore the Sphinx, Solar Boat Museum, and nearby smaller pyramids.

Q.4: What should I wear in Egypt?

Modest clothing is recommended, especially at religious or rural sites. Light, breathable fabrics for the heat and swimwear are fine at beaches or resorts.

Q.5: What traditional foods should I try?

Some must-try dishes include koshari (lentils, pasta, rice, tomato sauce), ful medames (mashed fava beans), taameya (Egyptian falafel made with fava beans), Molokhia (leafy green stew), and grilled meats, mezze, and fresh seafood.