Best Things to Do in Egypt: Top Cities, Sites & Experiences
Looking for the ultimate Things to Do in Egypt? This timeless destination blends ancient wonders with modern adventures—from pyramids and temples to Nile cruises, desert safaris, and Red Sea beaches.
Whether you’re exploring Cairo’s museums, Luxor’s royal tombs, Aswan’s majestic temples, the coral reefs of Sharm El Sheikh, or hidden gems like Fayoum and Marsa Alam—here’s your complete Egypt bucket list.
Things to Do in Cairo
Looking for the best things to do in Cairo? Egypt’s capital is a city of contrasts where ancient wonders stand beside modern life. From world-famous Cairo activities like visiting the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum, to wandering vibrant souks and exploring Islamic and Coptic landmarks, Cairo offers an unforgettable start to your Egypt journey.
Pyramids of Giza & The Great Sphinx
No trip to Cairo is complete without visiting the last standing wonder of the ancient world. Explore Khufu’s Great Pyramid, Khafre, Menkaure, and the enigmatic Sphinx.
The Egyptian Museum
Discover 120,000+ artifacts from pharaonic Egypt—including royal mummies and the treasures of Tutankhamun—in the heart of Tahrir Square.
Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
Beside the Giza Plateau, the GEM is the world’s largest archaeological museum—showcasing the full Tutankhamun collection and thousands of newly displayed pieces.
National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC)
Don’t miss the Royal Mummies Hall. NMEC takes you from prehistory to modern times in one beautifully curated journey.
Mosque & Madrassa of Sultan Hassan
A masterpiece of Mamluk architecture with towering iwans, elegant stonework, and a vast courtyard.
St. Sergius & Bacchus Church (Abu Serga)
One of Cairo’s oldest Coptic churches—linked to the Holy Family’s journey and rich in early Christian art.
Khan El Khalili Bazaar
A 14th-century souk brimming with spices, perfumes, jewelry, copperware, and traditional crafts.
Top Activities in Cairo
Things to Do in Alexandria
Alexandria, founded by Alexander the Great, blends Mediterranean charm with Greco-Roman history. Top Alexandria attractions include the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, Pompey’s Pillar, and the seaside Corniche—making it one of the most fascinating things to do in Egypt by the coast.
Pompey’s Pillar—Alexandria’s towering Roman landmark.
Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa
One of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages—multi-level tombs fusing Egyptian and Greco-Roman motifs.
Pompey’s Pillar
Granite Corinthian column erected for Emperor Diocletian—once crowned by a colossal statue.
Kom El Dikka
Roman-Byzantine complex: theatre, bathhouse, lecture halls, elite houses with mosaics.
Top Activities in Alexandria
Things to Do in Luxor
Among the best things to do in Egypt, visiting Luxor. The city often called the world’s greatest open-air museum, and it truly deserves the title. When searching for things to do in Luxor, highlights include the magnificent Karnak Temple, the illuminated Luxor Temple, and the royal tombs in the Valley of the Kings. These Luxor attractions bring pharaonic history to life at every turn.
Karnak Temple Complex
Walk through the colossal Hypostyle Hall, sacred lake, and pylons built over two millennia.
Luxor Temple
Amenhotep III and Ramesses II’s riverside masterpiece—magical after dark when floodlit.
Valley of the Kings
More than 60 royal tombs, including Tutankhamun, have vivid paintings that guide the pharaoh to eternity.
Top Activities in Luxor
Things to Do in Aswan
Peaceful and scenic, Aswan is a gateway to Nubian culture and temples on the Nile. The top things to do in Aswan include a visit to the monumental Abu Simbel, the riverside Philae Temple, and a traditional felucca ride. With its mix of history and relaxed charm, Aswan attractions are a must in any Egypt itinerary.
Abu Simbel—Ramesses II & Nefertari’s rock-cut marvel.
Abu Simbel Temples
Monumental façades aligned to the sun—engineering and artistry in perfect harmony.
Kom Ombo Temple
Unique double-temple plan honoring Sobek and Haroeris—twin sanctuaries and parallel halls.
Edfu Temple
One of Egypt’s best-preserved temples—dedicated to Horus, with towering pylons and granite falcons.
Top Activities in Aswan
Things to Do in Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh activities include snorkeling at Ras Mohammed, quad-biking in the Sinai desert, and evening strolls at SOHO Square.
Ras Mohammed National Park
World-class snorkeling and diving with 1,200+ fish species and colorful coral gardens.
The Heavenly Cathedral
Lavish interiors, murals, and stained glass—one of Sinai’s standout churches.
Top Activities in Sharm
Things to Do in Hurghada
One of the best things to do in Egypt is to visit Hurghada. Things to do in the city range from exploring coral reefs at Giftun Islands to glass-bottom boat tours and relaxing by the Marina.
Hurghada Museum
Multi-era collection showcasing the concept of beauty—from Ancient Egypt to Islamic and modern periods.
Scuba Diving & Boat Trips
Giftun Islands and Careless Reef deliver superb visibility, coral walls, and abundant marine life.
Top Activities in Hurghada
Things to Do in Fayoum
Fayoum activities include sandboarding at Wadi El Rayan, fossil hunting at Wadi Al-Hitan, and sunsets over desert lakes.
Wadi El Rayan & Waterfalls
Sand dunes meeting blue lakes—perfect for day trips, sandboarding, and sunsets.
Wadi Al-Hitan (Valley of the Whales)
UNESCO site with remarkable fossils documenting whale evolution.
Top Activities in Fayoum
Things to Do in Marsa Alam
Marsa Alam is a diver’s paradise on the Red Sea, famous for pristine reefs, dolphins, and sea turtles. Popular Marsa Alam activities include snorkeling at Sataya Dolphin Reef, diving at Abu Dabbab Bay with dugongs, and relaxing on untouched beaches—making it one of the top spots for diving in Egypt.
Abu Dabbab Bay
Swim with turtles and (if you’re lucky) gentle dugongs over seagrass meadows.
Sataya (Dolphin House)
Snorkel among spinner dolphins on day cruises to offshore reefs.
Top Activities in Marsa Alam
Things to Do in El Gouna
Lagoon city north of Hurghada—water sports, chic marinas, and laid-back dining.
Motoclub & Outdoor Adventures
Egypt’s first motocross and ATV tracks (90,000 m²)—plus kitesurfing, wake parks, and more.
Top Activities in El Gouna
Things to Do in Siwa Oasis (Western Desert)
Siwa Oasis is a serene retreat set amidst golden dunes. Explore the mud-brick Shali Fortress, natural springs, salt lakes, and ancient temples like the Oracle Temple of Amun.
Highlights in Siwa Oasis
- Shali Fortress: A historic mud-brick maze with stunning sunset views.
- Cleopatra Spring: A natural pool perfect for a refreshing swim.
- Temple of the Oracle (Amun): The famous site once consulted by Alexander the Great.
- Great Sand Sea: 4×4 safaris, sandboarding, and desert camping under the stars.
- Fatnas Island: A breathtaking sunset spot on Siwa Lake.
- Salt Lakes: Unique floating experience in crystal-clear salty waters.
Top Activities in Siwa
Sinai – St. Catherine & Mount Sinai Attractions
Sinai’s spiritual heart lies at St. Catherine’s Monastery and Mount Sinai. A mix of rugged mountains, sacred history, and stargazing skies awaits adventurous travelers.
Saint Catherine’s Monastery
One of the world’s oldest working monasteries (6th century AD), with a priceless manuscript library and rare icons. Visitors should dress modestly.
Mount Sinai (Sunrise Hike)
One of the best things to do in Egypt is to visit Mount Sinai. Start your hike before dawn via the “Steps of Repentance” or the Camel Path. Watching sunrise from the summit is unforgettable—bring warm clothes, water, and a headlamp.
Top Activities in Sinai
Best Time to Visit – By City
- Cairo: Oct–Apr — Mild weather, comfortable for sightseeing.
- Luxor & Aswan: Nov–Mar — Best time for temples, tombs, and West Bank tours.
- Sharm El Sheikh / Hurghada: Mar–May, Sep–Nov — Warm waters; ideal snorkeling/diving without peak heat.
- Sinai (St. Catherine & Mount Sinai): Apr–May, Sep–Nov — Cool nights for hikes and sunrise views.
- Siwa Oasis: Oct–Apr — Pleasant desert weather for safaris and salt lakes.
FAQ – Things to Do in Egypt
What are the must-see places for first-timers?
Cairo (Giza Pyramids & museums), Luxor (Karnak & Valley of the Kings), Aswan (Philae & Abu Simbel), plus a Red Sea snorkeling day.
When is the best time to visit Egypt?
Generally Oct–Apr. For beach trips, shoulder seasons (Mar–May, Sep–Nov) offer warm water with milder heat.
Is it worth visiting Siwa Oasis?
Yes—unique desert scenery, salt lakes for floating, and historic Shali Fortress. Plan 2–3 nights due to distance from Cairo.
How hard is the Mount Sinai hike?
Moderate. 2–3 hours up depending on route. Take layers, water, headlamp, and go with a local Bedouin guide.
Final Thoughts – Things to Do in Egypt
From the timeless Pyramids of Giza to the tranquil salt lakes of Siwa, from cruising the Nile River to diving in the Red Sea, Egypt offers an endless variety of attractions, activities, and cultural treasures. Whether you are a history enthusiast, adventure seeker, or beach lover, Egypt has something unforgettable waiting for you.
Ready to turn your bucket list into reality? Explore our hand-picked Egypt Tour Packages and unforgettable Nile River Cruises.
Start planning today and experience the best things to do in Egypt with expert guides, seamless itineraries, and once-in-a-lifetime moments.
