Best Things to Do in Aswan – Top Islands, Temples & Day Trips
Aswan is one of Egypt’s most enchanting destinations — a serene city along the Nile that brims with historic temples, islands, and timeless stories. Visitors can enjoy some of the best things to do in Aswan, from marveling at the stunning Philae Temple to immersing themselves in the lively Nubian culture, where colorful traditions continue to flourish.
At Egypt Tours Group, we’ve created the ultimate guide to the top places to explore in Aswan, featuring must-see attractions, island adventures, day trips, and easy-to-follow itineraries. Our expert tips make it simple for you to plan your perfect visit and experience the magic of this iconic Egyptian city.
⚡ Quick Answer – Top 10 Things to Do in Aswan
Don’t waste your time searching. Here are the top 10 things to do in Aswan, presented by ETG.
- 🏛️ Philae Temple
- ⛵ Felucca Sunset Sail
- 🐘 Elephantine Island
- 🏺 Nubian Museum
- 🎨 Nubian Village (Gharb Soheil)
- 🌿 Kitchener’s Botanical Island
- 🌊 Aswan High Dam & Lake Nasser View
- 🪨 Unfinished Obelisk & Granite Quarries
- ⛰️ Tombs of the Nobles (Qubbet el-Hawa)
- 🚌 Day Trip: Abu Simbel
Aswan Districts Guide – Islands, East Bank & West Bank
Aswan is divided into several distinct districts, each offering a unique experience and some of the best things to do in Aswan. From scenic islands to historic temples and cultural landmarks, every area has attractions that travelers should not miss.
🏝️ Islands
- Visitors can reach Elephantine Island easily via the Corniche or a traditional felucca.
- The island features ancient ruins, a quaint museum, and charming hotels and inns.
- Kitchener Island, also known as the Island of Plants, is famous for its rare and exotic flora.
- Ideal for enjoying stunning sunsets and capturing memorable photos.
🌅 East Bank
- The Nubian Museum displays priceless artifacts saved from flooding and offers insight into Nubian culture.
- Walking along the Corniche is perfect at night for a peaceful stroll or in the morning as a convenient point to catch boats and ships.
- The historic Old Cataract Hotel, famous as the setting of Agatha Christie’s novels, provides breathtaking Nile views.
- Boats from here depart to the iconic Philae Temple, a must-visit attraction in Aswan.
🌄 West Bank
- Qubbet el-Hawa (the Air Dome) was built for nobles and priests and is carved into the mountainside with spectacular views.
- The Monastery of St. Simeon offers a tranquil desert retreat, away from the crowds, showcasing Egypt’s rich monastic history.
Best Experiences in Aswan (Top 10 Must-Do Activities)
Egypt Tours Group brings you the ultimate list of unmissable experiences during your visit to Aswan, ensuring you make the most of your trip.
1. Philae Temple (Boat Access)
Discover the breathtaking Temple of Philae with its majestic Hathoric columns.
➤ Why visit? Nestled on a picturesque island, Philae Temple is dedicated to the goddess Isis and is considered one of Egypt’s most stunning temples.
➤ Time needed? Approximately two hours is sufficient to explore the temple and its surroundings.
➤ Best time? Early morning visits are ideal to avoid the heat and large crowds.
➤ Tip: Make sure to agree on the launch price beforehand and apply sunscreen to stay protected during your visit.
3. Elephantine Island (Walks, Museum, Villages)
➤ Why visit? Considered one of the Best Things to do in Aswan, Elephantine Island lets you explore ancient ruins, a charming museum, and vibrant Nubian villages.
➤ Time needed? A couple of hours is sufficient to enjoy the highlights of the island.
➤ Best time? Morning or afternoon visits are ideal to enjoy cooler temperatures and peaceful surroundings.
➤ Tip: Stroll through the streets, engage with locals, and immerse yourself in the culture for a richer and authentic experience.
4. Kitchener’s Botanical Island (Palm & Shade Loops)
➤ Why visit? A serene natural retreat in the middle of the Nile, surrounded by rare plants, palm groves, and scenic trees — perfect for a peaceful escape.
➤ Time needed? About an hour is enough to explore the main sights, though the beauty of the plants may make you linger longer.
➤ Best time? Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and the best lighting for photos.
➤ Tip: Refresh yourself with a juice or cool drink while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of the island.
5. Nubian Museum
➤ Why visit? The ultimate destination to understand Nubian culture, its rich history, and the story of their displacement along the Nile.
➤ Time needed? One to two hours is usually sufficient to explore the main exhibits.
➤ Best time? Any time works well, as the museum is fully air-conditioned and sheltered from the heat.
➤ Tip: Hiring a private guide will enrich your visit and help you fully grasp the depth of Nubian history and traditions.
6. Nubian Village (Gharb Soheil) – Culture & Colors
Have the time of your life in the colorful village2. Felucca Sunset on the Nile
➤ Why visit? Experience the authentic Nubian way of life, admire the colorful decorations of homes, and learn the real stories and customs of the Nubian people.
➤ Time needed? About three hours is enough for a quick visit.
➤ Best time? Afternoon until sunset is ideal to enjoy vibrant colors and the lively village atmosphere.
➤ Tip: Take the time to interact with locals, ask about their traditions, and immerse yourself in the culture for a memorable experience.
7. Aswan High Dam & Lake Nasser View
➤ Why visit? Discover the world’s largest artificial lake and admire the monumental structure of the Aswan High Dam, a marvel of modern engineering.
➤ Time needed? A quick visit of 30–60 minutes is sufficient to enjoy the views and take photos.
➤ Best time? Early morning or late afternoon is ideal to avoid harsh sunlight.
➤ Tip: Bring sunglasses and pay attention to the engineering details if you are fascinated by large-scale constructions.
8. Unfinished Obelisk & Granite Quarries
➤ Why visit? Witness the massive unfinished obelisk and learn how ancient Egyptians carved obelisks, including the story behind this particular monument.
➤ Time needed? Approximately one hour is enough to explore the site.
➤ Best time? Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and better lighting.
➤ Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as the ground can be uneven in certain areas.
9. Tombs of the Nobles & St. Simeon Monastery
➤ Why visit? Explore tombs carved into the mountains for nobles and priests, and experience the tranquility of the St. Simeon Monastery, situated in the heart of the desert.
➤ Time needed? Two to three hours are recommended to cover both sites thoroughly.
➤ Best time? Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat.
➤ Tip: Consider booking a camel ride to travel between the cemetery and monastery for a more authentic experience.
10. Old Cataract Tea at Sunset (Heritage Stop)
➤ Why visit? Enjoy a relaxing tea amidst the luxurious surroundings and distinctive architecture of the Old Cataract Hotel, offering an unforgettable sunset experience.
➤ Time needed? About 90 minutes is ideal to savor the moment and unwind.
➤ Best time? Sunset provides the perfect atmosphere for this serene experience.
➤ Tip: Make a reservation in advance to secure your spot for this iconic Aswan activity.
Aswan Itinerary – 1, 2 & 3-Day Suggested Plans
Planning your trip to Aswan and wondering what the Best Things to do in Aswan are?
We’ve prepared three easy-to-follow itineraries for 1, 2, or 3 days in Aswan, designed to help you make the most of your visit. Each plan is practical, well-structured, and perfect for any type of traveler looking to explore the city’s highlights efficiently.
| Itinerary | Activities |
|---|---|
| 1 Day (Highlights) | 🌅 Morning: Philae Temple (relocation story) 🏛️ Midday: Nubian Museum ⛵ Sunset: Felucca sail + Elephantine Island (optional) |
| 2 Days | 📍 Day 1: Philae Temple → Nubian Museum → Felucca Sunset 📍 Day 2: Nubian Village → High Dam → Unfinished Obelisk |
| 3 Days | 📍 Day 1: Philae → Nubian Museum → Felucca 📍 Day 2: High Dam → Nubian Village → Unfinished Obelisk 📍 Day 3: Day Trip to Abu Simbel or visit Kalabsha Temples |
Day Trips from Aswan
One of the reasons Aswan ranks among the top cities to visit in Egypt is its proximity to breathtaking landmarks perfect for Egypt Day Trips. From ancient temples to scenic Nile views, there’s plenty to explore just a short journey away.
Abu Simbel Temples (long day, flights or convoy)
Visiting the Abu Simbel Temples is an unmissable experience, offering a chance to see the grand temple of King Ramses II and the smaller temple he built for his beloved queen.
✈️ Travel by plane for a faster, though slightly expensive, journey.
🚌 Travel by secure bus for a longer, scenic route.
🏔️ Witness the incredible engineering of temples carved directly into the mountain and learn the story of how they were saved from flooding.
Kalabsha Temples (by boat from High Dam)
One of the Best Things to do in Aswan, the Kalabsha Temples are just a three-hour distance from Abu Simbel Temples.
🛶 Travel comfortably by boat from the High Dam to reach the temples.
🌅 Ideal for visitors who prefer a relaxed trip without long hours on the road.
Edfu & Kom Ombo (northbound)
Perfect for travelers heading to Luxor, as Kom Ombo Temple and Edfu Temple lie conveniently between Aswan and Luxor.
🏯 Visit Edfu Temple, the second largest temple in Egypt, and Kom Ombo Temple, a rare double temple with unique architecture.
🚗 Accessible by car or stop along your Nile cruise, allowing you to visit both sites effortlessly while traveling north.
Where to Stay in Aswan (Islands VS Corniche VS Nubian Village)
Aswan is full of diverse accommodations according to tastes and budgets, all of which guarantee that you will enjoy your trip to Aswan through different experiences. Here are some examples of accommodations:
Islands
Islands like Elephantine guarantee complete tranquility and magical nature.
🌿 Ideal for those who love relaxation and isolation from the outside world.
🌊 Direct view of the Nile.
⛵ But you need a felucca to take you anywhere.
Corniche (East Bank)
🚗 Suitable for quick transportation and has more hotels than the islands.
🏛️ Close to the city market, Philae Temple, and the Nubian Museum.
🔊 More crowded and noisy than the islands.
Nubian Village
🏡 Guest houses with stunning and traditional décor.
🎭 The most culturally significant experience in Aswan — a truly unique adventure.
🍲 Taste authentic Nubian food and learn about local customs and traditions.
🚤 The daily commute to and from the village can be a bit tiring.
Each area offers a different charm — whether you seek peace, convenience, or authentic culture, Aswan has it all.
For family-friendly planning, you can explore our Egypt Family Tours.If you’re traveling on a budget, check our Egypt Budget Tours for affordable options across Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan.
Getting Around Aswan (Boats, Taxis & Tickets)
Getting around Aswan is easy and enjoyable, especially since most attractions are close to the Nile. Whether you’re taking a boat, a taxi, or walking along the Corniche, here’s a quick guide to how transportation works in the city.
💡 Top tip: Always agree on the price before boarding a felucca, motorboat, or taxi. Prices are usually fair, but asking in advance avoids surprises.
- Feluccas (traditional sailboats): Perfect for short rides, sunset trips, and crossing between the East and West Bank. Best for slow, scenic trips.
- Motorboats: Faster and used for reaching major sites like Philae Temple, the Nubian Village, or Kitchener Island. Prices vary by distance and group size.
- Taxis: Available everywhere and ideal for airport transfers or moving between hotels and main sites. They’re more expensive than boats but still affordable.
- Tickets for attractions: Most entrance fees in Aswan are clearly displayed at each site and follow standard tourist pricing across Egypt. Credit cards are accepted at major sites.
- Best time to explore: Start your visits early in the morning or after 3 PM to avoid the intense midday sun.
Best Time to Visit Aswan
To enjoy your trip to Aswan to the fullest, you need to know what the best time to visit Aswan is, as the weather in Egypt is a great factor in whether you will have fun during your vacation or get exhausted.
- 🌤️ Once the weather starts to get a little cold (October) until late spring (April) is the ideal time to visit Aswan and southern Egypt in general
- 🌤️ Most of the winter months, such as January, are excellent for visiting Aswan, especially during the day when the weather is warm and beautiful, and at night, there are cool breezes that add a poetic atmosphere
- 🌤️ Don’t make a small mistake like choosing a random time in the middle of summer to travel to Aswan!
Final Thoughts – Planning Your Trip to Aswan
Aswan is one of Egypt’s most peaceful and culturally rich destinations — a city where ancient temples, Nubian traditions, and stunning Nile scenery blend beautifully, offering some of the Best Things to Do in Aswan for an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re exploring Philae Temple, sailing on a sunset felucca, visiting vibrant Nubian villages, or starting a day trip to Abu Simbel, Aswan offers something for every traveler.
Use this guide to choose the best attractions, plan your itinerary, and decide where to stay. And if you want a seamless experience, you can always browse our curated Aswan Day Tours or request a tailor-made trip designed just for you.
Enjoy your journey — Aswan will surely be one of the highlights of your Egypt trip.
Discover the Best Things to do in Aswan — from Philae Temple and the Nubian Village to unforgettable felucca sunsets.
You can also check our Aswan Day Trips for private guided experiences, or browse Egypt’s best day tours from Cairo, Luxor, and Hurghada.
Let Egypt Tours Group help you plan a smooth, comfortable, and fully guided visit to Aswan and all of Upper Egypt.
FAQs – Visiting Aswan
What is the best time to visit Aswan?
The best time is from October to April, when the weather is cooler and perfect for sightseeing and Nile activities.
How many days do you need in Aswan?
Most visitors spend 1–3 days, enough to see Philae Temple, the Nubian Museum, Elephantine Island, and enjoy a sunset felucca.
What are the must-see attractions in Aswan?
Key attractions include Philae Temple, Nubian Museum, Elephantine Island, Kitchener’s Island, and the Nubian Village.
How do you get around Aswan?
The easiest options are feluccas for short rides, motorboats for main attractions, and taxis for airport or hotel transfers.
Is it worth visiting Abu Simbel from Aswan?
Yes — it’s one of Egypt’s most impressive temples and an essential day trip, usually taking 8–9 hours round-trip.
Where should you stay in Aswan?
Popular areas include Elephantine Island, the East Bank, and Nile-view hotels for quiet sunsets and easy transportation.
