Best Things to Do in Egypt: Explore Ancient Wonders and Hidden Treasures

Things to Do and See in Egypt: Discover the Best of the Land of Pharaohs

When you think of Egypt, the first things that come to mind are the Pyramids and the Sphinx. But Egypt is much more than its ancient marvels. It’s a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. From bustling cities to serene oases, this country caters to history buffs, thrill-seekers, beach lovers, and spiritual explorers alike.

Explore the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx

Start your journey in Cairo, home to the legendary Giza Plateau. Stand in awe of the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World—the Great Pyramid of Khufu. Nearby, the Sphinx watches silently over the desert, its enigmatic smile hiding millennia of secrets.

Sail Through History: Discover Egypt on a Nile Cruise 

One of the most unforgettable ways to explore Egypt is by taking a Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan. Whether you choose a 4-day/3-night journey from Aswan to Luxor, a 5-day/4-night trip from Luxor to Aswan, or a full 8-day/7-night round cruise, each experience offers a unique blend of comfort, culture, and adventure.

Glide along the timeless waters of the Nile aboard a modern cruise ship or a more intimate Dahabeya, stopping at iconic temples like Karnak, Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae. Each day reveals a new treasure, from ancient tombs and majestic temples to bustling local markets.

Whether you're watching the sunset from the sundeck or discovering the secrets of the Pharaohs with a professional Egyptologist guide, a Nile cruise is a must-do experience and one of the most relaxing and enriching ways to see the heart of Egypt.

Discover Egypt by River – Explore Our Best Egypt Nile Cruises Now!

What Is There to Do in Luxor Egypt? The Open-Air Museum of the World

Luxor, built on the ruins of Thebes, is often referred to as the world’s greatest open-air museum. This city is a must on any Egypt itinerary.

1-Visit the Karnak Temple Complex

➥ This vast religious site dedicated to Amun-Ra is a labyrinth of temples, columns, and sanctuaries. Don’t miss the Great Hypostyle Hall with its towering pillars and intricate carvings.

2-Discover the Valley of the Kings

➥ Home to the tombs of powerful pharaohs, including Tutankhamun, the Valley of the Kings is a hauntingly beautiful desert site. The colors inside the tombs are still vibrant after thousands of years.

3-Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise

➥ For a magical experience, soar over Luxor’s west bank in a hot air balloon. The early morning light reveals the grandeur of ancient Egypt like nothing else.

Explore Luxor’s Ancient Wonders — Book Your Egypt Tours & Travel Packages with Luxor Experience Today!

Best Things to Do in Egypt for First-Time Visitors

First trip to Egypt? Here’s a curated list of unforgettable experiences you can’t afford to miss.

1- Marvel at Abu Simbel

➥ Carved into a mountainside by Ramses II, Abu Simbel is one of Egypt’s most awe-inspiring temples. It’s worth the early wake-up call or flight to see these statues in person.

2- Dive into the Red Sea in Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada

➥ The Red Sea offers world-class snorkeling and scuba diving. Explore vibrant coral reefs, swim with dolphins, or relax on pristine beaches.

3- Visit the White Desert and Black Desert

Embark on a desert safari to see surreal rock formations and camp under a star-filled sky. These otherworldly landscapes offer an off-the-grid experience.

4- Discover the Temples of Philae

➥ Located on an island in the Nile near Aswan, Philae Temple is dedicated to the goddess Isis. Visit by boat and witness its unique Greco-Roman architecture.

10 Best Things to Do in Egypt: A Bucket List You Must Complete

❖ This list highlights the most iconic and rewarding experiences that every traveler should include:

A. Visit the Pyramids of Giza
B. Explore the Valley of the Kings
C. Cruise the Nile River
D. See the Temples of Abu Simbel
E. Dive in the Red Sea
F. Shop in Khan El-Khalili Market
G. Explore Islamic Cairo
H. Watch the Sound & Light Show at Karnak
I. Visit the Temple of Hatshepsut
J. Explore Alexandria’s Roman Catacombs and Library

Check off Egypt’s ultimate bucket list — from the Pyramids of Giza and Valley of the Kings to Red Sea diving, Abu Simbel, and exploring Islamic Cairo. Start planning your dream Egyptian adventure today!

Things to Do in Egypt in December: Winter Escape to the Land of the Pharaohs

December is one of the best months to visit Egypt. The weather is pleasantly cool, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

❖ Attend the Abu Simbel Sun Festival

Though the main festival occurs in February and October, visiting Abu Simbel in December means fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures.

❖ Enjoy the Cairo Christmas Markets

While Egypt is predominantly Muslim, Christmas is celebrated by the Coptic Christian community. Visit Cairo’s Coptic neighborhoods for festive lights and seasonal cheer.

❖Take a Desert Safari

With cooler temperatures, December is perfect for a safari in the Western Desert or Sinai. Ride camels, sleep in Bedouin tents, and gaze at the Milky Way.

❖ Relax by the Red Sea

Sharm El Sheikh and Marsa Alam offer year-round sun. Spend your winter holiday snorkeling or enjoying spa treatments by the sea.

Celebrate with Savings – Check December and New Year Egypt Vacation Offers Today!

What to Do in Egypt for a Week: Your 7-Day Itinerary Guide

If you’re wondering what to do in Egypt for a week, here’s a perfect itinerary:

Egypt 7-Day Itinerary: From Cairo to Luxor to Aswan

• ✈️ Day 1: Arrival in Cairo

  • Visit the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx
  • Explore the Egyptian Museum (home to Tutankhamun’s treasures)

• ⛵ Day 2: Old Cairo & Islamic Landmarks

  • Tour the Citadel of Saladin and view the Mosque of Muhammad Ali (Alabaster Mosque)
  • Visit Al-Azhar Mosque , one of the most important Islamic landmarks
  • Shop for souvenirs at Khan El-Khalili Bazaar

• ✈️ Day 3: Fly to Luxor

  • Explore Karnak Temple Complex , one of the largest temple complexes in the world
  • Visit Luxor Temple at sunset
  • Overnight stay in Luxor

• ⛵ Day 4: West Bank of Luxor

  • Discover the Valley of the Kings , including the tomb of Tutankhamun
  • Visit the Temple of Hatshepsut (Dendera Temple)
  • Optional Nile felucca ride or hot air balloon ride

• ⛵ Day 5: Nile Cruise to Edfu & Kom Ombo

  • Sail from Luxor to Edfu aboard a luxury Nile cruise
  • Stop to explore the well-preserved Temple of Horus at Edfu
  • Continue to Kom Ombo , dedicated to Sobek and Haroeris

• ⛵ Day 6: Aswan and Abu Simbel

  • Morning visit to Philae Temple , located on an island in the Nile
  • Optional full-day tour to Abu Simbel temples (flights available from Aswan)

• ✈️ Day 7: Return to Cairo

  • Fly back to Cairo
  • Departure or optional city tour if time allows
  • Optional souvenir shopping or relax before your departure.

Don’t stress over planning—let us create your perfect 7-day Egypt itinerary!.

10 Best Places to Visit in Egypt: Top Attractions You Can’t Miss

Here are ten destinations that capture Egypt’s diverse charm:

A. Cairo – Culture, history, and modern buzz.
B. Luxor – Ancient temples and tombs galore.
C. Aswan – Tranquility, Nubian culture, and river beauty.
D. Abu Simbel – Monumental grandeur.
E.  Alexandria – Mediterranean vibe and Roman heritage.
F. Dahab – Laid-back diving paradise.
G. Siwa Oasis – Desert serenity and Berber culture.
H. Sharm El Sheikh – Luxury and water sports.
I.  Marsa Alam – Pristine reefs and quiet beaches.
J. White Desert – Surreal, moon-like landscapes.

Want to see them all? Contact us for a custom Egypt tour package.

Unique Things to Do in Egypt: Hidden Experiences Off the Tourist Trail

Egypt isn’t just temples and tombs. Here are some unusual and unique things to do in Egypt:

A- Sandboarding in the Western Desert

Slide down giant sand dunes in Bahariya or Farafra.

B- Visit a Nubian Village in Aswan

Discover colorful homes, taste local food, and learn about Nubian traditions.

C- Stargazing in the Sinai

Mount Sinai offers breathtaking views and spiritual significance. Hike at night and catch sunrise from the summit.

D- Take a Felucca Ride on the Nile

Sail in a traditional Egyptian boat as you watch life along the riverbanks.

Go beyond the guidebook—add unique experiences to your Egypt tour!

Unusual Things to Do and See in Egypt: Explore the Unexpected

If you're looking for something truly different, try these offbeat activities:

A- Explore the Cave Church of St. Simon in Mokattam

Hidden in Cairo’s Garbage City, this massive church is carved into a rock cliff and seats 20,000 people.

B- Visit the Crocodile Museum in Kom Ombo

This quirky museum showcases mummified crocodiles and artifacts related to the crocodile god Sobek.

C- Swim in the Salt Lakes of Siwa

Float effortlessly in natural salt pools that rival the Dead Sea.

D- Go Birdwatching at Lake Qarun

Fayoum’s lake is a haven for migratory birds and a peaceful retreat from city life.

25 Best Things to Do in Egypt: A Complete Experience for Every Traveler

If you're building a bucket list for Egypt, here are 25 of the best things to do in Egypt that combine ancient history, modern culture, and stunning nature.

1. See the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
2. Cruise the Nile River between Luxor and Aswan
3. Visit the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza
4. Explore the Valley of the Kings
5. Marvel at the Karnak Temple Complex
6. Take a hot air balloon ride over Luxor
7. Visit the Temple of Hatshepsut
8. Discover the Abu Simbel Temples
9. Relax on the beaches of Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada
10. Snorkel or dive in the Red Sea coral reefs
11. Wander through Khan El-Khalili BazaarExplore Islamic Cairo and the Citadel of Saladin
12. Tour Coptic Cairo and the Hanging Church
13. Take a felucca ride on the Nile at sunset
14. Climb Mount Sinai and visit St. Catherine’s Monastery
15. Visit the Temple of Philae in Aswan
16. Experience the White Desert’s unique rock formations
17. Float in the salt lakes of the Siwa Oasis
18. Visit the Library of Alexandria and the Citadel of Qaitbay
19. Go sandboarding in the Western Desert
20. Explore the Crocodile Museum in Kom Ombo
21. Tour the Roman catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa in Alexandria
22. Attend a Sound & Light Show at the Pyramids or Karnak
23. Visit the Monastery of St. Simeon in Aswan
24. Meet locals in a traditional Nubian village 

Curious about the wonders of Egypt? Let us help you experience the best 25 things to do in Egypt—your adventure starts here!

Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Egypt: Don’t Miss These Icons

Pressed for time? If you're only able to visit a few places, make sure these top five tourist attractions are on your list. These are the most iconic and must-see sites in Egypt.

1- Pyramids of Giza

➥ No trip to Egypt is complete without seeing the Great Pyramid, the Sphinx, and the surrounding tombs. It’s the crown jewel of Egyptian tourism.

2- Valley of the Kings (Luxor)

➥ This ancient royal burial ground in Luxor is one of the most powerful archaeological sites in the world. Don’t miss Tutankhamun’s tomb.

3- Karnak Temple Complex

➥The largest religious complex from ancient Egypt, Karnak stuns visitors with its towering columns, statues, and sacred lakes.

4- Abu Simbel Temples

➥ Majestic and monumental, these twin temples were relocated to avoid the floodwaters of the Aswan High Dam and remain a must-see.

5- Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza

➥ Located near the Pyramids, this newly opened museum is the largest archaeological museum in the world, housing the complete collection of Tutankhamun’s treasures and over 100,000 artifacts from Ancient Egypt.

Conclusion: Make Egypt Your Next Great Adventure

Egypt is more than just a vacation—it’s a journey through time, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're marveling at ancient monuments, floating down the Nile, diving into the Red Sea, or exploring hidden oases, there are endless things to do in Egypt for every kind of traveler.

Start planning your Egypt adventure — discover Abu Simbel, Red Sea thrills in Sharm or Hurghada, the White Desert, and Philae Temple. Book your perfect Egypt tour package today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

✅ Safety :❓Is Egypt safe for tourists?

➥ Yes, Egypt is generally safe for tourists, especially in well-traveled areas like Cairo, Luxor, Aswan , and the Red Sea resorts . Stick with reputable tour operators and avoid restricted zones.

✅Best Time to Visit :❓What is the best time to visit Egypt?

➥ The best time to visit is from October to April , when temperatures are cooler and ideal for sightseeing.

 ✅Visa Requirements :❓Do I need a visa to visit Egypt?

➥ Most travelers, including U.S. citizens, need a tourist visa. You can obtain an e-Visa online or get one upon arrival at the airport.

✅ Dress Code :❓What should I wear in Egypt?

➥ Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal. Be respectful — especially at religious sites. Women may want to cover shoulders and knees.

 ✅ Water Safety :❓Can I drink tap water in Egypt?

➥ No, it’s best to drink bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues. Most hotels and restaurants provide safe drinking water.