Egypt is a land of timeless wonders, where ancient history meets vibrant modern culture. However, for a first-time visitor, the sheer number of sites can be overwhelming. To help you plan the perfect trip, we’ve put together a guide on the best places to visit, what activities are worth your time, and—more importantly—what you might want to skip to avoid tourist traps.
1. Are the Pyramids of Giza Really Worth the Hype?
Absolutely. Seeing the Great Pyramid of Khufu is a bucket-list experience that lives up to the expectations.- What to Do: Arrive early (8:00 AM) to beat the crowds and heat. Take a walk to the panoramic viewpoint for the best photos of all three pyramids together.
- What to Ignore: Avoid the aggressive camel and horse carriage drivers right at the entrance. If you want a ride, negotiate a fixed price through your hotel or a reputable guide beforehand.
2. Is the Egyptian Museum in Cairo Still the Best Place for History?
While the new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is partially open, the “Old Museum” in Tahrir Square still holds a hauntingly beautiful collection.- What to Do: Focus on the Tutankhamun exhibit and the royal mummies.
- What to Ignore: Don’t try to see every single artifact. There are over 120,000 items; you’ll get “museum fatigue” within two hours if you don’t prioritize.
3. What is the Most Beautiful Temple in Luxor?
Luxor is often called the world’s greatest open-air museum.- What to Do: Visit Karnak Temple at sunrise and the Valley of the Kings. The tomb of Seti I (though it costs extra) is the most vibrant and well-preserved.
- What to Ignore: Skip the “Sound and Light Shows” at Karnak if you are on a tight schedule; they can feel a bit dated and slow compared to the majesty of the temple during the day.
4. Is a Nile Cruise the Best Way to See Upper Egypt?
A Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan is the classic Egyptian experience.- What to Do: Choose a 3 or 4-night cruise on a modern ship or a traditional Dahabiya (sailing boat) for a more private, slower-paced journey.
- What to Ignore: Don’t buy “souvenirs” from the boats that pull up alongside the cruise ships unless you are prepared for a very loud and chaotic bargaining session involving throwing items up to the deck!
5. Why Should You Visit Abu Simbel?
Located deep in the south, these massive rock-cut temples were built by Ramesses II.- What to Do: Take the early morning flight or bus from Aswan. The scale of the statues is breathtaking and arguably more impressive than the Pyramids.
- What to Ignore: Ignore the “no photography” signs—wait, actually, follow the rules! But ignore the local “guides” inside the temple who offer to take your photo for a tip; you can easily take your own photos in the permitted areas.
6. Where Can I Find the Best Beaches in Egypt?
Egypt isn’t just about dust and stone; it has world-class diving and beaches.- What to Do: Head to Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada for luxury resorts. Visit Dahab if you prefer a laid-back, “hippy” vibe and incredible shore diving at the Blue Hole.
- What to Ignore: Skip the “Glass Bottom Boat” tours if you are a snorkeler. The view is much better when you are actually in the water.
7. Is Cairo’s Khan el-Khalili Bazaar Too Touristy?
It is touristy, but it’s a must-see for the atmosphere.- What to Do: Drink mint tea at the famous El Fishawy cafe and wander into the smaller side streets where local artisans actually work.
- What to Ignore: Ignore the first price a vendor gives you. Bargaining is expected—aim for about 50% of the initial quote.
8. What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Egypt?
- What to Do: Plan your trip between October and April. The weather is pleasant for walking through outdoor ruins.
- What to Ignore: Avoid visiting in July or August unless you enjoy 40°C+ (104°F) heat. The midday sun in Luxor during summer is genuinely dangerous for sightseeing.
9. How Do I Get Around Egypt Safely?
- What to Do: Use Uber in Cairo—it’s cheap, safe, and avoids the hassle of negotiating taxi fares. For long distances, the high-speed train or domestic flights are best.
- What to Ignore: Ignore “helpful” strangers on the street who tell you a certain monument is “closed for prayer” or “closed today”–this is usually a tactic to lead you to their perfume or papyrus shop.
10. What Should I Wear While Traveling in Egypt?
- What to Do: Dress modestly. For women, loose-fitting clothes that cover shoulders and knees are respectful. Men should avoid very short shorts in the city.
- What to Ignore: You don’t need to wear a full headscarf unless you are entering a mosque, and you don’t need heavy hiking boots for the Pyramids—comfortable sneakers are fine.
11. Is Egyptian Street Food Safe to Eat?
- What to Do: Try Koshary (a mix of pasta, rice, and lentils) and Falafel. Look for stalls with a high turnover of local customers.
- What to Ignore: Avoid tap water at all costs. Stick to bottled water, even for brushing your teeth if you have a very sensitive stomach.
12. How Long Should My Egypt Trip Be?
- What to Do: Aim for 10 to 14 days. This allows for Cairo, a Nile cruise, and a few days at the Red Sea.
- What to Ignore: Don’t try to “do Egypt” in 4 days. You will spend all your time in airports and traffic, missing the soul of the country.
13. How Do I Handle the “Baksheesh” (Tipping) Culture?
- What to Do: Carry small change (Egyptian Pounds). Tipping is expected for small services like holding a door or showing you a path.
- What to Ignore: Don’t feel pressured to tip for services you didn’t ask for or didn’t receive. A polite “La Shukran” (No thank you) is usually enough.