Pharaohs, pyramids, sand dunes, the River Nile, and the Red Sea. Egypt’s dramatic landscapes, ancient Islamic civilisation, and crystal blue waters make it a top tourist destination. Whether you’re a sun seeker, a romanticist, or a culture vulture there’s something for everyone. Many of the best places to stay in Egypt are luxury boutiques on the banks of the Nile. In addition there are lots of excellent Five Star resorts, some low key diving spots for sports enthusiasts, and some beautiful sailing boats along the Nile. Of course the Red Sea coastline, specifically Sharm El Sheikh, is renowned for cheap package holidays so it’s wise to avoid resorts here if you're looking for something less touristy.
The country can be divided into five main areas, each offering different charms and activities. Cairo for its big city buzz, the Nile Valley & Luxor for their ancient Pharaonic heritage, the Red Sea & Sinai for spectacular coastline, the Siwa Oasis & the Western Desert for dramatic landscape and biblical history, and Alexandria for its youth culture.
Egypt offers a diverse landscape so it would be wise to plan a week in each area rather than rush through them all at once. For sightseeing the best time of year to visit is in the cooler months between October and April. The summer months can get as hot as 38-45 degrees.
Tourism is the driving force behind Egypt’s economy, but since the Revolution in 2011 it has dropped its position in Top Destination rankings. While currently the Foreign and Commonwealth Office advises against travel to North Sinai, with the exception of Sharm El Sheikh, it's best to check the FCO website for travel updates before you book.
What Not To Miss
- A trip to Egypt isn't complete without a trip to the Pyramids of Giza, the last surviving of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. These iconic structures are just as impressive nowadays as they were back when they were built, and they're not to be missed.
- Abu Simbel is truly jaw dropping. Orginally King Ramses II's great temple, you'll be in awe of its megalithic proportions and stunning statues. A truly wondrous spot.
- Visit St Catherine's Monastery, situated at the bottom of the biblically renowned Mount Sinai where Moses allegedly received the Ten Commandments. Full of religious iconography, art and manuscripts in its museum, this is a fascinating visit.
- Abydos Temple features wonderful hieroglyphics and intricate paintings on the chunky stone walls and columns. Wonderfully-preserved, this is a fantastic visit.
- The Egyptian Museum in Cairo houses a wide variety of antiquities, (with over 120,000 items), detailing the country's rich history. An absolute must visit!
- Experienced divers will not want to miss the spectacular Blue Hole, which is just north of Dahab, or the Ras Mohammed National Park (around an hour from Sharm el Sheikh).
The Hotel Guru’s selection of the best places to stay in Egypt consist mainly of luxury boutiques, Five Star resorts on the coast, and a few suggestions for a desert escape. Boutiques are few and far between but they stand out from the mass of cheap package holiday destinations and are far more private than the best Five star resorts. Use our guide and start to plan your visit to this fascinating country.
