Top 10 Cities Must Visit in Egypt in 2023

Egypt is a beautiful place to spend your vacation, and there are many beautiful cities to visit there that will make you feel like your trip isn’t long enough. Many tourists who come to Egypt to see it have been there more than 15 times and keep coming back to see its most famous sights and destinations and its new ones.

Every day in Egypt, a new archaeological site is found. These include the pyramids, tombs, temples, and various pharaonic treasures. This is why tourists flock to the country, hoping to participate in such discoveries and see all the beautiful sights that will give you the best life adventure. Egypt is full of experiences that never end. Please find out about the best cities in Egypt and what they offer. Here are the best places to visit in Egypt and the most important monuments and attractions.

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We also have a list of the best cities to visit in egypt, so you can choose the best place to spend your vacation:

1- Cairo

Cairo Egypt, Cairo Facts

Cairo is the best capital of Egypt and the most critical capital on the whole continent. It is often considered the best place to visit in Egypt and is home to some of the most important Egyptian sites. Because of this, it is usually the first place most travelers go.

The ancient city of Memphis, the beautiful pyramid complex of Giza with its three main pyramids, Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, the legendary Sphinx, and the magnificent Valley Temple, as well as wandering around some of the other pyramids, such as the Pyramids of Dahshur, Abu Sir, Meidum, Lisht, Hawara, Abu Rawash, Elhoun, and Mazgouna, are just a few of the places you will be able.

You could never finish your tour of Cairo without going to the fantastic Egyptian Museum, which has treasures, mummies, and artifacts from thousands of years ago.

There are many beautiful Coptic and Islamic monuments in Cairo, such as the Hanging Church, the Ibn Ezra Synagogue, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, the Citadel of Salah al-Din, the Mosque of al-Rifai and Sultan Hassan, the Abu Sarga Church, and the Khan al-Khalili bazaar. There are also many other things to do in Cairo that will ensure you enjoy every minute of your time in Egypt.

List of Cairo Attractions:

1- Islamic Attractions

Islamic Attractions ( top-rated attractions and places to visit in Egypt)

Islamic Cairo is the city’s historical centre. It was built before the Downtown architectural complex, which is in the middle of the modern part of the city and stretches north, south, and west toward the pyramids of Giza. When the Fatimid dynasty took over Egypt in 969 BC, they built a new capital city to the north of the old one, and this city became the center of the caliphate’s government. It Contains:

2- Coptic Attractions

Coptic Attractions in cairo

Coptic Cairo is the only part of the city where there are so many Christian churches and other sites from when Egypt was mostly Christian, between the end of the Pharaonic and the start of the Islamic religion. Coptic Cairo was mainly built on top of what was left of the walls of Babylon’s fortress. It Contains:

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3- Archeological Areas

Archeological Areas

It was started by the Pharaohs and was called Heliopolis. Over the years, it has collected stories and artifacts from many different cultures and religions. In addition to the Giza area and the pyramids on the city’s outskirts, the Egyptian Museum is the best place to start if you want to learn about Egypt’s history in order. The museum has impressive evidence, artifacts, and ruins from Egyptian civilization. It Contains:

2- Luxor City

Luxor City Attractions

Based on the historical sites, Luxor has become the most important city in Egypt to visit. Luxor was built where the ancient Egyptian capital, Thebes, the biggest city in Egypt, used to be.
It has more than a third of the world’s monuments and attractions.

The Karnak and Luxor temples, the Colossi of Memnon, the Valley of the Kings, and the magnificent Temple of the King are some of the most impressive. Queen Hatshepsut, Ramses III’s temple in Habu, the beautiful Valley of the Queens, the Valley of the Nobles, and the beautiful temples of Dendera in Esna.

List of Luxor Attractions:

“The largest open-air museum in the world” is how Luxor is known today. The city of Luxor is one of the best cities in Egypt and well-known tourist destinations in Egypt and around the world. According to statistics from organizations that deal with tourism and ancient Egyptian history, the city of Luxor is on the east bank of the Nile. It Contains:

3- Aswan City

Aswan City Attractions

You can go to the Nubian city of Aswan to see some of its unique monuments and landmarks, most of which were moved because of the Nile River floods and with the help of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

The stunning Philae Temple of the goddess Isis, the majestic High Dam, the enormous unfinished obelisk of Queen Hatshepsut, the temples of Kom Ombo and Edfu, and course, the impressive Abu Simbel temples, which are dedicated to King Ramses II and his government.

By going on a cruise down the Nile, you can see the sights of Luxor and Aswan. On a relaxing cruise down the Nile, you can also see how beautiful the banks of the river are.

List of Aswan Attractions:

Aswan is on the east bank of the Nile. It is a popular tourist destination because it has many ancient monuments and statues that tell the story of a great civilization. People go there to learn about the power of the Egyptian pharaohs and how they built a history that people still study today. For hundreds of years, these two cultures fought over each other’s land and their spheres of influence. It Contains:

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4- Alexandria City

Alexandria City

Alexandria, known as the “bride of the Mediterranean,” has undergone significant changes and building projects that have put it at the top of tourists’ lists of favorite places.
As part of your tour, you will see the Citadel of Qaitbey, the beautiful Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, the Library of Alexandria, the stunning Pompeii Column, the Amphitheater of Kom El Dekka, and the beautiful gardens of the Montazah Palace.

List of Alexandria Attractions:

Alexandria is the second-largest city in Egypt and a port city on the Egyptian Mediterranean coast on the western arm of the Nile Delta. Alexandria is also the oldest continuously inhabited city in Egypt. Even though this city’s days are long behind, numerous monuments, particularly those dating back to Greek and Roman times, continue bringing tourists here. It Contains:

5- Hurghada

Hurghada Attractions

Hurghada is the oldest and most popular tourist destination in Egypt. It is also one of the best coastal cities in Egypt because it has white sand beaches and blue skies all year. There are many things to do and places to see, like the Giftun Islands, Hurghada Marina, Global Strait, Sinbad’s Submarine, AbuSinbad’shipwreck sites, and Hurghada Aquarium.

You’ll be able to meditate, you’ll the golden beaches, and participate in many water sports and activities, like snorkeling.

Hurghada is also one of the places in Egypt where you can go on Desert Jeep trips and quad biking. This is why most tourists spend their vacations in a coastal city like Hurghada instead of a desert city.

List of Hurghada Attractions and Activites:

1- Mahmya Beach on Giftun Island

This is the most popular tourist attraction in Hurghada, a must-see for anyone who comes to Hurghada. To get to this island, you must book a boat trip that will bring you directly to your destination. This journey usually lasts one to two hours and becomes a fantastic experience.

From the boat, you can admire the crystal clear water through which you can quickly see exotic fish, and if you are lucky, you can even see dolphins. Arriving on the island, you can enjoy breathtaking views that will make you think of famous exotic islands.

Relax for a few hours on the white sand, swim in the turquoise water, and then enjoy Egyptian culinary specialties at a local restaurant.

2- The Great Aquarium in Hurghada

When you go on vacation with your children, it is essential to find ways in which they can have fun and, at the same time, learn and discover new things. That is why we recommend visiting the Great Aquarium in Hurghada, the largest, most fascinating, and complete in all of Egypt.

What turns the visit to this aquarium into a unique and memorable experience is the underwater tunnel. You can admire the world of marine animals from a different perspective, from colorful fish of all colors to sharks.

3- Water World cards

The largest water park in Egypt awaits you for a day full of adrenaline, fun, and adventure. Fun is guaranteed regardless of age. There are many dangerous slides for lovers of extreme sensations, and the most popular is the 19m slide on which you can slide freely and reach unimaginable speeds.

For the little ones, there is a mini water park colored in the colors of the rainbow, with slides and many likable characters, which the children will be very excited about.

4- The Sindbad Submarine

Most of the tourist attractions in Hurghada are related to the aquatic world. It is not surprising because the Red Sea is the habitat of many fish and coral species.

The Sindbad submarine is the only submarine in the Red Sea intended for tourists. It descends to a depth of 22 meters, where you can watch the beauty of marine life in fascination. This trip takes about an hour.

5- Hurghada Marina

This is ideal for a sunset walk and a delicious dinner with superb sea views and the port’s yachts. It can also be considered the center of the resort, a place full of life, always animated by tourists and locals. Live music resounds from restaurants or spaces where parties are organized, the food emits a tempting fragrance, and salty air floats everywhere. So, spend your evenings in a charming atmosphere in Hurghada Marina!

6- What other activities can you do in Hurghada?

Jeep expeditions in the desert
Camel rides on the seashore.
An astronomical tour – a trip outside the resort, in the desert, where you can admire the starry sky
A traditional evening in the desert in the middle of a Bedouin tribe
A visit to Senzo Mall – the largest shopping centre on the shores of the Red Sea, where you can spend a few hours shopping

6- Marsa Alam

Marsa Alam Attractions

Marsa Alam was a small fishing village, but it has become an upscale tourist resort in just a few years. It has become a popular vacation spot for people who want to escape everything, relax, and enjoy beautiful beaches, clear water, and unspoiled coral reefs. Even though the town is small, it has small shops, restaurants, a privately owned international airport, and cafes.

List of Marsa Alam Activities:

There are many things that you can do in Marsa Alam other than rest on the beach, as this beautiful coastal city offers a variety of activities that you may participate in to enjoy your holiday in Egypt; the most exciting things in Marsa Alam are as follows:

1- Swimming with dolphins

Swimming with dolphins and enjoying the magnificent reef with its undamaged corals and crystal-clear waters are the highlights of this trip.

2- Fishing

You can go fishing or kite surfing on a boat and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

3- safari Trips

Go on a quad bike safari through the desert or a jeep safari through Wadi Hammamet, where you can see the animals of Jebel Elba National Park. You can also go on a camel safari through the desert.

7- Sharm El-Sheikh

Sharm El-Sheikh Activites

Sharm el-Sheikh is the Sinai Peninsula’s leading tourist destination and one of the best places to dive in the world. The underwater beauty of the Red Sea, especially in the waters of Ras Mohammed Park just south of the city, and the fact that you can dive and snorkel here put “Sharm” on the map in the first place.

They continue to draw a lot of scuba divers every year. This is also one of the best places to go in Egypt if you want to relax on the beach. Families love coming here because there are so many great things to do. Sharm el-Sheikh is a great place to go to the beach after seeing the temples and tombs in the rest of the country. You can come here for the sand or the fish.

List of Sharm El-Sheikh Attractions :

1- The Ras Mohammed National Park

Sharm el-Sheikh became popular with tourists because of Ras Mohammed National Park. This peninsula is surrounded by some of the best places to dive.

It has beautiful beaches with great diving right off the coast, the second-northeast mangrove forest in the world, and a saltwater lake. Everyone who stays in Sharm el-Sheikh has to go here at least once. The best beaches are Old Quay Beach and Aqaba Beach.

Old Quay Beach has a world-class coral reef that is easy to get to from the beach. The Shark Cliff Upper Observatory is an excellent place for a good view. You can see the Red Sea on both sides at the southern end of Ras Mohammed.

2- Naama Bay

Naama Bay is the centre of resort life in Sharm el-Sheikh. It has a white-sand beach and palm trees that sway in the wind.

If you get tired of the beach, there are many restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops, but Naama Bay is all about the beach. A pedestrian promenade runs along the coast, and high-end resorts line the other side. Naama Bay is one of the best places in Egypt to spend a vacation lying around in the sun.

There are plenty of sun loungers and hammocks on the beach, and cafes right by the water, so you don’t have to leave your spot of sand all day.

3- Reef and Ras Um Sid Beach

Right at the city’s southern end near the lighthouse, Ras Um Sid is one of the best beaches in Sharm el-Sheikh. People relax on the beach between snorkelling trips in the water, where there is a great coral reef.

Ras Um Sid Reef is farther from the shore and is an excellent place for first-time scuba divers. Many local divers also use it as a place to test their skills. Even if you snorkel, you can see a lot of fish.

4- Sharm Old Market

Sharm Old Market, also called Sharm al-Maya, is the town’s souq (bazaar), where you can find lots of sparkling Arabian lamps, traditional shisha pipes, and beautifully carved woodwork. It’s best to come at sunset or later when the day’s heat has died down, and you can shop and look around without getting too hot. There are lots of cheap, happy restaurants and cafes in the area.

5- The blue hole

The Blue Hole is Sinai’s most famous dive site, and people come from around the world to dive there. Every year, a few divers die in this sinkhole, most of them because they went more profound than they should have.

Even though the site has a reputation for being dangerous, divers are perfectly safe as long as they stay within reasonable limits. This is a stunningly beautiful dive because there are lots of fish, and you can see deep blue water.

8- Siwa City

Cities to visit in Egypt

Siwa is located in the western desert of Egypt. Siwa is known for its Berber roots and ancient Egyptian influences, making it a fascinating destination for anyone interested in history and culture.

If you’re planning a trip to Siwa, there are several cultural attractions that you won’t want to miss. The Siwa House Museum is a great place to start, as it provides a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of the Siwan people. The museum is housed in a traditional Siwan mud-brick house and features exhibits on local history, crafts, and traditions.

lake salt in Siwa City

The lake salt is a popular destination for visitors due to its picturesque views, tranquil waters, and unique salt formations.

The salt formations in Lake Siwa result from the lake’s high salt concentration. As the water evaporates, the salt is left behind, forming intricate patterns and shapes on the lake bed. These formations are a testament to the region’s natural beauty and geological diversity.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Lake Siwa has played an important role in the history and culture of the Siwan people. It is said that Alexander the Great visited the lake during his conquest of Egypt and consulted the famous oracle at the nearby Temple of Amun.

Today, the lake is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and bird-watching. Visitors can also take a relaxing boat ride on the tranquil waters and admire the stunning scenery. Some tour operators offer guided tours of the lake, providing insights into the local history and culture.

For those interested in the therapeutic benefits of saltwater, Lake Siwa is said to have healing properties due to its high salt concentration. Many visitors come to the lake specifically to swim in its saltwater and experience the supposed health benefits.

In conclusion, Lake Siwa is a unique natural wonder and a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Siwa City. Its stunning salt formations, tranquil waters, and cultural significance make it a memorable and rewarding experience for visitors of all ages.

Visit Siwa Attractions

Another must-see cultural attraction in Siwa is the Shali Fortress, built in the 13th century and served as a defensive structure for the city. The fortress is in ruins today, but it still provides a striking backdrop for exploring Siwa’s old town’s narrow streets and alleys.

For those interested in ancient history, the Oracle of Amun temple is a must-visit attraction. This ancient temple was dedicated to the god Amun and was a popular destination for pilgrims during ancient times. Today, the temple is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can explore the ruins and learn more about the temple’s history and significance.

Live Siwa Traditions

We have several recommendations if you’re interested in experiencing traditional Siwan culture firsthand. Attending a Siwan wedding is a unique and unforgettable experience, as weddings in Siwa are known for their festive atmosphere and colorful traditions. Visitors can also explore local markets, shop for traditional crafts and sample local cuisine.

9- Kharga Oasis City

Cities to visit in Egypt

Kharga Oasis has a rich history and culture that dates back thousands of years. As one of Egypt’s largest oases, it has been a trade, religion, and agriculture hub. Its strategic location in the Western Desert made it a critical stop for travelers and armies moving through the region.

The ancient Romans were among the first to establish a presence in Kharga Oasis, building a fortress and a series of temples during their occupation of Egypt. The Temple of Hibis is one of the most significant Roman-era structures in Kharga. Built-in the 3rd century BC, the temple is dedicated to the god Amun and features stunning carvings and reliefs.

Kharga Oasis was also an important center of Pharaonic civilization, and several temples and tombs from this era have been discovered in the oasis. One of the most well-preserved Pharaonic structures in Kharga is the Qasr el-Ghueita temple, built during Ramses II’s reign. The temple features impressive columns and carvings and is a popular destination for visitors interested in ancient Egyptian history.

Today, Kharga Oasis is home to a vibrant community of people who have preserved many traditional customs and practices. One of the best ways to experience traditional Kharga culture is to visit local villages and interact with the locals. Many villages in Kharga are known for their handicrafts, such as pottery, weaving, and embroidery, and visitors can purchase these items directly from the artisans.

Another way to experience traditional Kharga culture is to attend one of the many cultural festivals throughout the year. The Siwa and Bahariya Oasis Festivals are among the most popular, featuring music, dance, and other cultural performances. The dates for these festivals vary each year, so it’s a good idea to check ahead of time to plan your visit accordingly.

In addition to the Temple of Hibis and the Qasr el-Ghueita temple, the Kharga Museum is another must-visit cultural attraction in the oasis. The museum features exhibits on the history and culture of the oasis, including ancient artifacts and displays on local crafts and traditions.

10- Dakhla Oasis City

Cities to visit in Egypt

Dakhla Oasis is one of Egypt’s most picturesque and historically significant oases. Located in the Western Desert, it has been a center of trade and agriculture for thousands of years. It is also known for its stunning natural landscapes, including lush palm groves, hot springs, and dunes.

The history of Dakhla Oasis is closely tied to the ancient Egyptians, who first settled in the region around 2500 BC. The Pharaonic era left a significant mark on the oasis, with several temples, tombs, and other structures still visible today. One of the most important Pharaonic sites in Dakhla Oasis is the Deir el-Hagar temple, built during Ramses II’s reign and dedicated to the goddess Isis.

Dakhla Oasis was also an important center of Islamic civilization, with several mosques and other religious structures dating back to the early Islamic period. The most famous of these is the Al-Qasr Mosque, built in the 12th century and still in use today.

In addition to its historical sites, Dakhla Oasis is also known for its natural beauty. The hot springs of Bir Tarfawi and Bir Setta attract visitors worldwide for their reputed healing properties, while the nearby dunes offer spectacular views of the surrounding desert.

Visiting the local villages is necessary for those interested in traditional Dakhla culture. Many of these villages have preserved their traditional way of life, with farming and handicrafts playing a central role in daily life. Visitors can purchase handmade pottery, textiles, and other crafts directly from the artisans.

Other top cultural attractions in Dakhla Oasis include the Ethnographic Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the oasis, and the Al-Qasr fortress, a well-preserved example of Islamic architecture.

Related FAQs about egypt cities to visit

What are the must-visit cities in Egypt?

Some must-visit cities in Egypt include Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Alexandria, and Siwa.

What are the best cultural attractions in Egypt’s cities?

Some of the best cultural attractions in Egypt’s cities include the Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the Luxor and Karnak temples, and the Valley of the Kings in Luxor.

What is the best time of year to visit Egypt’s cities?

The best time to visit Egypt’s cities is from October to April when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers in Egypt can be scorching and dry.

How easy is it to get around Egypt’s cities as a foreign traveler?

It is relatively easy to get around Egypt’s cities as a foreign traveler, as most cities have a well-developed transportation system that includes taxis, buses, and trains.

What are the best accommodations for travelers in Egypt’s cities?

Some of the best accommodations for travelers in Egypt’s cities include luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and traditional guesthouses known as riads.

Are Egypt’s cities safe for tourists?

Yes, Egypt’s cities are generally safe for tourists. However, taking precautions and following local safety guidelines is always recommended.

What is the local cuisine like in Egypt’s cities?

The local cuisine in Egypt’s cities is rich and flavorful, with dishes like koshari, ful medames, and taameya (Egyptian falafel) being popular street foods.

What are some of the popular souvenirs to buy in Egypt’s cities?

Some popular souvenirs in Egypt’s cities include handmade pottery, papyrus artwork, traditional textiles, spices, and herbs.

What are some off-the-beaten-path cities to visit in Egypt?

Some off-the-beaten-path cities to visit in Egypt include Siwa, Dakhla, and Kharga Oasis.

Are there any cultural customs or traditions I should know when visiting Egypt’s cities?

Knowing cultural customs and traditions is important when visiting Egypt’s cities. For example, dressing modestly and removing shoes before entering mosques and other religious sites is expected, and public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.

We hope this article for the Egypt itinerary has helped you figure out how to plan your trip. If you want your trip to Egypt to go well, don’t miss these essential guides that will help you plan from start to finish:

Good trip!