As much as I adore the Egyptian capital, however, it’s far from the only place worth exploring in Egypt. From the shores of the Mediterranean to the sun-soaked desert towns, this North African gem has so much to offer.
Alexandria
Far from the chaos of Cairo, you’ll find this slightly quieter city by the sea. It’s home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Great Library of Alexandria, as well as Necropolis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages.
A world away from the typical tourist traps, the sites of Alexandria are the kind of places that simply take your breath away. For me, just following the 4500-year-old footsteps of countless explorers before me is truly magical.
Luxor
Famous for its Nile cruises, Luxor is the starting point for countless travelers looking to set sail during the world’s most famous river. It’s also the entry point into the Valley of the Kings, where history buffs can lay eyes on the tombs of Tutankhamen and Nefertari.
While there was fierce competition, the iconic sites of Luxor and Giza are a couple of the places
Aswan
At the southern border of ancient Egypt, Aswan has been a cultural and trade hub since camel caravans transported Egyptian gold and spices.
The area is also a prime base for exploring the nearby Nubian ruins.
Plan at least a couple of days to take a felucca (traditional eastern Mediterranean wooden sailboat) trip down the Nile River, then explore the wonders of the Nubian Museum, Philae Temple, Unfinished Obelisk, Qubbet el-Hawa, and Nubian Village.
Hurghada
While Egypt might call to mind images of sweeping deserts and dusty pyramids, it also has some outstanding diving sites. The beach resort town Hurghada is one of the prime spots on the Red Sea for scuba diving.
Planning Tip: Have extra time?
Ready to get onto dry land? From traditional markets (souks) to hopping nightclubs, Hurghada has something for everyone.
Sharm el-Sheikh
Egypt’s most famous resort town, this city by the sea is home to some of the most beautiful coral you’ll ever see and it’s easily one of the most impressive diving destinations in the world.
Explore the Ras Mohammed National Park, which is considered to be amongst the most beautiful marine parks in the world just after the Great Barrier Reefs of Australia. When you’re ready to dry off, head out to Colorful Canyon.
Planning Tip: Learning to dive has taken my travel experiences to a whole new level — literally! Some of the most beautiful sites I’ve ever seen in my life have been below sea level. and experience a whole new side of the world.
Marsa Matruh
A beautiful Mediterranean city built by Alexander the Great, Marsa Matruh is a perfect pick for beach lovers. Soak in the sun, splash in the shores, and take in the gorgeous view.
Marsa Matruh is also famous for its markets.
Sitting at the frontier of the Western Desert of Egypt, you can get rare desert herbs here that are famous for curing anything that ails you. Located on the Egyptian-Libyan border, you’ll also find a range of trinkets from across the border.