Egypt: what to see, when to go and useful tips for your first trip
Planning a trip to Egypt is exciting if you’re drawn to ancient history, iconic temples, and the Red Sea’s stunning beaches. This guide will help you understand if Egypt is the right destination for you, what are the must-see attractions, and how to organize your trip in a stress-free way. With careful planning, you can enjoy both the country’s rich historical heritage and its coastal beauty.
Egypt Essentials
📍 Where it is: Northeastern Africa
✈️ Why go: ancient temples, pyramids, deserts, Red Sea resorts
🗓 How much time you need: at least 7–10 day
💡 Type of trip: cultural, scenic, and beach relaxation
🌞 When to go to Egypt
Best time to visit ✅ October to April offers cooler temperatures, ideal for sightseeing. May to June is perfect for Red Sea beach holidays – hot but manageable.
Months to avoid ⚠️ July to September can be extremely hot, especially in desert regions.
🗺️ My favorite itinerary: A well-balanced first trip could include Cairo, Luxor, and the Red Sea coast, combining history, cultural sites, and beach relaxation.
What to see in Egypt: must-see places
🌟 Iconic attractions
- Cairo – Great Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, Egyptian Museum
- Luxor – Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple
- Aswan – Philae Temple, Nile river cruises
- Sharm El Sheikh – Crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, world-class snorkeling and diving, Ras Mohammed National Park
- Marsa Alam – Pristine beaches, untouched coral reefs, snorkeling with turtles and dolphins, Wadi El Gemal National Park
- Hurghada – Red Sea resorts, vibrant marine life, diving and snorkeling excursions, desert safaris
These are the most popular stops for first-time visitors to Egypt.
🌿 Less touristy places
- Siwa Oasis – desert landscapes, ancient ruins
- Fayoum Oasis – Lush landscapes, lakes and waterfalls, ancient pyramids, traditional villages, and the UNESCO-listed Wadi El-Hitan (Valley of the Whales)
- El Minya – Often called the “Bride of Upper Egypt,” with impressive tombs of Beni Hassan, ancient temples, and Nile-side scenery
- Dendera – Home to the Temple of Hathor, one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, famous for its astronomical ceiling
- Abydos – One of the most sacred ancient cities, featuring the Temple of Seti I with some of the finest reliefs in Egypt
Perfect if you want a balance of culture, adventure, and relaxation.
If you are curious about Ancient Egypt or want a simple introduction to its fascinating myths and legends, read more here.
Experiences you should try at least once in Egypt
🏺 Cultural experience: explore ancient temples and tombs
🌄 Nature experience: desert safari or Nile cruise
🏖️ Beach experience: snorkeling, diving, or relaxing along the Red Sea
These experiences allow you to fully enjoy Egypt’s diverse offerings.
What to eat in Egypt: traditional dishes to try
Egyptian cuisine is hearty and flavorful. Some must-try dishes include:
Koshari – rice, lentils, and pasta mix
- Ful Medames – slow-cooked fava beans
- Ta’ameya – Egyptian-style falafel
- Grilled fish and seafood – especially along the Red Sea
⚠️ Food note: Egyptian cuisine is not very spicy, but it can be oily. Always check ingredients if you have dietary restrictions.
Quick FAQ about Egypt
Is Egypt expensive?
No. Daily expenses are generally affordable, especially for food and transport.
Is Egypt safe?
Yes. Egypt is generally safe for tourists, though standard precautions are recommended in crowded areas.
Do you need a car to get around?
No. Domestic flights, trains, taxis, and organized tours make it easy to travel without a car.
Is it essential to carry cash?
Yes, cash is widely used. The local currency is Egyptian Pound (EGP).
- 100 EGP ≈ 5.5 USD
- 100 EGP ≈ 5 EUR
Carrying some cash is recommended for small expenses, tips, and local markets.
Save this guide if you are considering a trip to Egypt and use it as a starting point to build your itinerary, avoiding confusion and wasted time.
