Top 5 Things to Do in Egypt

If you’ve ever dreamed of standing before ancient pyramids, sailing down a legendary river, or diving into a sea so blue it doesn’t look real, Egypt is the place to make it happen. It’s one of those destinations that truly has it all: history, adventure, sunshine, and a whole lot of magic.

So, if you’re planning your next trip, here are five unforgettable things to do in Egypt that you simply can’t miss.

1. Stand in Awe at the Pyramids of Giza

Let’s start with the obvious: the Pyramids of Giza. No matter how many times you’ve seen them in pictures, nothing compares to seeing them in person. These ancient giants have been standing here for over 4,000 years, and they’re every bit as impressive as you imagine.

Walk around the Great Pyramid, marvel at the Sphinx, and if you’re up for it, hop on a camel for that classic desert photo moment. It’s touristy, yes, but totally worth it. For a deeper dive into history, grab a local guide, they’ll share the kind of stories you won’t find in a textbook.

2. Cruise the Nile River

There’s something magical about drifting down the Nile. The slow rhythm of the river, the temples rising in the distance, and the contrast of green fields against the golden desert, it’s all hypnotic!

Most Nile cruises go between Luxor and Aswan, stopping at incredible sites like the Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings, and the Temple of Philae. You can go for a full-on luxury cruise or something simpler like a traditional felucca. Either way, it’s one of the best ways to experience Egypt at its most peaceful.

3. Dive into the Red Sea

If ancient temples aren’t enough excitement for you, the Red Sea will take care of that. Egypt’s coastline, especially in Hurghada, Marsa Alam, and Sharm El Sheikh, is a diver’s dream come true.

The coral reefs are spectacular, teeming with colourful fish, dolphins, and the occasional sea turtle. Even if you’ve never dived before, you can still get a taste of the underwater world. Tour companies like Touriesta offer beginner-friendly dive trips and snorkelling tours that make it easy to explore without any stress. Or, if you’d rather stay dry, grab a seat on a glass-bottom boat and watch the magic unfold beneath you.

4. Step Back in Time in Luxor

Luxor feels like a living museum, everywhere you look, there’s history staring back at you. The east bank is home to the majestic Temples of Karnak and Luxor, with towering statues and columns that make you feel tiny in the best way possible.

Across the Nile, the west bank hides the Valley of the Kings, where pharaohs like Tutankhamun were buried with their treasures. It’s hard to believe these ancient tombs are thousands of years old: the colours and carvings are still incredible. If you’re an early riser, catch a hot air balloon ride at sunrise. Watching the temples and fields light up beneath you is pure magic.

5. Get Lost in Cairo’s Chaos and Charm

Cairo can feel overwhelming at first, true, it’s loud, busy, and endlessly fascinating. Start your day at the Egyptian Museum, where you can see artefacts that date back thousands of years, including Tutankhamun’s golden mask.

Then, head to Khan el-Khalili Bazaar and let yourself wander through the maze of stalls selling spices, perfumes, jewellery, and handmade souvenirs. When your feet need a break, sit at a local café, sip mint tea, and just watch life unfold around you. For food, don’t miss koshari, Egypt’s ultimate comfort dish made of rice, pasta, lentils, and crispy onions. Yum!

Final Thoughts

Egypt is one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve left. Between the ancient wonders, friendly locals, and endless sunshine, it’s a destination that truly delivers. Whether you’re cruising down the Nile, exploring Luxor’s temples, or diving into the Red Sea with, every moment feels like part of an incredible story.