Egypt holidays

Ancient history meets a modern metropolis in the bustling streets of Cairo — a capital city that inspires endless fascination and unforgettable adventures.

Don’t let the modern resorts and glitzy nightlife fool you. This Egyptian city by the sea is a top destination for families, with shopping, swimming and desert safaris.

Whether you’re a thrill seeker or simply in need of a beach fix, this Egyptian resort town has you covered. Explore everything from coral reefs to camel rides in Sharm El Sheikh.

There are no greater symbols of ancient Egypt than the Pyramids and Great Sphinx of Giza. Their remarkable size and craftsmanship are well worth the hype. Visit the Valley of the Kings, where King Tutankhamun’s tomb was discovered just a century ago. For more archaeological highlights, head to Karnak, a sprawling complex of antiquity with sanctuaries, obelisks and even more sphinxes.

One of the most popular things to do in Egypt is shopping for jewellery and textiles in the country’s many ‘souks’ (open-air markets). After you’ve found your bracelets and rings at the Khan Al-Khalili bazaar, try the famous Arabian coffee at El Fishawy, one of the market’s oldest coffeehouses. Sharia Khayamiya (The Street of the Tentmakers) is famous for handmade textiles, shoes and tents.

Located just a few hours from Cairo, the Black and White Deserts feel like they’re in a different galaxy. The Black Desert is starkly beautiful, with black powder and volcanic stones. The White Desert resembles a moonscape, with rock formations made of calcium, quartz and limestone. Both offer incredible stargazing.

The beaches in Egypt are all about white sand, crystal-blue seas and diving galore. The Red Sea resort city of Sharm El-Sheikh boasts multiple beaches, such as El Fanar, Farsha and Ras um Sid, where you can sunbathe and spot rays and tropical reef fish. Try Soma Beach, about an hour south of Hurghada, for fewer crowds and world-class kitesurfing.

You won’t be disappointed by Egypt’s natural attractions. Take a boat trip down the Nile, dive in the Blue Hole (one of the world’s most challenging and beautiful diving spots), or explore Ras Mohammed National Park’s mangrove forests and reefs. And don’t miss a hike up Mount Sinai for stunning sunrises.

The restaurants in Egypt are known for serving inventive vegetarian dishes, as well as chicken, lamb and pigeon. The country’s national dish is ‘ful medames’, a fava bean mash with cumin, herbs and garlic. Egypt’s open-air markets are a huge draw for foodies, with ‘ta’ameya’ (falafel), ‘mahshi’ (spicy stuffed peppers), dates and pomegranate shakes, among other treats.

The museums in Egypt are every mummy-obsessed 7-year-old’s dream. The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities houses King Tutankhamun’s iconic gold burial mask and Royal Mummies Hall. Housed in a restored Italianate villa, the Alexandria National Museum tells the story of Alexandria with hundreds of artefacts. And don’t miss the Mummification Museum in Luxor, which explains the ancient custom in detail.

The best time to visit Egypt is from March to May or in September. Prices will be lower in those months, and you’ll avoid the school holiday rush. Summer brings hordes of tourists and average high temperatures in the 30s°C. December and January can also be busy, thanks to the festive season and Orthodox Christmas on 7 January.

It’s easy to plan a cheap holiday to Egypt. You can enjoy a delicious restaurant meal for around 200 Egyptian pounds (E£). A local beer or a cappuccino costs around E£70. Take a short taxi ride for as little as E£15.