Summary

• Egypt offers an unparalleled variety of activities across its iconic cities, blending rich history, breathtaking archaeology, and thrilling outdoor adventures.
• In Cairo, explore the Giza Pyramids, the Egyptian Museum, and the bustling bazaars.
• Luxor invites travelers to the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and unforgettable hot air balloon rides.
• Aswan enchants with Felucca rides, Philae Temple, and the monumental Abu Simbel.
• Alexandria dazzles with its Mediterranean charm, from the Bibliotheca Alexandria to the Qaitbay Citadel.
• The Red Sea resorts like Hurghada and El Gouna promise world-class diving, desert safaris, and vibrant nightlife.
• The Western Desert and oases offer surreal landscapes, stargazing, and prehistoric sites.
• Whether seeking cultural immersion, adventure, or relaxation, Egypt’s diverse activities create memories for every traveler.

The best activities in Egypt are truly countless, offering each traveler a wide variety of things to do in Egypt. The main goal of this article is to shed some light on all the best activities to do in each of the major cities of Egypt. This article was written by a group of tour operators, tour guides, and travel consultants who understand all the information and facts about the best activities to do in Egypt.

One of the main reasons behind Egypt being on the bucket list of every true traveler and adventurer is the endless number of activities that showcase the genuine allure and magic behind every landmark and reveal the hidden legendary stories that date back to more than 4500 years.

Egypt is truly something special ability to provide everything from rich history to breathtaking natural beauty to a magical collection of activities around immortal cities, which are Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, Alexandria, and Hurghada that will shed some light on each unique aspect of Egypt and offer the chance to craft some awesome precious memories.

Activities to Do in Cairo

Cairo is the heart and brain of Egypt and the hub of everything that goes around. In Cairo is a rare chance to explore the great historical and cultural wonders like the Giza pyramids complex, the Cairo citadel, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, the Egyptian museum, the Coptic and Islamic attractions, and experience true greatness. Here are some of the best activities to do in Egypt:

⦁ Visiting the Pyramids

Giza pyramids complex is one of the most famous structures in the history of mankind dating back to the old kingdom “2575-2150 BC” where they were view as a stairway to the heavens, the most famous pyramids are the great Giza complex home to the three great pyramids which are also the tombs of Pharaohs Khufu, Kharfe, and Menkaure. The Great Pyramid of Khufu is most recognized as it is the last remaining wonder out of the Seven Wonders of the World and one of the tallest & most mysterious structures in history until today. The Giza complex also holds the legendary Sphinx the celestial guardian of Egypt, and the oldest man-made constructions known to man.

⦁ Explore the Egyptian Museum

In the heart of Cairo is the epic Egyptian museum, one of the oldest museums in the modern age and the home of more than 120.000 artifacts dating to all the important time periods of Egypt, especially the pharaonic civilization. The most visited collection of artifacts in the museum is the collection of the boy king Tutankhamun, the royal mummy room, and more, which have been transported to the National Museum and the Gem. All the artifacts were moved to the new Grand Egyptian Museum, which is set to open soon.

⦁ Enjoy a Dinner Cruise in Cairo by Night on the Nile View

The magical beauty of the night across Cairo is an amazing chance to relax and witness the lunar allure of Cairo as the moonlight shines across the city like a beautiful painting. The view of the Nile at night is truly heavenly, which will be a true highlight in your memories. Onboard the Nile dinner cruise is a collection of delicious traditional Egyptian cuisines while enjoying a folklore band featuring an awesome Tannoura spin.

⦁ Discover Cairo Downtown

The Cairo downtown is the center of shopping, filled with countless unique materials inside a massive marketplace filled with shops like jewelry, spices, handmade crafts, gold & silver artifacts, and more. In the downtown area a lot of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs where you can have the greatest fun and take part in all the entertainment that Cairo has to offer.

In summary, when being in Egypt and you want to explore all the treasures of Egypt, then these activities will be the key to showcasing all the history and culture of Cairo in the most memorable and illuminating manner, and answer the question, what are the things to do in Cairo:

1. Visiting the Historical Giza Pyramids

2. Discovering the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization

3. Exploring Salah El-Din Citadel

4. Shopping Tour At Khan EL Khalili Bazaar

5. Witnessing Al Azhar Mosque

6. Discovering Coptic Cairo Churches

7. Visiting the Coptic Museum

8. Day Tour to Memphis and Sakkara

9. Exploring the Red Pyramid in Dahshur

10. Enjoying a Dinner Cruise in Cairo

11. Experiencing a Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids at Night

12. Casting your eyes on the natural wonders of Faiyum and El Bahriya Oasis

Activities to Do in Luxor

Luxor is one of the largest open-air museums, known as the city of a hundred gates, where each gate leads to a different kind of beauty and wonder. Inside the city is the greatest example of archaeological wonders and the chance to fully discover the essence of ancient Egyptian civilization.

⦁ Exploring Luxor East Bank

On the east bank of the Nile are a couple of celestial pieces that harness the oldest reflection pieces of knowledge and beauty, which are the great Karnak temple the greatest open-air museum on earth, and the ancient capital for the religious life during ancient Egyptian times in the new kingdom “1550-1070 BC“. The other part you can explore is the incredible Luxor temple, which is the worship house of the Theban triad, which consists of the Sun deity Amon, the deity of Motherhood Mut, and the Moon deity Khonsu.

⦁ Visiting Luxor West Bank Attractions

Inside the west bank of the Nile are the most visited monuments on the plant the celestial stairway valley of the kings located in the core of a mountain filled with 63 tombs, out of which are 20 royal tombs dating to the New Kingdom “1550-1050 BC” such as Amenhotep I,  Seti I, Tutankhamun, the Ramses dynasty,  and more. All the visitors to Luxor view the Colossi of Memnon, which guard the entrance to Luxor. Luxor holds a house of allure and elegance in the valley of the Queens that has tombs of many queens of the New Kingdom, such as Nefertari, the wife of Ramses II. The temple of Queen Hatshepsut is in Luxor, known for being a symbol of elegance and beauty, created in 1479 BC to stand as an example of the classical architecture of the New Kingdom.

⦁ Ride Hot Air Balloon

Riding a hot air balloon in Luxor is a true adventure where every traveler will get to feel and touch the light of the heavens jumping off the greatest collection of artifacts ever created that showcases a number of amazing constructions showcasing brilliant architecture and a number of epic stories filled with magical creations, celestial warriors and treasures.

⦁ Ride Horse Carriage

If you want to tour the city of Luxor in class, then a horse carriage ride across the city is the way to go. Every visitor will get a touch of romance mixed with the hypnotic beauty and unbelievable history of this marvelous wonder. The true warmth and allure of Luxor will have you feel as if you are traveling through time to the ancient Egyptian kingdom.

⦁ Enjoy Nile River Cruise from Luxor

The Nile cruises have always been the truest highlight of Egyptian travel, the finest method to explore all the best historical attractions and archaeological wonder Egypt has to offer. Onboard the floating hotel known as the cruise are all the means of entertainment and comfort, so everyone could have an amazing time and live the greatest adventure of a lifetime.

What are the things to do in Luxor?, This is a great question that, when answered, every traveler will get to enjoy every moment of their time in Luxor. Some of these activities include:

1. Visiting the Luxor East Bank Attractions

2. Exploring the Tomb of King Tutankhamun

3. Enjoying A Full Day Tour to Luxor West Bank Attractions

4. Cruising the Nile River from Luxor

5. Accompanying an Egyptologist Tour Guide across the wonders of Luxor

6. Taking a trip to the Ramesseum Temple of King Ramses II

7. Enjoying a Hot-air Balloon in Luxor

8. Enjoying a Horse Carriage Tour in Luxor

9. Discovering the Luxor Museum

10. Attending an enchanting Sound and Light Show at Luxor Temple at Night

Activities to Do in Aswan

Aswan is the land of class and heritage, the southern frontier of Egypt is the most unique collection of artifacts and the most entertaining collection of activities, such as:

⦁ Enjoy the Felucca Ride in Aswan

The Nile in Aswan is filled with incredible natural sights and marvelous historical attractions worthy of exploring up close, and the finest way to explore all of them is by a felucca, which is an ideal vessel in the shape of a small sailing cruise that provides the ultimate sense of relaxation and harmony.

⦁ Visit Philae Temple

One of the most unique visits a traveler can make in Aswan is a trip to the Philae temple of Isis, the goddess of motherhood, and the wife of the ruler of the underworld, Osiris. It is the last Ptolemaic temple to be constructed, as it was built between 380 BC & 362 BC to be home to the Osiris Myth on its walls.

⦁ Enjoy the Impressive Abu Simbel Temples

The great Abu Simbel temples are like no other, standing at the end of the southern Egyptian border. It was constructed during the reign of Ramses the Great, “1279-1213 BCE,” to showcase his great victories at the battle of Kadesh and to immortalize his entire legacy. The most famous aspect of the temple is the heavenly sun festival on the 22nd of February & October of each year, where the sun rays shine on the faces of four seated Ramses, Amun, Ra, and Ptah.

⦁ Discover Dendera & Abydos Temple

Exploring the Dendera temple complex the house of worship for the goddess Hathor of fertility, healing, and love is an amazing adventure as it contains wonderful artworks such as the  Dendera zodiac signs inside the complex is the Abydos temple was the center for the cult of Osiris “Ruler Of the Underworld” which was believed to an entrance to the underworld, it featuring legendary architectural designs and magical wall carvings and incredible hieroglyphics within the temple of Seti I and the Osireion.

⦁ Have A Look at Edfu & Kom Ombo Temples

Aswan is filled with awesome archaeological wonders one of which is the great Edfu temple home of Horus the sky falcon god of protection and victory son of Isis & Osiris which was constructed between 237 BC and 57 BC to showcase the powerful battle between Horus and his evil uncle Set the desert god who was responsible for the killing of his father. Another unique historical attraction is the Hill of Gold Kom Ombo temple, which was built between 205 BC & 180 BC, also in the Ptolemaic age, to honor the crocodile god Sobek and Horus through a never-seen-before double design temple.

⦁ Enjoy a Nile River Cruise from Aswan

In Aswan is a chance to board a magical journey across heavenly beauty to explore the greatest historical constructions ever built in the history of mankind and witness the sight of nature miracles, and feel a sense of bliss and relaxation only to be found onboard a Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor.

What are the things to do in Aswan? It is a very important question that sheds some light on the marvelous and hidden wonders of Aswan through a number of marvelous activities such as:

1. Exploring Elephantine Island

2. Enjoying A Tour to the Nubian City

3. Discovering the Monastery of St. Simeon

4. Visiting the Tombs of the Nobles

5. Marveling at Abu Simbel Temple

6. Discovering Philae Temple

7. Heading to Kom Ombo Temple

8. Visiting Edfu Temple

9. Visiting the Unfinished Obelisk

10. Going To the Aswan High Dam

11. Exploring Kalabsha Temple

12. Witnessing Aswan Beauty at Sunset

13. Visiting Wadi al-Subua

14. Ridding a Felucca on the Nile River

15. Experiencing a Nile River Cruise

16. Enjoying Lake Nasser Nile River Cruise

17. Shopping Tour at Souq Area

18. Discovering Gebel El-Silsila

19. Accommodating at Old Cataract Hotel

20. Exploring the Aga Khan Mausoleum

21. Visiting the Nubian Museum

Activities to Do in Alexandria

The Pearl of the Mediterranean Alexandria is the land of legends, wonders, and foreign beauty.  Alexandria was built in 331 BCE by Alexander the Great, and from that point on, it became a hub for a distinctive collection of monuments that can be explored at any time,e such as:

⦁ Visit Alexandria Library

Any traveler who sets foot inside the beautifully designed Bibliotheca Alexandria will witness a hypnotic collection of books that includes the world’s sixth-largest Francophone library in the world, a trilingual library in Arabic, French & English, various rare books, and many art galleries and exhibits. In 2002, UNESCO and the Egyptian government built it to commemorate the ancient Alexandria library.

⦁ Explore Qaitbay Citadel

The Qaitbay citadel is the most distinctive construction in Alexandria, created in 1477 AD in the same location and by the same salvaged rocks of the ancient lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the ancient seven wonders of the world.

⦁ Visit Motazah Palace

The beautiful vision of the Montazah Palace gardens is truly heavenly, it is located on 150 acres (61 ha) of heavenly designed gardens that became a summer palace in 1732 AD with a twist of Ottoman and Florentine architectural styles with an eccentric Victorian. It is now an open garden offering the most incredible view of the Mediterranean.

⦁ Visit the Catacombs of Kom El Shokafa

The sight of the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa is truly memorable, it is a necropolis dating to the 2nd century AD and one of the seven wonders of the Middle Ages and famous for perfectly mixing the elements of the ancient pharaonic artistic elements with the Romans, consisting of three story levels.

What are the things to do in Alexandria? is what every traveler seeks to find out and try across the majestic city of Alexandria. Some of the amazing activities to try in Alexandria include:

1. Discovering the Ancient Qatibay Citadel

2. Exploring the Long Pompey’s Pillar

3. Marveling at the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa

4. Visiting the Bibliotheca Alexandrina

5. Witnessing El-Mursi Abul Abbas Mosque

6. Finding out the Serapeum Temple

7. Promenading at Alexandria Corniche

8. Witnessing the Artifacts of the National Museum

9. Witnessing the Montazah Palace Gardens

10. Booking A Ticket for the Royal Jewelry Museum

11. Walking Through Stanley Bridge

12. Shopping At Souq District

13. Discovering the Graeco-Roman Museum

Activities to Do in Hurghada

The beauty and secrets of the Red Sea can only be viewed from the majestic city resort of the Red Sea, where the biggest collection of aquatic and adventurous activities is available, such as:

⦁ Enjoy Snorkeling Tours

The Red Sea is filled with the finest and most hypnotic marine life, where the harmonious ecosystem will reveal all of the incredible underwater creatures and coral reefs.  The miracles under the Red Sea are very visible from Hurghada, where the amazing sparkling waters, crystal beaches, and tropical atmosphere will put you in a mood of total relaxation.

⦁ Enjoy Diving in the Red Sea

The beaches of Hurghada are the ultimate access point to the wonders of the Red Sea, where the greatest natural marine adventure is waiting at the bottom of the Red Sea with all the majestic marine life of rare colorful fishes and coral reefs. Diving in Hurghada is a chance to explore all the majestic heavens and make the most epic memories.

⦁ Have an Astronomical Night in the Hurghada Desert

Every time the sun sets, a miracle occurs, and the sky turns on the lights up and the chance to catch a glimpse of pure holy bliss becomes very close. The night across the eastern desert is a miracle filled with billions of stars shining only for you. The sight of the skies is an absolute wonder reflection of the majestic allure and the heavens, and provides a sense of belonging and tranquility.

⦁ Enjoy A Super Safari Tour

A tour across the desert is not complete without a super safari from Hurghada where the secret beauty of the Sahara is best revealed. Every traveler will enter the Bedouin village and get a taste of the Bedouin culture, the delicious cuisine, and the wild, magical allure of the eastern Egyptian desert under the cover of a beautiful atmosphere, and listen to entertaining folkloric music.

What are the best things to do in Hurghada? is a highly important question that will lead to the creation of the most entertaining vacation across the Red Sea. Some of the most fun activities to do in Hurghada include:

1. Snorkeling in Hurghada, Red Sea

2. Reef Diving In the Caves of the Careless Reef

3. Exploring Hurghada Grand Aquarium

4. Heading to The Red Sea Monastery of St. Anthony and St. Paul

5. Observing Abdulmoneim Riadh Mosque

6. Catch Your Eyes on The Church of St. Mary

7. Enjoying Bedouin Barbeque in the Egyptian Desert

8. Exploring Giftun Island Snorkeling Cruise

9. Boarding the Sinbad Submarine under the Red Sea

10. Witnessing The Hurghada Marina Boulevard

11. Attending The 1001 Nights Show

12. Exploring the Straits of Gubal

13. Enjoying Astronomical Nights

14. Witnessing Abu Nuhas Shipwreck Sites

15. Discovering the Gota Abu Ramada Dive Site

Activities to Do in Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh is a top destination for tourists seeking both adventure and relaxation. Its crystal-clear waters make it a paradise for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. The famed dive sites at Ras Mohammed National Park and the Straits of Tiran offer unparalleled underwater experiences with colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life, including turtles, rays, and exotic fish. For those who prefer staying closer to the surface, the shallow reefs of Naama Bay and Shark’s Bay are perfect for snorkeling.

Beyond the water, Sharm is famous for its desert safaris, where visitors can explore the Sinai Desert on quad bikes or camels, immersing themselves in the stark beauty of the sand dunes and visiting traditional Bedouin villages. Hiking up Mount Sinai for a breathtaking sunrise or sunset is a popular spiritual and adventure activity, with St. Catherine’s Monastery, one of the oldest Christian monasteries, at the base.

In the evenings, Soho Square and Naama Bay come alive with vibrant nightlife, offering restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. Families can enjoy the Dolphin Show or spend a day at Aqua Blue Water Park, making Sharm el-Sheik a well-rounded destination.

Activities to Do in Sinai

The Sinai Peninsula is a land of stark contrasts, blending historical significance with natural beauty. Mount Sinai offers an unforgettable hike for visitors who wish to follow the biblical footsteps of Moses, with spectacular views of the desert at sunrise or sunset. At the mountain’s base, St. Catherine’s Monastery is a must-see, home to the legendary Burning Bush and a treasure trove of ancient manuscripts.

For divers and snorkelers, the town of Dahab is renowned for its relaxed vibe and exceptional dive sites, including the infamous Blue Hole and The Canyon. Those who prefer to stay on land can explore the Colored Canyon or White Canyon, both of which offer breathtaking geological formations. Off-roading enthusiasts can embark on 4×4 safaris through the desert or ride quad bikes across the rugged terrain, while the serene beaches of Taba offer a more laid-back experience, with opportunities to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and enjoy the tranquility of the Red Sea coastline.

Activities to Do in Fayoum

Fayoum is a serene oasis just southwest of Cairo, which is a haven for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Wadi El Rayan, with its famous waterfalls, is a popular destination for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of Egypt’s desert lakes. The nearby Wadi El Hitan (Valley of the Whales), a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases well-preserved fossils of ancient whales, making it a fascinating stop for those interested in Egypt’s prehistoric past.

Lake Qarun is another highlight of Fayoum, offering excellent opportunities for bird watching, particularly during the winter months when migratory birds like flamingos visit the area. The oasis is also home to some of Egypt’s lesser-known pyramids, such as the Hawara Pyramid and Lahun Pyramid, which provide a glimpse into the Middle Kingdom’s rich history. For thrill-seekers, the sand dunes near Wadi El Rayan are ideal for sandboarding, while Tunis Village offers a more tranquil experience, where visitors can explore pottery workshops and enjoy breathtaking views over Lake Qarun.

Activities to Do in El Gouna

El Gouna is a modern resort town on the Red Sea, known to be a hub for water sports enthusiasts and those seeking luxury. Its warm, clear waters make it a top destination for diving and snorkeling, with abundant marine life and stunning coral reefs found at sites like Dolphin House and Careless Reef. For those looking for more excitement, kite surfing is a major draw in El Gouna, thanks to its shallow waters and consistent winds, with several schools offering lessons for beginners and pros alike.

El Gouna is also known for boasting a world-class golf course, where players can enjoy scenic views of the Red Sea and desert mountains. A lagoon cruise is a relaxing way to explore the town’s man-made islands, while desert safaris offer an adventurous break from the beach, with 4×4 excursions and Bedouin-style dinners under the stars. El Gouna is also known for its vibrant nightlife, especially around Abu Tig Marina, where you’ll find a variety of international restaurants and lively bars.

Activities to Do in Marsa Alam

Marsa Alam is a hidden gem on Egypt’s Red Sea coast, beloved by divers for its untouched coral reefs and abundant marine life. Dive sites like Elphinstone Reef are world-renowned, offering encounters with dolphins, sharks, and even the rare Dugong (Sea Cow), particularly in Abu Dabbab Bay. The waters around Marsa Alam are pristine, making them perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Marsa Alam offers a safari adventure into the golden deserts by venturing into the Wadi El Gemal National Park, a stunning wilderness area rich in wildlife and archaeological sites. Visitors can also enjoy the luxury of Marsa Alam’s all-inclusive resorts, which offer private beaches, spa treatments, and relaxed settings for a quiet escape. Kite surfing is another popular activity due to the open beaches and consistent winds, and history enthusiasts can explore nearby ancient sites, such as the Temple of Seti I in Khanais.

Activities to Do in Makadi Bay

Makadi Bay is found in a magical location between the Red Sea and the Eastern Desert, which is a tranquil resort area perfect for beachgoers and water sports lovers. Its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs make snorkeling and scuba diving the top activities, with plenty of accessible dive sites close to the shore. For those looking to relax, the bay’s pristine beaches offer a peaceful setting for sunbathing and swimming.

Makadi Bay is a gateway to desert adventures, including jeep safaris and quad biking excursions through the stunning Eastern Desert. Visitors can experience the beauty of the desert landscape while enjoying a traditional Bedouin dinner under the stars. For families, Makadi Water World offers fun for all ages, with a variety of water slides and pools. Golf enthusiasts can also enjoy a round at the nearby Madinat Makadi Golf Resort, which offers breathtaking views over the Red Sea.

Activities to Do in the Western Desert

The vast Western Desert of Egypt offers a starkly beautiful and otherworldly landscape that is perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The White Desert is filled with its unique chalk formations shaped by wind erosion, which is a must-see for visitors seeking a surreal natural experience, while the Black Desert, with its volcanic hills, offers a striking contrast. Camping and stargazing in these deserts are highly recommended, as the clear night skies offer some of the best views of the stars in the world.

Egypt’s oases, such as Siwa, Bahariya, and Dakhla, offer a more lush and tranquil experience. In Siwa Oasis, everyone can swim in salt lakes, relax in natural hot springs, and explore the ancient Oracle Temple. The Cave of Swimmers in Gilf Kebir and the Djara Cave are also top destinations for those interested in prehistoric rock art and geological formations. For a more adrenaline-fueled experience, off-roading and dune bashing in the desert provide thrilling ways to explore this vast and untamed wilderness.