Egypt travel guide

Find out what to see and do when travelling or backpacking around Egypt.

Egypt highlights

	Destination	Make a reservation
	Cairo One of the most densely populated cities in the world, Cairo is famous for a number of attractions including the Egyptian Museum, the Pyramids of Giza, and of course, the River Nile. Alternatively, hours can be spent experiencing the hustle and bustle of the many bazaars.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Giza About 10 miles west of Cairo, Giza is an amazing site housing one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Pyramid of Khufu. There are actually three pyramids on site, as well as the Sphinx and this destination is perhaps the best known of all of Egypt's many attractions and is highly recommended.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	The Sinai Peninsula Famed for its magnificent diving destinations such as Sharm el-Sheikh and the hippie Mecca of Dahab, Sinai also offers some beautiful hiking routes if you venture inland into the Red Mountains. One must-see destination is Mount Sinai and the ancient St Katherine's Monastery.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Luxor and the Valley of the Kings Luxor is the main southern Egyptian destination and is known for the Valley of the Kings, an ancient archaeological site housing a vast array of tombs and burial chambers of the ancient Pharaohs. Must-see sights include the tomb of Tutankhamen and a leisurely Felucca cruise along the Nile is highly recommended.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Aswan Egypt's southernmost city is more African in feel than the northern cities and has a large Nubian population. Aswan is probably most famous for the huge dam across the River Nile but a visit to this city would not be complete without seeing the temple of Abu Simbel and the Tombs of the Nobles, many of which are decorated with amazing wall paintings.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Alexandria Situated on the Mediterranean Sea, Alexandria is Egypt's second largest city. There are many ancient monuments to see, including the Roman Theatre, the Citadel of Qaitbay and Pompey's Pillar. Alexandria also has a large number of museums such as Alexandria National Museum, Royal Jewellery Museum and the Greco-Roman Museum.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours
	Hurghada This Red Sea resort has great transport connections and has become known for being one of Egypt's main dive destinations. The sea is this resort's main attraction with Scuba diving, snorkelling and other water sports being the main reason to visit.	Flights Hotels Hostels Tours

Map of Egypt

Main travellers routes

• You can fly direct to Egypt from most major European airports. The majority of visitors travel through Cairo, Sharm el-Sheikh or Alexandria airports.
• One of the major overland routes into Egypt is through the Israeli town of Eilat into the town of Taba, from where you can explore the Sinai Peninsula.
• Many travellers to Egypt choose to get around by either bus or train as Egypt an extensive network for both. Both methods are relatively cheap but do ensure you buy tickets through reputable agents as there are many unlicensed companies operating.
• Driving is not recommended in the major cities due to the sheer volume of traffic but taxis are readily available at a reasonable price. Do be prepared to negotiate though as tourist prices can be heavily inflated.
• A popular tourist route is to follow the Nile from Cairo down to the city of Aswan. Trips are available on the traditional Felucca or by modern cruise ship. This tends to be a more peaceful way to travel and has the benefit of being able to see many of Egypt's premier destinations.
• Egypt has land borders with Israel, Libya and the Sudan.

Capital and main cities

• Cairo is the capital
• Other main populated areas: Alexandria, Aswan, Hurghada, Luxor.

Languages

• Arabic
• Some English
• Some French

Currency

• Egyptian Pound.
• Euro and US Dollars sometimes accepted in larger tourist areas.
• Currency converter

Visas (always check with your embassy)

• British citizens require a visa for trip to Egypt.

Foreign Office Advice

• Egypt foreign office advice

Flights and accommodation

• Flight prices to Egypt
• Hotel and hostel prices

Tours and day trips in Egypt

• Responsible Travel in Egypt - Trips and accommodation from the main tourist routes to off-the-beaten track places.

Next: Planning a trip to Egypt

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