Where to go · Complete guide
Best Places to Visit in Egypt: 15 Must-See Destinations for First-Time Visitors
The 15 best places to visit in Egypt, what makes each special, how long to spend and how to fit them into one trip.
By the Egypt Knight Tours team · Updated September 2026 · 3 min read
In this guide
Egypt is big and packed with highlights, so choosing where to go is the hardest part. These are the 15 best places to visit in Egypt, grouped by area, with how long to give each and who they suit. Together they make up the classic Egypt itinerary.
Cairo and Giza
1. The Giza pyramids and Sphinx
The Great Pyramid, the pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure and the Sphinx are the reason many people come. Go early, use a guide and allow half a day. Read our Egypt pyramids guide or book a private Giza pyramids tour.
2. The Grand Egyptian Museum
Set beside the Giza Plateau, this vast museum houses treasures from across ancient Egyptian history. Pair it with the pyramids for a memorable full day.
3. Islamic Cairo and Khan el-Khalili
Historic mosques, medieval streets and one of the world's great bazaars. It is the best place to feel Cairo's energy. See the Cairo travel guide.
4. Coptic Cairo
Old churches and narrow lanes that show Egypt's Christian heritage. It is compact and easy to combine with Islamic Cairo.
5. Saqqara and Memphis
The Step Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara is one of the oldest stone monuments in the world, and Memphis was Egypt's ancient capital. A calm, rewarding half day.
Luxor
6. Karnak Temple
A vast complex of temples, columns and obelisks built over centuries. It is the highlight of Luxor's East Bank.
7. Luxor Temple
Beautiful at any time, and especially in the evening when it is lit. It sits in the middle of modern Luxor.
8. The Valley of the Kings
Royal tombs cut into the desert cliffs of the West Bank, including some with vivid painted walls. Start early to beat the heat.
9. Hatshepsut Temple
The striking terraced temple of Egypt's female pharaoh, set against limestone cliffs. See our Luxor travel guide.
Aswan and the south
10. Philae Temple
A graceful temple on an island, reached by boat. Many travellers name it their favourite. See the Aswan travel guide.
11. Abu Simbel
The colossal temples of Ramses II, roughly a three-hour drive from Aswan each way, so it is a long day but unforgettable.
12. Edfu and Kom Ombo (the Nile route)
Two of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, visited on a Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan.
Beyond the classic route
13. Alexandria
Egypt's Mediterranean city, with the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Qaitbay Citadel and fresh seafood. A great day trip or overnight stop. See Alexandria.
14. The Red Sea: Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh and Dahab
Coral reefs, diving and relaxed beach days. A perfect end to a sightseeing trip. See Hurghada.
15. Siwa Oasis and the White Desert
For travellers who want desert landscapes and something quieter. These need extra days and planning.
How to combine the best places
| Days | Route |
|---|---|
| 3 | Cairo and Giza |
| 5 | Cairo and Luxor |
| 7 | Cairo, Luxor and Aswan |
| 10 | Add a Nile cruise, Alexandria or the Red Sea |
Use these ready-made routes: 3 days, 5 days, 7 days and 10 days. Or browse Egypt tours by destination.
Frequently asked questions
What is the number one place to visit in Egypt?
For most first-time visitors it is the Giza pyramids and Sphinx, followed by Luxor's temples and the Valley of the Kings.
How many places can you see in a week in Egypt?
In seven days you can comfortably cover Cairo and Giza, Luxor and Aswan, with an optional day trip to Abu Simbel.
What is the best place in Egypt for a relaxing holiday?
A Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan, or the Red Sea resorts of Hurghada, Sharm El Sheikh and Dahab.
Plan it with a local team
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