Planning your 2025 trip? This guide will help you discover what to see, do, and experience across Egypt’s most iconic sights, with practical tips, real costs, and honest insights from years of guiding travelers through the country’s wonders.
Whether it’s walking beneath the ancient columns of Karnak, cruising between Luxor and Aswan, or diving into Sharm El-Sheikh’s crystal-clear waters, Egypt offers history, adventure, and hospitality in equal measure.
If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing the world’s greatest civilization up close, this is your essential guide to the Egypt Main Tourist Attractions, what’s truly worth your time, how to plan your route, and how to make every moment unforgettable.
Ready to begin your journey? Let’s uncover the top Egypt Main Tourist Attractions, curated by the experts at Amon Ra Tours, and experience the ancient land that continues to inspire travelers from around the world.
1. The Pyramids of Giza & Sphinx
Why go: They’re exactly as magnificent as you’ve imagined, and somehow bigger. The last surviving Wonder of the Ancient World deserves its reputation.
What to see:
- Great Pyramid of Khufu: The largest pyramid. Going inside costs extra (900 EGP) and involves steep, narrow passages, claustrophobic but unforgettable.
- The Sphinx: Best photographed early morning when the light hits one side dramatically
- Panoramic viewpoint: Behind the pyramids for that perfect three-pyramid shot
- Camel rides: Touristy but fun, negotiate price (100-200 EGP) before mounting
Essential info:
Location: Giza Plateau, 30-45 minutes from central Cairo
Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily (last entry 4:00 PM)
Tickets (2025):
- General entry: 540 EGP (~$18 USD)
- Inside Great Pyramid: Additional 900 EGP (~$30 USD)
- Inside Khafre or Menkaure pyramids: 200 EGP (~$7 USD)
Best season: October–April for comfortable temperatures
Best time of day: 8:00–10:00 AM to avoid tour bus crowds and intense heat
Duration: 3–4 hours for a comprehensive visit
Pro tips: Arrive right at opening. Bring water, sunscreen, hat; there’s minimal shade. Inside pyramid tickets sell out by 10 AM. Vendors are persistent; firm “la shukran” (no thanks) works best. Drones are illegal.
With Amon Ra Tours, we handle tickets in advance, time your visit perfectly, and provide expert guides who make the pyramids’ history come alive. No lines, no stress.
2. Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
Why go: World’s largest archaeological museum, home to Tutankhamun’s complete 5,398-piece treasure collection, all displayed together for the first time.
Highlights:
- Tutankhamun galleries: Every object from his tomb, including the iconic gold mask in a dedicated chamber
- Grand Staircase: Massive statues of pharaohs and gods line this dramatic entrance
- Khufu’s Solar Boat: 4,600-year-old reconstructed ship, 43 meters long
- Conservation labs: Watch restorers working through glass walls
Essential info:
- Location: Giza, directly adjacent to the pyramids complex
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily (extended hours during peak season)
- Tickets (2025): 1,000 EGP (~$33 USD) for general admission; higher tiers available for special exhibitions
- Best time: Weekday mornings (9:00–11:00 AM) or late afternoons after 4:00 PM
- Duration: Minimum 4–5 hours; serious museum enthusiasts could spend a full day
Pro tips: Book tickets online weeks ahead. Wear comfortable shoes, you’ll walk kilometers on marble floors. Don’t try to see everything; focus on Tutankhamun, the Grand Staircase, and 1-2 areas that interest you. Heavy air conditioning, bring layers.
With Amon Ra Tours, our guides navigate the vast museum efficiently, focusing on masterpieces while explaining their significance. Skip-the-line access where available.
3. Luxor & Karnak Temples
Why go: The world’s greatest concentration of ancient monuments. Karnak’s Hypostyle Hall alone, with 134 massive columns, is worth the flight to Luxor.
Karnak Temple: The Largest religious building ever constructed. Walk through forests of columns, see towering obelisks, and explore the sacred lake. The scale is overwhelming in the best way.
Luxor Temple: Smaller but spectacular, especially at night when dramatic lighting transforms it. Located in downtown Luxor, ancient and modern merge beautifully.
Avenue of Sphinxes: Newly restored 2.7 km road connecting both temples, lined with hundreds of sphinx statues. Walk it at sunset.
Essential info:
- Hours: Karnak 6 AM-5:30 PM; Luxor 6 AM-10 PM
- Tickets: Karnak 450 EGP (~$15); Luxor 400 EGP (~$13)
- Best times: Karnak early morning; Luxor before sunset, stay for night lighting
- Duration: Karnak 2-3 hours; Luxor 1.5-2 hours
Pro tips: Visit Karnak early when it’s cool. Return another evening for Luxor Temple’s stunning illumination. Bring a wide-angle lens for the massive columns. Stay hydrated, even in winter sun is intense.
With Amon Ra Tours: We time visits to avoid cruise ship crowds and position you perfectly for iconic photos in the Hypostyle Hall.
4. Valley of the Kings
Why go: Descend into actual royal tombs with 3,000-year-old paintings so vivid they look fresh. This is where Tutankhamun was discovered.
What to see: General ticket includes 3 tombs from the rotation. Smart choices:
- Ramesses IV, IX, or Merenptah (usually open, well-preserved)
Extra-ticket tombs (worth it):
- Tutankhamun (KV62): Small but famous, the actual discovery site (+500 EGP)
- Seti I (KV17): Most beautiful tomb in the valley, incredible detail (+1,800 EGP)
- Ramesses V & VI: Completely covered in colorful art (+300 EGP)
Essential info:
- Location: Luxor West Bank (45 min from hotels)
- Hours: 6 AM – 5 PM
- Tickets: 600 EGP general (~$20); extra tickets for premium tombs
- Best time: 6 AM, desert heat becomes brutal by 9 AM
- Duration: 2-3 hours
Pro tips: Use the electric tram (Taf-Taf) from the visitor center to the tombs. Choose 4-5 tombs max, quality over quantity. Phone photos allowed in standard tombs (no flash). Stairs are steep; moderate fitness needed. Bring a hat and water.
With Amon Ra Tours: We help you choose the best tombs for your interests, handle all tickets, and provide air-conditioned refuge between visits. Guides explain the complex Book of the Dead scenes.
5. Abu Simbel Temples
Why go: Ramesses II’s ultimate power statement, four 20-meter-high statues of himself carved into a mountain. Plus, the entire temple was moved in the 1960s to save it from drowning. Engineering marvel meets ancient megalomania.
What to see:
- Great Temple: Four massive Ramesses statues guard the entrance; the interior has eight Osiride pillars
- Sun Festival: Feb 22 & Oct 22, sunrise illuminates the inner sanctuary (book months ahead)
- Nefertari Temple: Ramesses’ favorite wife gets her own temple, rare honor
- Rescue story: Walk behind to see the massive dome housing the relocated temple
Essential info:
- Location: 280 km south of Aswan (3-3.5 hour drive)
- Hours: 6 AM – 5 PM
- Tickets: 600 EGP (~$20)
- Duration: 2 hours on-site; 8-9 hours round-trip
- Alternative: 45-minute flight from Aswan (~$150-200)
Pro tips: 4 AM departure is rough but worth it, arrive in cool morning light. Request a hotel breakfast box the night before. Bring warm layers (morning) and water (later). Flying saves time but costs significantly more.
With Amon Ra Tours: Comfortable modern vehicle, experienced driver, guide who uses travel time to tell Ramesses’ incredible story. We make the long journey worthwhile.
6. Nile River Cruises
Why go: The most scenic way to travel between Luxor and Aswan, watching life along the riverbanks unchanged for centuries.
Options:
Cruise ships (most popular): Modern vessels with 50-150 cabins, private rooms, pools, buffet meals, and daily temple excursions. Wake up at a new temple each morning.
- Cost: $100-300+ per person/night
- Stops: Edfu, Kom Ombo temples
Dahabiya sailboats (luxury): Traditional wooden vessels, only 8-12 guests, peaceful sailing, gourmet dining, intimate atmosphere.
- Cost: $250-500+ per person/night
Feluccas (adventure): Simple sailboats, sleep on deck under stars, basic but authentic. For the adventurous and budget-conscious.
- Cost: $50-80 per person/night
Essential info:
- Route: Luxor to Aswan (or reverse)
- Duration: 3-4 nights typical; 7-night round-trips available
- Best season: October-April
- Book: 2-3 months ahead for good ships during peak season
Pro tips: Check the itinerary includes Edfu and Kom Ombo temples. Luxor to Aswan travels with the current (smoother). Pack a light jacket, evenings get cool. Most ships have evening entertainment (music, belly dancing).
With Amon Ra Tours: We’ve vetted the best ships for quality, service, and hygiene. We match you with the right vessel for your style and budget.
7. Islamic Cairo & Khan el-Khalili
Why go: Experience Egypt beyond the pharaohs, medieval mosques, legendary bazaars, and authentic modern Egyptian life in a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Must-see:
- Citadel of Saladin: Medieval fortress with panoramic Cairo views; houses the stunning Alabaster Mosque
- Al-Muizz Street: Open-air museum of Islamic architecture
- Khan el-Khalili Bazaar: Legendary market, get lost searching for lanterns, spices, jewelry, crafts
- Historic cafés: El Fishawy’s (since 1773) for mint tea and people-watching
Essential info:
- Location: Historic Cairo, east of downtown
- Hours: Streets always open; shops 10 AM-late; many close Friday morning for prayer
- Tickets: Khan el-Khalili free; Citadel 450 EGP (~$15)
- Best time: Late afternoon to evening
- Duration: 4-6 hours minimum
Pro tips: Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees). Bargaining is expected, start at 40-50% of the asking price. Real treasures hide in side alleys off main tourist paths. Try fresh mango or sugarcane juice from street vendors.
With Amon Ra Tours, our guides navigate the maze expertly, leading you to the best workshops, hidden landmarks, and authentic cafés tourists never find.
8. Red Sea Resorts (Sharm & Hurghada)
Why go: After temples and tombs, Egypt’s Red Sea coast offers perfect decompression, pristine beaches, world-class diving, and luxury resorts.
Sharm El-Sheikh (Sinai Peninsula):
- Best for: Divers, adventure seekers, lively nightlife
- Must-do: Ras Muhammad National Park (spectacular coral walls), SS Thistlegorm wreck dive, Naama Bay entertainment, desert safaris
Hurghada (Mainland coast):
- Best for: Families, post-Nile cruise relaxation
- Must-do: Giftun Islands boat trip, Hurghada Marina, water parks, easier access from Luxor (4-hour drive)
Essential info:
- Best season: Year-round; March-May and Sept-Nov ideal
- Duration: 4-7 days for proper relaxation
- Costs: Wide range, diving trips $50-150, boat trips $30-60
Pro tips: Use reef-safe sunscreen. Book reputable PADI dive centers only. Stay hydrated in the desert sun. Hurghada is a classic “Nile and Sea” combination, with easy transfer from Luxor.
With Amon Ra Tours: We partner with top-rated dive centers and tour providers, arrange seamless transfers from Luxor or Cairo, and curate the best excursions.
9. Alexandria
Why go: Egypt’s Mediterranean face, sea breezes, Greco-Roman history, fresh seafood, and a completely different atmosphere from the Nile Valley.
Highlights:
- Bibliotheca Alexandrina: Stunning modern library honoring the ancient Great Library; excellent Antiquities Museum inside
- Citadel of Qaitbay: 15th-century fortress built on the exact spot of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse
- Catacombs of Kom el-Shoqafa: Unique underground tombs blending Egyptian, Greek, and Roman styles
- The Corniche: Waterfront promenade perfect for sunset walks
Essential info:
- Location: 220 km from Cairo (2.5-3 hour drive)
- Hours: Most sites 9 AM – 5 PM
- Tickets: Very affordable, most sites 100-120 EGP ($2-4)
- Best season: Spring and autumn
- Duration: Day trip possible; 1-2 nights better
Pro tips: Eat fresh seafood, Alex’s specialty. Traffic is heavy; allow extra time. Bibliotheca’s Antiquities Museum requires a separate ticket, but worth it. The evening Corniche walk is magical.
With Amon Ra Tours: We create efficient itineraries with private transport, maximizing time at attractions. Guides unravel the city’s complex history and find the best seafood restaurants.
10. Nubian Villages (Aswan)
Why go: Experience authentic Nubian culture, distinct language, traditions, and hospitality. The villages’ colorful houses and warm welcome offer pure joy after days of ancient stones.
What to experience:
- Colorful houses: Brilliant blues, oranges, yellows, with traditional patterns
- Nubian hospitality: Invited into homes for tea, learning traditions
- Village markets: Handmade textiles, jewelry, spices
- Boat ride: Scenic Nile journey is half the experience
- Baby crocodiles: Quirky local tradition (some families keep them as pets)
Essential info:
- Location: West Bank islands/villages south of Aswan
- Hours: Best during daylight
- Cost: Boat ride main expense (100-200 EGP); no village entry fee
- Best time: Late afternoon
- Duration: 2-3 hours, including boat
Pro tips: Ask permission before photographing people. Buy crafts directly from villagers. Engage genuinely, slow down, and learn. Try Nubian food if offered.
With Amon Ra Tours, we connect you with welcoming families we’ve built relationships with, ensuring genuine cultural exchange, not performative tourism.
3 Days Cairo & Luxor Tour Package
Planning Your Trip
When to visit:
- Best: October-April (comfortable 20-28°C)
- Avoid: May-September (extreme heat 35-45°C)
- Sweet spots: March-April, October-November (good weather, fewer crowds)
How long:
- One week: Cairo + Luxor + optional Red Sea (rushed)
- 10 days: Cairo + Luxor/Aswan + Nile cruise + Red Sea (ideal)
- Two weeks: Comprehensive, including Abu Simbel, Alexandria, and a desert safari
Essential tips:
- Stay hydrated constantly
- Dress modestly at religious sites
- Bargain respectfully in markets
- Carry cash for small purchases
- Learn basic Arabic: “shukran” (thanks), “la shukran” (no thanks)
Why Choose Amon Ra Tours
Egypt’s egypt main tourist attractions are magnificent, but navigating them independently means dealing with language barriers, transport complexity, and cultural nuances. We eliminate those headaches.
What we do:
- Expert Egyptologist guides who bring history to life
- Fully customized itineraries based on your interests and pace
- Hassle-free logistics, tickets, transportand , hotels all handled
- Quality partnerships with the best cruise ships, dive centers, and hotels
- 24/7 support from arrival to departure
Our promise: You focus on experiencing Egypt’s wonders. We handle everything else.
Start Your Journey
The Egypt main tourist attractions in this guide, the Pyramids, temples, tombs, Nile cruises, and Red Sea reefs, offer more than spectacular sights. They connect you to 5,000 years of human civilization and reveal a country whose hospitality matches its history.
Egypt exceeds expectations. The pyramids are bigger than you imagined. The tomb colors remain vivid after three millennia. The Egyptian people’s warmth surprises even cynical travelers. The Nile at sunset delivers exactly the beauty you hoped for.
Your Egyptian adventure starts with one decision: to go.
Contact Amon Ra Tours to design your perfect journey.
Ready to explore the land of the pharaohs? Let’s start planning your unforgettable Egyptian adventure today.
FAQ
Is Egypt safe for tourists in 2025?
Yes, generally. Tourist zones (Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Red Sea) are well-policed.
- Use licensed operators; avoid demonstrations.
- Secure valuables in crowded areas.
- Solo women: modest dress helps; guided tours add comfort.
Bottom line: Standard travel caution, not paranoia.
What’s the best time to visit?
October–April.
- Oct–Nov / Mar–Apr: Best mix of weather & crowds.
- Dec–Feb: Peak crowds, book early.
- May–Sep: Very hot (except Red Sea).
Do I need a visa?
Most travelers: Visa on arrival $25 (cash) for 30 days.
E-visa: Apply a week ahead; saves time.
Multiple-entry: $60 if leaving/re-entering (e.g., Jordan/Israel).
Passport: 6+ months validity.
Can I go inside the Pyramids, and is it worth it?
Yes, but it’s tight, hot, and empty (no artifacts).
- Great Pyramid ticket: 900 EGP; steep, narrow passages.
- Worth it if you want the “I did it” experience; skip if claustrophobic.
- Smaller pyramids: cheaper (~200 EGP), similar feel.
Is Egyptian food safe to eat?
Yes, use common sense.
- Choose hot, freshly cooked food; busy places are best.
- Bottled water only; avoid ice/uncooked salads at budget spots.
- Pack Imodium + ORS just in case.