Egypt, a country steeped in ancient history and rich culture, stands as one of the world's premier tourist destinations. With its unique archaeological sites that reflect its ancient civilization, pristine sandy beaches stretching along the Red Sea and Mediterranean coasts, and vibrant culture seen in art, festivals, and delicious cuisine, Egypt has much to offer. In this article, we’ll explore Egypt’s top tourist destinations, highlighting their breathtaking natural beauty and remarkable cultural heritage.
The Pyramids of Cairo, also known as the Giza Pyramids, are ancient structures built during Egypt’s Old Kingdom, around 2580-2560 BC. They served as tombs for the pharaohs, with the Great Pyramid of Giza standing as the tallest at approximately 146 meters. These pyramids, precisely aligned with the cardinal points, are one of the top tourist attractions today, drawing millions of visitors annually. Adjacent to the pyramids is the iconic Great Sphinx of Giza, another symbol of ancient Egypt. Despite their age, ongoing efforts aim to preserve and protect these monumental structures.
Operating Hours: Daily from 07:00 to 17:00
Entrance Fee: Adults: 60 EGP, Students: 30 EGP. Free entry is available for children under 6 years old, Egyptian and Arab nationals with disabilities, and seniors over 60 years old.
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Tip: For an unforgettable experience, consider touring the pyramids by horse or carriage—you’ll surely capture many memorable photos!
For enthusiasts of Islamic architecture, Al-Azhar Mosque is a must-visit destination. Founded by Fatimid general Jawhar al-Siqilli in 970, the mosque is an incredible blend of various architectural styles and eras. For instance, the qibla wall dates back to the 14th century, while Sultan Qaitbay added one of the minarets in 1475, and the main façade hails from the 19th century. Additionally, the double-arched gate stems from the mid-18th century.
Visitors can marvel at the interplay of Fatimid, Mamluk, and Ottoman architectural styles in this stunning structure. It’s worth noting that Al-Azhar has been one of the world’s oldest universities and was initially a center for Shia theological studies before reopening as a Sunni institution in the 12th century. Named after Fatimah al-Zahraa, the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, the mosque is a beacon for Islamic scholars worldwide.
Operating Hours: Daily, morning hours are recommended to avoid crowds
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Tip: Avoid visiting during public holidays and school vacation periods to escape the crowds, and plan your visit in the early morning for a more serene experience.
Established in 1984 by His Highness the Aga Khan to celebrate the founding of Cairo by the Fatimids in 969, Al-Azhar Park occupies land that was previously a deserted wasteland. Opened to the public in 2005, it is located between the old city walls and the City of the Dead, surrounded by remnants of the city’s first wall built by Jawhar al-Siqilli in 969, which was expanded in subsequent centuries. Today, Al-Azhar Park is one of the world’s best parks, attracting over a million visitors annually.
Operating Hours: Daily from 09:00 to 22:00
Entrance Fee: Sunday-Thursday: Adults: 40 EGP, Children (2-8 years): 30 EGP. Friday-Saturday: Adults: 45 EGP, Children: 30 EGP
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Perched atop the Mokattam Hills, the Saladin Citadel is a massive fortress that dominates the skyline of Islamic Cairo. Initially established by Saladin in 1176, it became the official residence of Egypt’s rulers under Sultan al-Kamil ibn al-Adil in 1207. Although its role as a seat of power ended in the 19th century, the citadel still bears witness to pivotal moments in Egyptian history. Today, visitors can explore numerous attractions within the citadel, including the famous Muhammad Ali Mosque, the Nasser Muhammad Mosque, and the Suleiman Pasha Mosque, as well as several museums like the Police Museum, the Jewel Palace Museum, and the Military Museum.
Operating Hours: Daily from 08:00 to 17:00
Entrance Fee: Egyptians/Arabs: Adults: 60 EGP, Students: 30 EGP. Vehicle fee: Cars: 10 EGP, Minibuses: 20 EGP, Buses: 40 EGP
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Tip: Don’t forget to bring water and hats due to the high temperatures.
The Baron Empain Palace, with its distinctive Indian design and prominent tower in the desert of Heliopolis, is a significant landmark in Cairo. It was built between 1907 and 1911 by the famous Belgian baron Édouard Louis Joseph Empain and designed by French architect Alexandre Marcel. The palace consists of a basement, two floors, and a roof, surrounded by a large garden. The basement housed the servants’ quarters, while the palace itself features a spiral staircase and an elevator connecting the floors. The ground floor includes reception rooms, dining rooms, and a billiard room, while the first floor contains four rooms with balconies and bathrooms. The palace’s rooftop offers spectacular views and is part of the palace’s iconic tower.
Operating Hours: Daily from 09:00 to 16:30
Entrance Fee: Egyptians/Arabs: Adults: 60 EGP, Students: 30 EGP. Rooftop panorama: Foreigners: 120 EGP, Egyptians: 30 EGP
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The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) is the first of its kind in Egypt and the Arab world. It is a comprehensive cultural complex offering visitors a chance to explore Egypt’s successive civilizations. The idea for the museum was proposed in 1982 by the Egyptian government, with the foundation stone laid in 2002. Some halls opened in 2017, and the museum was officially inaugurated in 2021-2022. The NMEC houses a wide variety of artifacts representing Egypt’s heritage across different ages, from ancient times to the modern era. The museum also features halls dedicated to mummies and Egyptian textiles, along with a School of Egyptian Civilization to promote cultural and archaeological awareness among citizens and foreign visitors.
Operating Hours: Daily from 09:00 to 17:00
Entrance Fee: Foreigners: Adults: 240 EGP, Students: 120 EGP, Egyptians: Adults: 60 EGP, Students: 30 EGP. Free for children under 6 years old. Audio guide: 30 EGP
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The Grand Egyptian Museum is the largest archaeological museum in the Middle East and houses the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts globally, covering the period from the pre-dynastic era to the Greek and Roman periods. The building was designed by French architect Marcel Dourgnon after winning an international competition in 1895. It was opened in 1902 by Khedive Abbas Helmy II and became a historical landmark in downtown Cairo. The museum's extensive collection includes the funerary collection of Yuya and Thuya, statues of the great pharaohs Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, as well as papyri, coffins, and jewelry.
Operating Hours: Daily from 09:00 to 17:00
Entrance Fee: Egyptians/Arabs: Adults: 30 EGP, Students: 10 EGP. Audio guide: Egyptians: 30 EGP, Foreigners: 50 EGP. Free entry for children under 6 years old
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The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) houses one of the largest and most impressive collections of Islamic artifacts in the world. Opened in 1903 during the reign of Khedive Abbas Helmy II, the museum was damaged in a 2014 explosion but was restored and reopened in 2017. The two-story museum holds the largest collection of Islamic artifacts, allowing visitors to explore all periods of Islamic history. The collection features a variety of materials, including astronomy, medicine, and architecture, with artifacts like intricately carved wooden pieces, decorative ceramics, and rare manuscripts. The museum's treasures also include the Mamluk-era key to the Kaaba and a textile piece bearing the oldest known Kufic script.
Operating Hours: Daily from 09:00 to 17:00
Entrance Fee: Adults: 20 EGP, Students: 10 EGP
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Mall of Arabia is one of the most modern and expansive shopping and entertainment centers in the region. Located in Juhayna Square, 6th of October City, it opened in 2010 and is owned by the Egyptian Centers for Real Estate Development. With a diverse mix of shops, global and local brands, restaurants, cafes, cinemas, and entertainment zones, the mall is a perfect destination for visitors of all ages and interests.
Want to learn more about the Mall of Arabia? Check out our Ultimate Guide to the Mall of Arabia in Cairo.
Operating Hours: Daily from 09:00 to 22:00, Friday until 23:00
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Marsa Matruh is a coastal city on Egypt's Mediterranean coast and one of the most beautiful destinations on the country’s northern shores. Its pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters make it a perfect place for a relaxing beach vacation. Marsa Matruh also offers a variety of resorts and luxury hotels, providing excellent services for guests, along with entertainment venues and restaurants offering delicious local cuisine. Visitors can also enjoy water activities like diving, swimming, and sailing.
Want to learn more about what to do in Marsa Matruh? Check out the Top Attractions in Mersa Matruh.
Egypt remains one of the world’s most exciting tourist destinations. If you're looking for a blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, Egypt is the perfect destination for you. Visit Egypt and enjoy an unforgettable tourism experience that will leave you with lasting memories. Don’t miss out on the exclusive offers available on WINGIE to find the cheapest flights to Egypt.
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