Top Things to Do in Egypt in 2026 – A Complete Travel Guide
Egypt stands as one of the world’s most captivating destinations, combining ancient wonders, desert landscapes, coastal beauty, and vibrant culture. In 2026, Egypt continues to attract travelers who dream of exploring majestic pyramids, sailing the Nile, uncovering archaeological treasures, discovering oases, and relaxing on the Red Sea coastline. Whether you're a first-time visitor or planning to explore deeper, this guide outlines the top things to do in Egypt across culture, romance, adventure, gastronomy, shopping, nature, heritage, and wellness.
Cultural Experience
Egypt’s cultural identity spans thousands of years and remains deeply connected to its ancient temples, royal tombs, archaeological sites, and traditional bazaars. Exploring these highlights is essential to understanding the country’s charm.
Visit the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx
The Giza Pyramids remain the defining symbol of Egypt. The Great Pyramid, the only surviving wonder of the ancient world, continues to inspire awe with its scale, precision, and historical significance. Nearby, the Great Sphinx stands as a timeless guardian carved from limestone. The Giza Plateau offers one of the most iconic cultural experiences on Earth.
Explore the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
Located near Giza, the Grand Egyptian Museum houses the world’s largest collection of artifacts from ancient Egypt. Visitors can explore royal treasures, mummies, statues, and monumental exhibits. Its immersive storytelling and advanced presentations make it a highlight of Cairo’s cultural landscape.
Discover Ancient Cities: Luxor, Aswan, and Alexandria
Luxor, often known as the world’s greatest open-air museum, features monumental temples, pharaohs’ tombs, and historic landmarks. Aswan offers serene landscapes, Nubian culture, and island temples. Alexandria blends Mediterranean charm with Greco-Roman heritage, providing a culturally rich coastal experience.
Where: Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Alexandria
Romantic Experience
Egypt offers a surprising variety of romantic experiences, from serene desert sunsets to riverside cruises and coastal luxury stays.
Sunset Views and Historical Walks in Luxor
Luxor’s temples and the Nile’s golden-hour reflections create naturally romantic settings. Couples can explore temple complexes, enjoy quiet walks along the river, or take in sunset views over the West Bank.
Nile River Cruise for Couples
A Nile cruise remains one of Egypt’s most enchanting experiences. Couples can enjoy elegant cabins, rooftop lounges, nightly entertainment, and scenic views as the ship travels between Luxor and Aswan. The slow-paced journey creates an ideal atmosphere for romance and relaxation.
Red Sea Beach Retreats in Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada
Egypt’s Red Sea coastline offers luxurious resorts, private beaches, and warm waters, perfect for honeymooners or couples seeking quiet relaxation. Crystal-clear seas, modern amenities, and candlelight dinners by the shore enhance the romantic mood.
Where: Luxor, Red Sea coastline, Nile River route
Adventure Experience
Egypt’s geography ranges from desert dunes to underwater reefs, creating ample opportunities for adventure seekers.
Desert Safaris and Oasis Exploration
Desert adventures in Egypt take travelers through dramatic landscapes, sand dunes, and remote valleys. The White Desert, with its surreal chalk formations, offers unforgettable scenery. Siwa Oasis provides natural springs, palm groves, and Berber traditions, ideal for offbeat exploration.
Diving and Snorkeling in the Red Sea
The Red Sea is famous worldwide for its vibrant coral reefs and clear waters. Destinations like Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, and Marsa Alam attract divers with colorful marine life, shipwreck sites, and excellent visibility. Snorkeling, parasailing, and water sports add to the excitement.
Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Luxor
For an extraordinary view of Egypt's historical landscape, a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Luxor provides sweeping views of temples, tombs, and farmlands from above.
Where: White Desert, Siwa, Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Luxor
Gastronomy Experience
Egyptian cuisine is flavorful, hearty, and full of cultural tradition.
Food Tour in Cairo
Cairo’s food scene features a blend of traditional dishes and modern twists. A guided food tour allows travelers to taste koshari, taameya (Egyptian falafel), ful medames, grilled kofta, and sweet treats like basbousa and kunafa.
Traditional Dining in Alexandria
Alexandria’s coastal location brings fresh seafood dishes and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Waterfront restaurants offer classic Egyptian flavors with scenic views.
Local Markets and Street Food
Markets across Egypt sell fresh bread, spices, roasted meats, and local snacks. Trying food directly from street vendors makes for an authentic culinary experience.
Where: Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor
Shopping Experience
Egypt’s markets and bazaars blend traditional craftsmanship with lively cultural atmospheres.
Khan El Khalili Bazaar, Cairo
This bustling marketplace is Egypt’s most famous shopping district. Visitors can find handcrafted lamps, silver jewelry, perfumes, pottery, carpets, and papyrus art. Exploring the maze-like alleys offers a rich cultural experience.
Local Souks of Luxor and Aswan
Luxor and Aswan offer markets featuring Nubian crafts, colorful fabrics, handmade jewelry, and spices. These souks are ideal for picking up unique souvenirs connected to the region’s history.
Mediterranean Markets in Alexandria
Alexandria offers a mix of traditional goods and contemporary items, often with Greek and Mediterranean influences.
Where: Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Alexandria
Scenic & Nature Experience
Egypt offers striking landscapes, from riverbanks to desert plains and underwater worlds.
Red Sea Coastline
Egypt’s Red Sea region boasts turquoise waters, coral reefs, and calm beaches. Whether relaxing onshore or exploring reefs offshore, the coastline offers stunning natural beauty.
Nile River Landscapes
The Nile remains one of Egypt’s most iconic natural features. Watching rural life along the banks, sailing in traditional feluccas, and enjoying sunrise or sunset views create peaceful scenic moments.
Desert Formations and Oases
The White Desert’s chalk formations look almost otherworldly, while Siwa Oasis provides lush greenery amidst the desert.
Where: Red Sea, Nile Valley, Western Desert
Temple & Heritage Visits
Egypt’s temples and historic structures highlight its ancient grandeur.
Karnak and Luxor Temples
These massive temple complexes showcase Ramses, Hatshepsut, and other pharaohs’ legacies. The evening sound-and-light show adds a memorable experience.
Valley of the Kings
This archaeological site contains the tombs of ancient Egyptian rulers, including Tutankhamun. Its artwork, corridors, and historical significance attract travelers from around the world.
Abu Simbel
Relocated to save it from floods, Abu Simbel is a monumental rock temple dedicated to Ramses II. Its engineering and artistry make it one of Egypt’s greatest archaeological wonders.
Where: Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel
Relax & Rejuvenation
Egypt offers many ways to unwind, whether on the coast, in the desert, or near natural springs.
Spa Resorts in Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada
Luxury Red Sea resorts offer massages, hammams, wellness treatments, and beachfront relaxation.
Hot Springs in Siwa Oasis
Siwa’s natural hot springs and peaceful environment create a perfect atmosphere for rejuvenation.
Riverside Retreats in Aswan
Aswan’s calm Nile surroundings offer boutique stays ideal for slow-paced, nature-rich relaxation.
Where: Sharm El Sheikh, Siwa, Aswan
Final Thoughts
Egypt in 2026 presents a remarkable variety of experiences, from ancient monuments and archaeological wonders to desert adventures, coastal retreats, vibrant markets, and relaxing wellness escapes. Whether you're a cultural explorer, romantic traveler, adventure seeker, or food lover, Egypt offers unforgettable moments at every turn. Begin planning your Egypt itinerary and discover why this land of pharaohs continues to inspire travelers from around the world.
