Egypt is known for being home to one of the oldest civilizations in the world and attracts millions of tourists every year. Located in Northeast Africa, this country welcomes its visitors with its immense historical wealth and fascinating natural beauty on the shores of the Mediterranean and Red Seas. Stretching along the fertile valley of the Nile River, Egypt has a rich history filled with pharaohs, pyramids, mummies and temples. It also attracts attention with its desert safaris, diving centers and modern city life.
Egypt has a subtropical desert climate, meaning it's warm and sunny most of the year. The best time to visit is from October to April, when temperatures are milder.
The unique combination of history, culture and nature makes Egypt an indispensable destination to explore. Today, as Mikos Store, we will discover all these experiences and much more that Egypt has to offer.
Transportation from Egypt Airports to the City
International visitors to Egypt typically arrive via airports in major cities such as Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor and Sharm El Sheikh. There are a variety of options available to reach city centres and tourist areas from these airports.
Cairo International Airport
For visitors landing in Cairo, transportation to the city center can be provided by buses, private car rentals, taxis, and airport shuttles. Buses are the most economical option, but for visitors looking for comfort and convenience, private taxis or shuttles are recommended. Additionally, app-based transportation services such as Uber are also very popular in Cairo.
Alexandria Airports
There are buses, taxis and private car hire options available to get to the city centre from Borg El Arab Airport serving Alexandria. Taxis are usually the fastest and most comfortable option for getting to the city centre.
Luxor International Airport
Luxor is considered the heart of ancient Egypt and is very easy to get to. Taxis and minibuses can be used from the airport to the city centre and the important archaeological sites on the west bank of the Nile.
Sharm El Sheikh International Airport
Visitors to Sharm El Sheikh, the pearl of the Red Sea, can easily reach hotels and resorts from the airport by taxi or pre-arranged shuttle services. Many hotels also offer their own transfer services.
Places to Visit in Egypt
Egypt has been home to many civilizations since prehistoric times, so there is a lot of history and natural beauty to explore. Here are the main places you should visit in Egypt:
Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx
The Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, have become the symbol of Egypt. These pyramids, belonging to the Pharaohs Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure, are among the most impressive structures of the ancient world. The nearby Great Sphinx adds to the mystery and magic of this historic complex.
Karnak and Luxor Temples of Luxor
Located in the heart of ancient Thebes, Karnak Temple is the largest religious complex in Egypt. Together with the nearby Temple of Luxor, these two temples reflect the spirit and architecture of ancient Egypt. Luxor is also home to important burial sites, including the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens.
Abu Simbel Temples
Built by Pharaoh Ramesses II, the Temples of Abu Simbel are located on Egypt's southern border, approximately 290 km south of Aswan. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their architecture and historical significance.
Nile River Cruise
A cruise along the Nile River offers visitors the opportunity to explore Egypt’s natural beauty and ancient sites from a different perspective. Aswan to Luxor is the most popular.
Red Sea Resorts
Egypt's Red Sea coast is world-renowned for diving and water sports, with resorts such as Hurghada and Sharm el-Sheikh notable for their crystal-clear waters and colorful coral reefs.
Alexandria
Alexandria, the pearl of the Mediterranean, is known for being the site of the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the ancient wonders of the world. Today, it is a cultural centre with a library and historical sites.
What to Eat in Egypt
Egyptian cuisine is full of delicious vegetable dishes, spicy meats and sweet pastries. Traditional dishes are often prepared with plenty of spices, garlic and lemon juice, offering the unique flavors of Egypt.
Koshari
Koshari, the national dish of Egypt, is a nutritious and economical dish made with rice, pasta, lentils, fried onions, garlic sauce and tomato sauce. You can find it on every street corner and restaurant.
Full Medames
Ful Medames, an essential breakfast dish, is prepared with boiled broad beans, mashed with spices, olive oil, lemon juice and garlic. It is usually served with warm bread.
Ta'meya (Falafel)
The Egyptian version, falafel, is made from crushed broad beans or chickpeas and served fried. Ta'meya, enriched with green herbs and spices, is usually eaten with tahini sauce.
Molokhia
Molokhia is a unique Egyptian soup made from a leafy green. It is cooked with chicken or beef broth, lots of garlic and chori, and is usually served with bread or rice.
Kebab and Kofta
Meat dishes are also popular in Egypt. Kebab (grilled meat) and Kofta (grilled meatballs) are excellent choices, especially for meat lovers. Meats marinated in spices reflect Egypt's rich spice culture.
Om Ali
Om Ali, a traditional Egyptian dessert, is a rich and sweet pudding made with flatbread, milk, sugar, nuts and dried fruits. It is perfect for cold winter nights.
Things You Need to Know Before Going to Egypt
A trip to Egypt requires advance planning and knowing some important information. Here are some tips to make the most of your visit to Egypt:
Visa Information
Most nationalities require a visa to enter Egypt. Visas can be obtained at the airport or applied for online before traveling. Before making your travel plans, learn about current visa requirements and processes.
Vaccines and Health Precautions
Before traveling to Egypt, it is important to talk to your doctor about any necessary vaccinations and health precautions. Vaccines against hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and yellow fever are widely recommended. It is also important to remember that tap water is not safe to drink in Egypt and bottled water should be used.
Currency and Shopping
The currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Cash is important, especially in smaller shops and markets, but larger hotels and restaurants usually accept credit cards. Currency exchange is available at banks, bureaux de change, and hotels.
Transport
There are a variety of transportation options within Egypt. In major cities, there are options such as metro, buses and taxis, while trains and buses are commonly used for intercity travel. Cruises along the Nile River are also a popular option.
Clothing and Cultural Sensitivities
Egypt is a country with traditional values. It is important to dress modestly in public, especially in religious places. Long skirts or trousers and tops that cover the shoulders are recommended for women. It is also preferable for men to wear long pants rather than shorts.
Communication
Arabic is the official language in Egypt, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas and larger cities. Respecting cultural differences and learning basic Arabic greetings can make communicating with locals easier.
Egypt Nightlife
Egypt also offers its visitors a variety of options when it comes to nightlife. From Cairo to Alexandria, Luxor to Sharm El Sheikh, each city has its own style of entertainment.
Cairo
Cairo is known for its vibrant nightlife. The city has a variety of bars, clubs and restaurants catering to all tastes, from traditional Arabic music to modern dance music. Boat tours along the Nile River offer a unique experience for those who want to spend the night on the water. Smoking shisha and listening to local music in traditional coffeehouses is also a quieter way to experience Cairo’s nightlife.
Alexandria
Located on the Mediterranean coast, Alexandria offers a more laid-back nightlife. The cafes and restaurants along the coast are perfect for relaxing by the sea and enjoying delicious food. Alexandria is also home to several cultural venues where you can enjoy live music performances and outdoor activities.
Luxor
Luxor offers a nightlife experience, especially for history buffs. Dinner cruises on the Nile River offer the opportunity to explore ancient temples by moonlight. Some hotels in the city host live music and dance shows, creating an atmosphere that combines Luxor's history with modern entertainment.
Sharm El Sheikh
Sharm El Sheikh, the pearl of the Red Sea, is one of the most vibrant nightlife destinations in Egypt. Luxury clubs, dance venues with international DJs and beach parties are especially popular with young visitors. In addition, entertainment and shows offered by hotels offer a variety of options to enjoy the nightlife in Sharm El Sheikh.
In today's article, we talked about Egypt. We also recommend you to take a look at our Mardin Travel Guide article. Mikos Store wishes you a pleasant day.
