Hristina Lozanovska 
Welcome to the land of pyramids, stunning temples, and breathtaking beaches! Egypt is an incredible country, offering everything from ancient monuments to modern and luxurious resorts. Considering everything the country has to offer, deciding where to stay in Egypt can be a tough task.
No worries at all! I recently visited Egypt and explored a few different parts of the country so I can share my experience with you and tell you about the 7 best cities to stay in Egypt. Besides discussing the top cities for your stay, I also handpicked the best hotels in each of the recommended cities for every budget.
To jump a bit ahead, I can tell you that Cairo and Giza are the best places to stay in Egypt, especially if you’re visiting for the first time. The country’s capital and largest city has plenty to offer in terms of attractions, dining, and accommodation and can offer a very rich cultural experience, while Giza is home to the world-famous pyramids and the Great Sphinx.
Wherever you decide to stay, hurry up and book your Egypt accommodation; this is a super popular destination, and the best places are quick to sell out.
Let’s start exploring Egypt!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Here’s a quick list of the best hotels to stay in Egypt, all situated in the capital, Cairo:
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Cairo & Giza – where to stay in Egypt for the first time
- 2. Hurghada – where to stay in Egypt for a beach vacation
- 3. Sharm El-Sheikh – where to stay in Egypt for luxury
- 4. Luxor – best place to stay in Egypt for history
- 5. Alexandria – best place to stay for a bit of everything
- 6. El Gouna – where to stay in Egypt for a relaxing vacation
- 7. Aswan – where to stay in Egypt on a budget
- BONUS: Best Nile River cruises
- FAQs about where to stay in Egypt
- Final thoughts on the best places to stay in Egypt
Check out this map of the 7 Egyptian towns I’ll be talking about in this post:
- Cairo: for first-timers
- Hurghada: for the beach
- Sharm El-Sheikh: for luxury
- Luxor: for history
- Alexandria: for a mix of everything
- El Gouna: for a relaxing vacation
- Aswan: for budget travelers
1. Cairo & Giza – where to stay in Egypt for the first time
Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a large and bustling city that attracts millions of tourists every year. It’s one of the most popular tourist places in Egypt, and for good reasons – its museums, bazaars, and proximity to Giza, home to the pyramids, make it the ideal place to stay in Egypt if you’re visiting for the first time.
On my trip to Egypt, I visited Cairo and Giza, and they blew me away! Even though it seems a little hectic, it provides a really unique visitor experience – I just wish I had more time to explore the city.
When in Giza, the first thing you should plan is a trip to the pyramids. They are just a 30-min drive away from the city center of Cairo, and they’re the one thing you cannot miss while visiting either Cairo or Giza.
NOTE: I don’t recommend driving in Giza or Cairo; the traffic is super fast and confusing, and if you’re there for the first time, I’m pretty sure you’ll have a hard time navigating the traffic. Instead, I recommend either arranging a transfer through your hotel (settle on a price in advance) or using the trusted service WelcomePickups – I really like it!
Before we keep on talking about the pyramids, I want to point out that the Giza Necropolis is super crowded, so finding your way around can be difficult. I visited on a guided tour, and I highly recommend you do the same (this is a great option offering hotel pick-up and drop-off).
Once you arrive at the pyramids, you’ll have plenty of time to admire these historic structures, take plenty of photos, and you can even venture inside! I entered the Pyramid of Menkaure (map), the smallest of the 3 Great Pyramids, and it was a really cool experience. Just make sure to buy a ticket for this in advance, as it’s not included in the general ticket.
TIP: If you’re at all claustrophobic, I wouldn’t recommend going inside the pyramid. The passage is very narrow, and there’s not a large fresh air flow, so it can become overwhelming. Don’t worry – you can still admire the pyramids from the outside!
While you’re at the Giza Necropolis, I also suggest you go up to the Panoramic View of the Pyramids (map). From here, you can see all 7 pyramids (the 3 Great Pyramids and 4 smaller ones) and snap those photos that make you look like you’re touching the tip of the pyramid. You can go up there on a camel or a horse-drawn carriage – I chose the 2nd option.
NOTE: Before going up to the panoramic viewpoint, be sure to negotiate the price with the local (or, better yet, have your guide negotiate). Some of the locals may try to scam you – they will take you up to the top for the agreed-upon price, then ask for extra money to get you down the hill – be extra careful when arranging your ride.
When you’ve seen all the pyramids, head to the Great Sphinx of Giza (map). You can’t get super close to the sphinx, but you can still see it and snap some incredible photos!
Back in the city center of Cairo, you absolutely have to visit The Egyptian Museum in Cairo. This museum has the largest collection of Pharaonic antiquities in the world, so set at least half a day aside for your visit. I only had a couple of hours, so I had to rush through some of the exhibitions. However, you have to find the time to see the golden mask of Tutankhamun!
Another great museum to visit in Cairo is The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, but you should also check out the historic Citadel of Saladin, the Zamalek neighborhood (situated on an island on the Nile River), and The Hanging Church (map). And finally, you can’t leave without exploring Khan el-Khalili (map), the largest bazaar in Cairo.
Finally, I want to tell you about a brand-new museum in Cairo – The Grand Egyptian Museum! Even though it’s not fully complete, this museum, situated just outside Giza and Cairo, will be the most comprehensive museum on Egyptian culture, as well as one of the largest and most modern museums in the world – don’t miss a visit to this place!
This 5-star hotel is situated in the heart of Cairo, overlooks the Nile River, and offers many upscale amenities like room service, evening entertainment, concierge services, and several breakfast options. Guests can also dine in one of the 5 on-site restaurants, use the 3 swimming pools, and indulge in a relaxing treatment at the spa.
Other accommodation options in
This 3-star boutique hotel features rooms with private bathrooms and offers free Wi-Fi and complimentary breakfast
A comfortable hostel near the Egyptian Museum and overlooking the Nile River, offering both private and dormitory rooms
This charming apartment has 2 bedrooms and can accommodate up to 5 guests, and features a kitchenette and a terrace
If you’re wondering where to stay in Egypt to see the pyramids, the answer is Giza. Although it’s a separate city, Giza is largely considered to be part of Cairo, and it’s the ultimate place to stay near the pyramids.
Below, you’ll find my selection of Giza hotels with a view of the pyramids, listed from most to least expensive:
- Pyramids Palace Inn ($$$) – a 5-star hotel offering a delicious complimentary breakfast, room service, and free parking, as well as luxurious rooms – just make sure to book one with a view of the pyramids
- Horus Guest House Pyramids ($$) – this 3-star guest house features a lovely terrace overlooking the pyramids, simple but comfortable rooms, and a tour desk. Guests can also benefit from free airport transfers and concierge services
- Pyramids Power Inn ($) – an affordable inn offering a delicious breakfast and free Wi-Fi. Certain rooms overlook the pyramids, while all have private bathrooms and air conditioning
Things to do in Cairo & Giza
- Spend a few hours at the Giza Necropolis exploring the Great Pyramids
- Go up to the Panoramic View of the Pyramids and snap some cool photos
- Admire the Great Sphinx of Giza
- Explore the collections at The Egyptian Museum in Cairo
- Embark on a Nile River dinner cruise with live entertainment
- Spend a few hours at The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
- Pay a visit to the Citadel of Saladin and The Hanging Church
- Roam the streets of the Zamalek neighborhood
- Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Al-Azhar Park (map)
- Do some shopping at the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
- Visit the available exhibitions at The Grand Egyptian Museum
2. Hurghada – where to stay in Egypt for a beach vacation
Even though Egypt is primarily known for its ancient sites, it’s also a fantastic beach destination. Stretching along the country’s Red Sea coast, you’ll find many great resort towns – none better than Hurghada. This lively beachfront town is situated 470 km (~300 miles) Southwest of Cairo and is one of the most popular spots in Egypt.
The beach is one of the main reasons people visit Hurghada, followed closely by water sports, specifically diving and snorkeling. The Red Sea is an extremely popular destination for underwater sports, seeing as it hosts gorgeous coral reefs and very vibrant marine life – more on this later.
During my recent Egypt trip, I stayed near Hurghada, in Safaga, a quieter resort town about an hour’s drive South of Hurghada. Even though I wasn’t staying in Hurghada, I visited on a couple of occasions, and I really liked the feel of the city – I could see why it’s one of the top cities to visit in Egypt!
NOTE: Many beaches in Hurghada (and Egypt in general) are private. The resorts in Egypt feature private beaches that are only accessible to its guests, so when booking your stay, check whether they have a beach or if there’s a public beach nearby.
El Sakia Beach (map) and Old Vic Beach Hurghada (map) are 2 great public beaches you can enjoy in Hurghada. Even though these beaches are public, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee (between US$2 and US$3), allowing you to use the sun loungers, an umbrella, and, in some cases, even towels.
While in Hurghada, you have to try snorkeling or diving! I opted for snorkeling combined with a visit to Orange Bay (map), a gorgeous sandy beach on a nearby island. I went on an organized tour (much like this one), and I loved it! The coral reefs were truly breathtaking, and the island was a great spot to rest after the snorkeling (although it was pretty hot).
TIP: Check whether your hotel offers snorkeling or scuba diving activities; if you’re paying for an all-inclusive arrangement, these activities may be included in the price, or the hotel can at least provide you with the equipment – you might just need to pay for the lessons.
If you need a break from all the swimming and water sports, it’s time to explore more of what Hurghada has to offer. The Hurghada Grand Aquarium is one of the most popular attractions in the city, where you can see the abundant marine life of the Red Sea, including sharks. This is a great destination for everyone, but it is especially fun if you’re visiting with kids.
Another great (and family-friendly) attraction is Sand City Hurghada, an open-air museum that features cool sand sculptures. Some other cool things to do in Hurghada include exploring the El Dahar Bazars (map) – haggle before you buy anything – and visiting the Hurghada Museum and Al Mina Mosque (map).
Hurghada also has a very lively nightlife – you’ll find many restaurants, bars, and nightclubs along in the city center. So, if you’d like to party while on your Egypt trip, Hurghada should definitely be at the top of your list!
Pickalbatros White Beach Resort
Facing the seafront, this upscale hotel has a private sandy beach, a terrace, a kids’ playground, and as many as 6 swimming pools. The hotel operates on an all-inclusive concept and offers other perks like car hire, spa treatments, and snorkeling.
Other accommodation options in Hurghada
A resort with a private beach, a lagoon-style pool, and a spa, as well as rooms with private balconies
This affordable hotel offers room service, a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, and free Wi-Fi and parking
This modern apartment provides stunning views of the sea and has 2 comfortable bedrooms and a lovely balcony
Things to do in Hurghada
- Spend a relaxing day on El Sakia Beach or Old Vic Beach Hurghada
- Embark on a guided cruise to Orange Bay and try snorkeling
- Admire the marine life at the Hurghada Grand Aquarium
- Explore the Red Sea on a scuba diving tour from Hurghada
- See the sand sculptures at Sand City Hurghada
- Roam the stalls at the El Dahar Bazars
- Visit the Hurghada Museum and the Al Mina Mosque
- Have some fun on the slides at Makadi Water World
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3. Sharm El-Sheikh – where to stay in Egypt for luxury
Wondering where to go in Egypt for a vacation full of luxury and a touch of glamor? Well, you’ll find all of that and more in Sharm El-Sheikh. This vibrant town is a resort hub on the Sinai Peninsula and the coast of the Red Sea and is located 500 km (310 miles) Southwest of Cairo.
Like in any other resort town, the top attractions in Sharm El-Sheikh are the sea and the gorgeous sandy beaches. One of the most popular beaches that are open to the public is Shark Bay (map) – don’t let the name discourage you; this is a great spot for swimming and snorkeling.
While in Sharm El-Sheikh, you definitely need to go snorkeling (or scuba diving); the coral reefs in the area are some of the most beautiful in the country. You can go on one of the many guided tours, but you can also ask whether the hotel has a diving school where you can take some lessons.
Sharm El-Sheikh has plenty more to offer besides stunning beaches and luxurious resorts. Be sure to check out the Soho Square Dancing Fountain (map) with its dancing water show, and spend a fun day at Hollywood Sharm El Sheik (map), a cool amusement complex with many shops, restaurants, and dinosaur sculptures.
Yet another super cool thing you can do near Sharm El-Sheikh is to go on a desert safari; I went on something similar near Safaga, where I was staying, and it was loads of fun. You’ll get to ride a quad bike, visit a traditional Bedouin village, and even have dinner while enjoying a traditional show!
In the evenings, you can go for a walk along the Pedestrian Road Neama Bay (map), which is lined with shops and restaurants – you can find something new every night!
Sentido Reef Oasis Aqua Park Resort
This all-inclusive resort in Egypt is situated on the beach in Sharm El-Sheikh, overlooking the Temple Reef, and features an on-site aqua park, plus a diving pool, 3 heated pools, and 2 kids’ pools. There are 9 restaurants and 15 bars within the hotel grounds, so you won’t be bored even for a moment.
Other accommodation options in Sharm El-Sheikh
Offering all-inclusive arrangements, the hotel has a private beach and 2 pools and offers activities like diving and snorkeling
This B&B has spice-themed rooms, each with air conditioning and a balcony, a pool, and a poolside restaurant
A small but cozy apartment with a separate bedroom, a living area, and a kitchenette with the necessary appliances
Things to do in Sharm El-Sheikh
- Spend the day swimming and snorkeling at Shark Bay
- Go on a guided tour to White Island and Ras Mohamed National Park
- See the dancing water show at the Soho Square Dancing Fountain
- Do some shopping at Hollywood Sharm El Sheik
- Admire the architecture of the Mustafa Mosque (map)
- Embark on a desert safari to try quad biking and riding a camel
- Check out the shops and restaurants along the Pedestrian Road Neama Bay
4. Luxor – best place to stay in Egypt for history
Luxor is a city in Southern Egypt positioned on the East Bank of the Nile River, about 660 km (410 miles) South of Cairo. This historic city stands on the site of the ancient city of Thebes and has so much to offer in terms of ancient attractions surrounded by stunning scenery. If you’re a history buff, Luxor is definitely the perfect spot for your stay in Egypt.
While visiting Egypt, I went on a guided trip to Luxor and explored all of its main attractions – it was my favorite Egypt experience! Don’t get me wrong – the Great Pyramids of Giza are impressive, but Luxor and its surroundings have so much to offer that I’m sure you’ll be impressed.
The first spot to explore in Luxor is the eponymous Luxor Temple, featuring an impressive obelisk, numerous statues of Egyptian rulers, and my favorite – The Sphinx Avenue (map).
From the Luxor Temple, you can go on to explore the small but very interesting Mummification Museum, as well as the Luxor Museum (map), which contains numerous artifacts as well as some mummies.
The next stop on your Luxor explorations should be Karnak, another super impressive temple complex and one of the must-see places in Egypt. This was maybe my favorite spot from all of the places I visited in Egypt, especially the Hypostyle Hall (map), with its huge sandstone columns decorated with stunning carvings.
PRO TIP: When exploring the historic sites of Luxor, be sure to bring water with you (the local vendors will overcharge you) and have some sun protection (sunscreen, hat, umbrella). The weather can become unbearably hot, so if possible, avoid visiting during the summer months.
After you’ve explored the temples on the East Bank of the Nile, it’s time to move on to the West Bank. The Colossi of Memnon (map) will probably be the first thing you see once you cross to the other side of the river. These are huge statues that are, unfortunately, the only remains of an ancient temple dedicated to King Amenhotep III.
Next, you should explore the Valley of the Queens, which features the well-preserved tombs of several Egyptian queens, before moving on to the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut. The temple is dedicated to Queen Hatshepsut, and even though it’s impressive in its own right, the history behind it is even more impressive.
TIP: When visiting the ancient sites in Luxor, I highly recommend using an experienced guide. There are many organized tours (this one is super popular and highly rated) that can take you to all of the top sites, but better yet, led by a guide that can tell you all about the history of the spaces – their stories are amazing!
Lastly, you shouldn’t skip the Valley of the Kings, one of the most significant archeological sites in all of Egypt. Here, you can go inside the tombs of former Egyptian rulers and admire the intricate art displayed on the falls. However, as is the case with the pyramids, some of the tombs can feel a little claustrophobic, so if you’re not up to it, you can just skip it.
NOTE: Tour guides are not allowed within the tombs to avoid large groups gathering in one place and the overlapping of voices. But my tour guide was super nice and explained everything before we entered the tombs and also provided some extra info afterward – be sure to ask for this, too.
Just like with Cairo, driving in Luxor might not be the best idea; although Luxor is much quieter than the capital and has way less traffic, (reputable) taxis and guided tours are still the better option.
FUN FACT: Famous archaeologist Howard Carter announced the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb on the main terrace of the Sofitel Winter Palace in Luxor.
Now, let’s check out the best hotels for your stay in Luxor!
This is one of the most famous hotels in Egypt, dating back to 1886. The historic hotel is built in authentic Victorian style and is situated on the banks of the Nile River, offering luxurious rooms and suites, a pool, a lovely terrace, and 3 on-site restaurants.
Other accommodation options in Luxor
A 3-star hotel featuring a rooftop coffee bar and a restaurant serving traditional dishes, plus a tour desk and Wi-Fi
This budget hotel is situated on a boat and has rooms with private bathrooms, a restaurant, and a bar
Offering panoramic views of the Nile River, this villa can welcome up to 4 guests and boasts a private pool
Things to do in Luxor
- Admire the statues in the Luxor Temple and walk along The Sphinx Avenue
- Roam around the Karnak Temple and snap some photos of the Hypostyle Hall
- Stop by The Colossi of Memnon and get a photo with the giant statues
- Go on a hot air balloon ride over the Luxor sites
- Visit the Valley of the Queens and the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut
- Explore the royal tombs at the Valley of the Kings
5. Alexandria – best place to stay for a bit of everything
Can’t decide whether to book a beach holiday in Egypt or go on a cultural exploration trip? Well, you don’t have to decide – Alexandria offers both of these things and much more! Being the 2nd largest city in Egypt, Alexandria is a bustling hub of activity, and it’s situated 220 km (135 miles) Northwest of Cairo.
Alexandria’s most famous landmark, unfortunately, no longer exists! You’ve probably heard of the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world, and if so, you also probably know it was destroyed. And I know it’s not there anymore, but it’s super cool to know that you’re in the same city where the lighthouse once stood.
Another ancient landmark was the Library of Alexandria, which was also unfortunately lost in a fire. However, today, you can visit the Alexandria Bibliotheca (map), an impressive library that was built to commemorate the ancient library.
The city of Alexandria has plenty more to offer in terms of historical attractions, including the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa (map), the Serapeum of Alexandria (map), and the Ancient Roman Theater (map).
A more modern landmark is the Montaza Palace (map), a lavish villa dating back to the 1930s whose grounds now serve as a public park. And if you enjoy this garden, you should also check out the Antoniades Gardens (map) – they’re extremely beautiful and tranquil!
As I mentioned above, Alexandria has more to offer than historical attractions – it has numerous restaurants, cafes, and urban buildings, as well as some incredible beaches. If you’re up for a beach day, head to El Mamurah Beach (map), a very popular public beach that’s lined with a long promenade full of bars and eateries.
It’s also a good idea to book a hotel with a private beach (like some of the ones recommended below), so you don’t have to worry about getting to and from the beach. The traffic gets pretty bad during the day, and you don’t want to be stuck in a traffic jam when all you want is a relaxing beach day.
Seeing as the city faces the Mediterranean Sea, it’s a top destination for enjoying some seafood. I recommend either The Bridge Café and Restaurant (map) or the Fish Island Seafood Restaurant (map)!
Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and boasting a private sandy beach, this 5-star hotel offers its guests access to an outdoor pool, a full-service spa, and an on-site restaurant. A delicious complimentary breakfast is provided daily, and private parking is available at an extra charge.
Other accommodation options in Alexandria
A 3-star hotel featuring a swimming pool, a garden, free private parking, and air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms
This budget-friendly hotel provides room service, free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, and a free continental breakfast
Situated in the heart of Alexandria, this Airbnb is decorated in Arabian style and has 2 comfortable bedrooms
Things to do in Alexandria
- Pay a visit to the Alexandria Bibliotheca
- Explore the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa and stop by the Serapeum of Alexandria
- Take a walk around the Ancient Roman Theater
- Admire the collection at the Royal Jewelry Museum
- Spend a relaxing day at Montaza Palace or the Antoniades Gardens
- Stop by the Alexandria Naval Unknown Soldier Memorial (map)
- Relax under the sun at El Mamurah Beach
- Try the seafood at The Bridge Café and Restaurant or at Fish Island
6. El Gouna – where to stay in Egypt for a relaxing vacation
If you want to enjoy Egypt’s pristine beaches but avoid the crowds that are inevitable in Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh, then El Gouna will be right up your alley. This charming resort town, situated directly North of Hurghada and 450 km (280 km) Southeast of Cairo, is a bit more laid-back than other tourist destinations, making it perfect for a relaxing stay.
The town itself has a very interesting layout; it’s built on the mainland, along the coast of the Red Sea, and on small islands very close to the coast – I briefly passed through El Gouna, and I desperately want to go back!
Seeing as the city is surrounded by water, this is a great destination for water sports enthusiasts (snorkeling is super popular), as well as for kitesurfing.
Mangroovy Beach (map) is a very popular spot for kitesurfing, while The Smokery Beach (map) is a better choice if all you want to do is relax with a cocktail in hand. Like in any other resort town on the coast of the Red Sea, you can also enjoy the private beach of your hotel, if there is one.
NOTE: The majority of the Egyptian population is Muslim, so alcohol is not a part of their everyday life. Naturally, you’ll find some places that don’t serve alcoholic beverages, but all of the resorts and restaurants in the tourist hotspots serve alcohol – you can still drink on your vacation if you wish to do so!
Suppose you want some more water adventures? Head to the Sliders Cable Park, which consists of several pools and many, many sliders. Another great thing to do is go for a stroll along the Marina El Gouna (map) and have dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area.
Seeing as El Gouna is not as big of a town as other resort towns in Egypt, there’s not too much to do in comparison. Luckily, the Hurghada city center is just a 30-min drive away, so you can always visit and check out some of its attractions.
FUN FACT: El Gouna is actually a pretty new town! The town’s developer, Samih Sawiris, had a vision of developing a sustainable paradise. Construction of the town started in 1989 by creating lagoons and hotels in a very unique architectural style. Since then, the city has expanded to become the amazing place it is today!
Finally, if you plan on visiting Hurghada from El Gouna (or any other place), I recommend booking a transfer through your hotel. Driving from one town to another is pretty simple, and there’s much less traffic on the open road. However, there’s not enough signalization, and at some city entrances, you may have to go through a police checkpoint – it’s always better to have an experienced driver with you!
TIP: if you want to explore other smaller resort towns in Egypt, you should also consider Dahab and Marsa Alam – both amazing choices for a beach holiday!
Now, let’s take a look at the ultimate spots for your stay in El Gouna!
This luxurious mansion has 13 individually designed suites and is situated on a private beach on the coast of the Red Sea. Some of the facilities at the property include an outdoor pool, a hammam, and a restaurant, while guests can also enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast.
Other accommodation options in El Gouna
This 3-star hotel has a swimming pool and a restaurant and offers on-site training for diving
A small and modern apartment that provides access to a pool, parking, and bike and car hire
This 2-bedroom apartment is right on the seafront and has a large terrace perfect for outdoor dining
Things to do in El Gouna
- Try kitesurfing at Mangroovy Beach
- Sip on cocktails and relax at The Smokery Beach
- Go for a spin on the El Gouna Go Karts (map)
- Have some fun at the Sliders Cable Park
- Go for a walk along the Marina El Gouna
- Visit the Desert Breath (map) sculpture
7. Aswan – where to stay in Egypt on a budget
Last but most definitely not least, I’ll recommend Aswan for your next trip to Egypt! Located on the Eastern bank of the Nile River and 880 km (550 miles) South of Cairo, the city of Aswan is a charming historic town that’s also a very budget-friendly destination.
Even though Egypt, in general, is a budget destination compared to US and European standards, Aswan is not super popular among tourists, so hotels, restaurants, and activities are all available at more affordable prices.
One of the top attractions in Aswan is the Unfinished Obelisk (map), a large carved obelisk that has been discarded among other rocks. It’s a great opportunity to see how the ancient Egyptians approached the construction of their imposing monuments!
The Isis Temple (map) is another well-preserved landmark dating back to ancient Egypt, while the Nubian Museum (map) features many cool artifacts that will give you a better understanding of Nubian history and culture.
TIP: if you’re interested in learning more about Nubian history, visit the Nubian Eco Village (map), where you can see how the locals live and get a glimpse into their colorful culture.
While in Aswan, the Philae Temple (map) is a must-visit! The temple is situated on an island that’s only accessible by boat, so I suggest booking a guided tour for your visit. I really like this tour; besides a private excursion to Philae, you’ll also get to see the Unfinished Obelisk and The High Dam (map), a landmark dam on the Nile built by the British in the 19th century.
Aswan is also one of the nearest major cities to the Abu Simbel Temples! This has to be one of the most beautiful places in Egypt, and I really regret that I didn’t have enough time to visit. I recommend booking a day tour (like this one) to Abu Simbel. Choose the guided option and learn more about the history of this stunning temple.
My last recommendation for your stay in Aswan is a Nile cruise! Aswan is a great starting point for cruises along the Nile River; I really like this 4-day cruise to Luxor that also includes a hot air balloon ride!
FUN FACT: The author Agatha Christie stayed at the Old Cataract Hotel (now Sofitel Legend Old Cataract) several times, and this is what actually inspired her to write the famous novel Death on the Nile. At the hotel, you can still visit the suite where Christie stayed and wrote most of the novel.
A historic hotel situated on the banks of the Nile River that offers many luxurious facilities, including 2 swimming pools, 4 restaurants, and a spa that features a sauna, a hot tub, and a hammam. The rooms are spacious, modern, and equipped with wooden furniture.
Other accommodation options in Aswan
This comfy and colorful guest house features an on-site restaurant, a terrace, and rooms with private bathrooms and balconies
A budget-friendly guest house offering rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi, and breakfast is available for an extra fee
Stay in a private room on a houseboat and enjoy scenic views of the Nile from the shared terrace
Things to do in Aswan
- Pay a visit to the Unfinished Obelisk
- Explore the Isis Temple and the Nubian Museum
- Learn more about Nubian history and culture on a guided tour of the Nubian Village
- Join a guided tour of the Philae Temple, the Unfinished Obelisk, and the High Dam
- Look through the stalls at the Aswan Old Souks (map)
- Go on a guided tour of the Abu Simbel temples
- Embark on a 4-day Nile cruise to Luxor and enjoy a hot air balloon ride
- Visit the Agatha Christie suite at the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract (map)
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$200 |
| 💵 Mid-range hotel: | US$100 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$40 |
| 📍 Best area: | Cairo |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | The St. Regis Cairo |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | The Square Boutique Hotel |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Wake Up! Cairo Hostel |
BONUS: Best Nile River cruises
As you can see from this article, Egypt has so much to offer, and staying in one place often makes it difficult (and expensive) to explore other parts of the country. So, if you want to visit several of Egypt’s landmarks on a single trip, your best option is to embark on a cruise along the Nile River.
Below, I’ve listed all the best Nile cruises and ordered them from shortest to longest so you can book a cruise depending on how much time you have to explore.
- 1 Night Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor – this governing cruise departs from Aswan and arrives in Luxor. You will enjoy the stunning landscapes along the Nile, as well as a delicious dinner and breakfast. The cruise costs US$240 per person
- 2 Night Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor – if you can afford an extra night for your trip from Aswan to Luxor, I highly recommend booking this 2-night cruise for US$230/person and enjoying the boat’s luxurious amenities
- From Cairo: 3-Day Nile Cruise – if you’re based in Cairo, this tour includes a flight from the capital to Luxor, where you’ll explore the main sights, go on a hot air balloon ride, and then sail along the Nile all the way to Aswan – all for US$790/person
- From Luxor: 5-Day Nile Cruise to Aswan – if your starting point is Luxor, this 5-day cruise will take you to the top sights in Luxor, then down to Aswan and its main landmarks before ending the adventure at Abu Simbel – it costs US$600/person
- Hurghada: Luxor & Aswan 5-Day Nile Cruise – this 5-day, 4-night journey includes a private car transfer from Hurghada to Luxor, a cruise with stops for exploring Luxor and Aswan, and a transfer back to Hurghada, all for US$770
FAQs about where to stay in Egypt
💯 What part of Egypt is best to stay in?
The best place to stay in Egypt is Cairo. The city is a great base for visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza and offers plenty of museums and other attractions, plus great hotels, such as The St. Regis Cairo and The Square Boutique Hotel.
❓ Is it better to stay in Cairo or Giza?
Cairo is the better choice if you want to explore different museums and have access to world-class dining and shopping. Giza is better if you want to be close to the pyramids and stay in a hotel overlooking the pyramids, like the Pyramids Palace Inn.
🤔 Is it better to stay in Hurghada or Sharm el Sheikh?
Hurghada is better for a more affordable vacation filled with activities, while Sharm el Sheikh is better if you want to relax and bask in luxury.
✅ How safe is Egypt for foreigners?
Egypt is reasonably safe for foreign travelers. However, you should keep track of the developing conflicts in the neighboring countries and exercise caution while exploring popular tourist sites and while walking at night.
📅 How many days in Egypt is enough?
I recommend staying in Egypt between 10 to 14 days. There are many sites to see in Egypt, so my advice is – the longer, the better! In 14 days, you should be able to see the main attractions and spend some relaxing days on the beach.
💰 Is Egypt cheap or expensive?
Egypt is a very affordable destination, especially for travelers coming from the US and Europe. Accommodation, food, and activities are available at very affordable prices. My 10-day holiday to Egypt cost US$1300/person, but the cost can vary depending on your travel preference.
🪪 Do you need a visa for Egypt?
Most travelers need a visa for Egypt; based on your country’s agreement, you can either get a visa from one of Egypt’s diplomatic missions or obtain a visa upon arrival. I fell under the second category – the process was quick, and it only cost US$25.
Final thoughts on the best places to stay in Egypt
Well, we’ve reached the end of my comprehensive guide on where to stay in Egypt. Hopefully, this was helpful, and now you have a better idea of how to plan your trip.
And if you’re still undecided, here are my 2 favorite hotels in Egypt, both situated in Cairo:
- The St. Regis Cairo – this 5-star hotel overlooks the Nile River and offers spa treatments, on-site dining, and evening entertainment
- The Square Boutique Hotel – a comfortable hotel that provides a delicious complimentary breakfast and free Wi-Fi
When you make a decision, hurry up and book your Egypt stay. The country is slowly but surely becoming a tourist hotspot, and the best hotels are quick to sell out!
If you have any other questions about Egypt, leave them in the comments below! I’m happy to share my experience and give you some extra info.
Enjoy Egypt,
Hristina
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