More to Egypt: Beyond Cairo

You have planned for more than a day in Cairo, or may be you want to visit some place other than Cairo. There is a lot Egypt has to offer other than Cairo. Below are top destinations worth planning to visit in Egypt and need not mention the amazing food you can explore at each destination.

Luxor

If you have time to visit only one city in Egypt, then that would be a tie between Luxor and Ashwan. Luxor is a city on the Nile river known for its ancient monuments like the Valley of the Kings, Karnak and Luxor temples. Hot air balloon at sunrise has become a popular activity.

How to get there: Take a plane(CAI – LXR); Take a train from Cairo; Rent a car; Book a tour; Form Ashwan, Take a cruise(My favorite option)

Ashwan

The city rich in Nubian culture on the river Nile is famous for its ancient monuments like Kom Ombo Temple and Abu Simbel. This is a great place for local shopping like handmade crafts, spices and more.

How to get there: Take a plane(CAI-ASW); Overnight train from Cairo; Cruise from Cairo(takes more than 10 days); Book a tour; From Cairo, plane is the best option. From Luxor, Cruise and bus are better options.

Alexandria

Alexandria is the most diversified city in Egypt with being the main Greek city in the country. From ancient catacombs to modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, this city has so much to offer.

How to get there: Hire a taxi; Take a bus(budget friendly but longer duration); Take a train(need separate local transportation to go around different sites); Rent a car(Need to figure out parking at every site you visit); Book a tour.

Al Faiyum

Also referred to as Fayum or Faiyum because of what the it meant – an oasis in midst of a desert. Have Sand dunes in mind, but also want to visit a lake? Mini waterfalls or explore skeletal remains of ancient creatures? This village offers it all.

How to get there: Microbus from Remaya Square; Train from Giza Suburban station; Hire a taxi; Rent a car; Book a tour. Be vary of the return times of departure if choosing a train or bus.

Ain Sokhna

If you are looking more of a resort town with vibrant colors to relax and rejuvenate, Ain Sokhna is your place to visit.

How to get there: Take a bus; Hire a taxi; Rent a car; Book a tour.

Port Said and Port Fouad

Port Said and Port Fouad are the Twin cities North East of Cairo that connect the Suez Canal in Egypt. It is an industrial zone and as the name suggests these are used for cargo ships to import and export goods. It gives you a different historical and cultural view of Egypt.

How to get there: Rent a car; Take a bus from El Torgoman Bus station; Take a flight(Including airport security and transport to and from airport, does not save you much time); Book a tour

Sharm El Sheikh

This place has a completely different vibe than the rest of Egypt. It is more on the modern side than history. It is filled with scintillating night life. Water adventures to hanging out at a laid back cafe, this place offers it all. This was my must visit place when I planned for Egypt.

How to get there: Take a bus (Bus options from Cairo and other cities); Rent a car; Take a plane(better option)

El Alamein

Is military history your thing? This city was the battle ground of North African campaign that has been a major turning point in World War II. This is closer to Alexandria. If you have a day to spare when visiting Alexandria, Visit the El Alamein Military Museum and different cemeteries. Because of its proximity to the beach, it offers several water activities.

How to get there: Train and Bus from Cairo are the most common modes of transport; Rent a car; Book a tour

Unique Egypt landscapes

How to get there: The best way to get to these stand alone land marks would be to either rent a car, hire a taxi or book a tour.

To view some of the accommodations we stayed at, when we visited Egypt which are kid friendly and budget friendly visit this collection.