Egypt has long been a traveller's paradise, drawing visitors from all over the world with its fascinating history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities. If you're planning to choose one of the Egypt tour packages and looking for a different kind of adventure, then you're in luck. In this blog, we'll take you on a journey to discover some of the most beautiful towns in Egypt that are guaranteed to leave you mesmerized!
Old Town, Cairo
Take a stroll through time as you wander through the old quarters of Cairo, where history and architecture blend in perfect harmony. The incredible Islamic buildings showcase the rich heritage of the city, starting with the 7th-century Mosque of Amr ibn al-As. With its impressive Mosques of Ibn Tulun and al-Hakim, intriguing madrassahs and mausoleums, and lively markets, it's a must-visit destination. Don't miss the chance to visit the Citadel of Saladin, with the magnificent Mosque of Mohammed Ali at its peak offering breathtaking views of the old town.
Luxor
Luxor, once the capital of Upper Egypt during the Pharaonic Age, is a treasure trove of ancient ruins that you absolutely cannot miss. Known as the world's finest open-air museum, it's home to breathtaking sites like the Karnak and Luxor Temple complexes, the Valley of the Kings, and temples of the great Pharaohs Ramesses II and III. You'll also find Islamic sites, picturesque streets, and vibrant markets to explore. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and beauty of Luxor.
Siwa
Siwa is a small oasis village in the middle of the desert near the Libyan border. Its residents, known as Berbers, have their own unique culture and language. Siwa is famous for its mud-brick houses, palm trees, and olive groves. The historic Temple of Amun and the 13th-century Fortress of Shali are popular tourist attractions. Alexander the Great even visited the temple later on. Nowadays, visitors can see the remains of the temple and the 13th-century Fortress of Shali.
Aswan
Aswan, previously known as Swenett, was the southernmost part of Egypt and is situated on the Nile river. It is the final stop on Culture Trip's 10-day Egypt tour, which explores the country's rich heritage. Aswan is famous for its traditional sailing boats, the dhows and feluccas, and the stunning stone cliffs and quarries that supplied the Pharaohs with building materials. Visitors can explore the old souk, Kitchener's Garden on an island in the Nile, and the abandoned St. Simeon monastery by camel or felucca.
Al-Qasr
Al-Qasr is a medieval town located in the Dakhla Oasis in the Western Desert. It was built by the Ottomans and is believed to have a history dating back to hunter-gatherer societies hundreds of thousands of years ago. It became the medieval capital of the oasis due to its impressive architecture, which includes mud-brick houses that are more than a thousand years old. The town is filled with craft shops, such as a blacksmith shop and olive press, and working mills.
Faiyum
Faiyum has been inhabited since ancient times and offers a range of traditional souks and attractions, such as the unique Hanging Mosque and Qaitbay Mosque, which lack minarets. However, the main highlight of Faiyum is the surrounding area, particularly the Valley of Whales in Wadi al-Hitan. This area is a World Heritage Site that offers breathtaking scenery and is known for the discovery of numerous fossils belonging to early forms of whales, sharks, and crocodiles. Visitors can even observe complete whale skeletons in the sands surrounding Faiyum.
Dahab
Dahab, a former fishing village on the Sinai Peninsula, is situated on the coast of the Red Sea. The town lacks significant historical or architectural importance, but its surroundings are remarkable. With the Sinai Mountains on one side and the Gulf of Aqaba on the other, visitors can revel in unspoiled natural beauty. Unlike nearby Sharm el-Sheikh, Dahab has retained its charm despite being occupied by Israel after the Six-Day War. It is now a popular destination for deep-sea divers.
Wadi El-Natrun
Wadi El-Natrun is an unusual town with ancient Coptic Christian monastic sites gathered in the desert between Cairo and Alexandria. Christians came to this region in the fourth century to escape the corruption they saw in the cities of Egypt, becoming hermits or grouping together in monasteries. St. Macarius led thousands here, and over time, they built towers, walls, and defences to protect the churches and monasteries from raiders. Today, only four monasteries remain, but each is an impressive site and part of a Unesco World Heritage location.
Qasr al-Farafra
Qasr al-Farafra is a charming mud-brick town surrounded by lush palm groves and an ancient hilltop fortress. With only 5,000 residents, the town still practices traditional industries like wool-spinning and teahouses. Located in the Farafra depression of the Western Desert, it's near the stunning White Desert, known for its chalk formations and pale rocks blending with the sands.
Alexandria
Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BCE, Alexandria is the second city of Egypt on the Mediterranean coast. Its Greek heritage is evident in the Pharos Lighthouse, one of the ancient wonders of the world. The city boasts modern and traditional Islamic buildings, and attractions such as Qaitbay Citadel, Maamoura Beach, Shallalat Gardens, Montaza and Ras el-Tin palaces, and the Bibliotheca Alexandria.
Plan Your Trip Today!
Egypt is a land of wonders that never ceases to amaze. Make sure to book one of the Egypt holiday packages to make the most of your trip. These Egypt vacation packages will allow you to explore the diverse beauty of Egypt, including ancient monuments, scenic landscapes, and charming towns. Book your tickets today and enjoy your time in Egypt!
