Egypt on the Map – The Best Travel Guide 2022, Food & Saving Tips
Egypt on the Map - The Best Travel Guide 2022, Food & Saving Tips
Table of Contents
Egypt on the map
Informations
Egypt is a transcontinental country that spans the northeast corner of Africa and the southwest corner of Asia by a land bridge formed by the Sinai Peninsula. The capital of Egypt is Cairo, near which are the Pyramids.
When to visit: The best time to visit this ancient land is during fall and spring. Spring lasts from February to April, whereas fall lasts from September to November.
Language: Modern Standard Arabic. People speak english in places frequented by tourism.
Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP) aprox. 1$=15,7 EGP 1€=19 EGP
Food Prices: Meal in a cheap restaurant=5 USD, Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant=20 USD
You can find more information about the visa here.
Things to do
Pyramids of Giza
The pyramids of Giza in Egypt are among the most famous and oldest preserved structures of mankind. They stand on the western edge of the Nile Valley, about eight kilometers southwest of the city of Giza. They are located about 15 km from the city center of Cairo and are the only surviving of the seven wonders of the ancient world. They have been part of the world cultural heritage since 1979.
Egyptian Museum Cairo
The Egyptian Museum in Cairo is the world’s largest museum of ancient Egyptian art. It contains works from different epochs of the ancient Egyptian cultural history: early history, thin period, old empire, middle empire, new empire, third intermediate and late period as well as the Greco-Roman period.
The Valley of the Kings
The Valley of the Kings – located near ancient Egyptian Thebes, today about 5 km northwest of the center of the Upper Egyptian city of Luxor – was a necropolis in ancient Egypt, in which 64 tombs and pits have been found to date. The valley is located in Thebes-West opposite Karnak .
The Great Sphinx of Giza
The Great Sphinx of Giza in Egypt is by far the most famous and largest sphinx. It shows a reclining lion with a human head and was probably erected in the 4th Dynasty during the reign of Chephren.
The Karnak Temple
The Karnak Temples are the largest temple complex in Egypt in Karnak, a village about 2.5 kilometers north of Luxor and directly on the east bank of the Nile. The oldest building remains of the temple still visible today date from the 12th dynasty under Sesostris I. The temple complex has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1979, along with the Luxor Temple and the Theban Necropolis.
The Temples of Abu Simbel
The temples of Abu Simbel are two rock temples on the west bank of Lake Nasser. They are located in the Egyptian part of Nubia on the southeastern edge of the place Abu Simbel and were built in the 13th century BC.The rock temples of Abu Simbel, the great temple in honor of Ramses II. And the small Hathor temple in memory of Nefertari, his great royal wife, have been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1979.
Luxor temple
The Luxor Temple is a temple complex in what is now Luxor in Egypt. It was established at the time of the New Kingdom and was called the southern harem of Amun of Karnak. It was dedicated to the god Amun, his wife Mut and their son, the moon god Chons. The temple has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1979, along with the Karnak Temple and the Theban Necropolis.
Chan el-Chalili
The Chan el-Chalili is a souq / bazaar in the old town of Cairo. The market west of the Saiyidna el-Husain mosque is considered the largest in Africa and was founded in the 14th century on the site of a former Mamluk cemetery as a caravanserai and trading center.
The Colossi of Memnon
The Colossi of Memnon are two colossal ancient Egyptian statues from the 14th century BC that stand side by side. You are in the Nile Valley not far from the Valley of the Kings in Thebes-West. In the past, the statues were in front of the pylons at the entrance to the temple of Amenhotep III, a pharaoh of the 18th dynasty.
The mortuary temple of Hatshepsut
The mortuary temple of Hatshepsut dates from the 18th dynasty and is the best preserved temple in Deir el-Bahari on the west bank of the Nile in Thebes.The entire temple is made of limestone. The entire valley basin of Deir el-Bahari is mainly dedicated to the gods Hathor and Amun-Re and Horus in Chemmis, Anubis, Amun and Iunmutef. The temple was used until the Ptolemaic period.
Saladin Citadel
The Saladin Citadel is one of the few remaining fortified structures in Cairo and one of the most eye-catching landmarks. It is located on a hill in an east-south-east direction from the city center. The citadel complex has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 and is part of historic Cairo. The citadel has only been open to the public for about 20 years. From the citadel you have a wide view over Cairo.
Qāitbāy Citadel
The Citadel of Qāitbāy is a fortress on the Mediterranean coast in Alexandria. The fortress was built as part of the coastal defense against a growing threat from the Ottomans. It is located on the eastern side of the northern Pharos Peninsula at the mouth of the eastern port and is connected to the mainland by a built-up dam.
The Blue Hole
The Blue Hole is a hole in the roof of the fringing reef on the Egyptian Red Sea coast and a popular diving spot. It is located 10 km north of Dahab on the east coast of the Sinai Peninsula on the Gulf of Aqaba. Due to numerous accidents, the Blue Hole is often referred to as the most dangerous dive site in the world.
The Montaza Palace
The Montaza Palace is a versatile palace in Alexandria.
Al-Azhar Park-Cairo
Among several honors, this park is listed as one of the world’s sixty great public spaces by the Project for Public Spaces. The park was created by the Historic Cities Support Programme of the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, an entity of the Aga Khan Development Network. The park was developed at a cost in excess of USD $30 million, its funding a gift to Cairo from Aga Khan IV, a descendant of the Fatimid Caliphs of Cairo.
Abdeen Palace
The Abdeen Palace is one of the official residences of the Egyptian President. It is located in the Abdeen district of downtown Cairo.
Al Azhar Mosque
The al-Azhar Mosque is a mosque in the Islamic city center of the Egyptian capital Cairo. Al-Muʿizz li-Dīn Allah, Caliph of the Fatimids, commissioned the construction of the new capital in 970. It was the second mosque in Cairo, a city that has since been nicknamed the “City of a Thousand Minarets”.
Sharm El Luli
Sharm el-Luli Bay, also known as Sharm el-Luliya , is located about 56 kilometers on the Egyptian Red Sea coast south-southeast of Marsā ʿAlam and is part of Wādī el Gimāl Ḥamāṭa National Park. The bay is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches with a rapidly developing underwater world in Egypt.
Where to stay
A good night’s sleep is particularly important when you are travelling. Egypt offers its guests a host of luxurious, charming and also out-of-the-ordinary accommodation.
Whether in the heart of the city, near the lake or surrounded by nature – Egypt’s hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses guarantee a relaxing and invigorating stay.
We managed to find the best three companies that offer hotels, holiday homes and transportation. These are: Booking.com,Trip.com and Vrbo. We have already tested these companies and we warmly recommend them. As a result this will just bring you good deals for your next vacation.
Top Hotels in Sharm El Sheikh: Magic World Sharm – Club by Jaz, Waves Naama Bay Hotel, Sunrise Montemare Resort -Grand Select.
Top Hotels in Hurghada : Old Palace Resort Sahl Hasheesh, Palm Royale Resort – Soma Bay, Prima Life Makadi.
Top Hotels in Cairo : Safir Hotel Cairo, Le Meridien Cairo Airport, Pyramisa Suites Hotel Cairo.
Where to eat
Traditional food to try in Egypt
- Kushari- This filling meal is made up of rice, macaroni and lentils, topped with tomato sauce, garlic vinegar and garnished with chickpeas and fried onions.
- Hamam Mahshi- pigeons are stuffed with onions and spices along with a grain called freekeh, which is a green cracked wheat with a nutty flavour, or alternatively they are stuffed with rice or bulgur wheat.
- Shawarma is layers of meat which could be lamb, chicken, or beef that are placed on a spit and grilled, all day long. The outer layers are then shaved off and chucked into a tasty hunk of bread or roll.
- Kofta is minced beef or lamb with plenty of spices thrown in, which is then rolled and grilled.
- Kebab is prepped with pieces of meat such as lamb or veal that are grilled over a coal fire on a skewer.
- Ful Medames- The most popular street food snack in Egypt, Ful is a paste of mashed broad (fava) beans flavored with garlic and olive oil. It is labeled out of large copper pots, often into pockets of pitta bread
- known elsewhere as falafel, Tamiya is made with mashed fava beans and parsley
- Egyptian Fatteh- It is a dish of meat (beef or chicken), rice, garlic, and layers of dry bread soaked in broth. It is usually cooked in the oven and served with yogurt and nuts.
- Hawawshi- is a traditional food in Egypt, it’s a bread (something similar to pita bread) that is usually filled with minced meat, onion, pepper. Hawawshi is perhaps best known as a staple of home-style Egyptian cooking to make you feel good
- Sayadiyah Fish- is made of white fish such as sea bass or bluefish, and cooked with yellow rice, onions, spices and tomato sauce. It is then cooked in a casserole.
- Mahalabiya is a delicate rosewater-flavored ground rice dessert, topped with toasted nuts and cinnamon.
- Um Ali is similar to the English bread and butter pudding but is less soft and spongy as it is made with local dry bread.
- Roz bi laban is rice pudding, which is always served cold.
- The Kanefeh is a cake prepared with some semolina noodles, similar to angel hair, which are rolled and flattened and cooked together with butter and a creamy cheese over low heat. Once ready, it is soaked in syrup and a few groundnuts are added.
- Basbousa- the Egyptian version is usually thin, soaked in sweet syrup, soft inside and covered with almonds and fresh cream.
Best restaurants in Egypt
- Restaurant Birdcage– Thai classics here is served in meticulously-arranged plates and show-stopping presentation.
- The Grill– serves immaculate French cuisine in an elegant setting overlooking the city.
- Lucca serves up flavorful Italian classics in a cozy, laid-back dining room lined with scenic wall paintings.
- Giannini’s serves up Italian classics with a New York twist amid quiet and gorgeous views of the Nile and its house boats.
- China Red serves Shanghai cuisine with fresh ingredients and authentic spices. And it’s right at the airport at the Le Meridien and a great choice for a luxurious meal before your flight.
- Abou El Sid is the must-go-to restaurant if you want classic Egyptian dishes
- Crimson is on the roof of a Zamalek building overlooking the Nile, with both indoor and outdoor terrace seating.Crimson is on the roof of a Zamalek building overlooking the Nile, with both indoor and outdoor terrace seating.
- 139 Pavilion-There’s an a la carte menu, but also the option of an all-you-can-eat buffet. You have also a great view over the piramids!
- Le Pacha offers 7 different restaurants and one bar/lounge/nightspot-ish venue.the menu is a mix of all different cuisines (including local Egyptian favorites) and you can order shisha
Tips and Tricks
- You can save a lot of money by planning your trip to Egypt. It includes booking airfare and accommodation ahead of time and researching attractions and activities to do while you’re there.
- A desert safari is a great way to see some of Egypt’s most beautiful and unique scenery. Most safaris include camel rides, overnight stays in a Bedouin camp, and visits to some of the area’s most interesting sights.
- A felucca is a traditional Egyptian sailboat, and taking a ride on one is a must-do while in Egypt. These rides usually last for several hours and offer stunning views of the Nile River and Cairo skyline with low costs.
- Shop at local markets
- Visit free attractions like the piramids or souks
- Taxi fares can add up quickly, so take advantage of Egypt’s cheap and efficient public transportation.
- You are expected to bargain for almost everything in Egypt, so don’t be afraid to do it
- apply for an e-Visa
- You will save money if you change your cash in to Egyptian pounds and use this currency when shopping
- do not buy anything from anyone around the Pyramids- is not safe because of scamers
If you do not go by car and need to know more informations about the tours, things to see and do we recommend this two companies that are offering tours for any kind of activity you want to do and where you can buy trips much cheaper than if you buy them when you arrive at your destination. It is always good to be able to save some money!
Viator and Get Your Guide : the best activities in town!
When you think about your dream vacation, you also need to plan your budget! This is why we found the perfect partner – Check24 ! We traveled with a lot of companies and they are the best if you need comfort, luxury but also fair prices! And this is very important! You can now travel and really enjoy your vacation, when you know that you can live your travel dream by paying a fair price.
When you think travel, think Orbitz ! They are one of the leading U.S. online travel websites, offering a full range of travel products and services. They got everything from flights, hotels, and car rentals to cruises, travel insurance, and destination services from suppliers worldwide.
Whe have even more good news! We have the best partners from around the world and you can find your dream vacation right here! We are sure that you will find everything you need – Just check our partners websites and find your dream vacation!
Shopping
Shopping in Hurghada:
Sheraton Road and Sherry Street. Sheraton Road in the Sekalla district is one of the most popular shopping streets in all of Hurghada, Senzo Mall, El Dahar, Mamsha Promenade, Marina Bay, Fish market.
With a major focus on antiques, glass products, and artisan goods, the capital is home to a plethora of souks and bazaars, world-class shopping malls, and street markets.
Citystars Mall is home to some of Cairo’s best upscale shopping. With over 750 stores, the retail complex is well-known for its diverse offerings in shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Wekalet El Balah has been providing Cairo’s locals with second-hand imported clothing, shoes, bags and furniture.
Shopping in Sharm El Sheikh is a very common activity. There are numerous hot shopping spots in the city that are very famous among the locals as well as tourists.
One of the most famous among the locals as well as tourists is the old market. It is located in one of the oldest districts of the city. This is a very affordable market which is perfect to buy gifts and souvenirs for friends and families.
Na’ama Bay – This is an open-air market like the old market but it is less crowded. Also, this market is a bit expensive as compared to the old market.
The biggest and the most famous shopping area in Sharm El Sheikh is Soho Square. Not only a shopping hub but it is filled with numerous entertainment spots. This area provides a complete shopping experience to its visitors.
Located at the Peace Road, Genena City is a new addition to the shopping areas of Sharm El Sheikh. It is a shopping mall, for anyone who wishes to shop in comfort and with no stress, this place is a perfect option for them.
Getting around
The best way to get around Egypt is by air although there are reliable bus and train services, as it’s often far from one tourist center to another. Domestic flight service is mainly provided by Egypt Air, but Nile Air has a few services between Cairo and other major cities.Egyptian public transport is, on the whole, pretty good. There is an efficient rail network linking the Nile Valley, Delta and Canal Zone, and elsewhere you can travel easily enough by bus or shared (service) taxi.
Taking a bus is the major way for locals to get around Egypt. You can get to most cities and towns by bus, at a reasonable cost. It’s safe, reliable, and the best way to some rural districts beyond the Nile Valley. Five major companies monopolize long-distance bus services and each serves a separate area of the country.
By Train There is an efficient north–south railway linking the Nile Valley, Delta and Canal Zone. You can enjoy a pleasant trip from Aswan in the south and Alexandria in the north by train. Mainline trains run from Cairo to Aswan via Luxor; Alexandria via Tanta, Suez and Ismailia; Damietta via Mansoura; Sallum via Mersa Matruh. There are fast a/c trains from Cairo to Alexandria or Aswan. You can hire a car with a driver or self-drive to explore Egypt as petrol is cheap and by car is more flexible going from town to town.
From the airport to the city center:
You can go to the Bus Station located in the parking area in front of Terminal 1 and take the city buses to downtown. If you arrive at Terminal 2 and 3, then you should take a shuttle bus to Terminal 1 first. No. 111 bus runs to Shubra and No. 324 bus towards Imbaba.
You can take a taxi in the arrival hall. The old black and white taxis usually do not have a meter so you can negotiate with drivers before travelling, and they are usually not air-conditioned. The white taxis have meters.
Auto Europe Car Rental, provides the clients with the best rates & service in the industry! They offer travelers the best rates at 20,000 pickup locations in over 180 countries worldwide. The Auto Europe Advantage: Free Cancellation Up to 48 Hours Before Pickup, Best Rate Guarantee,24/7 Service Hotline from Pickup to Drop off. Enjoy now a 30% discount! We also have another two great options for you to compare the prices and find what you need!
Getting here
Cairo International Airport is the gateway to Egypt and has nonstop flights to major world cities in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. You can fly direct to Cairo from New York, London, Paris, Toronto, Berlin and more cities. When arriving at the airport, you can get to the city center or some attractions in many ways:
It is possible to get to Egypt by land, but most visitors fly in. Cairo has direct scheduled flights from London and New York, with indirect routes from pretty much everywhere, and there are low-cost flights from Britain to Luxor and the beach resorts.Flights on weekends can cost more than on weekdays; prices quoted below are for the cheapest round trip midweek including tax. Many have restrictions such as fixed dates, and may require advance booking.
From Canada, Air Canada offer through tickets from most Canadian airports in combination with Lufthansa or EgyptAir.
EgyptAir, British Airways, have scheduled flights to Cairo from London Heathrow (5hr). EgyptAir also has weekly direct flights to Luxor and twice weekly to Sharm el-Sheikh. EasyJetflies from Manchester, Luton and Gatwick to Sharm el-Sheikh, and from Gatwick to Hurghada and Luxor.
From the US, EgyptAir fly direct to Cairo from New York (10hr), and several European and Middle Eastern airlines offer indirect flights from a range of departure points, though New York still offers the biggest choice.
Qatar Airways is one of the biggest company in the world with unprecedented expansion, flying to over 160 destinations. Enjoy now a 30% discount by booking your flight with us!
If you have not found your desired flight, or you simply want more flight options to find the best and cheapest, we will help you with the best flight plans, where you will definitely find what you are looking for. With just one click you will find the flight to a wonderful destination!
LEVEL8 is an NYC-born brand for luggage and bag. We exist to bring a leisure and exquisite way of traveling, with suitcases that honored the art of personal presentation and style. For more information on LEVEL8 Luggage collection, visit :
Hi there! I could have sworn I’ve visited this website before but after browsing through many of the posts I realized it’s new to me. Nonetheless, I’m definitely pleased I found it and I’ll be book-marking it and checking back frequently!