Egypt holidays are about more than the pyramids. Think coral reefs, diving spots and an up-and-coming club scene.
Ancient history heaven
From the Great Pyramids of Giza to the metropolis of Cairo and the majestic River Nile, the stories of ancient Egypt go way back. You’ll find plenty of historical sights to ponder, from ancient to modern, then you can relax on the Red Sea Riviera and the Sinai Peninsula.
Hello Hurghada
From a tiny Bedouin village, Hurghada has transformed into a top family-friendly destination on Egypt’s Red Sea Coast. Its long, golden beach is split into sections, each owned by a hotel – as a rule, each patch supplies guests with sunbeds, umbrellas and other essentials, as well as a watersports hut. It’s a top deal, and a world-famous spot for scuba diving, too. Base yourself here and you’ll be in easy reach of other resorts like Soma or Makadi Bay, Sahl Hasheesh, as well as El Gouna.
The serene south
Go south from Hurghada and you’ll eventually come to Marsa Alam. This tiny, quiet resort has a more relaxed vibe. Snorkel or dive in dolphin-inhabited waters, discover its coral reefs and see turtles and dugongs. The marine life here is mega. From here, you can also roam the Roman and Egyptian ruins of Quseir or ride through the Valley of the Camels.
The charm of Sharm
Another popular coastal town is Sharm El Sheikh on the Sinai Peninsula. A whopping 35 kilometres of coastline makes up this sandy beach beauty. The sea offers shipwrecks and reefs to explore, while back on land, pool parties, clubs and concerts are all decked out and ready for a dance. Plus, family holidays here might have you hopping over to Naama Bay’s waterpark or taking off on a desert safari.
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Egypt FAQs
Egypt uses the Egyptian Pound – US dollars are also accepted by some larger hotels but it’s best to take the local currency with you.
October to April is considered the best time to go to Egypt, as the days are still warm but more bearable for exploring and being out and about over midday. December, January and February are the coldest months, averaging in the high-teens, or either side of winter – October, November or March, April – are more mid to high-20s. If you want to go when it’s cheapest, summer is actually the low season, from May to August, when it can get pretty hot.
It’s custom to tip between 10-15% of your total bill at restaurants and cafés and in other places, it isn’t mandatory, but it’s appreciated. You can tip tour leaders, drivers and hotel staff 10-20 Egyptian pounds for good service.
As Egypt is largely a Muslim country, conservative clothing is seen as respectful of the local culture. For mosque visits, you’ll need to cover up from ankle to elbow and cover your hair with a scarf. Especially in the heat, loose fitting, linen or cotton pieces are great for staying cool but of course, on the beach, swimwear is fine and most hotels don’t have a dress code.
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Egypt travel advice
Passports and Visas
As a British citizen, you must have a valid passport and a visa to enter Egypt. For a small fee, you can apply through our visa and travel authorisation partner – Sherpa.
If you’re only travelling to Taba and/or Sharm el Sheikh, you won’t need a visa. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/egypt/entry-requirements.
Health and safety
You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover you while you’re away. For the latest health and safety information, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/egypt/health
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