The 8 best places to visit in Egypt

Dive the Red Sea’s crystal blue waters, stargaze amid the vastness of the desert, float down the Nile River and stand in awestruck wonder before the ruins of one of the world’s most ancient civilizations – when it comes to travel experiences, Egypt is a destination that delivers in a big way.

With so much to see, the struggle for many visitors is deciding just where to begin – as always, we’re happy to help! Here is our pick of the 8 best places to visit in Egypt.

1. Cairo

Egypt’s bustling capital city is layered with cultural, religious, architectural and even culinary history. Its wonders stretch far beyond the walls of its famous museums – you can take in centuries worth of sights just by walking down the city streets. Then there are the Pyramids of Giza, truly a wonder of the world.

At the epicenter of history in the core of the city is Islamic Cairo, the city’s most atmospheric quarter. Just grab your camera and venture down its vibrant alleyways. Take in the views from the Citadel and the old city gates – known as Bab Zuweila, Bab al-Futuh and Bab an Nasr – and admire the intricate details of the area’s stunning mosques. The ancient Mosque of Muhammad Ali, Ibn Tulun Mosque and Al-Hakim Mosque are particularly incredible. Islamic Cairo is also home to monument-lined Muizz Street and Khan El-Khalili bazaar, both great spots to grab some souvenirs (if your haggling skills are up to the task).

A more under-the-radar-spot is Coptic Cairo, the focal point of Egypt’s tiny Christian minority since the first century CE and home to the Coptic Museum, the Hanging Church and the towers of the vanished Babylon fortress.

Local tip: By night, Cairo transforms thanks to its buzzing nightlife scene – sip a drink in historic downtown bars or take in live performances at hip clubs and art spaces.

2. Marsa Alam

Life is definitely better when you’re scuba diving through colorful corals and swimming with dolphins, dugongs and sea turtles in Marsa Alam’s beautiful blue waters. A serene escape on the western shore of the Red Sea, Marsa Alam is one of the top spots in Egypt for underwater escapes. Popular dive spots include the Elphinstone reef and Abu Dabbab, one of the world’s top beaches for snorkeling.

For land-based adventures, head to Wadi el Gemal National Park, where you can lay back by the water at Hankorab Beach or…