Egypt has been visited by tourists for centuries, and Egyptians have built a reputation for their warmth and courtesy towards visitors. Egyptian cities are generally very safe, especially the tourist spots.

There is no single best time — it depends on the trip you want. For a Red Sea holiday, the ideal period is from late February to late October, though it's best to avoid the strong heat of July and August. For cultural trips to Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel, the cooler winter months make sightseeing much more comfortable. In general, August is best avoided countrywide, as temperatures reach their annual highs. Easter, Christmas, and New Year are also popular and pleasant times to visit.

In Cairo, don't miss the Giza Pyramids, the Saladin Citadel, the Egyptian Museum, Moez Street and Bab Zuweila, the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, and a Tannura performance at El Ghouri. In Luxor, explore the Valley of the Kings, the Temples of Luxor, Karnak, and Hatshepsut, the Colossi of Memnon, and take a hot-air balloon ride over the city. In Aswan, visit the Philae Temple, the Nubian Village, the Unfinished Obelisk, the Aswan Dam, and Elephantine Island. At Lake Nasser, see the Abu Simbel Temples. In Sharm El Sheikh, snorkel or dive at Ras Mohamed, Mount Sinai, and St. Catherine's Monastery. In Hurghada, visit Giftun Island. In Alexandria, discover the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the Citadel of Qaitbay, Montazah Park, and the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa. In Dahab, dive into the Blue Hole. And in the desert, visit the oases of Siwa and Bahariya, and the White Desert.

You can shop safely in Egypt, but be careful not to be sold imported goods as local crafts. We recommend looking for genuine mother-of-pearl, ceramic, and alabaster pieces — and always ask the merchant to confirm that an item is locally made.

Many women travel through Egypt alone. There's no need to be afraid, but it helps to be aware of the extra attention you may attract and to act confidently. Dressing modestly and avoiding particularly short clothing or low necklines is recommended, in line with local culture. If approached or invited by men you're not interested in engaging with, a polite decline is usually all it takes. Connecting with other travelers via social media can also add an extra layer of comfort and safety.

Yes. You can apply for a tourist visa at an Egyptian embassy in your country of residence, with the price depending on where you apply. Alternatively, in most cases you can purchase a visa on arrival at Cairo or Alexandria airport. If you'd like to extend your stay, tourist visas can be renewed at the Mogamma/Abbasiya complex in Cairo, or at the equivalent government offices in cities such as Luxor and Alexandria.