Where to Stay in Egypt in 2023 | Best Areas & Hotels

Home to the majestic river Nile, and the even more majestic pyramids, Egypt tells an ancient story. Read on to find out more about this magnificent country and learn where to stay in Egypt. We’ll cover the biggest cities, like Cairo, Hurghada, Luxor, and Aswan.

The 5 Best Parts of Egypt

1. Cairo: The place to be if you want to visit the most famous ancient Egyptian sights, such as the Giza pyramids, and experience the vibrant spirit of the country’s largest city.
2. Alexandria: Perfect for those wanting to experience a more modern part of Egypt steeped in the legacy of Hellenic civilization.
3. Hurghada: The perfect place for an all-inclusive beach vacation in Egypt.
4. Luxor: Often called the World’s most extraordinary open-air Museum, Luxor is a tempting option for history buffs wishing to see the oldest buildings and remnants from ancient civilizations.
5. Aswan: A city full of ancient Egyptian sights, hidden gems, and unique small islets along the Nile River.

Where to Stay in Egypt: Best Areas & Hotels

Egypt has many unique cities overflowing with sights and archeological treasures. It’s a popular tourist destination and, naturally, it has a lot of hotels and guesthouses available in a wide range of prices.

Overall, we can say that Egypt is a very affordable tourist destination, so most travel enthusiasts will find its prices approachable.

1. Cairo

How do we summarize this impressive city? Let’s start with numbers. Cairo is massive — home to ten million city people! This is why, as you arrive, you may feel overwhelmed by its lively streets and busy street vendors selling all kinds of trinkets, exotic spices, and delicious local goods.

Once you get used to its scorching sun, Cairo unravels a tapestry of historic neighborhoods and sights.

These include the pyramids in Giza, the Islamic district, the majestic banks of the Nile River, the Abdeen Palace, the countless museums featuring ancient Egyptian artifacts and Islamic art, Saladin’s 12th-century fortress, and the list goes on!

There’s just so much worth seeing in Cario, and at every corner, you see the stark contrast between everyday life and the city’s archaic past.

That’s because Cairo has two sides or two characters, so to speak. One is the Cairo of Giza, Dahshur, and Saqqara, and the other is the modern Cairo of hip bars and nightclubs in Zamalek and Heliopolis.

On the streets, you’ll see both taxi cabs and donkeys and hear the cacophony of loud conversations, music, and the traditional Islamic call to prayer.

If all this sounds too busy and chaotic — it’s because it is! If you want a more peaceful city experience, you should avoid Cairo and consider Aswan or Hurghada.

Things to Do

• The Giza Pyramid Complex and the Sphinx are the definition of a must-see — you probably know that already. They’re UNESCO World Heritage Sites and more than 4000 years old. You can go inside the Great Pyramid of Giza to retrace the steps of long-dead pharaos and see their ancient resting place.
• The Egyptian Museum houses the most extensive collection of Egyptian antiquities worldwide. The museum is home to the treasures of Tutankhamun, golden mummy masks, colossal statutes, ivory figurines, and much more.
• Khan El-Khalili Bazaar is a bustling open market where you can buy all kinds of art and crafts, trinkets, souvenirs, jewelry, clothing, food and spices, and whatnot! It’s the place to get a memorable keepsake and practice the soft skill of Egyptian bargaining.
• The Islamic Cairo district is an iconic and popular district, home to a stunning legacy of Muslim medieval architecture visible from Al Moez Street. It also houses a number of mosques, such as the Sultan Hassan Mosque, the Muhammad Ali Mosque, and the Al-Azhar Mosque, founded in 970, as well as the Al-Hakim Mosque, with its soaring minarets. The district is also home to the Khan El-Khalili Bazaar we just talked about and the Wekalet El Ghouri cultural center, which regularly features traditional music and dance performances.
• Taking a Nile River Cruise is another must-do while in Egypt. There are a number of tours you can take along the Nile River, offering a very different way of experiencing the city.

Where to Eat

• Abou El Sid is a popular restaurant in Cairo that serves mouth-watering authentic Egyptian cuisine. Here you can find anything from lentil soup, kebabs, and tajines (popular traditional dish) to rice-stuffed pigeons and a range of delicious desserts. The atmosphere is lively, and the decor is wonderfully oriental. Just beware, it’s much more expensive than most restaurants in Cairo.
• Felfela is a fancy restaurant that offers a wide array of Egyptian street food delicacies, including falafel, koshari, and pastries in the quintessential Egyptian setting.
• Oldish (Restaurant & Cafe) is a cozy place serving coffee and many international dishes. In terms of price range, it’s somewhere between not too expensive and not too cheap either.
• El Madina Restaurant is a beloved street food spot in Cairo’s center. It’s cheap and has delicious familiar Egyptian meals, including soups, grilled meats, tajine, and kofta. It’s loved by tourists and locals alike.
• El Karnak is a popular spot in Cairo that only serves desserts. It’s been open since 1952, and it works 24/7! This place is truly a dream come true for anybody with a sweet tooth that can’t wait to try some of the local dessert options.
• Beggah is a crowded bistro famed for its large portions, authentic kaware soup, and regional meat dishes.
• Neffa El-Najahi is a restaurant specializing in meat dishes, perfect for meat lovers.

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Cairo Budget Hotels

• Freedom Hostel is perfect for budget travelers since it offers comfortable dormitory and private room options, along with a friendly atmosphere and a central location in downtown Cairo close to restaurants and shops.
• Meramees Hostel is located near the Nile River and Cairo Station, a perfect place to start your exploration of downtown Cairo, the Egyptian Museum, and the Khan Al-Khalil market. It provides clean, affordable rooms and a complimentary continental breakfast.

Cairo Mid-Range Hotels

• Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir is a four-star hotel in central Cairo. It has contemporary, stylish rooms and excellent amenities such as a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.
• Le Riad Hotel Cairo is a three-star hotel in Cairo, near Khan El-Khalili. It has one of the most impressive rooms you’ll ever find in Egypt — a blend of modern comfort and traditional oriental design. Le Riad Hotel provides spacious and colorful rooms with marble bathrooms and a fantastic rooftop garden offering the best panoramic views of Cairo.

Cairo Luxury Hotels

• Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza is a five-star hotel with breathtaking views of the Nile River and first-class services. It features elegant rooms, fine dining restaurants, a luxury spa, a fitness center, and three swimming pools.
• The Ritz-Carlton, Cairo, is a five-star hotel from another famous brand. It’s nestled in the heart of the city. The Ritz-Carlton impresses with its lavish rooms, exceptional service, and beautiful riverside setting.

2. Alexandria

Alexandria is one of the most famous cities in the world. It was established by Alexander the Great in 331 BC and still bears his name.

Nestled along the Mediterranean Sea and spread along Egypt’s northern coast, Alexandria is a bustling metropolis, the second-largest city in Egypt, and a cultural and historical treasure trove aptly called the “Bride of the Mediterranean.”

Because it was such an important commercial, strategic, and cultural center in ancient times, it features a mix of architectural styles — from Greek and Roman to Islamic, Ottoman, and contemporary Egyptian, with international influences.

It’s the perfect destination for people interested in the shared history of Southern Europe and Northern Africa, those exploring the Antiquity period, and just tourists looking for something different than a classic holiday.

Alexandria is less crowded than Cairo, which can also appeal to some people. But if you want more ancient Egyptian sights in your proximity, more lively and busy city streets, and more accommodation options, then Cairo might be a better fit.

Alexandria also has its fair share of ancient sights, some of which are no longer standing, but their legacy is present throughout the city.

Examples include the legendary Pharos Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, which once stood proudly in Alexandria’s ancient harbor, and the Library of Alexandria, now resurrected in the Bibliotheca Alexandrina.

This modern library houses millions of books, manuscripts, and artifacts, making it a beacon of knowledge and learning in the region.

Other things tourists can experience in Alexandria are the catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, the Roman Amphitheater, and the historic district of El-Mansheya, one of the city’s oldest parts.

While it may not be as crowded as Cairo, Alexandria is still a very vibrant city with many places to eat delicious local dishes, chill beside the sea, or walk alongside the Corniche waterfront.

Things to Do

• Bibliotheca Alexandrina is a modern rendition of the ancient Library of Alexandria, which was destroyed in 48 BC. This magnificent structure is a tribute to the lost treasures of the Alexandria library, housing millions of books, manuscripts, and artifacts found and kept after its destruction. It’s worth visiting for all those who want to learn more about the history of Alexandria and its most famous building.
• Qaitbay Citadel is a 15th-century fortress built on the site of the renowned Pharos Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The citadel offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and functions as a maritime museum. It’s a fantastic spot for history enthusiasts.
• Corniche is a scenic waterfront promenade that runs alongside the Eastern Harbour of the city. Here you can enjoy the fresh sea breeze, admire the blend of ancient and modern views of Alexandria, and stop by one of the many cafes and restaurants.
• Pompey’s Pillar is an ancient Roman column standing at around 98 feet, part of the Serapeum of Alexandria, now largely destroyed and plundered. It’s the largest of its kind constructed outside of Rome and serves as a reminder of Alexandria’s Roman past.
• Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa is an ancient graveyard housing the tombs of 2nd-century Antonine emperors. We recommend it for history buffs and those curious about underground cities.
• Montaza Palace is a royal palace built in the early 1930s. It’s a gorgeous structure that successfully blends Ottoman and Florentine architectural styles. It has large gardens which have been turned into a public park. It’s a great place to spend a relaxing day and find out more about Egypt’s royal history.

Where to Eat

• The Bridge Café and Restaurant is located alongside Alexandria’s Corniche. It serves Egyptian and Mediterranean dishes, and the prices are pretty reasonable considering its location and amazing sea views.
• Abo Fares El Sory is a trendy Syrian restaurant in Alexandria. There are three Abo Fares throughout the city, and whichever you visit, you won’t regret it.
• Kadoura is a chain of several seafood restaurants in Alexandria. It’s one of the best places for fresh seafood, with a wide variety of choices made super quickly by skilled chefs.
• Malek el-Seman is an open-air restaurant at night and a clothes market during the day. It serves delicious Egyptian dishes and specializes in cooking quail in different ways. The restaurant also serves homemade beer, which we heartily recommend you try!
• Balbaa Barbecue Sidi Beshr is arguably the most popular barbecue and fish restaurant in Alexandria. It’s a great spot for a first-timer in this wonderful city because everything on the menu is absolutely delicious.

Alexandria Budget Hotels

• اللوكاندة الجديدة New Hotel is located in downtown Alexandria. It provides comfortable and affordable rooms with shared bathrooms, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers.
• Ithaka Hostel offers clean and comfy shared rooms in a great location in the city, close to the sea and the most important sights, as well as plenty of restaurants and bars. It’s super affordable!

Alexandria Mid-Range Hotels

• Cherry Maryski Hotel is a four-star hotel close to the city center and some major attractions. It’s a great mid-range hotel with amenities like an outdoor pool, great service, and a friendly atmosphere. Also, breakfast is included in the room price.
• Tolip Alexandria Hotel is a five-star hotel in an excellent location near the Montaza Palace. The hotel has modern rooms, excellent service, a rooftop pool and spa, a fitness center, and an amazing breakfast. Honestly, we can’t believe how cheap it is for the things it offers — a great value for your money.

Alexandria Luxury Hotels

• Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria at San Stefano is a five-star luxury hotel from the famous brand. It has a private beach, lavish rooms with sea views, multiple dining choices, and a range of upscale amenities, such as four pools, a spa, and a fitness center. It offers the ultimate luxury stay in Alexandria.
• Hilton Alexandria Corniche is a five-star hotel from another famous brand. It has a prime location overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. You’ll fall in love with its upscale rooms, fine dining options, and rooftop pool with stunning sea views that offer an unforgettable luxury experience.

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3. Hurghada

Nestled along the shores of the Red Sea, Hurghada is a well-known resort city in Egypt, famous for its paradisical beaches, crystal-clear waters, and scuba diving.

What once was a small fishing village has rapidly transformed into one of the country’s most popular tourist spots. With its year-round sunny weather and excellent diving opportunities, it has become a haven for water sports enthusiasts and beach lovers.

The city is relaxed and laid-back, making it an ideal destination if you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the busy city or an adventurous seaside vacation devoted to the wonders of scuba diving.

Those of you looking to explore more of Egypt’s ancient sights — look elsewhere since Hurghada is all about the seaside vacation experience.

Things to Do

• Red Sea Diving is one of the things you absolutely must do when in Hurghada. Since this city is known as a diver’s paradise, it would be a pity not to take full advantage of some of the best diving spots in the world. You’ll be able to explore the coastline’s vibrant coral reefs teeming with beautiful and colorful marine creatures, including tropical fish, dolphins, and even the occasional sea turtle or reef shark.
• Giftun Islands are well worth the visit. We suggest you embark on a boat trip to these islands, which are a cluster of uninhabited islands just off the coast of Hurghada, giving you crystal clear waters and some of the best spots for snorkeling or just relaxing on its pristine beaches and indulging in a beachside barbecue.
• You can also go on a desert safari and experience the thrills and wonders of the Egyptian desert. You can ride a quad bike across the dunes, witness a magical desert sunset, encounter the nomadic Bedouins, and learn more about their culture at one of the desert camps.
• El Dahar is the heart of Hurghada — its old town core. Here you can immerse yourself in the local culture, shop for souvenirs, bargain for spices and trinkets, and find some gorgeous textiles and handmade crafts at the bustling souks — aka the open-air markets.
• Makadi Bay Aqua Park is a great place for kids and thrill-seekers who just love water fun. This water park has exhilarating slides, lazy rivers, and fun activities for all ages.

Where to Eat

• Starfish Seafood Restaurant is a popular eatery in Hurghada that serves fresh seafood. It has a rich menu and a friendly ambiance, all you need to have a great evening out when you’re super hungry after swimming and sunbathing all day.
• Moby Dick Restaurant is a budget-friendly, family restaurant that has a diverse menu of international and Egyptian dishes.
• Al Halaka Fish Restaurant is another popular seafood restaurant that serves fresh and delicious seafood. It has great prices and an even greater service!
• Caribbean Bar is a beach bar next to Orange Beach that also serves food. It’s a place to chill, have a snack or brunch, and enjoy looking at the Red Sea.

Hurghada Budget Hotels

• Sea Garden Hotel is a budget-friendly three-star hotel with a great location close to the beach. It has comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, a swimming pool, and a great continental breakfast included in the price.
• The Bay Hotel Hurghada Marina is a three-star hotel with a private beach, an on-site restaurant, a swimming pool, and simple yet cozy rooms. It’s perfect for travelers who want a budget-friendly stay with a bit of class.

Hurgrhada Mid-Range Hotels

• Hurghada Marriott Red Sea Beach Resort is a four-star hotel with a private beach and an outdoor swimming pool. It has beautiful sun-drenched rooms, a restaurant, and a fitness center that guests can use.
• Sunny Days Palma De Mirette Resort & Spa is a four-star all-inclusive resort with great amenities. It has a lagoon pool, a heated pool, a spa and fitness center, and a private beach. It’s a great hotel for people who want to experience a luxury stay without breaking their budget too much.

Hurghada Luxury Hotels

• Steigenberger Makadi is a luxury five-star retreat hotel with elegant rooms, a private beach, golf courses, and a range of upscale amenities. It’s perfect for people looking for a sense of true peace and privacy during their vacation and an amazing luxury experience by the sea.
• The Oberoi Beach Resort is a five-star hotel in the stunning Sahl Hasheesh Bay. It’s a luxurious resort that offers spacious and colorful suites. The hotel has everything you need for an impeccable stay — amazing service, a large swimming pool, spa, fitness center, and breathtaking sea views.
• Jaz Aquamarine Resort is a five-star family-friendly resort with spacious rooms, multiple pools, and direct access to the beach.

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4. Luxor

Luxor is a city in southern Egypt, nestled on the east bank of the Nile River.

It’s built on the remains of ancient Thebes, which used to be a capital city in Ancient Egypt, somewhere between the 16th–11th centuries B.C.

Contemporary Luxor is home to several surviving ancient monuments –- the Luxor Temple and Karnak Temple and the royal tombs of the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens.

When you think of Luxor, you probably envision the city’s many temples and tombs. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is divided by the Nile River into two areas (its east bank and its west bank), and there are remnants of the ancient Egyptian city of Thebes everywhere.

Luxor’s oldest ruins date back to the late 14th century B.C., and tombs belonging to famous pharaohs like Tutankhamun and Hatshepsut can be found at the base of the West Bank’s Theban Mountains.

But Luxor offers more than just historical sights. You’ll find a strong Islamic culture here and the hustle and bustle of a large metropolis. Luxor’s downtown area is filled with contemporary buildings and amenities.

However, as you move out of the city center, you’ll quickly notice Luxor’s ancient ruins. While most of Luxor’s tombs reside on the West Bank side of the city, some of the most popular temples and museums can be found alongside the Nile’s east bank.

Things to Do

• Luxor Temple is an ancient Egyptian temple with grand columns and statues, constructed, in large part, under the rulership of Amenhotep III and Ramesses II. They were then rebuilt by Tutankhamun and others.
• Karnak Temple Complex is a vast religious site with colossal columns and imposing statues. The complex showcases the glory of religious devotion and ancient Egyptian architecture. It’ll amaze travelers who want to see massive ancient works of art.
• Colossi of Memnon are two towering statues of Pharaoh Amenhotep III, iconic remnants of a grand mortuary temple, drawing travelers with their imposing presence, similar to the Karnak Temple Complex.
• Medinet Habu is a well-preserved mortuary temple showcasing vibrant reliefs (sculptural method) and scenes of ancient battles and religious rituals, offering a glimpse into multiple aspects of ancient Egyptian culture.
• The Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut is a stunning temple dedicated to the powerful female Pharaoh Hatshepsut. It features terraced architecture harmoniously integrated into the surrounding cliffs.
• The Valley of the Kings is a burial ground with intricately decorated tombs of pharaohs, including the famous tomb of Tutankhamun. It’s an amazing, almost otherworldly place where you can learn a lot about the fascinating burial practices of ancient Egyptians.
• Valley of the Queens is the resting place of ancient Egyptian queens. It features beautifully adorned tombs, providing insights into the lives of royalty.
• Deir el-Medina is an ancient village that housed craftsmen and workers constructing royal tombs, offering a glimpse into the daily life of common workers in ancient Egypt.

Where to Eat

• Al Sahaby Lane Restaurant offers delightful Egyptian and international dishes in a cozy setting with beautiful river views.
• Aisha Restaurant Luxor is a charming restaurant serving authentic Egyptian cuisine. Aisha offers flavorful dishes, warm hospitality, and a relaxing atmosphere.
• Nubian House is the perfect place to experience Nubian culture and cuisine.
• Sunflower Restaurant has a diverse menu and friendly staff, a popular choice for tasty Egyptian and Middle Eastern fare.
• La Voche is a place that serves fusion cuisine of Mediterranean and Egyptian flavors. It provides an elegant dining experience with a lovely courtyard setting.

Luxor Budget Hotels

• Nefertiti Hotel Luxor is a two-star hotel on the city’s east bank, within walking distance of the Nile. It’s a charming, budget-friendly small hotel decorated in oriental style. The staff is friendly and helpful, the rooms are clean and cozy, and there’s free breakfast included in the price. The hotel restaurant is also worth checking out.
• Venus Hotel Luxor is a one-star hotel near the Nile River on the city’s east bank. It has all you need for a cheap and comfy stay — comfortable beds, breakfast, private bathrooms, and Wi-Fi in the rooms. Reviewers have a lot of praise for the hotel staff’s hospitality and how helpful they are with organizing tours of the local sights.
• Spring Hotel Luxor is a two-star hotel on the west bank of Luxor. It’s a nice, budget-friendly hotel with breakfast included. The rooms have Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and beautiful terraces overlooking the Nile River.

Luxor Mid-Range Hotels

• Iberotel Luxor is a four-star mid-range hotel with a rooftop pool and views of the Nile, super comfortable rooms, and easy access to Luxor’s main attractions.
• Achti Resort Luxor is a five-star hotel on the Nile’s east bank. With its calming poolside, and lush gardens, this place gives an oasis in the desert type of vibes, perfect for the traveler who wants a calming ambiance.
• Maritim Jolie Ville Kings Island Luxor is a five-star hotel on a private island. It’s a peaceful retreat with 165 acres of landscaped gardens, amazing views of the Nile, and three outdoor swimming pools you can dip in and out of whenever you please. This is an A++ hotel experience for a very reasonable mid-range price.

Luxor Luxury Hotels

• Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa is a five-star hotel on the east side of the city. It’s a beautiful luxury hotel with two infinity pools and a spa center, perfect for combining a relaxing vacation with a North African adventure. All room options have breakfast included in the price, and some have dinner. You can also try one of the seven bars and restaurants of the hotel for great drinks and delicious Egyptian and international dishes.
• Sonesta St. George Hotel is a five-star hotel near Luxor Temple and Luxor Museum, boasting fantastic views of the Nile. It has a large pool, a spa, a fitness center, and a fine dining restaurant serving modern North African and classical European dishes. The rooms are spacious, richly decorated, and have everything you need for a comfortable and luxurious stay.
• Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor is a five-star hotel in the heart of Luxor’s east side. It’s an amazing place to stay — reviewers are very vocal about their excellent treatment at the hotel, alongside all the luxury amenities. With two pools, a sauna, a fitness center, big rooms with elegant decor, and a great staff, you’ll want to return to Luxor just to stay at this hotel!

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5. Aswan

Aswan, like most cities in Egypt, is located alongside the banks of the Nile River. Historically, it has always been an important strategic and commercial point in southern Egypt, serving as a gateway to inland Egypt and Africa.

Nowadays, it still is a captivating destination overflowing with natural beauty and significant archeological sites, such as the Philae temple complex and the Temple of Khnum, from the Third Dynasty.

In the past, Aswan was also crucial for producing valuable commodities like granite and gold. Granite rocks and boulders can still be seen on the river Nile, surrounded by palms and blue skies.

The landscapes here are truly magnificent — just a walk around the city and a visit to the small river islands is enough to fill your heart with wonder, and don’t get us started on the ancient temples!

The Aswan High Dam is also a notable attraction, an engineering marvel that the British designed in the late 19th century, and then Egypt and the Soviet Union rebuilt it in the 1970s. It controls the flow of the Nile River, providing irrigation, electricity, and flood control to the region.

It’s fascinating to visit if you’re an engineering nerd, and it has stunning views of the Aswan region. You can find the Abu Simbel Temples a little further away from the center of Aswan.

These temples represent a UNESCO World Heritage Site and were carved into the cliffs during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II and Queen Nefertari. While they’re a stunning site, we recommend visiting them on a guided tour — otherwise, there’s a lot to take in.

Aside from its numerous historical attractions, Aswan offers a relaxed and laid-back ambiance, making it an excellent place to unwind and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Nile River and the surrounding landscapes.

You can, for example, take a felucca ride on the Nile, explore the nearby Nubian villages, or simply enjoy the picture-perfect sunsets over the Nile while sitting in an Egyptian cafe and eating a local dessert with coffee.

Things to Do

• The Philae temple complex is located on Agilkia Island near the Aswan Dam and Lake Nasser. It features many stunning ancient temples with intricate carvings and hieroglyphics on its outer and inner walls, dedicated to different deities and rulers. The complex was relocated during the construction of the Aswan High Dam to preserve it from flooding.
• It would be a pity if you’re in Aswan and don’t take the time to explore the Nubian Villages. You can take a boat tour to explore the traditional Nubian villages on the nearby islands, see the characteristic architecture of the Nubian homes and experience the warm hospitality of the Nubian people. There’s a lot to learn about this special and ancient culture, and you can also visit the Nubian markets and buy unique handicrafts for your home.
• The Unfinished Obelisk is an abandoned monument — a discarded obelisk that would have been the largest ancient Egyptian obelisk ever created, had it been finished. Today it’s an interesting place to visit to gain insight into how ancient Egyptians did stone quarrying.
• Elephantine Island is a historical island that functions as an open-air museum featuring ancient ruins, including the Temple of Khnum, the Temple of Satet, and a Nilometer, a structure used to measure the water level of the Nile. Here you can also find the Elephantine Island Pyramid and the Aswan Museum.
• The Monastery of St. Simeon and the Monastery of St. Hedra in Aswan are early Christian monasteries built by Coptic monks in the early Middle Ages. They’re an underrated gem that portrays another side of Egyptian history and are well worth a visit if you have the time.

Where to Eat

• Al Dokka restaurant is a charming restaurant serving Egyptian food on a small islet on the Nile. You can easily (and quickly!) get here by a local boat. Trust us — you won’t regret it!
• Makani Restaurant is a great place by the Nile to enjoy authentic Egyptian food, feel the river breeze on your cheeks, and sip orange juice or black coffee.
• Mafia Island – Gabbana Tohamy is one of the coolest places in Aswan. Nestled on the west side of the city, it’s a place where you can relax by the river, drink traditional coffee made on coal, and smoke shisha.
• Al Masry is a restaurant in the center of Aswan that mainly serves meat dishes. Locals love it, and it’s not so populated by tourists, so if you want to feel like a true Egyptian, then you must visit this place. The food is superb, and the service is top-notch!
• Esmo Eh is perfect for those looking for a budget-friendly, quality street food place with many different options.

Aswan Budget Hotels

• Nubian Kingdom Aragheed House is a colorful, lively homestay for budget travelers. It’s great for people who want to hike in the area or explore the local sights. It’s cheap, clean, has amazing reviews on Booking, and the breakfast is included in the price! 
• El-amin Guest House is located on Elephantine Island in Aswan. It’s an affordable, cozy place that overlooks the Nile. This guest house has a shared kitchen and shared and private bathrooms.

Aswan Mid-Range Hotels

• Basma Hotel Aswan is a four-star hotel in Aswan that offers splendid views of the Nile River. It provides mid-range travelers with comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a free delicious breakfast every morning, and great service.
• Obelisk Nile Hotel Aswan is a four-star hotel nestled on Nile’s waterfront. It has an outdoor pool and a beautiful terrace where you can have breakfast, lunch, or dinner.  

Aswan Luxury Hotels

• Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan is a five-star, iconic luxury hotel with a fascinating history from 1899. This hotel has elegant, classy rooms decorated in dark wood, upscale amenities such as two swimming pools, a fitness center, and a spa, and, on top of that, it boasts some stunning views of the Nile River.
• Mövenpick Resort Aswan is a five-star luxurious resort located on Elephant Island. It has spacious, modern rooms, a private beach, two swimming pools, and a fitness center. It also has great reviews and is perfect for travelers seeking a lavish experience in Aswan.

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So, Where Should You Stay in Egypt?

🛕 Best for Egyptian Sights	Cairo
🏢 Best for Urban Experience	Alexandria
⛱️ Best for Beaches	Hurghada
🏛️ Great for History Buffs	Luxor
🧘‍♀️ Least Crowded	Aswan

Egypt is one of a kind and makes it seem like every place you visit has a new ancient story to tell. Choosing among these five cities is not easy, but it’s nice knowing that you won’t make a mistake whatever you choose — they all have a lot to offer.