Egypt offers an incredible mix of ancient history, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes. In Cairo, you can explore the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum. In Luxor, visit the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Luxor Temple. Aswan offers Nile River cruises and the beautiful Philae Temple. Red Sea resorts such as Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada are ideal for beaches, boat trips, and snorkelling.
For official visitor information, attractions and practical travel guidance, you can also visit the Experience Egypt website for up-to-date Egypt tourist advice.
The best time to visit Egypt is from October to April, when temperatures are comfortable for sightseeing:
Summers (May–September) can be extremely hot, especially in desert areas, often exceeding 40°C. Cooler months are ideal for visiting the Pyramids of Giza, Valley of the Kings, Nile cruises, and Red Sea beaches.
British passport holders travelling to Egypt normally need a visa.
If you are staying for less than 15 days at resorts in Sharm el Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba or Taba, you do not need a visa. You will get a free entry permission stamp on arrival at Sharm El-Sheikh Airport. If you plan to travel outside the resorts or stay more than 15 days, you must get a visa. Applying for a visa:
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of entry. For the latest information you can review the FCDO’s advice
Yes, you can explore the Pyramids of Giza by getting an entrance ticket at the site. However, hiring a licensed guide or joining a reputable tour can enrich your experience with historical context and insider tips. Guided tours also help you avoid crowds, manage your time efficiently, and navigate areas that are otherwise easy to miss.
Egyptian cuisine is flavourful and affordable, with many dishes widely available in local restaurants and markets. Don’t miss dishes like koshari Egypt’s national dish, falafel, and fresh Egyptian bread. Street food can be delicious but choose vendors with good hygiene and a high turnover of customers.
Respecting local customs will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Key tips include:
Following these simple guidelines is an easy way to show respect and enjoy a responsible visit to Egypt.
Egypt offers a range of transportation options. Domestic flights and trains connect major cities, while ride-hailing apps (like Uber and Careem) and private drivers are convenient for city travel. In taxis, always agree on fares before starting your journey.
Yes—bargaining is common in markets, or souks across Egypt and is considered part of the shopping culture. Approach negotiations with a friendly attitude, start with a reasonable offer, and know when to walk away. Some stalls display fixed prices so observe before engaging. Haggling can be an enjoyable way to interact with locals and experience authentic market life, as long as it is done respectfully.
Most visits to Egypt are trouble-free, but travellers should still be aware of common tourist scams that can occur in busy areas. These often include unofficial guides, pushy street vendors, or taxis charging higher prices.
For UK travellers, the FCDO recommends staying vigilant in tourist areas and checking the latest safety guidance. For excursions outside major cities, ask your hotel or tour operator for up-to-date advice. Following these tips will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Egypt is generally safe for tourists, with millions visiting each year without incident. Most safety concerns can be managed by following basic precautions, such as using reputable transport and booking activities through licensed operators. The main tourist destinations — Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Sharm el-Sheikh, and Hurghada — are not subject to FCDO travel restrictions. Certain remote or border areas are advised against, so always check the latest Egypt travel safety advice if planning excursions outside major cities.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises travellers to check the latest guidance before visiting Egypt. While the main tourist cities and resorts — including Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Sharm el-Sheikh, and Hurghada — are generally considered safe, some remote or border areas are advised against. Always review current FCDO travel advice, especially if planning excursions outside major cities, as this information also affects travel insurance and safety planning. Travel insurance may be invalid if you travel to areas where the FCDO advises against travel.
Make sure you have travel insurance before visiting Egypt. Policies can help cover unexpected costs, such as trip cancellations, lost belongings, or treatment if you fall ill or have an accident. Travel insurance does not cover travel to areas the FCDO advises against, so always check your policy before your trip. Policy limits, conditions, and exclusions may apply.
Find out more about Egypt travel insurance and get a free quote today.
