Things to do in Egypt

4 destinations in Egypt, when to visit each, and what a trip actually costs.

Places to visit in Egypt

When flights to each destination are cheapest.

Cairo: The cheapest months to fly to Cairo are February, March, June, and early September, when round-trip fares from US East Coast hubs can drop to $550-750 compared to $900-1,200 during peak December-January and summer holiday periods, that represents savings of 30-40%. Flying midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday departures) typically saves an additional $50-100 over weekend travel.
Hurghada: The cheapest flights land in May-June and September-October (shoulder season), when you can save 25-40% versus peak winter months (December-February) when Europeans flee cold weather for Hurghada's warmth. Flying midweek (Tuesday-Wednesday departures) saves an additional 10-15% compared to weekend flights.
Luxor: The cheapest months to fly to Luxor are June through August (Egypt's brutal summer), when fares from major US and European hubs can drop 30-40% versus the peak November-February winter season. Flying midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday departures) saves an additional 10-15% compared to weekend travel.
Sharm El Sheikh: The cheapest flights and hotel rates fall in June, July, and September when European summer demand dips slightly, with savings of roughly 25-35% versus the December-January peak holiday crush. Flying midweek (Tuesday-Wednesday departures) from European cities typically shaves another 10-15% off charter and low-cost fares.

A day on the ground for one person travelling alone, before flights: somewhere to sleep, food, something to do and getting around.

Set your dates, budget and home airport on any destination below for a total that includes flights.

Cairo: Stroll Al-Muizz Street The world's largest open-air museum of Islamic architecture, lined with medieval gates, minarets, and fountains, completely free to walk.
Cairo: Watch sunset from the Qasr El-Nil Bridge A beloved local ritual with views over the Nile, street vendors, and the city glowing gold at dusk.
Hurghada: Corniche Promenade Walk A long seafront walkway perfect for sunset strolls with views of the Red Sea and resort strip.
Hurghada: El Dahar Bazaar Browsing Wander the old-town souk, haggle for spices, shisha, and souvenirs, and soak up authentic Egyptian atmosphere.
Luxor: Corniche al-Nil stroll Walk the breezy Nile promenade at sunset for sweeping river views, felucca watching, and local life at its most relaxed.
Luxor: Luxor Souk (market) Wander the fragrant covered bazaar for spices, alabaster souvenirs, and authentic haggling culture.

Koshary Abou Tarek in Cairo, Koshary (rice, lentils, pasta, tomato sauce, crispy onions) Plates $0.50-2
Felfela Restaurant in Cairo, Foul medames, ta'ameya (falafel), and mixed mezze Plates $2-5
Abu Khaled Restaurant in Hurghada, Grilled fish platter with rice and salad Plates $3-6
El Sakia Restaurant in Hurghada, Koshary (Egypt's national dish of lentils, pasta, and tomato sauce) Plates $1-3
Sofra Restaurant in Luxor, Ful medames and kofta with fresh bread Plates $2-5
Al-Sahaby Lane Restaurant in Luxor, Grilled chicken with rice, salad, and tahini Plates $3-7