Giza, while technically a separate administrative district, is part of the sprawling urban city of Cairo. The area is most famous as the location of the Giza Plateau: the site of some of the most impressive ancient monuments in the world. Although there are over a hundred pyramids in Egypt, by far the most famous are the Giza Pyramids. During the Greek and Roman eras, they were marvelled at as the first of the Seven Wonders of the World, and they still exert a powerful fascination, both as an extraordinary technical achievement and as a demonstration of the might, power, and ambition of Egypt's pharaonic rulers. No tour of Egypt would be complete without a visit to this extraordinary site which has inspired the most fantastic legends since ancient times and continues to fascinate and inspire visitors.
Luxor is a historic city on the Nile in Upper Egypt and one of the world's foremost destinations for ancient Egyptian heritage. Centred on the remains of ancient Thebes, it is home to monumental temples, royal tombs and archaeological sites spanning thousands of years of history. Visitors can explore the vast Karnak Temple Complex and atmospheric Luxor Temple on the East Bank, then cross the Nile to the Valley of the Kings, the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut and the tombs and temples of the Theban Necropolis. Felucca cruises and hot-air balloon flights offer striking perspectives of the river and surrounding desert landscape, while traditional markets and riverside streets provide a glimpse of modern Egyptian life.
Aswan is a tranquil city on the Nile in southern Egypt, known for its warm climate, river islands and strong Nubian heritage. Further south than Luxor, it offers a more tranquil base for exploring the ancient sites of Upper Egypt and is a popular starting point for Nile cruises. Travellers can take a felucca along the Nile, visit the island temples of Philae, explore the Unfinished Obelisk and wander through the colourful markets and Nubian villages. Elephantine Island and the botanical gardens on Kitchener's Island offer opportunities to explore Aswan's history and landscapes at a slower pace. The city also provides a base for excursions to Abu Simbel, while its combination of ancient monuments, desert scenery and Nile views gives it a distinctive atmosphere.
Resting on the banks of the River Nile, Cairo is the mythical Egyptian capital that has been inhabited for over 6000 years. The dynamic metropolis is an exciting commingling of historical and contemporary offerings, vibrant streets and diverse neighbourhoods. The numerous heritage sites offer a glimpse into its Islamic and Coptic histories, including the renowned Al-Muiz street, Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque, the Hanging Church, and the Saint Samaan Monastery. The bustling tourist hub of Tahrir Square features the world-renowned Egyptian Museum displaying an array of antiquities, including mummies and King Tutankhamun artefacts. After that immersive foray into the past, pull yourself to the present and experience modern Cairo. Visit the baladi bars of downtown Cairo, shop at the Khan al-Khalili Bazaar, watch the sunset from the impressive Cairo Tower, or be entertained at the stately Cairo Opera House. The city's diverse nightlife options range from the traditional bars and coffee houses of downtown Cairo to the upscale Western clubs and bars of the affluent neighbourhood of Zamalek.
