Two Cities you can’t Miss When you Visit Egypt
Quick answer: If you only have time for two cities when you visit Egypt beyond Cairo and Giza, make them Luxor and Aswan. Together they hold some of the country’s greatest temples and tombs, and a Nile cruise between the two is one of the most relaxing ways to see them.
One of the most compelling reasons to travel to Egypt is its fascinating history and culture. Cairo, with the City of the Dead and its museums, and the Pyramids and Sphinx at Giza are unmissable, but Egypt is not all about pyramids. With thousands of years of history, it offers sights you simply cannot see anywhere else on the planet.
A practical note: Arabic is the language spoken in Egypt, so if you don’t speak it yourself, working with translators or a local guide can be a challenge worth planning for.
Why Luxor and Aswan Are the Two Cities You Can’t Miss in Egypt
Both cities sit in the south of Egypt on the banks of the Nile, and that is what makes the Nile Cruise Luxor Aswan route so rewarding. You get two of the country’s most important historic cities, linked by one of the world’s great rivers.
- Luxor – ancient temples and royal tombs, including Karnak and the Valley of the Kings.
- Aswan – Philae Temple, islands, gardens, bird-watching and lively markets.
- The Nile in between – temples, photo stops and time to relax on board.
Luxor
Luxor is a city with more than 3,000 years of history, making it one of Egypt’s most important ancient sites. Its monuments, such as Karnak Temple, are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Across the river lies the Valley of the Kings, set in a deep, dry valley on the Nile’s West Bank. This is where many of the pharaohs of the New Kingdom were buried.
Nile Cruise from Luxor in Egypt
A Nile cruise from Luxor is a great way to see the beautiful Egyptian landscape while you travel between the country’s key historic sites. The Luxor to Aswan cruise offers more fun because it is a night longer than the cruise in the Aswan to Luxor direction.
Along the way you can visit the tombs of great pharaohs, such as the famous tomb of King Tut, as well as temples and photo stops. It gives you time to relax on board while still seeing exciting things every day, which is why many travellers consider it one of the best tours you can take in Egypt.
Aswan
Aswan is sometimes called “the city of obelisks”, and it has long been linked to the ancient granite quarries that supplied Egypt’s monuments. It sits on the banks of the River Nile near Lake Nasser, and its history dates back thousands of years. In ancient times it was a vital location thanks to its proximity to Nubia, today’s Sudan.
Sun and heat lovers will enjoy the weather in Aswan, and there are plenty of five-star hotels if you want a comfortable holiday base. Animal lovers can look out for the crocodiles associated with the area, and the city is well known for bird-watching and for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Philae Temple
Philae Temple stands on an island in the Nile and is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site’s history is linked to the era of Alexander the Great, and it was rebuilt under Ptolemy II. The temple honoured the goddess Isis and her consort Osiris.
Aswan Botanical Garden
The Aswan Botanical Garden is a paradise for plant and tree lovers, with many different sorts of trees and plants to discover. It is a large, peaceful green space and a pleasant break from temple-hopping.
Other Sights Around Aswan
Aswan has plenty more to offer, from the tombs of the ancient Egyptians and temples to the city’s marketplaces. Kom Ombo Temple is one of several interesting locations you can visit nearby, and Aswan’s tourism continues to grow.
Aswan to Luxor Cruise
A cruise from Aswan to Luxor is a great way to see the sights of Egypt and experience the country’s rich history and culture in the opposite direction.
You can start your tour in Aswan, which has great monuments including:
- Philae Temple
- Kalabsha Temple
- Elephantine Island
Before boarding, make time for bird-watching, as Aswan is one of the best places in Egypt for this hobby, and for shopping. The city’s large bazaars and traditional markets (souqs) are a very interesting part of any visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which two cities should I not miss when I visit Egypt?
Luxor and Aswan. Both are packed with temples, tombs, markets and beautiful Nile scenery, and they are among Egypt’s most important historic cities.
Is the Luxor to Aswan cruise better than Aswan to Luxor?
Both cover similar sights, but the Luxor to Aswan cruise is a night longer, which gives you more time on board.
What is there to see in Aswan?
Highlights include Philae Temple, Kalabsha Temple, Elephantine Island, the Aswan Botanical Garden, Kom Ombo Temple nearby, bird-watching and the city’s souqs.
Do I need to speak Arabic to travel in Egypt?
No, but Arabic is the main language, so a translator or local guide can make things easier if you don’t speak it.
Conclusion
Luxor and Aswan are two cities in Egypt that should not be missed. Between them you’ll find temples, tombs, markets, ancient palaces and beautiful scenery, and a cruise along the Nile River is a terrific way to connect them. They are popular not only with Egyptians but with travellers from all over the world, and they are well worth your while if you want to explore Egypt’s culture and history.
