Egypt is a country that is rich in history and culture, with countless landmarks and attractions that continue to captivate visitors from all over the world. From the ancient pyramids to the bustling streets of Cairo, here are the 10 best places to visit in Egypt.

Pyramids of Giza:

The Pyramids of Giza are undoubtedly the most iconic landmarks in Egypt and among the most recognizable landmarks in the world. Located just outside of Cairo, these ancient tombs were built more than 4,500 years ago and are an impressive feat of engineering and construction. Visitors can explore the pyramids on foot or on camelback and take in the majesty of these ancient structures up close.

The Great Pyramid of Giza, also known as the Pyramid of Khufu, is the largest of the three pyramids and was built as a tomb for the pharaoh Khufu. The other two pyramids, the Pyramid of Khafre and the Pyramid of Menkaure, were built for the pharaohs Khafre and Menkaure, respectively. Visitors can also explore the nearby Sphinx, a massive limestone statue of a mythical creature with the head of a human and the body of a lion.

Luxor:

Known as the "world's greatest open-air museum," Luxor is home to some of the most impressive ancient temples and tombs in Egypt. Visitors can explore the Karnak Temple Complex, the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut, and many other historic sites. With its rich history and stunning architecture, Luxor is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Egypt.

The Karnak Temple Complex is a vast collection of temples, chapels, and other structures that were built over a period of 2,000 years. The centerpiece of the complex is the Great Temple of Amun, which was the most important religious site in ancient Egypt. The Valley of the Kings is a series of tombs that were built for pharaohs and other nobles during the New Kingdom period. Visitors can explore the tombs and marvel at the intricate artwork and hieroglyphics that adorn the walls.

Cairo:

Cairo is the bustling capital city of Egypt and is home to a wealth of cultural and historic landmarks. Visitors can explore the Egyptian Museum, home to an impressive collection of ancient artifacts and treasures, or visit the Citadel of Cairo, a medieval fortress that offers breathtaking views of the city. Other must-visit attractions in Cairo include the Khan el-Khalili market, the Al-Azhar Mosque, and the Salah El-Din Citadel.

The Egyptian Museum is home to more than 120,000 artifacts, including the famous golden mask of Tutankhamun. The Citadel of Cairo is a massive fortress that was built in the 12th century to protect the city from invaders. The Khan el-Khalili market is a bustling bazaar that's been a hub of commerce and trade for centuries. The Al-Azhar Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Cairo and is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture. The Salah El-Din Citadel is a massive fortress that was built by the legendary Muslim leader Salah El-Din to protect the city from the Crusaders.

Aswan:

Located in southern Egypt, Aswan is a picturesque city that's known for its stunning natural beauty and historic landmarks. Visitors can explore the Abu Simbel temples, which were carved out of rock in the 13th century BC and dedicated to Pharaoh Ramesses II, or visit the Philae Temple, an ancient complex dedicated to the goddess Isis. Aswan is also home to the Aswan Dam, an impressive engineering feat that spans the Nile River and provides hydroelectric power to much of the country.

Hurghada:

Situated on the Red Sea coast, Hurghada is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and vibrant marine life. It is named after a local plant, known as "hurghada" in Arabic, which is said to have healing properties. Hurghada is also a hub for water sports and diving activities, with several dive centers and underwater reefs that attract enthusiasts from all over the world. The city's most famous landmarks include the Red Sea Aquarium, the Hurghada Marina, and the El Gouna Beach.