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Travel in Egypt: the complete practical guide

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The pyramids of Giza in the desert, near Cairo
Contents

In short: a trip to Egypt links Cairo (the pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum, open since November 2025) with Luxor, often with a Nile cruise to Aswan. You need a visa, online or on arrival, and cash for tips.

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When to go

  • October to April: the best time, hot by day but bearable, especially in Luxor and Aswan.
  • May to September: very hot across the country, extreme in Upper Egypt; the Red Sea stays pleasant.

Entry requirements

Many nationalities, including French citizens, need a visa: an e-visa applied for online before departure, on the official website, or a visa on arrival at the airport. For a stay limited to Sinai resorts, a 15-day visa-free entry is possible. Passport valid for at least six months. Check the latest rules.

Arriving and getting around

  • Cairo: traffic is very heavy; taxis, ride-hailing apps or pre-booked transfers.
  • Cairo to Luxor: about an hour’s flight, or the train, including a sleeper night train.
  • Luxor to Aswan: by Nile cruise (several days), train or road.

Money, internet and customs

  • Currency: the Egyptian pound. Cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants; cash is essential for markets and tips (baksheesh), which are very common.
  • Internet: install a travel eSIM before you leave.
  • Dress: covering clothes in mosques and appreciated in town; hat and water at ancient sites.

What to see in Egypt

  • Cairo: the Giza pyramids and the Sphinx, the Grand Egyptian Museum (open since 1 November 2025), Islamic Cairo and the Khan el-Khalili souk, Saqqara.
  • Luxor: the Karnak and Luxor temples, the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut’s Temple.
  • Aswan and Abu Simbel, in the south.
  • The Red Sea: Hurghada, Marsa Alam, Sharm el-Sheikh, for diving.

Suggested itinerary

8 days: 3 days in Cairo, then Luxor and a Nile cruise to Aswan (4 days), with a trip to Abu Simbel.

Where to stay

Our Cairo and Luxor pages present the best areas for your travel style.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa for Egypt?

Yes for many nationalities, including French citizens: an e-visa can be applied for online before departure, or a visa obtained on arrival at the airport. For a stay limited to Sinai resorts, a 15-day visa-free entry is possible. Check the latest rules.

Is the Grand Egyptian Museum open?

Yes: it was officially inaugurated on 1 November 2025, near the Giza pyramids. It notably displays the treasures of Tutankhamun.

How do I get from Cairo to Luxor?

By plane (about an hour's flight) or by train, including a sleeper night train. Luxor is also the start or end point of Nile cruises to Aswan.

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