15 Best Non-Ancient Locations in Egypt You Need To Visit

The Mosque was commissioned in the 1800s by its namesake, Muhammad Ali Pasha, whose tomb can now be found therein. It received its other name, the Alabaster Mosque, for the radiant marble that covers both the inner and outer walls of the sight.

Upon arrival, I was drawn into the sahn, or courtyard, by two items. The first, a shaded fountain in the middle of the courtyard, erected there so that Muslim visitors can wash before praying. Walking closer to the fountain, I was surprised to see that the underside of the shaded rooftop had the most rich painted designs, a beautiful contrast to the marble facade.

The second was an antique clock tower on top of one of the mosque walls – originally sent as a thank you to Egypt from France’s King Louis Philip for gifting the country the obelisk of Ramses II. Unfortunately, despite repair attempts, the clock hasn’t worked since its arrival in Egypt. Hopefully that changes one day, but for now, it’s still a beautiful piece to admire.

Location: Cairo

Entry Cost: Free*, though prepare to tip 5EGP to the attendants upon entry.

Moving to the interior of the Mosque, I sat with my guide, Reham, for a bit – staring up at the dizzying yet radiant lanterns overhead and enjoying the calm reprieve from the heat outside. It was also here I saw Muhammad Ali Pasha’s great tomb.

Visiting the colorful Nubian Village in Aswan is a truly magical experience. Located on the banks of the Nile, the village is home to a vibrant community of Nubian families, who have lived in the area for thousands of years. Visitors here can learn about Nubian culture and history, sample traditional food, buy spices and even take part in dances and music.

During my visit, I was even able to meet a wonderful family who invited me to enjoy some tea and hibiscus juice with them before showing me their pet: a baby crocodile!

Location: Aswan

Entry Cost: Free* – but bring cash for shops, food, and of course, baksheesh!

I love traveling to places with historic buildings and sights, hundreds and sometimes thousands of years old. Older architecture tells a story in both its detailed designs and unexpected flaws. History without words and evidence of time gone by. The Mosque of Ibn Tulun is no exception.

The interior courtyard of the mosque is surrounded by four porticoes, of which can be seen multiple archways with intricately stuccoed roofs. These heavenly designs juxtaposed against the rough scratches and peeling textures of construction lend even more to the mosque’s appeal. A beauty that has withstood the test of time.

Heading just outside the inner courtyard to the ziyada, or the space between the inner and outer walls, you can climb the spiral staircase of the Mosque’s minaret. While the minaret is wonderful to behold itself, once you’ve made it up the somewhat treacherous stairs, you’ll be greeted with the most wonderful view of old Cairo, including a birds-eye view back into the Mosque’s courtyard. While there are many viewpoints of the city, this might just be my favorite since it is such a central, historic and peaceful place to take in the sights.

One item to note: A locked iron gate blocks the entrance to the minaret staircase, so in order to climb, you’ll need to ask a guard for entry. Just remember to tip for this incredible experience. I recommend about 5EGP, which is well worth the cost for your own private viewing from the top.

Finally, as somewhat of a bonus to visiting the mosque itself, you might also visit the Gayer-Anderson-Museum right next door. It’s home to a large collection or rare artifacts from the area and also the spot where James Bond (Roger Moore) got into a fist fight in The Spy Who Loved Me. While I ran out of time and wasn’t able to visit the museum in addition to the Mosque, it is easily at the top of my list for my next visit to Egypt.

Manial Palace Museum is the former residence of Egypt’s Prince Muhammad Ali. The Palace is a stunning example of early 20th century Egyptian architecture and features intricate carvings, stunning mosaics, and beautifully designed gardens. Inside, you can explore the opulent palace rooms and get a greater sense of what royal life was once like.

Walking through the halls, I felt like I had stepped back in time. The attention to detail in the design and decor is absolutely breathtaking, and I could have spent hours exploring every nook and cranny of the grounds.

Location: Cairo

Entry Cost: 100 EGP*

If you’re looking for an experience to overwhelm the senses, look no further than Khan el-Khalili Bazaar in Cairo. As soon as you step into this 14th century market, you’ll be greeted with the most vibrant mix of colors, smells, and sounds! The market’s narrow alleyways are lined with shops and stands selling everything from spices and perfumes to handcrafted jewelry and textiles.

The vendors are friendly and eager to engage with visitors, and bargaining is a common practice. You can find unique souvenirs and gifts for loved ones back home, or simply enjoy the atmosphere and people-watching. The market is especially lively in the evening when the heat of the day has subsided, and locals and tourists alike gather to shop, eat, and socialize.

Location: Cairo

Entry Cost: Free* – but bring cash for shops, food, and of course, baksheesh!

Located in the heart of Coptic Cairo, The Hanging Church gets its name from its unique architectural design, as it appears to be suspended in the air with its nave overhanging a passage.

The Hanging Church dates back to the 3rd century and has some stunning facades – especially around the interior courtyard. Standing under the archways and in the doorways here, I felt as though I had entered Rivendell or another breathtaking fantasy-like location.

Location: Cairo

Entry Cost: Free*

The Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus is another amazing church in Coptic Cairo. Believed to be built on a site where Jesus, Mary, and Joseph rested during their flight to Egypt, it is considered one of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites in the country.

And coupled with the beautiful domed roof, intricate wood carvings and colorful frescoes, the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus is a must-visit for those anyone in religious history and culture.

Location: Cairo

Entry Cost: Free*

The Synagogue of Ben Ezra is a 9th century Jewish temple in Cairo that’s named after the medieval Rabbi of the same name. The synagogue features finely carved wood and colorful stained-glass windows throughout.

The temple is also believed to built on the site where the baby Moses was found in a basket by the Pharaoh’s daughter.

Location: Cairo

Cost: Free* – but bring cash if you plan to take photos! There is a small camera fee.

With numerous walking paths, monuments, dining options and more, Al-Azhar Park is a peaceful oasis in bustling Cairo. The park is also situated alongside the eastern Ayyubid Wall, a 12th century ruin that wasn’t uncovered until excavation for the park began in the late 20th century.

Location: Cairo

Entry Cost: 10 EGP*

Built in the 15th century, the Citadel of Qaitbay is a magnificent fortress located on the Mediterranean coast in Alexandria. The citadel was originally built to protect the city from invasions by sea, and it served as an important military stronghold for centuries.

Visitors can explore the various rooms and corridors of the fortress, which include a mosque, a prison, and a courtyard. The citadel also houses a small museum that contains artifacts and exhibits related to the history of the citadel and the region.

Location: Alexandria

Entry Cost: 60 EGP*

Visiting Bibliotheca Alexandrina is an awe-inspiring experience. The library stands as a testament to the ancient Library of Alexandria, which was one of the most important centers of learning in the ancient world.

As you step inside, you’re greeted with a vast circular atrium with a stunning glass roof that fills the space with natural light. The library houses over 8 million books, including rare manuscripts and documents, making it one of the largest and most comprehensive libraries in the world.

Location: Alexandria

Entry Cost: 70 EGP*

Built in the 1960s, Aswan’s High Dam stands at an impressive 111 meters tall and spans over 1.7 miles across the Nile. The dam was originally constructed to control the Nile’s flooding and provide hydroelectric power to Egypt, but it’s also a scenic viewpoint for tourists to see the surrounding desert landscape.

Location: Aswan

Entry Cost: 100 EGP*

Situated at the base of Mount Sinai, Saint Catherine’s Monastery was built in the 6th century by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, and it is considered to be one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world. The monastery houses a vast collection of religious artifacts, including the famous Codex Sinaiticus, which is one of the earliest versions of the Bible.

Location: Sinai Peninsula, near Sharm El-Sheikh

Entry Cost: Free – but entry to the Treasury is 20 EGP*

Ok, this one is technically a cheat because The Red Sea was definitely during ancient times. But because a visit here is not typically made for the history, I’m including it.

Despite its name, the Red Sea is made up of dark blue and transparent turquoise waters, depending on which areas you explore. Consider visiting one of Egypt’s beach towns and head out on a boat tour or snorkeling / scuba diving excursion.

Locations: El Gouna, Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh

Entry Cost: Free, but costs for snorkeling, scuba diving and other boat tours vary by tour operator*