11 Best things to see & do in Ancient Egypt

The last survivor of the seven ancient wonders of the world: the remarkable 147m-high tomb of Pharaoh Khufu dates from 2,500 BC. The Sphinx sits alongside.

Still a defining experience, revealing a tapestry of astonishing ancient monuments, beautiful papyrus-dotted river banks, and a landscape that has remained largely unchanged in 4,000 years.

The 3,000-year-old, remarkably well-preserved temple of Ramesses II – one of the world’s greatest ancient sites and a testament to the power of the Egyptian empire at its height.

The remarkable desert valley that’s home to 62 tombs of Egypt’s ancient pharaohs, including the famous tomb of Tutankhamun. The treasures are long gone, but the hieroglyphic-decorated ceilings and walls are no less impressive.

One of the world’s great archaeological museums, home to the world’s greatest Egyptian collection, including the famous treasures of the boy king Tutankhamun.

The largest temple complex in the world, Karnak was the most important place of worship for ancient Egyptians, with 80,000 people working here during the reign of Ramesses II. It remains one of the world’s most impressive religious complexes, clearly illustrating the glory of ancient Egypt.

One of the most beautiful Greco Roman temples, with the most romantic setting of all. Built in the 4th century BC, and dedicated to the goddess and her husband, Osiris.

Just 20 miles of Cairo, a complex of incredibly well-preserved pyramids even older than those in Giza and without the crowds. Highlights include the Bent and Red Pyramids, and the Step Pyramid of Djoser – the oldest stone building in the world.

There’s nothing quite like seeing this evocative landscape of ancient sites, Nile floodplains, and villages unchanged for thousands of years, as the sun rises over the Nile. Gasp-worthy sights include Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings.

Little-visited, but well-preserved temple that was one of the most important in ancient Egypt. It was built here by Seti I in 1279 BC and dedicated to Osiris, Isis and their son Horus.

The most completely preserved temple in Egypt, and one of the grandest, dedicated to the falcon-headed god Horus. The temple lies about 70 miles south of Luxor.