There’s a reason why the Ancient Greeks used to holiday in Egypt, think tons of beaches, a lively nightlife scene and a whole boatload of hotels.

Good to know

🤩 Fun fact: The Egyptians are crazy about cats, like, they used to worship a cat goddess levels of crazy about cats.

🏝️ Best beach: when it comes to beach bumming, you can't get much better than Naama Bay in Sharm El Sheikh, it's got crystal waters for snorkelling, beach sports for sporting and chill-out space for chilling.

🍺 Price of a pint: bargain booze is on the cards (and no, we aren't talking the local off license), with a typical pint down the pub ranging between 40 and 60 Egyptian Pounds - that's roughly between £1 - £1.50!

Getting around

🚕 Taxis - If you’re after convenience on your Egypt holidays, taxis are the way to go. They’re everywhere – from the bustling streets of Cairo to the chilled coastal towns. The fares are generally affordable, but make sure the meter’s on or agree on a price before hopping in. You’ll find two types of taxis: white taxis with meters (more modern) and older black-and-white ones where you’ll need to haggle. It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand, as most won’t accept cards.

🚌 Microbuses - These bad boys are the go-to and will give you the ultimate local living experience on your holidays to Egypt. They’re basically shared minibuses that zip around cities and between towns, usually for a bargain price - who doesn't love a cheeky bargain? There are no fixed stops – you just flag one down and hop off wherever you need to. It’s a bit of a wild ride (think fast-paced, no-nonsense travel), but if you want cheap and cheerful, microbuses are a winner. Make sure you’ve got small notes on you as they rarely give change.

🚆 Trains - Egypt’s train network is one of the best ways to travel between major cities like Cairo, Alexandria, and Luxor. The trains are comfortable, with various classes, from budget-friendly to boujee first-class. The train's the way to go if you’re after a scenic route through the countryside. You can even take the sleeper trains for those long-haul journeys where getting some shut-eye is high up the priority list – better yet, you'll wake up to the sunrise over the Nile! Tickets are easy to buy at the station, though it's a good idea for busy routes or first class to book in advance, either online or at the ticket office.

Destination Highlights

• Rich in history from the Pyramids and beyond

• Tons of hotels that’ll have the kids, you, your pals, Uncle Brian and everyone else smiling all jolly long

• On the coast of the Red Sea, which is rich in beautiful marine life (so don’t forget that snorkel) 

• Year-round sunshine with it rarely dipping below 20 degrees - perfect for those last-minute holidays!
  

What are the best beaches for your Egypt holidays 2025?

• Naama Bay, Sharm El Sheikh - The main beach of Egypt’s prime beach resort Sharm El Sheikh is ideal for diving, chilling out and playing a bit of beach sport! So, pack the snorkel and a fun-having attitude ‘cause this one’s beachin’! 

• Makadi Bay, Hurghada - Located just outside of the main city of Hurghada, this is a divers paradise as it’s home to warm waters and beautiful coral reefs

• Mahmya Island, Hurghada - Hop on a boat ride from Hurghada and head to this exotic island escape. Swimming and snorkelling are a must here so pack those swimsuits. You can also enjoy gorg sunset views and delicious food at the island’s main restaurant ‘Mahmya’. 

• Al Nayzak, Marsa Alam - Now this one is unique! Said to be created from a meteorite, this pool that’s located just a short trip from Marsa Alam is one of the best beaches in the whole of Egypt and one that is a must-visit…

• Nabq Bay, Sharm El Sheikh - Another one of Sharm’s beaut beaches, Nabq Bay is perfect for those looking to chill out or take a swim. With a load of coral reefs and elegant marine life, a snorkelling trip should be right up on your list of things to do whilst here.

• Blue Lagoon, Dahab - This beach sits in the Abu Galum national park, near the coast of Dahab and is amazing for those looking to disconnect from the world and be at one with nature. A relaxing spot that’s a must when you’re looking for a bit of an escape. 

Many of the resorts in Egypt offer private beaches, too, with a lot of them having loads of loungers, water sports options and even beachfront bars!  

Still not sure where to stay? Here are our top 11 reasons to visit Hurghada.

Top hotels for your holidays to Egypt!

There are loads of hotels you can snap up for a cheap Egypt holibobs, but here are a few of our faves:

• Serenity Fun City - A proper good spot for a big ol’ family jolly. This hotel is kitted out with its own waterpark that has loads of slides, kids’ rides and even an amazing kids’ club. And for the adults, there’s an English-style pub for some home-style comforts. 

• Monte Carlo Sharm El Sheikh - With a private beach, 24-hour all-inclusive and a Royal programme to upgrade to (that includes loads of juicy extras), this hotel should be right up on your list for your holibobs to Sharm El Sheikh.

• Savoy Sharm El Sheikh - Dine around the globe at this top spot in Sharm El Sheikh with their brilliant all-inclusive programme and choice of restaurants. You’re 100% guaranteed to be well-fed, that’s for sure! 

☀Staff Pick: Rixos Premium Seagate in Sharm El Sheikh☀

Trust us when we say that this hotel is AM-A-ZING. We stayed for a week there and never wanted to leave. One word to describe this hotel would be: generous. Ultra All Inclusive as standard, a private beach, two spas (one is ladies only), golf cart shuttle buses that ferry you around the resort and an impressive selection of restaurants that are included in your board. If we could move in and live here forever, we would. 

• Titanic Beach and Palace Hurghada - This 5-star resort sits with a backdrop of the Red Sea and is home to the largest waterpark in Hurghada. Combine that with a 24-hour lobby bar and a relaxing spa and you’ve got fun for everyone. 

• Xperience Sea Breeze - Five swimming pools, a private beach, two restaurants and a health club. This 5-star spot is ideal for couples, families and friends looking for a beach break in Sharm El Sheikh. 

Looking for a big, beachy break with every included? Check out our all-inclusive holiday deals to Egypt.

Things to do on your Egypt holidays

🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Things to do in Egypt for families

A lot of the hotels on offer in Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada are absolutely stacked with things to do for the whole family. We're talking amazing waterparks, a bucket load of sports, beachfront locations, impressive kids' clubs and animation teams and much more. Throw in the fact it's (pretty much) always sunny and the kids can get FREE ice cream down on the beach when you go all-inclusive then you should definitely be considering Egypt for your next family jolly. If getting out and about is more your style, though, you can take a day trip and do things like river cruises down the Nile or a tour of some ancient history like the Pyramids or tombs.

👩🏼‍❤️‍👨🏾 Things to do in Egypt for couples

If you're jetting off on your holidays to Egypt just the two of you, then romance will definitely be in the air. Egypt is spot on for couples' breaks, with hotels that'll leave you smitten and restaurants you can sit and stare into each others' eyes at. And don't forget the bucketload of beaches you can stroll down hand in hand as if you're in the closing scene of a cringey rom-com. Tip: the sunsets here are outrageously beautiful so if you're wanting to get extra lovey-dovey, then head down for a late afternoon stroll and watch the sun dip behind the horizon. Whether you're off to Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh, be prepared for a scorchin' hot, sun-soaked holibob where you'll be rubbing the sun cream into each other's backs. Now, all you need to decide is who's getting the next drink from the all-inclusive bar...

🤑 Things to do in Egypt on a budget

Exploring Egypt without burning a hole in your wallet? Absolutely doable! First up, the iconic Pyramids of Giza – you don’t have to spend big bucks to marvel at one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Grab a general entry ticket for a decent price and you can soak in the magic of these ancient giants. For something equally jaw-dropping but much cheaper (or even free!), head to Khan El Khalili market in Cairo. Get lost in the narrow alleyways and haggle your way to some bargains. It’s an explosion of colours, scents, and sounds that'll transport you straight into the heart of Egypt’s culture. Pro tip: Egyptian street food is mega affordable, so grab a delish falafel wrap for next to nothing and keep exploring!

🍽️ Things to do in Egypt for foodies

Speaking of delish food, Egypt’s culinary scene is going to knock your socks off! If you’re in Cairo, make sure you try koshari, Egypt’s national dish. It’s a carb-fuelled masterpiece of rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas, topped with crispy onions and a tangy tomato sauce. For the seafood lovers, a trip to Alexandria is a must. You’ll find some of the freshest seafood right on the Mediterranean coast, often served grilled with lemon and garlic. And don't leave without tasting ful medames – a proper Egyptian breakfast of slow-cooked fava beans, usually paired with bread, eggs, and a bit of olive oil. This dish is a proper belly warmer, and it’s so good you’ll want to have it at every meal! Whether you're street-snacking or dining in a swanky restaurant, the food here is top-notch and will have you going back for seconds (or thirds) on your Egypt holidays.

Other places to keep on your radar for your Egypt holidays:

• Marsa Alam

• Sharm El Sheikh

• Hurghada