When you think about sites you absolutely must see in Egypt, the immediate response is the Sphinx and the Great Pyramids of Giza. Why wouldn't you? These are some of the biggest, most awe-inspiring landmarks on the face of the Earth.
Part of what makes Egypt so amazing is everything you can see away from Giza. There are so many outstanding sites across the country that it's almost impossible to see everything in one trip. That just means you'll have to go back again.
The Mosque of Muhammad Ali
Also known as the Alabaster Mosque, this is arguably the most iconic mosque in Cairo. It was commissioned in the mid-1800s by Muhammad Ali Pasha, an Ottoman viceroy and governor who ruled over many parts of the region including Egypt and even parts of Greece.
The mosque contains many architectural and historical features. It was mainly built with limestone, which some have said was sourced from the Great Pyramids themselves. But it is the alabaster finishes that make this a stunning addition to any visit.
Aswan
Down the Nile from Cairo is the city of Aswan, known in ancient times as Swenett. In its earliest days, this was considered to be the gateway to Egypt. The quarries of the region were mined for multiple major projects, including the Great Pyramids.
Aswan was designated as a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1979 due to the incredible archaeological finds in the area. There are multiple major sites in and around the city, not to mention several world-class museums. Don't sleep on the modern parts of the city, either. There is a lot to see there.
Saqqara
They are called the Great Pyramids for a reason. Despite the fact that tourists have all but overrun the area, they are still an incredible sight to see. That being said, they are not the only pyramids in the country by far. Saqqara is impressive in its own right.
This is the necropolis for the ancient Egyptian capital of Memphis. It contains numerous pyramids and mastaba tombs which served as burial places for royalty and more. The highlight of the region is the Pyramid of Djoser, also known as the Step Pyramid.
The Karnak Temple Complex
If you're already heading down the Nile towards Aswan, make sure you plan a stop in Karnak along the way. This is an astonishing collection of buildings and more that include an impressive number of temples. It's also part of a UNESCO Heritage Site that includes the ancient city of Thebes.
Suggesting a trip to Karnak is not really outside of the box. It's generally considered to be the second most visited place in Egypt after Giza. That being said, it never hurts to point out how massive an experience this place is. Put it at number one on your to-do list in Egypt.
Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut
There are a lot of sites across Egypt that could be described as architectural masterpieces of the ancient world. In many ways, it's a delightful embarrassment of riches. But the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut stands out above so many of them.
This mortuary complex is intricate in every detail. It features terraces, multiple shrines, and a solar cult court. Going to the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut gives you a unique look into the Eighteenth Dynasty of Egypt. And it's quite close to Luxor.