20 Things to Do Your First Time in Egypt According to @Finding.Jules
First time in Egypt? Jules has 20 must-dos—from sunrise pyramids to Red Sea swims—that’ll turn your trip into the ultimate bucket list adventure.
When Jules Nguyễn (you probably know her as @finding.jules) does Egypt, she doesn’t just check off the pyramids and call it a day—she dives into the country like it’s a choose-your-own-adventure book. She’s curious, respectful, and always looking for the little moments that turn the trip into her trip. Think wandering through spice-scented markets, catching the call to prayer as the sun sets, and saying “yes!” to that extra plate of koshary (because, carbs).
Jules’s quick tips for a trip to Egypt
- Hydrate like a pro—Bring a refillable water bottle
- Dress for the moment—Cover shoulders and knees at religious sites
- Learn a little Arabic—A “salaam aleikum” goes a long way
- Channel your inner negotiator—Haggling is part of the fun
- Plan, but leave room to wander—The best moments aren’t always on the itinerary
20 things to do in Egypt, according to Jules.
See the Pyramids at Giza
Get there early for dreamy lighting and fewer crowds. Then just…sit. Let 4,500 years of history sink in.
Camel selfie by the Great Pyramid
Because nothing says “I went to Egypt” like a photo with a camel and the world’s OG skyscraper in the background.
Egyptian Museum, Cairo
Mummies, gold, and ancient treasure—including that King Tut mask. Give yourself a few hours here.
Islamic Cairo + Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
Lanterns, spices, and bargaining that’s basically a sport. Pro tip: refuel with a mint tea mid-shop.
Coptic Cairo
Quiet cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and history older than the pyramids (yes, really).
Sunset felucca ride on the Nile
Golden light. City skyline. Wind in your hair. Romantic and otherworldly.
Karnak & Luxor temples
Columns the size of redwoods, endless hieroglyphics…basically an open-air history book.
Valley of the Kings
Tomb-hopping through pharaoh history. Hire a guide—they’ll spill the ancient tea.
Hot-air balloon over Luxor
Sunrise, Nile views, and temples from above. This is once-in-a-lifetime meets once-upon-a-time.
Abu Simbel
Colossal statues carved into a mountain. It’s like Ramses II said, “Go big or go home.”
Aswan & Philae temple
Experience Egypt’s rich and historic Nubian culture and an island temple you’ll have to see to believe.
Red Sea snorkeling
You might not associate Egypt with coral reefs and technicolor fish, but the Red Sea will absolutely blow your mind.
Alexandria
Like your favorite Mediterranean cities, but rich with ancient history and the most well-known library of all time.
Saqqara’s step pyramid
Step inside the first pyramid ever built—the Step Pyramid of Djoser—at Saqqara, the burial ground of Memphis, Egypt’s ancient capital.
Eat all the Egyptian food
Koshary. Ful medames. Fresh seafood. Repeat.
Pyramids sound and light show
It’s cheesy, it’s dramatic, it’s…kind of magical in the best way.
Siwa oasis
Salt lakes, palm trees, and at night? More stars than you’ve ever seen.
Local markets
Rugs, lamps, and souvenirs you’ll actually want to bring home.
Contemporary Egypt
Museums, street art, and community projects that show off the modern culture of Egypt.
People watching
Head to a market or city square and simply watch the world go by.
Jules’s final word
Egypt isn’t just a trip, it’s a time machine, a culture fest, and a crash course in slowing down and soaking it all in. Pack your comfy shoes, your curiosity, and a little Arabic vocab; then get ready for culture, history, and the Egyptian people to work their magic.
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