Where to drive in Egypt

From the iconic pyramids to the Valley of the Kings, the Red Sea coast to the River Nile, there’s so much to see in Egypt.

Whatever the length of your stay it pays to pick up a hire car to get around simply and quickly. Pick up your rental at major airports such as Cairo, Luxor, Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh and you can be on your way in no time. Here are the locations you won’t want to miss.

· Cairo

A trip to Egypt wouldn’t be complete without a visit to its capital city, Cairo. Must-sees include the Egyptian Museum, where you can see royal mummies and artefacts relating to the most famous of these, Tutankhamun; the Great Sphinx and of course, the world-renowned pyramids of Giza on the outskirts of the city. 

Alexandria

This port city on the Mediterranean coast has a pretty seafront and a rich history. Its most famous landmark is without doubt its storied Great Library, the largest in the ancient world and today the sleek, ultra-modern Bibliotecha Alexandrina. Look out too for underground catacombs, the stunning Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi Mosque, and a sprawling souk. ·

Luxor

Once known as Thebes this city on the banks of the river Nile was one of the most important in ancient Egypt. Today it’s a modern, buzzy city but the relics of its past – from the royal tombs of the Valley of the Kings to the elegant Karnak Temple - continue to attract visitors. 

Aswan.

This surprisingly serene city on the River Nile is smaller than neighbouring Cairo but just as packed with monuments, temples and modern culture. A great starting point for a Nile cruise, its attractions include the Aswan High Dam, the mysterious island temple of Philae, Elephantine Island and the Old Cataract Hotel, made famous by Agatha Christie who checked in here in 1937 to write Death on the Nile.

· Red Sea Coast

One of Egypt’s most popular visitor destinations due to stunning beach resorts including Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada. The Red Sea’s warm waters make it a perfect spot for swimming while its huge variety of marine life and coral attracts divers from all over the world. Book onto a diving trip to experience an incredible underwater world full of crustaceans, coral and hundreds of species of fish.