Top 20 Exciting Things to Do in Aswan, Egypt: Ultimate Guide

Embark on a mystical journey to the Temple of Philae, an enchanting jewel in Aswan, Egypt. This UNESCO World Heritage Site tells the story of Isis, the goddess of love and magic. Be enchanted by the beautiful hieroglyphs, obelisks and statues that hold secrets thousands of years old. The unique location on an island that can only be reached by traditional boats adds to the allure of this site. Also enjoy the magical sound and light show! An additional treat is the majestic Aswan Dam, just a short boat ride away.

Immerse yourself in the ancient world of Kom Ombo Temple, a unique double temple dedicated to two different deities. The temple's perfect symmetry and unusual twin shrines will transport you back to the world of pharaohs, gods and mystical rituals. Beware of the Crocodile Museum in the temple, a tribute to the crocodile god Sobek. A visit at sunset, when the temple's stones glow with golden light, offers a very special perspective. The nearby charming town of Daraw offers a charming traditional market that is well worth a visit.

Mövenpick Aswan is a lavish oasis of tranquility in the midst of the charming city of Aswan. The hotel is splendidly located on Elephantine Island and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Nile.

The High Dam is a marvel of engineering and a testament to the ambition of modern Egypt. It tamed the Nile, ending the river's deadly annual floods and creating the vast Lake Nasser. Experience the spectacular view from the top, where you'll see a lone monument paying homage to Soviet-Egyptian friendship. Also, just a ferry ride away, the magnificent Philae Temple sits on an island in the reservoir created by the dam, inviting visitors to take a trip back in time.

A visit to the Nubian Village in Aswan means immersing yourself in a vibrant world full of culture, colors and traditions. Located on the Nile River, the village offers lively markets, unique architecture and unbeatable hospitality. Explore the colorful houses, sample homemade Nubian dishes, and learn about the incredible history of the Nubian people.

Visiting the Nubian Museum in Aswan is an absolute must! The museum is rich in artifacts that show the 7000-year journey of the Nubian culture from prehistoric times to the present day. Try to find the fascinating golden statue of the Black Pharaoh Taharqa! After your visit, enjoy a relaxing stroll through the museum's ethnobotanical garden, which is planted with native plants. Just 10 minutes away is another highlight: Elephantine Island with its lively Nubian villages and ancient ruins.

Embark on a timeless journey at the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract Aswan, a true historical gem in Egypt. This 19th century Victorian palace offers a picture of luxury, charm and serenity. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Nile as you dine elegantly in the first-class restaurant. Don't miss the historic Churchill Suite, where Sir Winston Churchill himself stayed. Within walking distance, you'll find the famous Aswan Dam or the Nubian Museum, which gives you a glimpse into history. Indeed, an unforgettable experience!

A visit to the Aswan Botanical Garden is like entering an oasis of tranquility amidst the sand. Imagine strolling through the green paths lined with exotic tropical plants while the Nile whispers nearby. Enjoy the captivating contrast between lush greenery and the desert landscape as only Aswan can offer. While you're there, be sure to also take a look at Kitchener Island, just a short boat ride away and another hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Step back in time and explore the majestic beauty of Philae, an island in Aswan. Marvel at the Temple of Isis, known for its outstanding Ptolemaic architecture, and admire the vivid carvings at the Kiosk of Trajan. Don't miss the sound and light show that bathes the ancient ruins in a magical light at night. Nearby is the fabled unfinished obelisk, a testament to the architectural prowess of the ancient world. Philae is not just a sight to see, but an experience you won't soon forget.

The Nile Museum in Aswan is a treasure trove of culture, displaying artifacts and exhibits that tell the complicated story of the Nile River's importance. Explore the interaction of humans, fauna and flora with the mighty river over the millennia. Don't miss the intricate exhibit on traditional farming techniques in the Nile Valley. Nearby is also the Nubian Museum, which offers an in-depth look at the rich history and vibrant culture of the Nubian people.

Immerse yourself in the transcendent beauty of ancient architecture at the Temple of Kalabsha. Dating back to Roman times, it's a great showcase for Ptolemaic artwork, inscriptions and mythology. Although it is largely overlooked by many travelers, a savvy insider knows that this has resulted in fewer crowds. Go beyond superficial exploration and play archaeologist in the quieter corners. Also, nearby Beit El-Wali, only about 50 km away, is another impressive Nubian relic not to be missed on your trip to Aswan.

Venture into the heart of Aswan, Egypt to explore the famous "unfinished obelisk". This huge, partially carved obelisk is fascinating and steeped in history, giving you a glimpse into the construction methods of ancient Egypt. Make it an interactive experience by feeling the tool marks and unfinished surfaces firsthand. And don't miss the Fatimid Cemetery, just a stone's throw away, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of ancient tombs amid a vast desert landscape.

Embark on an adventure to Kitchener Island, the natural paradise of Aswan. Be enchanted by the abundance of exotic flowers and trees from different parts of the world - a botanist's dream. Enjoy the tranquility as you walk along the lush paths. Be on the lookout for unique bird species that populate the verdant landscape. Across the Nile, the majestic Mausoleum of Aga Khan awaits you, offering an enticing combination of nature and history on the banks of the Nile. Visit it soon and experience an unforgettable trip!

Visiting the Abu Al-Hawa Cathedral in Aswan is a rewarding open-air journey and a must for any history enthusiast. Climb the sandy hill and enjoy an Instagram-worthy panoramic view of Aswan and the Nile. Often overlooked, this tranquil spot holds the true charm of a local mausoleum and a stunning sunset scene. Less than 2 km away, you can visit the tombs of the nobles, where the ancient Egyptian nobility found their final resting place. Immerse yourself in the culture, history and remarkable views!

A visit to the Feryal Garden in Aswan will immerse you in the natural beauty of Egypt. This tranquil oasis, tucked away in the middle of the bustling city, is named after an Egyptian princess and adds an enchanting historical dimension to your visit. Discover lush greenery, colorful flowers and colorful birdlife. The garden offers phenomenal views of the Nile and Elephantine Island. Nearby are the Aswan Museum and the impressive ruins of Abu, making the Feryal Garden a perfect introduction to the rich history and breathtaking nature of Aswan.

Pyramisa Island Hotel Aswan is an oasis on Elephantine Island, offering an unparalleled combination of history, tranquility and luxury. Enjoy the magnificent views of the Nile, the sprawling gardens, and the tantalizing cuisine of the in-house restaurants. For chess lovers, the hotel hosts the popular Aswan Chess Festival annually. Just a short boat ride away, you can marvel at ancient Egyptian relics at the Aswan Museum. The iconic Aswan market, souk and temple of Khnum are also within easy reach, enriching the local experience.

Highly recommended on the Aswan visit list is "TRAVEL WITH OSMANAA". With them you will dive into the rich history of the city, its cultural structure, its hidden corners and charming nooks. Osmanaa is an accomplished guide with a friendly demeanor and a wealth of local knowledge. Following the tour, you can take a quiet ride on a felucca around Elephantine Island. It is just a stone's throw away and offers a magnificent view of the Aswan skyline at sunset.

Explore the ancient wonders of Tempio di Khnum, a hidden treasure in Aswan. Remnants of a bygone era where the ram-headed deity Khnum once presided! Here you can admire the detailed architecture and mythical aura.

A stunning landmark of Aswan, Egypt, Agilkia Island offers a moving link to the past. Here, the ancient Philae Temples, saved from ruin by UNESCO, tell fascinating stories of a bygone era. At dusk, be enchanted by the eerie beauty of the Temple of Isis. Be sure to experience the incredible sound and light show, an impressive spectacle that is a feast for the senses. Exploring nearby Elephantine Island is another interesting archaeological adventure.

Embark on a journey to Elephantine Island, the jewel of the Nile in Aswan. This lush island is home to the ruins of ancient temples, the Museum of Aswan, and the Nilometer, which illustrates Egypt's sophisticated water management system. An insider's tip is to visit the traditional Nubian villages scattered around the island, showcasing their vibrant culture. Just a short boat ride away, don't miss the stunning botanical gardens of Kitchener's Island, a green oasis that contrasts with the desert landscape of Aswan.