If you’ve never set foot in Egypt, then you have no idea what you are missing. There is more to the country than the famous Pyramids of Giza (which should be at least one good reason for you to visit Egypt, for bucket list sake). This North African country is simply an incredible destination filled with history and culture, not to mention you’ll get to set foot on the land of Nefertiti, and if you are lucky get a chance to learn more about her beauty routines. Now that would be something!

Seriously though, Egypt offers many amazing experiences that go beyond the Pyramids. From the breathtaking sights of the river Nile and the magnificent and awe-inspiring monuments to the beguiling desert and lush delta and beaches, and a vibrant culture to a rich culinary heritage. Egypt is a country with a great wealth of history that has long been eulogized, fantasized and romanticized.

So for this summer (or fall or winter), we have listed not one or 5, but a whole 14 reasons to visit Egypt, and how you can make your stay truly special and memorable.

More Reasons to Visit Egypt

When you visit Egypt, start with a tour of the Al Gezira Palace and relive the magic and mystery of a royal legacy as you explore the masterpieces carefully preserved at the Cairo Marriott Hotel.
Have a meal or smoke a flavored Shisha against the majestic backdrop of the Great Pyramids of Giza, the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World.
Breathe freshness, meditate and start your morning with a Yoga session with a breathtaking view of the mighty Pyramids.
Spa like a Pharoah: Pamper yourself with an indulgent signature spa treatment – The Peloid Treatment at The Nile Ritz- Carlton. The treatment offers an ultimate full body exfoliation after which different types of mineral mud are applied. Relax in the steam room as your body soaks in the benefits of the mud before it is rinsed off.

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Rest your head next to King Tut: Book a room that overlooks the Nile or one that offers a marvelous view of the Egyptian museum and the historical downtown and Tahrir Square.
Sugar Cane Juice: Try a taste of sugar cane juice for an authentic and refreshing Egyptian experience and stay “cool”.
Drop by at the newly reopened Sheraton Cairo and try the signature cocktail “Khan el khalili” which is a mixture of the renowned Egyptian “Doum” juice, milk, cinnamon syrup and cloves is inspired from the historical Bazar street “Khan el Khalili” were you will find a great mix of cultural and historic structures.
Discover an exotic world by exploring the winding lanes of an Arabian Bazaar – Khan El Khalili. The market is filled with wonderful items to buy. Within the souk you will find the Naguib Mahfouz restaurant, which is ideal for lunch, to refresh and gather your thoughts.
Visit Al Moez Street and Fishawy Café as they should not be missed, and for an ultimate one of a kind dining experience choose to dine in the Cairo Tower overlooking the beautiful scenic views of Cairo by night.
For an authentic Cairo experience, Egypt’s most favorite oriental meal “koushary”, is a must try. And if you are staying at the Sheraton Cairo, you can have it made in a unique way by the head Chef at El Mawardya Restaurant, where you can enjoy the delicious experience overlooking the mighty Nile.

To experience Cairo city by night, opt for a horse carriage ride by the Nile River, and enjoy the famous felucca ride playing a wide range of Arabic music to warm your heart.

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And if you are looking for hidden gems in the city of a 1000 minarets, you can visit Zeinab Khatoun house which is located in the Azhar area showcasing Islamic architecture and offering authentic Arabic shows. Moreover, the museum of Gayer Anderson is an art museum situated adjacent to the Mosque of Ahmad ibn Tulun in the Sayyida Zeinab neighborhood. The building takes its name from Major R.G. Gayer-Anderson Pasha, who resided in the house between 1935 and 1942. The museum is noted for being one of the best-preserved examples of 17th-century domestic architecture left in Cairo, and also for its vast collection of furniture, carpets, curio, and other objects.
Mawlawiyah Sufi dance is one of the most exquisite experiences in Old Cairo. Book a private Mawlawiyah performance at Al Ghori Mosque and prepare to be mesmerized, then end the experience with an oriental dinner. On the other hand, you can catch the latest performance at The Cairo Opera House which offers a packed calendar of shows.

After a day of sightseeing, sit back and enjoy the wonderful summer breeze at Cairo Marriott’s Garden Promenade Café set amidst palatial gardens…a magical blend of history, nature, and authenticity.