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If you like to travel when things are a bit quieter and prices are more reasonable, November is a good month to consider. You’ll find Japan’s autumn colours at their best, the mountains in northern Vietnam are perfect for trekking, the Nile is comfortable for cruising, and Patagonia is just starting to wake up for the season. Each destination below has been chosen by our specialists who know the country like the back of their hands. Over the past year, we’ve walked through the streets of Rajasthan, sailed the Nile, looked for pumas in Patagonia, explored the rainforests of Costa Rica and trekked in northern Vietnam’s rice terraces. Every recommendation comes from the experts’ genuine connection to these places, shaped by their countless visits. These are cherished favourites, far beyond anything you’d find in a brochure. If you’re thinking about taking a trip in November, these are the places our experts personally recommend. These are our top picks on where to go in November For colourful cultures and easy breezy exploring Egypt in November Taken by HA expert Ian in Hurghada, 2026. Egypt changes completely depending on when you visit. And if there's one month Cat and Ian happily recommend to almost anyone considering a trip to Egypt, it's November. By November, the summer heat has dropped, so you can spend more time out and about without having to duck into the shade every few minutes. It’s a comfortable time to explore the Great Pyramids, walk through Cairo’s old streets, or take your time at the temples in Luxor. Everything just feels a bit more manageable. November is also a popular time for Nile cruises. It’s a relaxed way to travel between Luxor and Aswan. You’ll see fishermen out early on the river and can step off to visit temples that have been standing for millennia. Cat suggests booking your trip as early as you can to secure the best cruise options, as November also marks the heart of the Nile cruise season. Ships begin filling up quickly, and it can be hard to reserve if you wait too long. But there's a good reason why cruising along the river, stopping at ancient temples between Luxor and Aswan and waking somewhere new each morning is still one of the best ways to experience Egypt. Top tip: She also loves Alexandria, describing the seafood there as “so exceptional [she'd] happily return just for another meal.” Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => I personally go in November, so I always recommend that my clients aim to time their trip between September and April if they can. The weather is just perfect.... [name] => Cathine Williams [location] => HA Destination Manager, Egypt [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ I personally go in November, so I always recommend that my clients aim to time their trip between September and April if they can. The weather is just perfect.... Cathine Williams HA Destination Manager, Egypt ” The Egypt team Catherine Williams Ian Lowbridge Why we'd choose Egypt in November ✓ Comfortable temperatures for sightseeing ✓ Nile cruise season is in full swing ✓ Perfect for combining Cairo, Luxor and Aswan in one itinerary India in November Group of young friends sat on the beach, taken by HA expert Clare in Neeleshwar, 2026. With the monsoon out of the way, Rajasthan's well-known cities are pleasantly warm instead of stifling. It’s a good time to wander around Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur in your own time. If you’re picturing yourself exploring India, chances are you’re thinking of this season. The markets burst with colour, old forts look their finest, and family-run havelis open their doors to guests. The streets are full of life, but you can enjoy it all without the exhausting heat like in the earlier months. If you look beyond the main sights, you’ll have time to see village life, local customs, and really get to immerse yourself in everyday life in India. Instead of rushing between Jaipur's Amber Fort and the City Palace before temperatures climb, you can spend the afternoon wandering through bazaars, stopping for chai, chatting to local crafters and getting wonderfully distracted down streets that weren't on your itinerary. After her recent journey through Rajasthan, Clare's biggest recommendation wasn't a palace or a monument. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => Village life in Rajasthan is something people absolutely shouldn't miss. [name] => Clare Burkey [location] => HA Destination Manager, India [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ Village life in Rajasthan is something people absolutely shouldn't miss. Clare Burkey HA Destination Manager, India ” Our India expert Clare Burkey It's advice she now gives to almost every client because, while Rajasthan's forts and palaces are extraordinary, the best parts are often spent wandering through small villages, meeting local families, and seeing traditions continue exactly as they have for generations. November gives you the time and the temperatures to experience both. Why we'd choose India in November ✓ Comfortable temperatures for exploring Rajasthan's cities on foot ✓ Clear skies after the monsoon ✓ Time to properly immerse yourself in local life rather than escaping the heat Oman in November Taken by HA client Adrien, stood infront of the Grand mosque, 2026. November is a great time to get out and discover Oman. You might start your day climbing the old fort at Nizwa, head into the Hajar Mountains after lunch, and finish with dinner under the stars in the desert. The heat has eased off by November, so you can really make the most of your time outdoors. November is also a good month to visit before the Christmas rush. The weather is pleasant, and it’s usually easier to find space at the hotels you want, without the higher prices that come later in the year. If you’re after a trip that mixes culture, a bit of adventure and some comfort, November is a good time to go. Why we'd choose Oman in November ✓ Comfortable temperatures across the country ✓ Ideal conditions for deserts, mountains and historic towns ✓ Better availability and value before the festive season For incredible landscapes and scenery Japan in November Taken by HA expert Erin, in the Zen gardens in Arashiyama, 2026. Cherry blossom might dominate social media feeds, but ask our experts which season they'd personally choose, and autumn often wins. November is when much of Japan reaches peak colour. Temple gardens turn rich shades of red and gold, mountain valleys are full of autumn colour, and the walk between shrines feels extra special at this time of year. November is also a good time to take things a bit slower, and our expert, Erin, spoke about this a lot after her most recent trip to Japan, explaining why it's important to be mindful and slow down whilst you’re there to really reap the benefits. Read Erin's latest japan blog: Where to go in Japan besides Tokyo and Kyoto: Our expert's top recommendations Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => Sakura is amazing, but there's so much more reason to travel outside of it. [name] => Erin Evans [location] => HA Destination Manager, Japan [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ Sakura is amazing, but there's so much more reason to travel outside of it. Erin Evans HA Destination Manager, Japan ” The Japan team Erin Evans Fenton The weather is cool and comfortable for exploring on foot, making it easy to wander through Kyoto’s temples, hike sections of the Nakasendo Way, or just enjoy a delicious bowl of ramen at the end of the day. It’s a lovely time to visit, not just for the scenery and colour, but for the comfortable pace and pleasant weather. Why we'd choose Japan in November  ✓ Peak autumn colour across much of Japan ✓ Excellent walking weather ✓ One of the country's most photogenic months For nature and wildlife Chile in November HA Chile expert, Lou, with Gabs, who heads marketing, by the Chilean Lakes Chile never stays the same for long. Every time you visit, our expert Lou says you notice something different. Over the course of three weeks, our South America specialist Lou returned to Chile and travelled from the glaciers and granite peaks of Patagonia to volcanoes, salt flats and flamingo-filled lagoons in the Atacama Desert. She always says November is a brilliant time to make the journey. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => My personal favourite times are in the shoulder seasons in spring or autumn... it offers better value, it's quieter in most places, and generally it will still offer mostly great weather. [name] => Louise Mumford [location] => HA Destination Manager, Chile [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ My personal favourite times are in the shoulder seasons in spring or autumn... it offers better value, it's quieter in most places, and generally it will still offer mostly great weather. Louise Mumford HA Destination Manager, Chile ” Our Chile expert Louise Mumford Patagonia is just coming back to life after winter. The hiking trails are opening up again, wildlife is easier to spot, and you can enjoy the landscapes before the busy summer crowds. Lou describes Torres del Paine as: "Completely and utterly breath-taking... The photos will NEVER do justice to this amazing place." The moment she'll remember most, though, surprisingly wasn't the scenery. It was hiking through thorny scrub with local tracker Diego before finally spotting a female puma watching her from around fifty metres away. Then, as if that wasn't magical enough. A few days later, she saw a huge pod of dolphins leaping beside her as she cruised along in a zodiac, then she soaked in hot springs under the stars, and picked up the knack of drinking mate with local gauchos. These are the sorts of experiences you can expect from a trip designed for you by Lou in November . Why we'd choose Chile in November ✓ See Patagonia before peak season ✓ Longer daylight hours for exploring ✓ Excellent wildlife opportunities ✓ Better value than summer Argentina in November Caminito street in La Boca neighborhood of Buenos Aires November is a great time to get outside in Patagonia. Walking trails start to open up again, wildflowers pop up across the hillsides, and the days are long enough to really make the most of your time outdoors. If you head to the Atlantic coast, Peninsula Valdés is the place to watch orcas hunting close to shore. You’ll also see sea lions and plenty of penguins along the beaches at this time of year. In Buenos Aires, the city comes alive with locals heading to the parks, sitting out at cafés and browsing the neighbourhood markets in the spring sunshine. The nearby wine regions are also just starting their new season. (And if that isn’t an extra reason to visit, we don’t know what is!) If you’re looking to mix wildlife, scenery and a bit of local culture, November is a great month to visit before the summer crowds arrive. “This is a great time to be in the city for local life, especially around the parks, Recoleta and La Boca.” - Louise Mumford, HA destination manager. Why we'd choose Argentina in November ✓ Comfortable temperatures across the country ✓ Ideal conditions for deserts, mountains and historic towns ✓ Better availability and value before the festive season Costa Rica in November Taken by HA's Gabs, our Marketing Managerhead at Maquenque Eco Lodge in Boca Tapada If you’re thinking about Costa Rica, November is a lovely month to go. The landscapes are at their greenest after the rains, wildlife is easy to spot, and you’ll miss the busiest part of the season. You might find yourself watching howler monkeys from your lodge, spotting sloths tucked into the trees or waking up to the sound of birds in the cloud forest. Costa Rica always feels full of life at this time of year. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => We watched a family of howler monkeys in the trees right in front of our room for ages. Keep the patio doors shut or the coatis will come in! [name] => Dawn Smith [location] => HA Destination Manager, Costa Rica [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ We watched a family of howler monkeys in the trees right in front of our room for ages. Keep the patio doors shut or the coatis will come in! Dawn Smith HA Destination Manager, Costa Rica ” Our Costa Rica expert Dawn Smith It's exactly that unpredictability that makes a holiday to Costa Rica so exciting. One moment you're searching for sloths with your guide, and the next you're sipping coffee on your terrace while monkeys dance for you outside your window. Why we'd choose Costa Rica in November ✓ Wildlife is incredibly active ✓ Landscapes are lush and green ✓ Before peak visitor numbers arrive For adventure and local experiences Vietnam in November HA's Vietnam expert, Lisa, along the Thu Bon River Erin has been to Vietnam many times, but she always says November in Sapa is special. Not because of the glorious sunshine, but because the mist lifts and the mountains come into view. Array ( [0] => stdClass Object ( [content] => It's just magical in Sapa at this time of year. It's cool enough to head off trekking through the iconic landscapes without too many clouds rolling over the landscape and obscuring the views. It's right at the start of the high season, so you'll have no heat and humidity to contend with, no torrential rain, and it should be nicely quiet! [name] => Erin Evans [location] => HA Destination Manager, Vietnam [text_color] => [quote_color] => [admin_label] => Item 1 ) ) “ It's just magical in Sapa at this time of year. It's cool enough to head off trekking through the iconic landscapes without too many clouds rolling over the landscape and obscuring the views. It's right at the start of the high season, so you'll have no heat and humidity to contend with, no torrential rain, and it should be nicely quiet! Erin Evans HA Destination Manager, Vietnam ” The Vietnam team Erin Evans Lisa Jankus-Scott Fenton Lisa Dyboll And then once you've finished trekking? You can travel down south, and Vietnam completely changes its character and feel, so you can experience something quite different after your time in the mountains. It’s easy to take a short flight south and swap the cool mountain air for a few days by the warm sea. It’s a nice way to combine adventure and relaxation all in one trip. Why we'd choose Vietnam in November ✓ Fantastic trekking conditions around Sapa ✓ Clearer mountain views ✓ Easy to combine with beach time in southern Vietnam For a bit of downtime in the winter sun The Maldives in November Taken by HA's Maldives expert, Dodds (Rebecca), Sun Siyam Iru Veli If you're already travelling all the way to Sri Lanka, why rush home? November is a great month to add a few days in the Maldives to your Sri Lanka holiday. After exploring national parks, wandering through tea estates, visiting ancient sites and taking the train through the hills, a few days of proper downtime is a lovely way to round things off. The Maldives is only a short flight from Sri Lanka, but it feels like a different world. Instead of jungle and hills, you’ve got calm lagoons, white sand and the chance to snorkel straight from your villa. After lots of adventure, you can relax, read, swim and watch the sun set over the water each evening. November also marks the start of the Maldives' drier season. The weather is generally excellent, resorts are starting to prepare for the busier months, and you'll often have more choice than you would during the Christmas and New Year period. For most of our clients, we'd recommend the Maldives as the perfect post Sri Lanka escape. That said, if you've already explored Sri Lanka before, or you're simply craving a dedicated beach holiday, it also makes a wonderful standalone destination. Why we'd choose the Maldives in November ✓ A seamless add-on to a Sri Lanka itinerary ✓ Generally excellent weather as the drier season begins ✓ More choice before the festive peak ✓ The perfect balance of adventure followed by complete relaxation. Morocco in November HA expert, Doddsy (Rebecca), on a sidecar tour excursion in Marrakesh In Morocco this time of year, the summer heat has eased off, but it’s not yet winter, so you get mild days and clear skies. It’s a good month if you want a mixture. You might spend a morning exploring the souks in Marrakech, then head into the Atlas Mountains for a hike between crumbling Berber villages, and finish your trip by the Atlantic or out in the Sahara, where the nights are cool, and the skies are clear. There are also festivities nationwide this time of year as Morocco celebrates Independence Day on November 18th. Another plus for November is that, surprisingly, it’s quieter than October, so you can take your time in the cities and enjoy the mountain trails without the crowds. The weather is still on your side too, with plenty of sunshine and pleasant temperatures for getting out and about. Emma, our head of Trade (and previous Morocco expert!), has travelled to Morocco in November multiple times now and, in her words, it's “always 10/10”. “Morocco in November is like the Goldilocks of travel season: not too hot, not yet cold, and right after the crowds of peak October travel season. You still get lovely blue skies and sunshine right through the country, and it's the perfect temperature for hiking in the mountains, lounging by the coast, or exploring bustling cities.” - Emma Higgins, HA Head of Trade. There is such a wonderful variety in Morocco this time of year. Rather than choosing between cities, mountains, coast or desert, November gives you the option to combine them all into one beautifully balanced itinerary. What’s more, it’s your chance for a little drop of winter sunshine just a quick four hour flight from home. Why we'd choose Morocco in November ✓ Comfortable temperatures for exploring Morocco's cities on foot ✓ Warm sunshine along the coast without the summer crowds ✓ Fantastic conditions for hiking in the Atlas Mountains ✓ A great time to combine Marrakech, the mountains and the Sahara in one trip. So, where will November take you? There isn't one perfect place to travel in November. It really comes down to the kind of holiday you have in mind. Some people are tempted by Patagonia as spring arrives, others by the autumn colours in Japan, the walking trails in Vietnam or a classic journey along the Nile in Egypt. Wherever you end up, November is a good time to travel if you prefer things a little quieter. You can explore at your own pace, often before the busiest season starts. All of these suggestions have been thoughtfully hand-picked by our experts, and you will always get more than just a templated itinerary with us. You'll get tips that can only come from knowing a place like a local and honest, helpful advice from our HA experts who know their destinations like the back of their hands. If any of these places sound intriguing. Reach out today; our experts would love to chat with you to build a bespoke itinerary and personally design a trip tailored just to you. Where to go in November? Chat to one of our experts today and build a November trip that is perfect for you. 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Cat, our Egypt expert, spent two weeks travelling through the country in November. She ventured from Cairo and the Nile to the Red Sea and Alexandria. All to ensure she's up to date on the very best hotels, unique experiences, and secret spots to make your holidays unforgettable. We asked her what stood out. Where did you go on your last Egypt trip? My two-week trip through Egypt took me to Cairo , down the Nile on a cruise between Aswan and Luxor, some Red Sea beach time in Hurghada, and up to the Mediterranean coast of Alexandria. It felt like a really well-rounded way to experience the country – ancient history, everyday life, time on the water, and a change of pace by the sea. Cat at Karnak Temple What is it like to travel to Egypt? Travelling through Egypt feels incredibly rich, with so many different layers to uncover. More than anything though, it feels really safe. Of course, there are the famous sights, but what really stood out for me was how much there is to discover beyond them. From walking through different neighbourhoods in Cairo to learning about modern religious history and the Roman-Greco era, it quickly becomes clear that Egypt isn’t just about pyramids and temples. There’s a lot more depth once you start peeling back the layers. (And when you know where to look!) What should you see in Cairo, beyond the pyramids? The pyramids are a worthy calling card of course, but one of my favourite parts of my time in Cairo was visiting the historic side of the city and walking along El Moez Street. It’s around a kilometre long and full of life – locals going about their day, bazaars, handicraft shops, and people creating artwork and traditional Egyptian pieces as you walk past. It was a wonderful way to experience the city on foot, and take in all the fascinating architecture lining the street. Cat visiting Kom Ombo Temple on her Nile Cruise Is a Nile Cruise worth it? Absolutely. Cruising the Nile between Aswan and Luxor is such a special way to see Egypt. Along the way, I visited the impressive temples that line the river, including Philae, Edfu and Kom Ombo, before exploring both the East and West Banks of Luxor. Seeing these sites from the water adds a completely different perspective and breaks up the journey in a really relaxed way. Also, the experience of a cruise in itself is a must-do in Egypt. There are so many different options (and luxury levels!) to choose from, there's sure to be a cruise that's perfect for you. What was your favourite experience in Egypt? Floating above Luxor in a hot air balloon has to be right up there. It was something I had always dreamed of doing, and seeing the West Bank from above as the sun came up was incredible. It felt calm, peaceful and very special – a complete contrast to exploring the temples on foot later that day. And otherwise, just going back to Luxor, 25 years after my last visit and seeing how much it had developed into a far more lively and thriving city. The ancient sites, of course, hadn’t changed, but seeing one of my favourite Egyptian cities brought back fond memories and a chance to revisit those sites with fresh eyes and a better understanding of what I was encountering. Cat floating over Luxor in a hot air balloon What food should you try in Egypt? My favourite meal was actually quite a simple one, but my goodness was it done well. It has to be the Gambari Maklee, a crispy fried shrimp dish, which I had whilst staying in Alexandria. This combined with warm pita bread and a fresh tahini dip, I just couldn’t stop myself. Being on the Mediterranean, all my seafood dishes here were exceptional. I'd go back to Alexandira just for the Seafood alone! Where to stay in Egypt Egypt has so many wonderful accommodation options to choose from. There's something to suit every taste and budget. One of my favourite places I stayed on this trip was Al Moudira, on the West Bank of Luxor. It feels like its own little oasis away from the busier parts of the city. The hotel is made up of a honeycomb of courtyards, with buildings designed around Lebanese and Egyptian styles. With its gardens, restaurants and pool, it’s the perfect place to switch off after busy days exploring Egypt. Should you use local guides in Egypt? Without a doubt. My favourite interaction on this trip has to be with my guide in Cairo, Abeer. She was an absolute delight from start to finish and a real fountain of knowledge on all things Ancient and modern Egypt. The way she explained everything so well, and made me feel relaxed during the whole experience was a cherished moment during my time in Egypt. These connections are what travel is all about. You get right to the heart of the place through the words and experiences of a local. I always recommend it. Cat and Abeer, exploring the pyramids What surprised you about Egypt on this trip? What surprised me most was just how much there is to Egypt beyond the ancient sites. Learning about its more recent religious history and its connections to the Roman-Greco world really changed how I viewed the country. It’s a destination with layers of history that stretch far beyond what most people initially expect. There's so much to explore and learn and I can't wait to weave those discoveries into Egypt holidays for our travellers. What can't be missed on an Egypt holiday? Including specialised, guided tours are a must. They get you right below the surface of Egyptian culture with the knowledge and insights of a local expert. I recommend joining the Women of Egyptian Food and shopping tour to not only learn about some of the tantalising Egyptian dishes, but also understand the increasing, refreshing involvement of women in the local culture and developments. Cat at the Colossi of Memnon What's your top tip for an Egypt holiday? Make sure you have lots of small notes on you (i.e. 20 EGP notes), as you will need these for public toilets outside of hotels, buying any soft drinks as you are walking around and tipping boat transfers. I also suggest getting an e-SIM so you can access the internet and use WhatsApp when out and about without spending a fortune on mobile data when there's no WiFi. When is the best time to go to Egypt? If you're planning an Egypt holiday , I’d generally recommend timing your trip between September and April, if you can, when the weather is at its most comfortable. I travelled in November, which was a great time to be there. For the Red Sea , I’d avoid December and January as it can cool down more than you might expect, especially in the evenings. May to August can be extremely hot, but visitor numbers are much lower, so many of the main sights are noticeably quieter. So, if you can handle the heat, these would be good months to consider for better prices and fewer people! Cat at the Pyramids of Giza, Cairo Catherine Williams Destination Manager Cat is our Egypt travel specialist and recently launched the destination at Holiday Architects. Her advice is always based on first-hand travel, long-standing local partnerships and a genuine love for helping clients see Egypt beyond the obvious highlights. Do get in touch to have a chat with her if an Egypt holiday is on your wishlist. She'd love to help! Chat to Cat ZEN_HOLIDAY_PACK_YOUR_BAGS ZEN_HOLIDAY_SPEAK_TO_SPECIALIST ZEN_HOLIDAY_GET_A_QUOTE ZEN_HOLIDAY_TEL ZEN_HOLIDAY_OPEN_HOURS

Egypt has fascinated travellers for thousands of years, and quite rightly so. It's a country that offers so much for your holidays, whilst still somehow serving up healthy doses of the unexpected. Yes, the pyramids are worth a trip in themselves, but an Egypt holiday is about so much more. This guide has been written by Cat, our Egypt expert, who has spent plenty of time travelling through the country and getting under the skin of what makes it such a rewarding place to explore. Drawing on her first-hand experiences, hotel stays and chatting with the locals, below she shares how to approach an Egypt holiday in a way that's perfect for you. Cat's quick guide to Egypt holidays Cat at the Pyramids of Giza Egypt really is a country unlike any other, I love it a little bit more every time I visit. A holiday here, really rewards a bit of time spent, curiosity triggered and a good bit of planning. (I can help with that!) Its ancient history is rightly famous, those pyramids really are a must-see in a lifetime. But, what often surprises visitors, is how much more there is to experience once you start to slow down. You'll visit vibrant modern neighbourhoods that are wrapped around ancient sites, with so much layered religious heritage to uncover everywhere you go. The desert landscapes feel quietly immense, the beaches and underwater adventures top-notch, a cruise along the Nile is an experience not to miss, and taking a hot air balloon flight over the Valley of the Kings is a moment I struggle to find words for. And, on top of all that, there are the wonderful people who are so generous with their time and their stories. Why Egypt works so well for a tailor-made holiday Cat visiting Tutankhamun at the Grand Egyptian Museum, Cairo Egypt isn’t a place that suits a one-size-fits-all approach. The distances are all manageable, but the number of experiences on offer can get a little overwhelming. Having the freedom to adjust the pace of your trip, and make sure there's plenty of balance woven in along the way makes all the difference. A tailor-made Egypt holiday allows you to balance guided exploration with time to absorb what you’re seeing. It also makes it easier to combine different sides of the country – from the Nile to the desert, or history-led sightseeing with time to put your feet up by the Red Sea. Private guides, flexible timings and carefully chosen hotels help turn Egypt from a checklist destination into something far more personal (with the bucketlist sights ticked off along the way, of course!) Chat to Cat about your Egypt holiday Egypt holiday ideas to inspire your trip As always with us, every single holiday we design is as unique as the people we design them for. There's no 'one-size fits all' approach here. But, we have plenty of starting point ideas to give you an idea of what could be possible. Classic Egypt itineraries work really well if your time is limited, but you still want to fly home with a strong sense of the country. These itineraries typically combine Cairo, Luxor and the Nile, with a thoughtful balance of guided visits and downtime (and often some time on the Red Sea Coast!). These are a great starting point if you're planning a visit to Egypt for the first time and don't want to miss the best bits. Family-friendly Egypt holidays show just how well the country works for all ages. With engaging guides, shorter travel days and plenty of hands-on experiences that really bring history to life without overwhelming younger minds. Factoring plenty of time for some R&R on the beach is a good On top of that, we have plenty of in-depth itineraries that get you diving deeper into the magic of Egypt. Desert-focused itineraries that show a quieter and lesser-experienced side of the country, proving there's more to Egypt than just the Temples, Tombs and Pyramids that line the Nile. Where to go in Egypt Medinet Habu, Luxor Egypt offers a real sense of variety, with each region bringing something different to the table. The key is combining them in a way that works for you. Most trips begin in Cairo, home to some of the country’s most iconic sights. The pyramids at Giza will always be an essential, and with the Grand Egyptian Museum reopened in 2025, it's an unbeatable spot to get a real feel for the depth of Egypt's ancient treasures. Alongside this, historic areas such as Old Cairo are perfect for a lively insight into the city’s layered religious and cultural history. Further south, Luxor sits right at the heart of ancient Egypt. Temples, tombs and monuments line both sides of the Nile here, making it one of the most important archaeological regions in the world. Exploring both the East and West Banks will reveal how the pharaohs lived, ruled and were remembered. You won't want to rush your time here! Aswan and the view over the Nile Continuing along the river, Aswan boasts a gentler, slower pace of life. Life here revolves around the Nile, with traditional feluccas drifting past riverside villages and colourful markets offering you a glimpse of what everyday life is like in southern Egypt. Away from the river, Egypt’s desert landscapes are a dramatically different side of the country. They're quieter, more expansive, and ripe for exploring. Vast open spaces, dramatic rock formations and big skies are a striking contrast to the intensity of the Nile Valley, we love adding a desert stay into an itinerary for a bit of balance. To finish, many travellers choose to unwind along the Red Sea, with its warm waters, vibrant coral reefs and relaxed coastal hotels. It's the perfect spot to rest, relax and toast the adventure you've had. Where to stay in Egypt The Four Seasons Resort, Sharm El Sheikh Choosing the right hotels in Egypt adds hugely to the experience. There are a whole host of options to choose from, and that's where it's handy to have someone who's paid them all a visit to help seek out the best fit for you. Cat's favourite hotels in Egypt Along the Red Sea, the Mövenpick El Quseir is one of my favourite options. It perfectly combines thoughtful design with quick and easy access to the beaches and vibrant coral reef systems. It's the perfect spot to spend a few days relaxing amidst all of the history, sightseeing and exploring you'll be doing. If you want history, the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract in Aswan has it in bucket loads. Not only was it briefly the residence of Agatha Christie, but the walls also played host to the likes of Winston Churchill and Henry Kissinger. The colonial architecture and Egyptian décor really make this a unique property. On Luxor’s West Bank, the Al Moudira is a destination in itself. Its relatively remote location on the West Bank of Luxor makes for a wonderfully peaceful refuge amongst the Lebanese and Egyptian-inspired buildings. You won’t find a property like it, which makes it even more of a draw away from the dominant larger chain hotels. When to go to Egypt Egypt is a true year-round destination, but our favourite time to visit is between October and April. During these months, the daytime temperatures are warm rather than intense, and the evenings cool down nicely. It’s ideal for exploring temples, tombs and cities on foot – particularly as many archaeological sites offer very little shade! The winter months are great for cultural itineraries along the Nile, with clear skies and lovely conditions for sightseeing. This is also a great time to combine history with a short Red Sea stay, where the weather remains reliably sunny without being overwhelmingly hot! Summer (May to September) brings much higher temperatures, particularly in Upper Egypt around Luxor and Aswan. That said, travel is still possible with careful planning. Early starts, lighter sightseeing days and well-chosen hotels make a big difference, and coastal areas along the Red Sea tend to feel more comfortable thanks to cooling sea breezes. Summer can also be a quieter time to visit some key sites, which appeals to travellers happy to adapt their pace. Egypt celebrates a number of national and religious holidays throughout the year. During these times, some places can feel a little busier, especially in the cities, but the payoff is a brilliant atmosphere. With the right guidance, these moments can add an extra layer of local colour and interaction to your trip. As with all our holidays, we’re here to help you choose the best time to travel based on what you want to see, how you like to explore, and how much heat you’re comfortable with. Sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Nile, Luxor, Egypt Get a quick quote for your Egypt holiday Cat's favourite experiences in Egypt It's so difficult to pick a favourite experience in Egypt, because there really are so many. It goes without saying, that seeing the Pyramids of Giza for the first time will always be up there. But if I had to pick three other top moments, these would just clinch the top spots I think... Cat enjoying a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Luxor, Egypt Old Cairo – I am just fascinated by the combination of religious histories and how they have melded together over the years. Plus, the churches, synagogues and mosques you'll visit are just so stunning to be amongst. Hot Air Balloon over Luxor – The views, the silence and grace of being up in the air, surrounded by so many balloons and looking out over the West Bank of Luxor as the sun came up is a memory I will never forget. I'll recommend it to all of my travellers for sure. Tour of Luxor’s East Bank – The Temples of Luxor and Karnak showcase some of the finest representations of how the many pharaohs lived and how they managed to create such intricate Temples and statues. If Egypt is a holiday destination on your radar, why not get in touch? Drop us an enquiry for a quick quote, or pick up the phone and chat with Cat about shaping a tailor-made holiday that suits you. Chat to Cat ZEN_HOLIDAY_PACK_YOUR_BAGS ZEN_HOLIDAY_SPEAK_TO_SPECIALIST ZEN_HOLIDAY_GET_A_QUOTE ZEN_HOLIDAY_TEL ZEN_HOLIDAY_OPEN_HOURS