Five reasons why Egypt should be your next holiday

1. Egypt offers incredible value for money

The Post Office has released its annual list of the best-value travel destinations, with Egypt taking the top spot for 2023. Thanks to a strong exchange rate from the British pound to the Egyptian pound, travellers can get great value for their money compared to other destinations, with affordable flights, accommodation and food. In fact, The Post Office reported that the British pound is worth 73% more this year against the Egyptian pound.

Perhaps the best advantage of this budget destination is that it doesn't skimp on amenities or experiences, which means you don't have to compromise on quality. The best deals can be found at the all-inclusive resorts in Hurghada, Sharm el Sheikh and Marsa Alam. Typically, 4- and 5-star all-inclusive packages, including flights, transfers and luggage, start from £450 per person.

2. The flight is a little over 5 hours from London

Egypt is a great destination for those who want to get out of Europe but not go too far. A direct flight from London takes about 5 hours and 25 minutes, making Egypt a mid-haul destination perfect for a week's holiday.

Looking for a flight-only deal? We've got those as well!

3. There's guaranteed sun

The best months for a beach holiday in Egypt are March to May and September to November, when the air and water temperatures are pleasantly warm. Summer, on the other hand, can be very hot, with temperatures in excess of 40C, although they usually average around 35C - perfect for holidaymakers who love the heat. In January and February, daytime temperatures are typically in the 20s, but can drop sharply at night. Those wishing to visit Egypt in January or February will find the warmest temperatures in Marsa Alam.

4. Egypt has a unique cultural heritage

Egypt has a rich history dating back to ancient times and is home to many cultural and historical highlights. In Cairo you'll find the Seventh Wonder of the World: the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, while in Luxor you'll find the Valley of the Kings, one of Egypt's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. If you are looking for a holiday packed with culture in a short space of time, a cruise on the Nile is a unique opportunity to explore the ancient past.

5. Egypt is home to world-class dive and snorkel spots

The Red Sea is home to over 1,200 species of fish, in addition to octopuses, hermit crabs, green turtles, spinner dolphins and sea cows. Coral-strewn shipwrecks and 5,000-year-old coral reefs add to Egypt's diverse and vibrant marine environment.

Where to holiday in Egypt

Now that we've convinced you that Egypt should be your next holiday destination, you may be wondering where to go. The most popular destinations for all-inclusive holidays are Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh, but Marsa Alam has become increasingly popular in recent years. Those looking for a bit of adventure could go on a Nile cruise in Egypt.

Hurghada

We already know you love Hurghada and Sharm. While both have their fair share of 4- and 5-star resorts, Hurghada is known for some of the most colourful coral reefs in the world - perfect for divers and snorkellers alike. The area is well-developed for tourism and safe. The shopping promenade and pretty harbour are perfect for a stroll, with good seafood restaurants and nightlife. It's also convenient for day trips to Cairo, Luxor and the pyramids.

Pirate tip 🏴‍☠️: Quieter alternatives for a holiday near Hurghada are Makadi Bay and Soma Bay (about 30 and 45 kilometres south respectively), with modern 4- and 5-star hotels.

Our top picks for hotels in Hurghada

Sharm El Sheikh

Located on the Sinai Peninsula, just a short drive from the airport, Sharm El Sheikh is a popular destination for holidaymakers, thanks to its wide range of all-inclusive packages and resorts at a variety of prices. It also has a lot to offer, including bustling bazaars, sand dunes perfect for 4×4 safaris, warm waters, beautiful beaches and a world-class nightlife. Long-term vistitors will find Sinai to be a tranquil place full of traditional Bedouin culture and great water sports.

Pirate tip 🏴‍☠️: Ras Mohammed is one of the best national parks for diving and snorkelling. Don't miss a dive to visit the SS Thistlegorm, a huge WWII warship in the middle of the national park.

Pirate tip 🏴‍☠️: If you don't want to dive or snorkel, you can take a glass-bottom boat or submarine.

Our top picks for hotels in Sharm El Sheikh

Marsa Alam

The resort town of Marsa Alam is much quieter than Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh, but we don't think it will stay that way for long. In fact, we recommend you book a holiday there while it's still relatively unknown to tourists, who tend to favour Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh.

Located in the south, Marsa Alam has some of the most unspoilt beaches on the Red Sea coast. The number of luxury hotels is increasing as tourism picks up. The area is perfect for a diving holiday, with intact reefs and many rare species of fish and sea turtles. Many hotels have their own reef for snorkelling or diving directly from the beach. Day trips to Wadi al Gamal National Park and Luxor are also available from Marsa Alam.

Pirate tip 🏴‍☠️: Those planning a beach holiday in Egypt should equip themselves with water shoes, because the reef often begins on the shore, and it is easy to injure yourself on the coral.

Our top picks for hotels in Marsa Alam

Nile cruises in Egypt

The Nile stretches over 6800 km through the otherwise arid desert of North Africa, with green fields and palm forests along its banks. A Nile cruise starts in Luxor and stops in Edfu, Kom Ombo and Aswan. You'll be able to see most of the highlights of Egypt in just a few days, including Thebes, Abu Simbel, Aswan, the Valley of the Kings and much more.

Of course, you can get there by bus or train, but cruises are much more comfortable and often much cheaper. Another advantage is that you can book direct tour packages for most of the sights and visit them with an experienced guide.