Welcome to Aswan
On the southern side of Egypt, you will find Aswan, an imaginary town initially known as Swenett. The city is renowned for its calm atmosphere, rich archaeological monuments, and stunning views of the Nile Valley. It is the ideal winter getaway because of its warm, year-round Aswan weather.
The city offers beautiful views and attractions if you decide to enjoy a felucca trip across the Nile (Egyptian sailboat). The river flows smoothly from Lake Nasser via several islands encircled by the flora and black rock. Discover the destination’s rich history and culture by sailing to historical locations, including Philea, the Elephantine Island, and Agha Khan Mausoleum.
How To Get There
By Air
This tourist centre has its own airport, Daraw airport, with international and domestic terminals. Major cities service flights to and from Aswan International airport. The airport is about 16 km southwest of the centre of the city.
By Train
If coming from Cairo, try the popular overnight sleeper trains, which can be more affordable compared to flying. The night trains are operated by Ernst.
Book online or in person at the Ernst ticket office, at Ramses station in Cairo. Please note, cards are not accepted if buying your ticket at the station, so you will need to pay in US dollars.Â
Getting Around Aswan
By Felucca
Enjoy a traditional experience on a Felucca – an Egyptian wooden boat with a canvas sail in various sizes and designs. The cost of taking a Felucca depends on the number of passengers and the time of the year.
By Taxi
One of the most reasonable means of transportation in Egypt is by taxi. You can pre-arrange them from your hotel and conveniently hail one on the streets.
Arrange a Tour
The most convenient and stress free option is to arrange a guided tour. Click here for options.
Places Of Interest
Discovering the History at the Nubian MuseumÂ
A well-liked Aswan tourist destination, the location is home to various historical relics from Nubia, perfect for travellers who wish to learn more about the local history and culture. The museum’s earliest relics, some of which date back to 6000 BC, are stored in well-lit cases with English- and Arabic-language explanation plaques.
Goddess Isis’s Honour at the Philae Temple
The Philae Temples on Agilkia Island are among the best-preserved Ptolemaic temples in the nation. The temple, which honours the goddess Isis, was constructed around 650 B.C., while Osiris and Horus had temples in the complex specifically for them.
Visitors can view the Light and Sound performance in the evenings. Online ticket sales for the concert start at about EGP190. Visitors must hire a boat to go to the landmark on Philae Island. A roundtrip boat ride may cost roughly 120 EGP.
Nubian Village Visit
Take a trip through the Nile to visit the Nubian village, with vividly colored houses, spice shops & cafes overlooking the Nile River. Experience the local life, enjoy a Nubian drink in one of the houses and get to pet the crocodiles.
Day Trips From Aswan
Abu Simbel
Abu Simbel is a historic UNESCO World Heritage site in Numbia, comprising two most impressive temples. The most prominent is the Great Temple, and not far are the Small temples of King Ramses II and his wife, Queen Nefertiti.
They stand impressively set into solid rock, overlooking the River Nile and can be seen towards Philae. You can enter both temples and explore hieroglyphs and sanctuaries inside. There is so much history to learn, so we recommend hiring a good guide to get the most out of these impressive monuments.
Temple of Kom Ombo
Kom Ombo means "The Hill Of Gold". The Temple of Kom Ombo is unusual but unique, standing in a beautiful setting on the Nile River as a double temple. Built approximately 180 years ago (B.C) by the Ptolemaic dynasty, the temple is dedicated to the Crocodile God Sobek; in the northern part and the Falcon God Haroeris; in the southern region.
Temple of Edfu
The Temple of Edfu is an Egyptian Ptolemaic temple that stands on the west bank of the Nile, flanked by beautiful granite statues of the Falcon God Horus. From the wall and doorways covered with relief, you will learn the story of Horus exacting his revenge on Seth for the murder of his father, Osiris, an event re-enacted annually in the temple.
Aga Khan Mausoleum
Felucca Rides on the Nile
Riding a felucca on the River Nile is a must-do, especially around sunset. The classic sailboats, feluccas, are usually one-hour trips, sailing calmly along the River Nile and typically costs as much as EGP1, 100.
Where To Stay
Aswan offers various accommodation options depending on the traveller’s budget and preferred location. We’ve highlighted some popular ones to consider.
Luxury Hotels
A luxurious resort on an island in the middle of the River Nile. Enjoy stunning views of the Nile, panoramic mountains, and pharaonic artefacts enclosed within 28 acres of luscious gardens. The Agha Khan Mausoleum and the central retail district are short sailings from the hotel.
Mid-Range Hotels
The hotel is 23 km from the Aga Khan Mausoleum and offers lodging with a garden, free private parking, a communal lounge, and a terrace. This property’s amenities include a restaurant, a shared kitchen, room service, and complimentary WiFi. The hotel has a nightclub and a tour desk.
Budget Hotels
Hapi Hotel: Â
You’ll find the Hapi Hotel in a prime location in Aswan, within a 5-minute walk of the Aswan Bazaar and a 10-minute walk of Feryal Garden. The hotel offers concierge services, a shared lounge, non-smoking rooms, and free WiFi, great budget hotel.
Where To Eat
Here are some of Aswan’s most well-known eateries where you will get delicious Egyptian food. Even some of the locations combine excellent meals with breathtaking views.
Almost every traveller has this restaurant on their bucket list, and it may be one of the city’s most well-known restaurants. The serene environment and stunning Nile River view will draw you in and don’t leave without trying a cup of their freshly brewed coffee.
Nubian Dream Restaurant and Cafe
This Aswan cafe and restaurant is the most outstanding choice for genuine Egyptian cuisine. The restaurant in the Nubian Village is crowded, which conveys a great place to enjoy tasty food.
Another must-try restaurant for excellent authentic Egyptian cuisine. You will need to take a boat to get to the restaurant as it is on an island, but we promise the trip will be well worth it. The meal is delicious, and the 13th floor’s spectacular Nile perspective is something you will remember forever. Â
The Makka Restaurant is an option if you’re seeking a restaurant at a reasonable price, where the food’s quality is never compromised.Â
Recommended Tours
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