'The River Nile. Luxor. The Valley of the Kings. Get ready to be wowed by Egypt's big three.'
It's been Egypt's lifeblood since the time of the Pharaohs. It's got more architectural treasures lining its banks than Rome has sights. And it's seen everyone from Cleopatra to Lionel Richie drift along its length. We are, of course, talking about the Nile – the river that puts cities like Cairo and Luxor within easy reach. In the chaotic capital the Pyramids and other memorabilia from the past jostle for space among five star hotels. In Luxor, meanwhile, more must-sees stack up. You've got the Luxor and Karnak Temples and the Valley of the Kings, to name a few. Not to mention spice-scented bazaars and traditional restaurants. With all this on offer, and a whole lot more besides, it's easy to see why this waterway is still as well-loved as it was six thousand years ago.
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Resorts in Egypt Nile include Cairo and Luxor.
Looking for holidays in Egypt? Our Egypt holiday destinations include Egypt Nile and Egypt Red Sea.
Egyptian cuisine blends a delicious fusion of Arabic and Mediterranean influences. Falafel - round patties made from ground broad beans or chickpeas - originate from here. Enjoy them in warm pitta bread accompanied by crispy salad and a tangy yoghurt sauce. The national dish is 'fool', a hearty stew made with broad beans, garlic, tomatoes and paprika whilst veal is the most popular meat, along with lamb and pigeon. All of these delicious specialities, as well as international cuisine ranging from Chinese to Italian, can be enjoyed in the lively restaurants of Cairo and Luxor.
Much of the entertainment in Luxor is hotel-based, with dazzling belly-dancing shows, live Egyptian folk music and opulent bars on offer. Outside, in the city streets, you can discover authentic bars exuding real Egyptian charm.
For an intoxicating shopping experience, head to the Khan el-Khalili bazaar in Cairo where you can delve into the traditional Egyptian way of life. Stick to the main stretch for souvenirs or stray into the smaller alleys to discover hidden treasures in gold and silver, copper and leather. Fine Egyptian rugs and vibrant clothes are infused with the scent of sweet perfume and pungent spices from neighbouring stalls. Luxor has its own street markets in the old town that stay open well into the night. Narrow streets are crammed with stalls and shops selling everything from bespoke jewellery to woven goods.