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Things to do in Aswan include exploring its breathtaking views along the Nile River, making it the perfect retreat for travellers seeking history, culture, and stunning landscapes. This charming city is famous for its ancient temples, rich Nubian heritage, and serene atmosphere. From sailing on a felucca at sunset to visiting the magnificent Abu Simbel and wandering through colourful Nubian villages, Aswan offers unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re drawn to its historical wonders or peaceful riverside beauty, there are countless things to do in Aswan, making it a must-visit destination for any traveller seeking adventure and relaxation.
Top 10 Best Things To Do In Aswan For A Scenic Retreat
Discover the 10 best things to do in Aswan, where stunning river views, ancient temples, and vibrant Nubian culture await.
1. Explore The Temple Of Philae
Photo: M.ramadan2014 / Wikimedia Commons
Visiting the Temple of Philae, a temple for the goddess Isis, is one of the things one must do in Aswan. The temple, which was initially situated on Philae Island, was moved to Agilkia Island following the construction of the Aswan High Dam. This ancient wonder is a testament to the fusion of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman architectural traditions with exquisite hieroglyphics and reliefs. Tourists can stroll through its giant columns, holy rooms, and stately courtyards, soaking up Egypt’s rich heritage.
Location: Agilkia Island, Aswan
Entry Fees: 100 EGP / ₹270
Timing: 7 AM – 5 PM (Sound and Light Show times vary)
2. Sail On A Felucca Along The Nile River
Photo: Cristian Bagnarello / Pexels
One of the best activities in Aswan is a ride on a felucca or sailing on an old Egyptian wooden sailboat. These beautiful boats have traversed the Nile’s peaceful currents for centuries, offering a peaceful and picturesque way of travelling within the city. As the felucca cruises across the peaceful blue waters, tourists can admire the breathtaking scenery of Elephantine Island, the Tombs of the Nobles, and the golden dunes of the desert.
Location: Nile River, Aswan
Entry Fees: 200-400 EGP / ₹540-₹1,080 per hour (varies by boat and group size)
Timing: Available throughout the day; sunset cruises recommended
3. Visit The Nubian Museum
Photo: JMCC1 / Wikimedia Commons
For history buffs, the Nubian Museum is among the most popular things to do in Aswan. Established in 1997, the museum was established to document the history of the Nubian people, whose territories were flooded due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam. The museum boasts more than 3,000 artifacts, ranging from statues to pottery, jewellery, and ancient manuscripts, showing vibrant Nubian history from prehistoric periods to contemporary Nubia.
Location: Abtal Al Tahrir St., Aswan
Entry Fees: 140 EGP / ₹315
Timing: 9 AM – 5 PM
4. Discover The Unfinished Obelisk
Photo: Olaf Tausch / Wikimedia Commons
The Unfinished Obelisk is the most significant activity in Aswan, providing a glimpse into the ancient Egyptian stone-cutting process. Found in a granite quarry, this gigantic monument was supposed to be the biggest obelisk in Egypt, measuring more than 42 metres high. But a huge crack had occurred along the way, leaving the project unfinished. In the present, visitors can view the marks left by ancient workers using tools, giving an insight into the skill and work that went into making these huge monuments.
Location: Sheyakhah Oula, Aswan
Entry Fees: 80 EGP / ₹216
Timing: 8 AM – 4 PM
5. Wander Through The Nubian Villages
Photo: Rémih / Wikimedia Commons
A visit to a Nubian village is one of the most sought-after activities in Aswan, offering a colourful and authentic experience of Nubian culture. The villages, typically adorned with pinks, blues, and yellows, are located along the West Bank of the Nile. Visitors can stroll through colourful bazaars, interact with friendly locals, and experience typical Nubian cuisine, including spiced fish and hibiscus tea. Handmade gifts and souvenirs, such as beaded jewellery, woven baskets, and brightly coloured fabrics, are offered by some villages.
Location: West Bank of the Nile, near Aswan
Entry Fees: No formal entry fee (boat transport and purchases vary)
Timing: Accessible throughout the day
6. Tour The Aswan High Dam
Photo: شرف الدين / Wikimedia Commons
The Aswan High Dam is among the top activities in Aswan because it was instrumental in bringing Egypt into the modern era by regulating the Nile River. Constructed during the 1960s, this gigantic engineering feat saved Egypt from flooding, added electricity, and formed Lake Nasser, one of the world’s largest artificial lakes. People can stroll along the observation platform of the dam, which provides stunning vistas of the Nile on one side and the huge Lake Nasser on the other.
Location: 13 km south of Aswan
Entry Fees: 30 EGP / ₹81
Timing: 7 AM – 4 PM
7. Visit The Abu Simbel Temples
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
One of the top experiences in Aswan is a tour of the Abu Simbel Temples, but it is a three-hour drive outside the city. The temples, constructed by Pharaoh Ramses II, were cut out of the cliff more than 3,000 years ago. The complex includes two temples: one for Ramses II and the other for his beloved wife, Queen Nefertari. The most interesting feature is the solar alignment effect, where the rising sun shines into the temple’s inner sanctum twice a year.
Location: 280 km south of Aswan
Entry Fees: 260 EGP / ₹702
Timing: 6 AM – 5 PM
8. Stroll Through Kitchener’s Island / Botanical Garden
Photo: Marc Ryckaert (MJJR) / Wikimedia Commons
For nature lovers, Kitchener’s Island is one of the most peaceful and picturesque things to do in Aswan. Located at the heart of the Nile, this lush green botanical garden was once owned by Lord Kitchener, who transformed the island into a tropical paradise. Today, the island is inhabited by hundreds of tropical plant species worldwide, from rare palms and scented flowers to towering trees. One can take a short boat ride to the island and stroll along its shaded paths, perfect for an easy stroll.
Location: Nile River, Aswan
Entry Fees: 20 EGP / ₹54
Timing: 8 AM – 5 PM
9. Explore Elephantine Island
Photo: Hatem Moushir / Wikimedia Commons
Elephantine Island is among Aswan’s most significant historical locations, featuring a combination of ancient Egyptian ruins and contemporary Nubian villages. The island was a significant trade centre and boasts archaeological sites, including the Temple of Khnum, Nilometer, and Old Kingdom settlements. The Aswan Museum, where island finds are housed, is also open to visitors. The island also boasts two Nubian villages, where visitors can feel the local culture, vibrant houses, and bazaars.
Location: Nile River, Aswan
Entry Fees: Temple & Museum: 100 EGP / ₹270
Timing: 7 AM – 5 PM
10. Watch The Sunset At The Tombs Of The Nobles
Photo: Zezinho68 / Wikimedia Commons
For breathtaking views and a glimpse of Egypt’s ancient history, a trip to the Tombs of the Nobles is one of the popular things to do in Aswan. Located on the West Bank of the Nile, the rock-cut tombs are the final resting places of high-ranking government officials of the Old and Middle Kingdoms. Visitors can climb up to the tombs, where they can view magnificent vistas of the Nile, the desert, and Aswan’s skyline. The tombs contain well-preserved hieroglyphics and paintings of scenes of daily life, religious ceremonies, and the afterlife. .
Location: West Bank of the Nile, Aswan
Entry Fees: 60 EGP / ₹130
Timing: 7 AM – 5 PM
Aswan is a magical destination with a mix of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Whether you take a felucca ride, explore ancient temples, or trek through Nubian villages, there are many things to do in Aswan for every traveller. From Abu Simbel’s grandeur to Kitchener’s Island’s serene botanical gardens, each location offers a unique perspective on Egypt’s past and future. Book your vacation today with TripXL, and let Aswan’s magic begin!
