There’s really no bad time time to visit Egypt, as the weather is generally pleasant year-round, with the exception of scorching hot summers. If beach resorts are what you’re after, June – August is when they’re at their busiest. 

November – March: This is the best time to visit for cooler weather and generally empty sites (with the exception of December and early January because of school holidays). Winter is mild in Egypt but Alexandria (and sometimes Cairo) does see quite a bit of rain during this period.

April – May / September – October: These are the best months to visit Egypt, especially if you’re interested in traveling both in the North and the South. The weather is warmer but not scorching, so it’s pleasant enough to both hike and hit the beaches.

June – August: If beach resorts are what you’re after and you don’t mind scorching heat, summer is fine to visit. Be warned: i’s the worst time for sightseeing as the heat can be unbearable.

Despite the fact that the average person is extremely familiar with Egypt’s history and monuments, few are familiar with the food.

Egyptian cuisine is rich in flavor, influenced both by the Mediterranean as well as neighboring African countries. The national dish is koshary, a heart mix of rice, pasta, and lentils and one of my personal favorite dishes. Other highlights include hawawshi (a crispy beef sandwich), hamam mahshi (stuffed pigeon) and om ali (think Egyptian bread pudding). 

Discover all the good things to eat and drink in my food guide and be sure to add a food tour to your list of must-do’s in Cairo!