Aswan Travel Guide: Discover Top Attractions, Hotels & Restaurants
Aswan, a tranquil city on the Nile, blends ancient history with vibrant Nubian culture. This Aswan Travel Guide covers everything from Cairo to Aswan flights to hidden gems, ensuring an unforgettable trip.
Flying from Cairo to Aswan
For travelers seeking efficiency, booking a Cairo to Aswan flight is the optimal choice. Multiple daily flights to Aswan operate from Cairo International Airport, with EgyptAir offering the most frequent service. The flight from Cairo to Aswan takes approximately 90 minutes, making it the fastest way to reach this Nile-side destination.
Key Details:
- Aswan flights typically cost 80−150 one-way
- Flight frequency: 4-5 daily flights in peak season
- Airport transfer: 25-minute drive to city center (10−15 taxi fare)
Pro Tip: Early morning flights to Aswan often provide the best views of the Nile Valley during descent.
Cairo to Aswan by Train
The overnight train from Cairo to Aswan offers a scenic alternative to flying. The Egyptian National Railways operates both seated and sleeper services on this route.
Train Options:
- Watania Sleeping Train (Recommended)
- Private cabins with beds
- Includes dinner and breakfast
- 13-hour journey departing Cairo at 8:00 PM
- 80−120 per person
- First Class Seated Train
- Air-conditioned carriages
- 14-hour journey
- 25−40 per ticket
Important Note: Book sleeping train tickets at least 2 weeks in advance during high season (October-April).
Travel Luxor to Aswan by Train
The train from Luxor to Aswan is a popular connection for those exploring Upper Egypt. This scenic 3.5-hour journey follows the Nile’s curves, with tickets costing 10−20 for first class.
Private Car to Aswan
For ultimate flexibility, consider the 900km road trip from Cairo. The Cairo to Aswan distance can be covered in 10-12 hours via the Western Desert Road (faster) or the more scenic Nile Valley route (12-14 hours).
Road Trip Highlights:
- Stop at Beni Hassan’s rock-cut tombs
- Visit the Temple of Hathor at Dendera
- Explore the dual temples of Kom Ombo
Where to Stay: Aswan Hotels
Luxury Accommodations
- Sofitel Legend Old Cataract
- Historic 5-star property where Agatha Christie wrote “Death on the Nile”
- Stunning Nile views from terrace rooms
- Home to the famous 1902 Restaurant
- Mövenpick Resort Aswan
- Private island location
- Lush gardens and multiple pools
- Excellent sunset views
Mid-Range Options
- Basma Hotel Aswan
- Hilltop location with panoramic views
- Rooftop pool overlooking the Nile
- Walking distance to major sites
- Pyramisa Island Hotel
- Full-service resort on Elephantine Island
- Traditional Nubian architecture
- Complimentary boat transfers
Budget-Friendly Stays
- Nile Hotel Aswan
- Clean, basic rooms with AC
- Central location near the train station
- Rooftop restaurant with Nile views
- Keylany Hotel
- Authentic Nubian hospitality
- Colorful, traditional decor
- Walking distance to the souq
What to See in Aswan
Best Things to Do in Aswan
- Abu Simbel Temples (Day Trip)
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Best visited on sunrise tours (3:30 AM departure)
- The Great Temple of Ramses II is an engineering marvel
- Philae Temple Complex
- Temple of Isis relocated to Agilkia Island
- Magical sound and light shows at night
- Accessible by scenic boat ride
- Traditional Felucca Sail
- Sunset cruises around Elephantine Island
- Option for multi-day felucca trips to Kom Ombo
- Best booked through reputable operators
Other Great Attractions in Aswan Egypt
- Aswan High Dam
- Modern engineering wonder
- Panoramic views of Lake Nasser
- Visit the adjacent monument commemorating Soviet-Egyptian cooperation
- Unfinished Obelisk
- Provides insight into ancient stone-working techniques
- Would have been Egypt’s largest obelisk if completed
- Located in ancient granite quarries
- Nubian Museum
- Award-winning architecture
- Comprehensive exhibits on Nubian history
- Beautiful gardens with traditional houses
- Elephantine Island
- Ruins of ancient Abu settlement
- Nubian villages with colorful houses
- Aswan Museum with important artifacts
- Kitchener’s Island (Botanical Garden)
- Lush gardens established by Lord Kitchener
- Hundreds of exotic plant species
- Peaceful escape from the city
Aswan Restaurants: Where to Eat in Aswan!
Fine Dining Experiences
- 1902 Restaurant (Old Cataract Hotel)
- Grand colonial-era dining room
- French-Egyptian fusion cuisine
- Jacket required for dinner service
- Panorama Restaurant (Mövenpick)
- Extensive buffet with international options
- Outdoor seating with Nile views
- Famous dessert selection
Authentic Local Flavors
- Al-Masry Restaurant
- Best ful medames (stewed fava beans) in town
- Traditional Egyptian breakfast spread
- Budget-friendly prices
- Nubian House Restaurant
- Authentic Nubian dishes like tagalia (spiced meats)
- Cultural performances on weekends
- Riverside location
Casual Dining Options
- Aswan Moon Restaurant
- Rooftop setting with cooling breezes
- Excellent grilled meats and mezze
- Reasonable prices
- El Dokka Restaurant
- Famous for stuffed pigeon (fatty)
- Fresh Nile fish dishes
- Local favorite
Frequently Asked Questions About Aswan
How many days in Aswan is enough?
Most visitors find 2 full days sufficient for Aswan’s main attractions, plus an additional day for Abu Simbel. A sample itinerary:
- Day 1: Philae Temple, High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk, felucca ride
- Day 2: Nubian Museum, Elephantine Island, souq shopping
- Day 3: Abu Simbel day trip
Is it worth visiting Aswan?
Absolutely! Aswan offers:
- Some of Egypt’s most impressive temples
- Authentic Nubian culture
- Beautiful Nile scenery
- A more relaxed pace than Luxor or Cairo
How do you get around in Aswan?
Transport options include:
- Taxis (negotiate fares in advance)
- Horse carriages (tourist areas only)
- Private boats (for island access)
- Walking (city center is compact)
Which is nicer, Luxor or Aswan?
Both are essential but different:
- Luxor has more archaeological sites
- Aswan offers better relaxation and Nubian culture
- Many visitors prefer Aswan’s more laid-back atmosphere
Plan Your Perfect Aswan Adventure Today!
Ready to experience the magic of Aswan? Our expert travel planners at Odyssey’s Voyage can create your ideal itinerary. For immediate assistance, message us on WhatsApp.
This comprehensive Aswan Travel Guide ensures you’ll discover all the wonders this ancient city has to offer, from its magnificent temples to its vibrant Nubian culture.
Whether you’re arriving via Cairo to Aswan flight or the scenic train route, Aswan promises an unforgettable Egyptian experience.
