GENERAL

Aswan is a small and ancient city located on the east bank of the Nile in southern Egypt. Once the country's major gateway, it has become a popular holiday destination for its fascinating sights, as well as its relaxed atmosphere. Holidays to Aswan are popular with families and couples looking to experience the country in a city that is smaller and less hectic than neighbouring destinations like Cairo

Most of the city is located along the east bank of the Nile, lined with palm trees, bazaars and interesting monuments. Life goes by at a more laid-back pace on Aswan holidays, and the Nubian villages and beautiful botanic gardens are the perfect place to take a stroll on hot days.

Several little islands around Aswan are well worth visiting. Elephantine Island is home to several Nubian villages and the famous Temples of Sati, as well as the interesting Aswan Museum. Water taxis transport visitors regularly, and there are numerous tours available.

Aswan¿s best attractions include the 100 metre Aswan Dam and the UNESCO World Heritage site Nubian Museum. The museum is home to over 3000 artefacts and the history of the Nubian people in southern Egypt. The incredible Tombs of the Nobles, along the west bank of the Nile, is Aswan's equivalent of the Valley of the Kings, filled with fascinating hieroglyphics and paintings.

Holidays to Aswan are ideal for shopping for gifts, souvenirs and local produce. Sharia as-Souq is a large, relaxed market with numerous handmade ornaments, trinkets and crafts. There are also several places to pick up some beautiful locally-made jewellery, many engraved with hieroglyphics. Om Elnor is well known for gold and silverware.

Being a Muslim country, Egypt's smaller resorts have little in the way of traditional nightlife. Aswan does have a less strict stance on drinking compared to some cities, and there are a couple of pleasant venues to enjoy a drink or two.

Looking for similar destinations

Check out our guide to the Red city of Marrakech here and holidays to the Unesco-listed city of Sousse in Tunisia here.