| Check out our free interactive Aswan holiday guide and discover Aswan's biggest attractions, best restaurants and much more. If you've visited Aswan before tell us your holiday tips and help other travellers enjoy great holidays in Aswan, Egypt. |
Egypt's southernmost city, which is the country's gateway to Africa is Aswan. During the ancient times Aswan was called a garrison town then known as Swnet (which means trade).
Located on the Elephantine Island in the middle of the Nile, was the main town and temple area of Swenet. The ruins and temples found in Aswan are not very impressive and well preserved as those found elsewhere in the country. |
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Elephantine Island - This is got to be the largest of the Aswan area islands and is said to be one of the most ancient sites in Egypt, with artifacts which date back to the predynastic periods. Maybe because of its lcation which is at the first Cataract of the Nile, which provides a natural boundary between Egypt and Nubia. The ancient town which was located in the southern part of the island was once a fortress through much of its history. The island is definitely beautiful while many of the artifacts are in ruins, you will never get tired of wondering around the island. There are plenty to see for the whole family.
Edfu - (Idfu) located just 105 kilometers from Aswan, here we will see the best preserved cult temple in Egypt, known as The Temple of Horus at Edfu. This is definitely the place for archaeological enthusiasts. The early Egyptians called the town Tbot, the Greeks called it Apollinopolis Magna and as Atbo during the Coptic times. This was also the capital of the second nome (Horus) of Upper Egypt.
High Dam - Situated near Aswan, this world famous High Dam was an engineering miracle when it was first built in the 1960s. To this very day it provides irrigation and electricity for the whole of Egypt. This is also a spectacular view for the visitors. At the top of the two Mile long High Dam you can look across Lake Nassar. This huge resorvoir was created when it was built, to Kalabsha temple in the south and the huge power station to the north.
Nile Cruises - Being one of the most famous rivers in history, it was by its banks that one of the oldest civilizations in the world first began. There are variety of different animals which live in the Nile River, namely birds and fish and different types of animals.Hippos and lions also used to live in the Nile Valley hundreds of years ago. Here you are also able to see scattered villages, the feluccas sailing quietly, the boats laden with sugar canes, cotton bales or pottery of ancient design.
One of the reasons why one should go on a Nile Cruise is you will get to see the impressive temples and monuments of the Pharaohs. One of the features of The Ten Tour fleet is that it consists of modern and luxurious "floating hotels" with top quality engines, air conditioning systems, sanitary installations. All these features contributes to the comfort and security of the guests. Each room is very spacious and they have a wide panoramic view of the river. The food served on board equals that of the best restaurants. |
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Most natives start their day with a very light breakfast which consists of beans or bean cakes, eggs, and or pickles, cheeses, and jams. Many of the families only eat their large starchy lunch at about 1400 to 1700 and after that a siesta will follow. A British-style tea may be between 1700 and 1800 which follows with a light supper late in the evening. The suppers are normally food which was leftover from lunch. If the families are interested in having dinner parties they arrange it for no earlier that 2100 with the meals served an hour or two later.
If you interested in going out for lunch at a restaurant lunch will only be served from 1300 to 1600 and dinner being served from 200 until 2400. Egyptian food will always reflects the country's melting -pot history. The dishes made are very simple and anyone can make them. The dishes are made with ripened fruits and vegetable and seasoned with wonderful fresh spices.
Food made in the south are very closely linked to the North African cuisine and it is more tasty than that found in the north. For the very best cooking try the smaller towns here you will get the best dishes you ask for. |
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La Perla (Italian) -B. This restaurant is not rated. Located in Aswan. The address: The Aswan Oberoi Hotel and Spa, Elephantine Island, Aswan 81111, Egypt. Contact number : +20-97-314666 and fax number: +20-97-313538. This restaurant has Italian decor and offers Italian cuisine. The opening hours are as follows: 12 noon to 0300pam and 0700 to 1100pm. There 100 seats available.
The 1902 (International) (at the Sofitel Old Cataract Hotel) -BW - This restaurant is not rated. Located in Aswan. The address: Abtal El Tahrir Street, Aswan , Egypt. Contact number : +20-97-316000 and fax number +20-97-316011. Here you are served local and international cuisine. The food is of a high standard and enjoyed by many.
The Nashwa (French) -B - Located in Aswan. The address: The Aswan Oberoi Hotel and spa, Elephantine Island, Awan 81111, Egypt. Contact number : +20-97-314666 and fax number +20-97-313538. This is more your traditional style with gold and maroon decor. The guests are served French cuisine, with a silver service. The opening hours are as follows: 700pm to 1100pm. There are only 110 seats available. |
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The Elephantine Bar - This bar is situated in Aswan. The address: The Aswan Oberoi Hotel and Spa, Elephantine Island, Aswan, 81111, Egypt. Contact number: +20-97-314666 and fax number +20-97-313538. The layout of the Elephantine Bar is that of a traditional style with maroon decor and wooden panelling. This is definitely the place to come to if you want to spend your evening relaxing.
The Tower Bar - This bar is not rated. Located at The Aswan Oberoi Hotel and Spa, Elephantine Island, Aswan 81111, Egypt. Contact number: +20-97-314666 and fax number +20-97-313538. This bar can be found on the 12th floor. Here you will find wrap-around windows with a panoramic view. |
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Egyptian jewellery can be bought at the right price. When shopping for jewellery always be awake as one tends to buy fake jewellery without even knowing. When purchasing clothes and shoes this can be of great value.
One can buy cotton clothes which can be tailor-made, but one can never be to sure of the quality of the work. Shoes can be one of your best buys. Always buy first class leather as they tend to last much longer and are very comfortable for taking long walks.There are shoe stores all over the city. |
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The Nubia Museum - Also known as the "Land of Gold", this is one of Egypts most important museums. This is the only unique open museum of its time. Follows were discovered during excavations, which provided information about the Nubian way of life and its development along ages. At the museum one can find the statute of Ramsis II,which was laid at the front of the Museum,the statute of amenras the spiritual wife of Amen, she is said to be of Nubian origin. The museum also houses several models and styles of the Nubian heritage, example it depicts live images of the River Nile streaming through its banks. This museum also hosts 3000 monumental pieces of several times, and ranks tenth in the list of museums inaugurated in Egypt over the past three years.
The Tombs of the Nobles - Situated on the northern hill of the west bank one can find the 6th Dynasty tombs. Inside the tombs you will find hieroglyphic biographies and inscriptions which tells the noblemen's journey into Africa. The tombs are numbered and they include Sarenput II which is number 31, Sibni number 25, Mekhu number 26 and Qugget Al Hawwa. At night hidden spotlights are put on to illuminate the tombs.
The Unfinished Obelisk - The red granite which was used in the ancient temples came from the quarries in the Aswan area. Located in the Northern Quarry, The Unfinished Obelisk can be found, one can still see where the crack was discovered. |
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