Yes, and not only for the monuments. Aswan is the southernmost city on the Egyptian Nile, where the river runs between granite islands and golden dunes. It is calmer than Cairo or Luxor, it is the home of Egypt’s Nubian culture, and it is the starting point for Abu Simbel and for most Nile cruises.
Things to do in Aswan
- Philae Temple: the temple of the goddess Isis, reached by boat. When the High Dam threatened to flood it, it was dismantled and rebuilt on the island of Agilkia in an international rescue campaign completed in 1980.
- The High Dam: finished in 1970, it controls the Nile flood and created Lake Nasser, one of the largest artificial lakes in the world.
- The Unfinished Obelisk: abandoned in its granite quarry after it cracked. Had it been completed, it would have been the largest obelisk ever made.
- The Nubian Museum: the history and culture of Nubia, from prehistory to the villages moved when the lake was formed.
- Kalabsha Temple: another temple rescued from the lake, rebuilt near the High Dam and visited by far fewer people than Philae. See our Kalabsha Temple tour.
- A Nubian village: brightly painted houses on the West Bank, reached by boat. See our Nubian village tour.
- A felucca around the islands: Elephantine Island and the Botanical Garden on Kitchener’s Island, under sail. See our felucca ride in Aswan.
Philae, the High Dam and the Unfinished Obelisk fit into our Aswan half day tour.
Abu Simbel from Aswan
The two rock temples of Ramesses II and Nefertari are about 280 km south of Aswan. You can go by road in a day or by plane. Our guide on how to visit Abu Simbel from Aswan compares both options, with ticket prices and opening hours.
How many days do you need in Aswan?
- One day: Philae, the High Dam, the Unfinished Obelisk and a felucca at sunset.
- Two days: add Abu Simbel. This is the minimum we recommend if Abu Simbel is on your list.
- Three days: add the Nubian Museum, Kalabsha and a Nubian village, at a relaxed pace.
Many travellers see Aswan at the start or end of a Nile cruise; the ship usually spends one or two days there.
Best time to visit
Aswan is one of the hottest and driest cities in Egypt. October to April is the most comfortable period. In summer the heat is intense in the middle of the day, so visits are best done early in the morning and after sunset.
How to get to Aswan
- From Cairo: by domestic flight, or by overnight sleeper train, a long journey of more than twelve hours.
- From Luxor: about three hours by road, with stops at Edfu and Kom Ombo if you like, or on a Nile cruise.
Frequently asked questions
Is Aswan better than Luxor?
Luxor has more monuments; Aswan has more atmosphere, the Nubian culture and Abu Simbel. They are three hours apart and most itineraries include both.
Can you visit Abu Simbel in a day from Aswan?
Yes. By road it is a long day with an early start; by plane it takes half a day.
Is Aswan safe for tourists?
Aswan is a calm, welcoming city that receives visitors all year. Our Egypt travel guide covers safety and practical advice for the whole trip.
See all Aswan day tours or our Aswan destination page.