A Day in Aswan: What to Do Before or After Your Cruise

Nov 25, 2025

If Luxor is the open-air museum of ancient Egypt, then Aswan is its serene riverside retreat — a city of calm waters, colorful culture, and timeless beauty. Whether you’re starting or ending your Nile Cruise here, Aswan deserves at least a full day of exploration. Between historic temples, peaceful islands, and Nubian traditions, it’s a destination that slows time and stirs the soul.

Here’s how to make the most of a day in Aswan — before or after your cruise.

1. Visit the Majestic Philae Temple

Start your morning with one of Aswan’s most enchanting sites — the Temple of Philae. Dedicated to the goddess Isis, this island temple was painstakingly relocated to higher ground when the Aswan High Dam was built. A short boat ride takes you across glittering waters to the temple, where delicate carvings and grand courtyards tell stories of devotion and love.
The temple’s peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by the Nile, makes it the perfect introduction — or farewell — to Egypt’s ancient wonders.

2. See the Unfinished Obelisk

Next, head to the famous Unfinished Obelisk, a fascinating glimpse into ancient engineering. Still half-carved into the granite bedrock of a quarry, it reveals how ancient Egyptians shaped their monumental stone creations.
Standing beside this enormous monument, you can’t help but imagine the incredible skill and labor it took to build the obelisks and statues scattered across Egypt.

3. Explore the Nubian Village

In the afternoon, take a boat trip to a Nubian village — a colorful community along the Nile’s western bank. Here, bright houses painted in blues and oranges line the water, and friendly locals welcome visitors with warm smiles.
You can sip mint tea, learn about Nubian culture, or even meet a local family who’ll share stories passed down for generations. It’s a cultural experience that captures Egypt’s heart beyond its monuments.

4. Visit the Aswan High Dam

A quick stop at the Aswan High Dam offers a striking contrast to the city’s ancient sites. Built in the 20th century, it’s one of the modern world’s engineering marvels. From its viewpoint, you can admire Lake Nasser stretching endlessly into the horizon — a symbol of both progress and preservation.

5. Sail on a Traditional Felucca

As the sun begins to set, end your day the Aswan way — with a peaceful felucca ride. These traditional sailboats glide silently across the Nile, passing Elephantine Island and Kitchener’s Island, where lush botanical gardens bloom. The soft wind, golden light, and gentle rhythm of the water create a perfect finale to your Aswan day.