What are the things to see in Aswan ? From the Nubian Museum to the Great Dam, from the magnificent Abu Simbel Temples and File to the islands on the placid waters of the Nile, from the relaxed mega atmosphere to the romantic spice market, here are the things not to be missed in Aswan that will make you fall in love with this destination how they made me fall in love.
Aswan is a calm and warm city, full of incredible things to see and do.
When I come back from a trip, with the thousand emotions in turmoil, it is always very difficult to think about what were in a country, my favorite destinations.
Egypt is an amazing country, full of history, traditions and culture but the winner’s palm definitely goes to Aswan. From the absolutely hypnotic temples of Abu Simbel and File to peaceful boat trips to the islands of Elefantina and Kitchener, Assuan is filled with historical riches, peaceful Nubian villages and beautiful views of the Nile.
WHAT TO SEE IN ASWAN
If you travel in Egypt do it yourself or with a tour, however in Aswan you arrive sooner or later, it is one of the crucial points of every Nile cruise : here’s what to see in Aswan , which you really can not miss.
Virtually every night, while Massi slept in the hotel with air conditioning, I, as a good “spice hunter”, took the boat, crossed the Nile and went for a ride to Sharia al-Souq , or in the market of Aswan , for fill my pockets with cinnamon, saffron, karkade , cloves, bergamot, pepper and nutmeg.
Located in the center of the town, a stone’s throw from the train station and the Nile bank, the Aswan market is a shopper’s paradise: the stalls are full of spices, traditional galebeyas (long robes) and fabrics, silverware and souvenirs of all kinds are wasted in a rainbow of colors and perfumes.
It is a fun place to explore and in general the sellers are more lovable and less aggressive than in other markets such as Khan el Khalili in Cairo .
Pay attention to the perfumes (Aswan is famous for the perfumes) and to the Nubian embroideries of the peoples of Upper Egypt. And if like me you are addicted to the karkade, you will be spoiled for choice among the huge buckets of dark red hibiscus petals that you can buy by weight to recreate the drink at home (or to make a gift).