Christmas in Egypt (2025–2026): Complete Travel Guide for Tourists

Introduction: Is Christmas celebrated in Egypt?

Yes—Christmas is celebrated in Egypt, but it may not look like Christmas at home. You will usually see the most “Christmas vibe” in hotels, resorts, malls, and tourist areas, while everyday city life continues normally for many people.

Egypt is a Muslim-majority country with a large Christian community, especially the Coptic Orthodox Church. Many Coptic Christians celebrate Christmas on 7 January, while many international visitors think of Christmas as 25 December—so it helps to plan around both dates.

This guide explains what to expect in Christmas in Egypt for 2025–2026, including the best places to go (Cairo, Luxor/Aswan, and Red Sea resorts), weather, prices, safety, culture, and practical tips.

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Christmas in Egypt at a Glance

Christmas and New Year are one of the best times of year for sightseeing in Egypt. Days are usually mild to warm, and nights can be cool—especially in Cairo and on the Nile. It is also a busy, higher-price travel season, so planning matters.

Quick snapshot (for first-time visitors)

• Best for: history + temples, winter sun, couples, families, “big trip” feeling

• Ideal trip length: 7–10 days (or 4–5 days for a Cairo-only short break)

• Best “base” choices:

  • Cairo/Giza for pyramids, museums, Old Cairo, shopping

  • Luxor & Aswan for temples and Nile cruise season

  • Sharm el Sheikh / Hurghada / Marsa Alam for a beach Christmas (often all-inclusive)

• Top highlights: Pyramids of Giza, Grand Egyptian Museum area, Coptic Cairo, Karnak & Luxor Temple, Valley of the Kings, Nile cruise, Red Sea snorkeling/diving

• Big reality check: late December to early January is high season—popular flights and hotels sell out.

Typical winter weather feel (very approximate)

Temperatures change year to year. Use this as a planning guide, not a promise.

Daily budget ranges (per person, excluding international flights)

Prices vary by city, dates (especially 24 Dec–2 Jan), and hotel category. At the time of writing, these are realistic planning ranges for many tourists.

Pros and cons of visiting at Christmas

Pros

• Comfortable sightseeing weather (less heat stress)

• Festive hotel/resort atmosphere

• Strong mix of culture + beach options in one trip

Cons

• Higher prices and more crowds (especially 25 Dec–early Jan)

• Some “gala dinners” add extra cost

• You need layers at night, even if days feel warm

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When is Christmas in Egypt? (25 December vs Coptic Christmas on 7 January)

In Egypt, you should think of Christmas as a season, not a single day. Tourists often travel around 25 December and New Year, while many Egyptian Christians (especially Coptic Orthodox) celebrate Christmas on 7 January.

Why do many Egyptians celebrate Christmas on 7 January?

Many Coptic Orthodox Christians follow a church calendar connected to older calendar systems, which is why Christmas falls on 7 January for them. Why Christmas

What happens on 6–7 January (Coptic Christmas)?

• Many families attend church services on 6 January (Christmas Eve) and celebrations continue into 7 January.

• You may see a stronger “local” Christmas atmosphere in areas with many churches and Christian families.

Is Christmas a public holiday in Egypt?

For many years, 7 January is commonly treated as an official holiday for Coptic Christmas in Egypt (details can change, so check official announcements for your travel year).

What about 25 December in Egypt?

• For many local offices and services, 25 December may feel like a normal working period.

• But in tourist areas (international hotels, resorts, malls, and some restaurants), you’ll often see decorations and special menus in late December.

What about New Year’s Eve (31 December)?

For tourists, New Year’s Eve is often the “big party night”, especially in:

• Large Cairo hotels (often with Nile views)

• Nile cruise boats

• Red Sea resorts (Sharm/Hurghada)
  Expect gala dinners, entertainment, and higher prices for that night.

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What is Christmas like in Egypt for tourists?

Christmas in Egypt is usually festive inside hotels and resorts, and more subtle outside. If you want lights, trees, and special dinners, choose a hotel/resort that advertises a holiday program. If you want local culture, focus on Old Cairo and church areas respectfully—especially around 6–7 January.

What you will likely see

• Hotel lobbies with Christmas trees and seasonal music

• Buffet-style Christmas dinners and “gala nights” (sometimes mandatory on 24/25 Dec or 31 Dec)

• Malls and supermarkets selling decorations and gift items (especially in Cairo)

• Holiday travel crowds at major sites

What you might not see (and why)

• Large city-run Christmas markets like in parts of Europe are not a big feature in most Egyptian cities

• Public Christmas events depend on the city and the year, and many are private hotel/resort events

A simple way to set expectations

• Hotels/resorts: “Christmas as a tourist product” (decor + dinners + shows)

• Church communities: “Christmas as a religious holiday” (services + family meals + community)

• General city life: mostly normal, with some seasonal shopping

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Is Egypt good to visit at Christmas? Pros, cons, and who it suits

Egypt can be an excellent Christmas destination if you want sightseeing without extreme heat. It can be frustrating if you want a traditional Western Christmas atmosphere everywhere you go.

Egypt at Christmas is best for…

• First-time visitors who want a “once in a lifetime” history trip

• Families who like resorts and structured holiday programs

• Couples who want winter sun and a mix of city + beach

• Older travelers who prefer mild daytime temperatures for walking

It may be less ideal if…

• You want a strong public Christmas atmosphere everywhere (not just in hotels)

• You dislike crowds and higher prices

• You want to plan last-minute (availability can be tight)

The big planning truth: it’s peak season

Late December to early January is a major travel window. A simple rule:

• If you want a specific hotel, flight time, or Nile cruise category, book earlier than you would in a quiet month.

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Egypt in December: Weather, daylight, and sea temperatures

Egypt in December and early January is usually comfortable for walking and touring. Cairo can feel cool at night. Luxor/Aswan often feel warm in the day but still cool after sunset. The Red Sea can be good for beach time, with many travelers still swimming (especially midday).

Cairo weather in December / early January

Cairo tends to have pleasant daytime temperatures and cooler nights. Even if the day feels like spring, evenings can feel like “jacket weather.” Practical tips for Cairo in winter:

• Plan outdoor sites (pyramids, walking tours) for morning to mid-afternoon

• Keep a light jacket for evenings, especially if you sit outdoors

Luxor and Aswan weather (winter sightseeing season)

Luxor is famous for being much more comfortable in winter than in summer. December highs around the low-to-mid 20s °C and cooler nights are common as averages.

What this means for your trip:

• It’s a great time for temples and tombs

• Early mornings can feel cool—start with a layer, then remove it later

Red Sea resorts (Sharm el Sheikh, Hurghada, Marsa Alam)

Beach weather depends on wind and your personal comfort. Many travelers enjoy warm sun in the day and cooler evenings.

For Hurghada, typical references show:

• Daytime around the low-to-mid 20s °C

• Water temperatures often in the 23–25°C range in December

Simple swim rule:

• If you like “warm bath” sea temperatures, you may find it cool.

• If you are used to Mediterranean spring/autumn swimming, it can feel fine midday.

Daylight in winter (why timing matters)

Winter has shorter days than summer. Plan your “must-do” outdoor sights earlier, and keep afternoons for museums, markets, or relaxed meals.

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How many days should you spend in Egypt at Christmas?

For most first-time visitors, 7–10 days is the sweet spot. It gives you time for Cairo and at least one other region without rushing.

Good trip lengths (simple options)

• 4–5 days: Cairo + Giza (plus one day trip like Saqqara/Memphis)

• 7 days: Cairo + Luxor (fly or overnight train)

• 10 days: Cairo + Luxor/Aswan (or a Nile cruise) + 2–3 beach days

• 12–14 days: Cairo + Nile cruise + Red Sea resort (more relaxed pace)

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Where to spend Christmas in Egypt (best destinations)

The best place to spend Christmas in Egypt depends on the holiday you want. Cairo is for culture and city comfort. Luxor/Aswan is for temples and Nile scenery. Red Sea resorts are for a simple, festive “package holiday” Christmas.

A quick destination comparison

Christmas in Cairo: what to expect and what to do

Cairo is the easiest place to find Christmas-style decor as a tourist—mainly in international hotels and malls. It is also the best base for iconic “first trip” sights.

Top Cairo-area ideas for Christmas week

• Giza Plateau (Pyramids & Sphinx): go early to avoid crowds and midday haze

• Major museums: choose at least one “big museum day”

  • If you plan to visit the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), check current hours and ticket rules close to your travel dates. Gem

• Coptic Cairo: churches, historic lanes, and a different side of the city

• Khan el-Khalili area: evening market vibe and gift shopping (expect bargaining)

If you want a festive night in Cairo

• Many 4–5 star hotels offer:

  • Christmas dinners (24/25 Dec)

  • New Year’s Eve gala nights (31 Dec)
    These can be fun, but they can also add cost—sometimes it is a fixed extra charge.

Church visiting tip (important)
If you want to visit a church during Christmas season, go with respect:

• Dress modestly

• Be careful with photos

• Avoid disturbing services
  (See the culture section later for details.)

Spend Christmas in Luxor & Aswan: “winter is the main season”

Luxor and Aswan are top choices in late December because the weather supports long touring days. This region is less about Christmas decor and more about experiencing ancient Egypt comfortably.

Why Luxor is a strong Christmas choice

• December is a classic time for Karnak, Luxor Temple, and the Valley of the Kings

• Comfortable temperatures make it easier to enjoy large open-air sites

Aswan adds a different feel

• Softer, slower city mood

• Nile views and day trips (depending on your interests and timing)

Nile cruise at Christmas
A Nile cruise can feel “special occasion” without needing a big city Christmas atmosphere. Many cruise boats offer festive dinners around 25 Dec and 31 Dec. Book early for good cabins.

Christmas in Sharm el Sheikh: beach holiday + festive resort programs

Sharm el Sheikh is one of the simplest “Christmas in the sun” options. You choose a resort, you relax, and the hotel handles the holiday program.

What a typical resort Christmas includes

• Decor in public areas

• Christmas dinner buffet or set menu

• Family activities and evening shows

• New Year’s Eve party (often the biggest night)

Who Sharm suits most

• Families who want activities on-site

• Couples who want an easy winter sun break

• Divers and snorkelers (weather and wind can affect boat trips)

Christmas in Hurghada (and nearby bays): easy Red Sea escape

Hurghada is another common Red Sea base, with a wide range of hotel styles. December sea temperature is often reported around 23–25°C, which many travelers can swim in (especially at midday).

A good Hurghada strategy:

• Treat mornings as your “active” time (boat trips, snorkeling)

• Treat late afternoons as your relaxing time (pool, spa, sunset)

Marsa Alam: quieter Red Sea choice

Marsa Alam can be a calmer alternative to Hurghada/Sharm if you want:

• A quieter resort environment

• Strong snorkeling/diving focus
  It can feel more “resort-only,” so plan for fewer city-style activities.

Alexandria: a different city add-on

Alexandria can work well if you want:

• A cooler coastal city feel

• A shorter add-on after Cairo
  It is not the main “Christmas resort” destination, but it can be a refreshing contrast.

Desert trips and Siwa: plan carefully and check official advice

Desert trips can be amazing, but they are not the best first step for every visitor—especially during a busy holiday season.

If you consider the Western Desert, read official travel advice first and use reputable, licensed operators where required. For example, the U.S. State Department advisory includes specific “do not travel / increased risk” guidance for certain areas and notes extra limits for parts of the Western Desert unless traveling with a professionally licensed tour company.

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Best things to do during Christmas holidays in Egypt

At Christmas time, the best plan is the same as any strong Egypt plan: do the iconic ancient sites early in the day, then enjoy a relaxed evening with a good meal. Add one “festive” hotel night if you want the holiday feeling.

Cairo & Giza: classic first-timer highlights

1) Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx

• Go early for cooler air and better photos

• Expect crowds at popular viewing points

2) Choose a “museum day”
If you want to include the Grand Egyptian Museum, check the official visit information and opening hours close to your travel dates. Gem+1

3) Old Cairo: Coptic Cairo

• Visit respectfully and dress modestly

• If you visit near 6–7 January, expect more local religious activity in some areas

4) Markets and shopping

• Khan el-Khalili is famous for souvenirs and atmosphere

• Bargaining is normal; polite firmness works best

Luxor: temples and tombs without extreme heat

Luxor is one of the best places in Egypt for winter touring. Ancient Thebes (including the big temple zones and the famous necropolis areas) is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. UNESCO World Heritage Centre

A smart Luxor plan:

• Karnak Temple in the morning

• Luxor Temple in late afternoon/sunset

• Valley of the Kings early (less heat, fewer crowds)

Aswan: Nile scenery and a slower pace

Aswan is often a “relaxing finish” after Cairo and Luxor. It can be a great place to slow down, enjoy the Nile views, and do one or two focused day trips.

Red Sea: snorkeling, diving, and “beach Christmas”

A Red Sea Christmas can be as active or as lazy as you want:

• Boat trips (weather/wind dependent)

• Intro diving courses (if you’re interested)

• Desert excursions (choose reputable providers)

Seasonal experiences: how to add a “Christmas feeling”

Option A (easy): book one holiday dinner

• Choose 24/25 Dec (Christmas dinner) or 31 Dec (NYE gala)

• Read the fine print: some hotels require gala tickets

Option B (cultural): attend a church visit respectfully

• Don’t treat it as a show

• Be cautious with photography

• Expect security checks and crowds near major services
  Coptic Christmas services often take place on the evening of 6 January, leading into 7 January.

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Christmas in Cairo vs Red Sea resorts (which is better?)

Cairo is better if you want pyramids, museums, city life, and day trips. The Red Sea is better if you want a simple “holiday package” Christmas with beach time and hotel entertainment.

Choose Cairo if you want…

• The biggest “Egypt icons” in one base

• Museums and old neighborhoods

• More restaurant choice and shopping

Choose the Red Sea if you want…

• A relaxed schedule

• Easy holiday meals and activities

• Swimming/snorkeling and spa time

A common best-of-both plan

For many first-time visitors:

• Cairo (3–4 nights) + Luxor (2–3 nights) + Red Sea (3–4 nights)
  This gives you culture, temples, and rest.

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Where to stay in Egypt for Christmas (neighborhoods & resort areas)

Where you stay changes your experience. In a busy season like Christmas, it also changes your stress level (traffic, transfers, noise).

Where to stay in Cairo

Zamalek

• Central-feeling island neighborhood

• Many dining options; often popular with visitors

Downtown

• Convenient for museums and city walks

• Can be noisy; choose carefully

Garden City

• More diplomatic/quiet pockets

• Good base for some travelers who want a calmer feel

Giza

• Useful if you want early pyramid access

• Less central for some city activities

Heliopolis / near the airport

• Practical for short trips or late arrivals

• Less “tourist central,” but can reduce transfer stress

Where to stay in Luxor

East Bank

• Practical for main hotels and many dining options

• Easy access to Luxor Temple and transport

West Bank

• Quieter, more local feel

• Great if you want a slower pace and views

Where to stay in Sharm el Sheikh

Naama Bay

• Classic resort center vibe

• Easy for walking to shops/restaurants (where available)

Sharks Bay / Nabq

• More resort-focused areas

• Often newer resort zones; good for quiet stays

Where to stay in Hurghada area

Hurghada city / marina areas

• More “town + resort” mix

El Gouna / Makadi Bay / Sahl Hasheesh

• More planned resort areas

• Often calmer and more polished (but typically higher prices)

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Getting around in Egypt during Christmas & New Year

Getting around Egypt is manageable, but holiday crowds can add friction. A small amount of planning saves a lot of stress.

Domestic flights vs trains vs private driver

Domestic flights

• Best for saving time (Cairo ⇄ Luxor/Aswan, Cairo ⇄ Red Sea depending on airports)

• Often worth it in a 7-day trip

Trains

• Can be a good experience for some routes

• Book ahead where possible and choose comfortable classes
  Egypt National Railways has online information and services (details can change). enr.gov.eg

Private driver

• Useful for day trips (Saqqara, Dahshur, Memphis) or complex schedules

• Agree price and stops clearly in advance

Cairo Metro (useful for avoiding traffic in some areas)

The metro can save time compared with road traffic for certain routes. Check the official Cairo Metro site for updates and lines.

Taxis and ride-hailing

• Ride-hailing apps can reduce price arguments

• For street taxis: agree the price before you start (or ensure the meter is used)

Airport transfers in peak season

Christmas week can mean longer queues and traffic. The lowest-stress plan:

• Pre-arranged pickup (hotel or reputable company)

• Or ride-hailing with a clear pickup point

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Budget & prices for Christmas holidays in Egypt

Christmas and New Year are a premium travel period in Egypt. You should expect higher prices for hotels, many Nile cruises, and some tours—especially for the nights around 24/25 Dec and 31 Dec.

What usually costs more at Christmas

• International flights

• “Good location” Cairo hotels

• Nile cruises (best cabins and dates)

• Red Sea all-inclusive resorts

• New Year’s Eve gala dinners

What can still be good value

• Street food and casual local restaurants

• Local transport (metro, standard taxis with agreed fares)

• Some museums and day tours (compared with many Western cities)

Ways to manage costs (without ruining the trip)

• Travel slightly outside the peak nights if possible (for example, arrive a few days before 24 Dec or stay into early January)

• Choose 1–2 “splurge” moments (NYE gala, Nile cruise upgrade) and keep other days simple

• In Cairo, balance paid attractions with free/low-cost experiences (walks, markets, neighborhoods)

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Food & drink basics during Christmas in Egypt

You can eat well in Egypt at any time of year. During Christmas season, festive “holiday meals” are most visible in hotels and resorts, while local food continues normally everywhere.

Foods you may hear about around Coptic Christmas

Some Coptic Christmas traditions include special foods and family meals, and many Coptic Christians complete a fasting period before Christmas. (Details can vary by family and community.)

Easy, first-timer-friendly Egyptian foods

• Koshary (filling, cheap, widely available)

• Grilled chicken/kofta with rice

• Falafel (ta’ameya) and ful

• Mixed mezze-style plates (hummus, baba ghanoush-style dips, salads)

Food safety and water (simple rules)

• Choose places with steady customer flow

• Drink sealed bottled water if you have a sensitive stomach

• Wash fruit or choose fruit you peel yourself

Alcohol note

Alcohol is usually easiest to find in international hotels and many resort settings. Outside those areas, availability depends on the venue and local rules.

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Culture, dress code & etiquette (including church visits)

Respectful behavior is the key to enjoying Egypt—especially during religious holidays. You do not need to dress “very conservatively” everywhere, but modest choices help you feel comfortable and avoid unwanted attention.

Dress code basics for December/January

• In Cairo and towns: modest casual clothes work well

• For women: a scarf is useful for religious sites, wind, and comfort

• For men: avoid very short shorts in conservative areas

Visiting churches during Christmas season (important etiquette)

If you visit a church (especially near 6–7 January):

• Wear modest clothing (covered shoulders and legs is a safe rule)

• Speak quietly; follow what locals do

• Do not block doors or main walking paths

• Ask before photographing people or services
  Coptic Christmas services can be busy and sensitive—treat them as worship, not entertainment.

Tipping (“baksheesh”) and bargaining

• Small tips are common for small services

• Bargaining is normal in markets; stay polite and calm

• If you do not want something, a polite “no, thank you” and walking away works best

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Safety: Is Egypt safe at Christmas for tourists?

Most tourists have safe trips in Egypt, especially in major tourist areas, but you should take safety seriously and follow official advice. Crowds, scams, and transport risks are more common issues than serious crime for most visitors.

Check official travel advice before you go

At the time of writing, the U.S. Department of State lists Egypt under Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, and it also names specific areas with higher risk and “do not travel” guidance. Always read the full advisory and map notes close to your travel dates. Travel.state.gov

The UK FCDO also provides detailed Egypt travel advice, including regional warnings and entry requirements. GOV.UK

Common tourist problems (and how to reduce them)

Overcharging and “friendly help” scams

• Agree prices before services

• Use trusted hotel taxis or ride-hailing where possible

Pickpocketing

• Keep valuables close in crowded markets and transport

Harassment (especially for women)

• It can happen, especially in busy areas

• Practical steps that often help:

  • Dress modestly in city areas

  • Use ride-hailing at night

  • Choose well-reviewed hotels and meet guides in public places

Holiday crowds: plan your day to feel safer

• Visit big sites early

• Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings that are not tourist events

• Keep a copy of your passport ID page and visa details separately

Travel insurance

Get insurance that covers:

• Medical treatment

• Trip delays/cancellations (high season disruption is possible)

• Medical evacuation (especially if you go far from major cities)

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SIM/eSIM & internet

Getting mobile data in Egypt is usually easy. A local SIM can be a good deal if you are staying more than a few days.

Practical tips:

• Bring your passport for SIM registration

• Airport kiosks are convenient but can cost more than city shops

• If you use eSIM, confirm compatibility and roaming costs before you arrive

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Packing list for Egypt in December/January

Pack for warm sun and cool evenings. Layers are the easiest solution.

Essentials for most travelers

• Light jacket or warm layer for nights (Cairo, Nile evenings)

• T-shirts + one warmer top

• Comfortable walking shoes (temples often mean uneven ground)

• Sunglasses and sunscreen (winter sun can still be strong)

• A scarf (wind, dust, religious sites)

• Smart-casual outfit (some hotel dinners and NYE events)

If you’re doing the Red Sea

• Swimsuit

• Light cover-up for walking around the resort

• A warmer layer for evening wind

• Reef-safe snorkel gear if you prefer your own (optional)

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Practical tips: visas, money, hours, and holiday planning

Small details can save you time during a busy season.

Tourist visa and entry basics

Visa rules depend on your nationality. At the time of writing, Egypt’s official e-visa portal is available online and includes an FAQ section explaining the process and eligibility by country. Always apply only through official sources and double-check requirements close to departure. Visa2Egypt

Money and payments

• The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP)

• Cards are accepted in many hotels and larger shops, but cash is still useful

• ATMs are common in cities; notify your bank about travel

Opening hours and holidays

• Many attractions operate normally during late December, but schedules can change

• 7 January (Coptic Christmas) can affect staffing and schedules in some places (confirm the day before for your must-do plans).

Transport planning

If you plan to use trains or metro:

• Check official sources close to travel dates for schedules and changes. cairometro.gov.eg

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Sample 7-day itinerary: Christmas and New Year in Egypt

A first-time, mid-range-friendly itinerary should balance iconic sights with rest. This sample assumes you want a “real Egypt” trip plus one festive evening.

7-day plan (Cairo + Luxor)

Travel times are approximate and depend on flight/train choices.

Easy extensions (highly recommended if you have time)

• Add 2–4 nights in Hurghada or Sharm after Luxor for a beach finish

• Add Aswan (2–3 nights) if you want a slower Nile experience

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Egypt good to visit at Christmas?

Yes, Egypt can be a great Christmas destination if you want comfortable sightseeing weather and a mix of culture and winter sun. It is also a peak season period, so prices and crowds are higher than in quieter months.

At the time of writing, the key is planning: book major items early (flights, Nile cruise cabins, popular resorts) and keep your day plans flexible for traffic and crowds.

Is Christmas a public holiday in Egypt?

Often, 7 January (Coptic Christmas) is treated as an official holiday in Egypt, while 25 December is not always treated the same way nationally. Rules can change year to year, so check official announcements close to your trip.

Is Christmas celebrated in Egypt?

Yes. Christmas is celebrated by Egypt’s Christian community (especially Coptic Orthodox), and you will also see Christmas-style decor and events in tourist-facing places like hotels, resorts, and malls.

What is Christmas like in Egypt for tourists?

For tourists, it often feels like:

• A normal sightseeing trip in the daytime (pyramids, temples, museums)

• A festive hotel/resort experience at night (dinners, entertainment, New Year events)

If you want a stronger “Christmas atmosphere,” choose a hotel/resort with a holiday program.

What is Coptic Christmas in Egypt?

Coptic Christmas is the Christmas celebration of many Coptic Orthodox Christians in Egypt, typically on 7 January, with major services around 6 January (Christmas Eve). Real Egypt

Tourists may notice:

• More church activity and family gatherings around those dates

• Some schedule changes in workplaces and services

Is Egypt warm at Christmas?

It depends on where you go. Cairo is usually mild in the day and cooler at night, while Luxor/Aswan are often warmer for daytime touring. Red Sea resorts can be warm enough for beach time, and the sea in places like Hurghada can often be in the low-to-mid 20s °C in December. Weather Atlas

Where is the best place to spend Christmas in Egypt?

It depends on your travel style:

• Cairo: best for famous sights and city comforts

• Luxor/Aswan: best for temples and classic Nile scenery

• Sharm/Hurghada: best for a beach Christmas and resort gala nights
  A popular first-timer choice is Cairo + Luxor + a Red Sea finish.

What is open in Egypt on 25 December and 7 January?

Many tourist sites are open through late December, but opening hours can change around holidays and weekends. 7 January can affect staffing and schedules in some places. The safest approach is to check official pages (museums, transport) and confirm with your hotel the day before your key plans. Gem

Can tourists attend a Coptic Christmas mass?

Sometimes yes, but you should approach this with care and respect. Dress modestly, do not disturb worshippers, and avoid intrusive photography. Major services can be crowded and may have security checks.

If you are unsure, ask your hotel concierge or a local guide for advice on the best place and time to visit quietly.

Is it safe to travel to Egypt at Christmas (including solo female travelers)?

Many tourists travel safely, but you should follow official advice, avoid restricted areas, and use common sense in crowds and transport. At the time of writing, the U.S. Department of State provides a detailed Egypt advisory (including areas to avoid and general precautions). Travel.state.gov

For solo female travelers, practical steps like choosing reputable hotels, using ride-hailing at night, and dressing modestly in busy city areas can reduce stress.