Egypt

In Egypt, history steps out of the textbooks and stands right in front of you. Facing the pyramids of Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure and the Sphinx on the Giza plateau, knowing they were built some 4,500 years ago, is an experience in itself. In Cairo, the treasures of the Grand Egyptian Museum, the minarets of Islamic Cairo and the bustle of Khan el-Khalili bazaar await.

Heading south, the Nile Valley sets an entirely different scene. In Luxor you explore the temples of Karnak and Luxor and the painted tombs of the Valley of the Kings; in Aswan you drift along the river by felucca as the sun goes down. Many routes also include a Nile cruise of a few nights between Luxor and Aswan.

Ending the journey with a few days by the clear waters of the Red Sea in Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh strikes a lovely balance. At roughly two hours' flight from Istanbul, Egypt is a practical choice for both culture and beach holidays. For temple and museum visits, comfortable shoes, a hat and sun cream will be your best companions.