Best Places to Visit in Qena | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Qena Travel Guide
Quick overview of Qena with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Qena, Egypt! Located in Upper Egypt, Qena is a city that offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern charm. As you explore this fascinating destination, you will be captivated by its rich cultural heritage and stunning archaeological sites. One of the highlights of Qena is the Temple of Dendera, a well-preserved ancient Egyptian temple dedicated to the goddess Hathor. This magnificent structure is adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant paintings, providing a glimpse into the religious practices of the past. Additionally, Qena is also home to the stunning Valley of the Kings, where you can discover the tombs of pharaohs and marvel at the intricate hieroglyphics that adorn the walls. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply seeking a unique travel experience, Qena is a destination that will leave you in awe.
Qena Travel Videos
We've curated authentic Qena videos for inspiration and practical tips. Discover all the amazing places to visit and things to do in Qena in 2024. Make your own Itinerary, like a Pro.
Plan Qena Trip
Prepare for your Qena trip now. Use our trusted partners for great rates and a hassle-free booking experience. Easily book your Hotels now without advance payment and cancel anytime.
Best Places To Visit in Qena
1. Cairo, Egypt : Cairo is the capital city of Egypt and is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the country. The city is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world, including the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Visitors can also explore the bustling markets, sample delicious Egyptian cuisine, and learn about the country's rich history and culture.
2. Luxor, Egypt : Luxor is a city located on the east bank of the Nile River in southern Egypt. It is known for its ancient temples and tombs, including the famous Valley of the Kings. Visitors can also explore the Luxor Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts from the ancient city of Thebes.
3. Aswan, Egypt : Aswan is a city located in southern Egypt and is known for its beautiful scenery and historic landmarks. Visitors can take a boat ride on the Nile River, visit the Philae Temple, and explore the Nubian villages.
4. Alexandria, Egypt : Alexandria is a coastal city located in northern Egypt and is known for its beautiful beaches and historic landmarks. Visitors can explore the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, which is a modern library that pays homage to the ancient Library of Alexandria, and visit the Citadel of Qaitbay, which is a 15th-century fortress.
5. Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt : Sharm El Sheikh is a resort town located on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities.
6. Dahab, Egypt : Dahab is a small town located on the eastern coast of the Sinai Peninsula. It is known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities.
7. Siwa Oasis, Egypt : Siwa Oasis is a remote town located in the western desert of Egypt. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including the Great Sand Sea and the Siwa Salt Lake. Visitors can also explore the ancient ruins of the Temple of Amun and the Oracle of Amun.
8. Marsa Alam, Egypt : Marsa Alam is a resort town located on the Red Sea coast of Egypt. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities.
9. Hurghada, Egypt : Hurghada is a resort town located on the Red Sea coast of Egypt. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities.
10. Dahshur, Egypt : Dahshur is a small village located south of Cairo and is known for its ancient pyramids, including the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid. Visitors can explore the ruins of these ancient structures and learn about the history of ancient Egypt.
Hotels Map Of Qena
Use our All-in-one Map to find Best Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Tours, Activities and Restaurants in Qena.
Tours And Activities In Qena
Check out these Top-Rated Tours and Activities in Qena. Read real reviews and highlights.
Food & Drinks To Try In Qena
1. Koshari: This popular Egyptian dish is a must-try in Qena. It consists of a mixture of rice, lentils, macaroni, and chickpeas, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a delicious and satisfying meal.
2. Ful Medames: Another traditional Egyptian dish, Ful Medames is made from cooked fava beans that are mashed and seasoned with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. It is often served with bread and can be enjoyed as a hearty breakfast or a light lunch.
3. Molokhia: This green leafy vegetable is a staple in Egyptian cuisine. It is typically cooked with garlic, coriander, and chicken or beef broth to create a flavorful and nutritious soup. Molokhia is often served over rice or with bread.
4. Ta'meya: Similar to falafel, Ta'meya is a popular street food in Egypt. It is made from ground fava beans or chickpeas, mixed with herbs and spices, and then deep-fried until crispy. Ta'meya is typically served in a pita bread with tahini sauce and salad.
5. Egyptian Tea: Egypt is known for its strong and aromatic tea. Egyptian tea is typically black tea brewed with fresh mint leaves and served with sugar. It is a popular beverage to enjoy with meals or as a refreshing drink on its own.
6. Sugarcane Juice: Qena is located in an agricultural region known for its sugarcane production. Freshly squeezed sugarcane juice is a popular local drink that is both sweet and refreshing. It is often served with a squeeze of lemon juice for added tanginess.
7. Hibiscus Juice: Also known as Karkadeh, hibiscus juice is a popular beverage in Egypt. It is made from dried hibiscus flowers steeped in hot water and sweetened with sugar. The resulting drink is tart and refreshing, perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day.
8. Date-based Desserts: Qena is known for its date palm plantations, and as a result, there are many delicious date-based desserts to try. From date-filled pastries to sticky date puddings, these sweet treats are a perfect way to end your meal in Qena.
9. Egyptian Mangoes: If you visit Qena during mango season (typically from May to September), make sure to try the local Egyptian mangoes. Known for their sweet and juicy flesh, these mangoes are a true delight for fruit lovers.
10. Freshly Baked Bread: Qena is known for its traditional bakeries that produce fresh bread daily. Whether it's the traditional Egyptian flatbread known as "Aish Baladi" or other varieties like "Feteer" or "Samoon," the aroma and taste of freshly baked bread in Qena are hard to resist.
Best Time To Visit Qena
The best time to visit Qena, Egypt is during the winter months of November to February. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. This makes it ideal for exploring the ancient ruins and historical sites in the area, such as the Temple of Dendera and the Valley of the Kings. Additionally, the Nile River cruises are popular during this time, offering a unique way to experience the beauty of the region. It is important to note that Qena can get quite hot during the summer months of June to August, with temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius or higher. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid visiting during this time if you are sensitive to extreme heat.
Flight Calendar For Qena
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Qena.
Transportation To Qena
There are several transportation options to Qena, Egypt.
1. Flight: The nearest airport to Qena is Luxor International Airport, which is approximately 60 kilometers away. From Luxor, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Qena.
2. Train: Qena is well-connected by train services. You can take a train from Cairo or other major cities in Egypt to reach Qena. The journey duration may vary depending on the starting point.
3. Bus: There are bus services available from various cities in Egypt to Qena. You can check with local bus operators for schedules and fares.
4. Private car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and drive to Qena. The roads are generally well-maintained, and there are highways connecting Qena to other cities in Egypt.
It is recommended to check the latest travel advisories and transportation schedules before planning your trip to Qena, Egypt.