Nestled in the Nile Valley, Beni Suef is famous for its luxurious textiles, which makes it a great place to pick up beautiful Egyptian cotton and linen. The city is surrounded by a treasure trove of historical sites, including ancient pyramids, limestone caves and temples.

Things to do

The Beni Suef Museum houses artefacts that detail Beni Suef's history. Most are sourced from nearby temples and tombs, such as Abusir and Heracleopolis Magna. You can admire Ptolemaic carvings, check out colourful Coptic textiles and see 19th-century pottery.

As one of the oldest pyramids on the planet, Meidum dates back to the Old Kingdom. It was raised by King Hony and inspired the mighty sun temples built by Fifth Dynasty pharaohs. You can stroll around the perimeter of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and gaze up at the ancient ruins.

Dripping with stalactites, Sannur Cave is one of Egypt's largest limestone grottos. It was carved by thermal springs, which created a 700-metre-long and 15-metre-wide chamber. Guided tours are the easiest way to explore the cave.

Beni Suef sits on the banks of the Nile, one of the world's most iconic rivers. Leisure cruises offer a unique chance to experience its stunning natural beauty, sailing past sleepy villages, mountains and lush farmland. Choose from scenic day trips or overnight voyages that sail to Cairo and beyond.

Getting around

Beni Suef sits halfway between Cairo and Luxor. The city is well-serviced by a network of local mini buses, while taxis are also available. If you're driving to Cairo International Airport, allow around two hours.