Egypt spans the northeast corner of Africa and the southwest corner of Asia and boasts the longest histories of any modern country. Will you get to dig up scarabs and moldy mummies? Probably not, but you can find Egypt study abroad programs that offer historical walkthroughs, giving you an opportunity to examine ancient Egyptian artifacts.

Cairo — the capital and largest city is located in northeast Egypt and offers the majority of study abroad programs. Marvel at the beauty of the Cairo Opera House, gather with new friends in cafés, and get a bird’s-eye view of the city on top of the Cairo Tower. With side trips to the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx and to the shopping center of Khan el-Khalili, some study abroad programs steep its participants in modern and ancient Egyptian culture.

Alexandria. The second largest city founded by Alexander the Great and once the seat of Queen Cleopatra lies on the coast of the Mediterranean sea in the northern region. Alexandria’s charms include ancient ruins including the Roman triumphal column known as Pompey’s Pillar and dozens of Roman-era baths. Excursions to the Alexandria Museum, the Bibliotheca Alexandria, and Montaza Gardens are a must. With four stadiums here, you’ll be able to get your fix of football and basketball.

Luxor. No, not the pyramid in Las Vegas. The “world’s greatest open-air museum” is located in southeastern Egypt with the Nile River flowing through it, and it’s the site of the Ancient Egyptian city of Thebes. Luxor boasts monuments, temples of Karnak and Luxor, and tombs. You can also explore the Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, the Tombs of the Nobles, and more in the West bank area. For more modern activities, you can shop at a Luxor souq and watch a movie at the IMAX theater.