tourist guide cairo egypt

Cairo, Egypt: The Ultimate Guide

Cairo is a unique blend of ancient history and modern culture, with iconic landmarks like the Pyramids of Giza and the Nile River just moments away from the vibrant energy of the Khan El Khalili Bazaar. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, our ultimate Cairo guide will help you explore Cairo’s treasures. Join us as we delve into the heart of this vibrant and unforgettable destination and discover all that Cairo has to offer.

Best Known For: the Pyramids of Giza

When you think of Cairo, you think of the Pyramids of Giza . The Pyramids of Giza are undoubtedly one of the world’s most iconic and recognizable landmarks. These incredible structures have stood for over 4,500 years and continue to amaze people with their sheer size and impressive engineering.

The Pyramids of Giza were built as tombs for the pharaohs and their consorts and are surrounded by other smaller tombs and temples. One of the best ways to explore the pyramids is on our Best of Ancient Cairo Tour, where a knowledgeable local guide will show you the sights of the Ancient Egyptian world and have the chance to look inside one of the pyramids. Alternatively, take a look at the different ways to get to the pyramids from Cairo , and the different touring options to see the pyramids .

Cairo: Essential Travel Information

Interactive map of cairo.

More Things to See in Cairo

With so many amazing things to do in Cairo , narrowing down your choices for your time there can be challenging. Here are some of our favorite places and things to do in Cairo.

Visit the Egyptian Museum : The Egyptian Museum is a must-visit destination when in Cairo. The museum boasts the world’s most extensive collection of Egyptology artifacts, making it a haven of archaeological treasures. The museum is teeming with exhibits, including the famed golden death mask and personal belongings of Tutankhamun, as well as dozens of mummies and artifacts from Pharaohs and ancient dynasties.

Downtown Cairo : Downtown Cairo lets visitors get lost in the bustling city and explore the creative and artistic scene. You can shop, eat delectable food, or peruse local art galleries.

Best of Cairo Tour : Our Best of Cairo Tour will allow you to explore the beauty of Cairo and experience the perfect blend of ancient and modern. Marvel at the Pyramids of Giza and ride a camel, visit temples and tombs and witness the Giza Pyramid Sound and Light show. You will visit the Egyptian Museum, the Citadel of Saladin, and Coptic Cairo and take a trip to the Khan el Khalili Market, where you can shop or enjoy local tea or freshly squeezed juice, immersing yourself in Cairo’s unique culture.

Where to Stay in Cairo

When thinking about Where to Stay in Cairo , it is easy to feel spoiled by choice. The Egyptian capital is a bustling, thrilling, and colorful place with awe-inspiring views and stunning hotels .

Downtown Cairo : Downtown is the urban center of the city, rich in history and busy with traffic. French architects designed the district, giving Paris a run for its money. A stunning area to stay; your eyes will be drawn to contemporary European architecture as you walk through the streets.

Giza : The neighborhood of Giza is located near the Pharaonic Village, Cairo University, and Orman Botanical Garden on the left bank of the River Nile. Spend your days leisurely strolling along the riverside, exploring verdant gardens, or enjoying a scenic felucca ride along the Nile.

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Cairo’s Restaurants & Markets

Cairo is a food lover’s paradise, with countless dining options and markets to explore. Street food is a staple of the city, with vendors selling everything from falafel and shawarma to koshari, a famous Egyptian dish made with lentils, rice, and pasta. In addition to street food, many restaurants serve traditional Egyptian cuisines, such as ful medames, a breakfast dish made with fava beans, and molokhia, a stew made with leafy green vegetables. 

Egypt’s capital is also home to the famous Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, where you can find everything from spices and teas to jewelry and textiles. For a taste of local life, head to one of the many open-air markets, such as the Friday Market or the Street of the Tentmakers, to experience the hustle and bustle of Cairo’s market culture or go on a taste adventure on one of our many food tours.

Our Recommendation: Things to Book Ahead 

When traveling anywhere, there is always a list of things you should book beforehand. We recommend ensuring that your accommodation is arranged before you arrive in Cairo. When visiting Cairo, visits to popular attractions like the pyramids have minimal availability. To avoid disappointment, we recommend booking one of our array of pyramids tours so you can see everything Cairo has to offer. 

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Cairo Private Tours & Local Tour Guides

Discover things to do and plan a trip to cairo, egypt with a local guide.

View all 37 reviews

Popular Cairo Tour Guides

Hello everyone, I am an English-Speaking guide since 2007.I always plan to be a tour guide and meet different people from different nations.I do private tours in Cairo,Giza,Alexandria,Fayum...etc.                                                                                                                                  

I'm Tarek Licensed tour guide English Language in Egypt with twenty five years of experience, working with all the nationalities individuals and big groups. Will be available to guide you .                                                                                                                                  

Greetings to all who are drawn to the timeless wonders of Egypt! I am Mohamed, your humble guide on a journey through the ages. With over 15 years of experience as an Egyptology licensed tour guide, I've immersed myself in the captivating tapestry of ancient Egyptian history. My odyssey began in the picturesque city of Aswan, where the Nile's gentle currents weave tales of antiquity. Surrounded by majestic monuments and sacred sites, I developed an insatiable curiosity for the mysteries of the past, leading me to pursue guiding as my life's calling. From the iconic pyramids of Giza to the serene temples of Luxor, I've traversed Egypt, unraveling the enigmas of our ancestors for travelers worldwide. In the vibrant streets of Cairo, I embrace the pulse of modern Egypt, where tradition and innovation converge. Beyond guiding, my interests span cars, football, literature, and swimming. My faithful companion, Hamasa, embodies Egypt's spirit. As I look to the future, I'm excited to deepen my knowledge and craft unforgettable experiences for those who journey with me. Join me on a voyage of discovery, where every step reveals treasures to cherish. Together, let's embark on an odyssey through Egypt's rich legacy. Welcome to a land where history resonates and the promise of tomorrow beckons.                                                                                                                                  

I'm a local, professional and independent guide speaking French and English and French.  I studied at the Faculty of Tourism. I'm a member of the Egyptian Syndicate of Tourist Guides. I invite you to share the daily life and the passion of the Egyptians, especially the little nuggets unknown to the general public, the small typical addresses of the city as well as the gastronomy of the country to better understand the culture and the traditions of the country. I also offer you a tailor-made trip throughout Egypt according to your desires and your budget.                                                                                                                                  

New cairo tour guides.

I am sameh more than 24 years of experience as Egyptology tour guide well know how to make every body happy with his tour show the best of our civilization                                                                                                                                  

Hello everybody! This is Noha I am an Egyptian tour guide working in this field since 2003. I graduated from the faculty of tourism and hotels management (guidance section) in 2002 with a honor degree. Tour guiding is not only my career but it's also my passion meeting different people from different countries all over the world and showing them Egypt is a great pleasure and honor. I feel like I am one of the ambassador of this country. Presenting the great part of our history and culture and let them feel how Egypt is a land of peace with all different religions starting from the ancient Egypt history to the Islamic and modern history. Big part of the role of the tour guide is not just to give you the information but also to help our guests to have an easier trip avoiding any worries by giving them the perfect suggestions of the best sightseeings they can't miss and best restaurants they can eat in with perfect quality of food. All my services feature an A/C comfortable vehicle and very expert driver as well. I work with a-lot of flexibility and patience with my guests to give them the best experience ever they can get about Egypt. Looking forward to see you                                                                                                                                  

My name is Ola Egyptologist and license tour guide in Egypt, i have bachelor degree and master degree in Egyptology class of 96, I’ve been working in this field for more than 25 years, I’m freelance working with many companies in Egypt (Abercrombie and Kent, Excel, Travco)                                                                                                                                  

Aly, an Egyptian citizen, Egyptologist, and officially authorized as English speaking tourist guide for more than two decades. I have a profession (tour guiding) that enables me to meet new people every now and then. I love showing people around our great country. The ancient Egyptian civilization, the culture of modern Egyptian people are always inspiring for many people. The monuments erected by them are not only massive edifices to astonish us, but they bear witness for the great people once inhabited this part of the world. Having studied all the accumulated layers of the Egyptian history, living all my life surrounded by these unbeatable phenomena, and choosing to be the interpreter of the silent monuments (as many think they are !), made me feel having a moral responsibility rather than telling people about the great predecessors, show them the great ancestors we are nowadays, make tourists feel like they have a second homeland or even a second family in Egypt. Flexibility, passion, and willingness to help people having the most of their time are integral parts of my character according to previous clients.                                                                                                                                  

Popular cairo private tours.

Old Cairo, Citadel, and Khan El-Khalili

Experience the vibrant tapestry of cairo's history and culture on this captivating tour that weaves together the city's ancient religious landmarks, its imposing fortress, and the bustling markets of khan el-khalili. prepare to be enchanted by the diverse heritage of old cairo, awe-inspired by the citadel of salah el-din, and enchanted by the lively atmosphere of one of the middle east's most famous bazaars..

Day to Giza pyramids and the sphinx then Sakarah

A full day to see one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world then sphinx then drive to Sakarah where the first pyramid was build and explore the daily life activities

Go to the most famous palace in Cairo

We will go to most famous palace in cit is one of egypt's ancient palaces with a special architectural style. it was built by the belgian millionaire baron edward empain (in french: édouard louis joseph empain, baron empain), who came to egypt from india at the end of the nineteenth century, shortly after the opening of the suez canal, so he set out to establish a new housing project in the cairo desert under the name "heliopolis”, and decided to establish his own palace..

Egyptian museum in Eltahrir (Half-day tour)

The egyptian museum is the oldest archaeological museum in the middle east, and houses the largest collection of pharaonic antiquities in the world. the museum displays an extensive collection spanning from the predynastic period to the greco-roman era.

New Cairo Private Tours

"Cairo Cultural Discovery: Egyptian Museum & Downtown Walking Tour"

Experience cairo's rich history and vibrant culture with our "cairo cultural discovery: egyptian museum & downtown walking tour." start with a guided tour of the egyptian museum, exploring ancient artifacts and the treasures of tutankhamun. enjoy an hour of free time, then savor a delicious local lunch. continue with a walking tour of downtown cairo, discovering historic landmarks and relaxing with a non-alcoholic drink at a local café. join mohamed for an unforgettable half-day adventure..

The Comprehensive Visit to the Egyptian Museum at Tahrir Square in Cairo !!

5 days package in Cairo luxury trip includes lunch & transportation

In the land of the pharaohs, a 5 day egypt luxury trip with nile cruise aims to liberate your soul. you arrive at the giza pyramids, an wonder land. , you must comprehend how the pharaohs’ building story began. it will soon be time to go for lunch infront of the pyramids you will visit temples that encompass historical details, kingly mysteries, and everyday life in ancient egypt during a 5days egypt tour package, which transports you from the old kingdom to the splendor of the contemporary king.

visit Cairo tower+nile boat includs lunch

You can see cairo from the top of the tower.there is a garden next to the tower (the guide will show you it). the elevator in the tower is very fast. you can take pictures next to the tower if you do not want to go to the top of the tower. after visiting the tower move to nile boat and take lunch if you want make any changing at this tour ask the guide, popular cairo private cars.

Day tour Sakkara, Giza Pyramids & Sphinx

Start your tour by exploring sakkara pyramids: you will see the complex of king djoser " zoser" , it is considered as an important part in the process of the pyramid evolution. pyramid of unas ( mastaba of idout) . serapeum for egyptian god serapis , then lunch time at local and typical restaurant, we proceed to visit the great pyramids of giza. cheops, chephren and mykerinus, then getting close up to the sphinx, get your photo beside it , then back to hotel..

Private Arrival Airport Transfer to Giza or Cairo Hotel

With this private arrival transfer you will save your time, effort and avoid any hassle or trouble dealing and bargaining with cab drivers. no more rip-off or cheats with this punctual, smooth transfer.save time and avoid hassle by pre-booking your transportation between cairo airport and your hotel in cairo or giza. you will need to get your luggages, go through the final security check, and then you will see your driver outside..

Day tour Citadel, Egyptian museum & Civilization museum

After meeting your guide, you will visit the citadel of saladin, then the civilization museum, and finally the egyptian museum. then back to hotel..

Day Tour to Sakkara, Serapeum, Tomb Ti, Dashour & Memphis.

[the tours starts from cairo] we will visit sakkara, whereyou see the first construction in stone all-over the world. continue your day tour to memphis city that was the ancient capital of egypt. dahshor bent, red & black pyramids : then discover the most magnificent pyramid which is the red pyramid for the king senfru, which consider as the final step for the second life king house after they spent 7 years in building the bent pyramid.then head to the serapeum., cairo tour reviews.

A stunning tour of Islamic and Coptic Cairo

“ Full of answers to our questions ”

Went on a second tour with Seham after enjoying her company day one and we're glad that we did. She continued to help us feel comfortable, thought about how holidays/services might impact our ability to see various sites, and was welcoming and answered all of our questions. She is great at point out sites even while driving and providing little bits of information that are very interesting. It felt like we got to know modern Egypt as well as the past.

Thank you very much so sweet of you Thank you

“ Easy, comfortable, informative visit ”

We had a great day with Seham! She made everything so easy and clear. Not only did she know the history and share that with us, but she also was very clear about the itinerary as well as the customs for where we were. She told us what to do in different situations that we might not be familiar with, helped us with tipping people at different sites, and was very clear in asking us what we did and did not want to do. We felt very comfortable and got to really enjoy everything we were seeing. I really enjoyed the mastabas and would recommend getting to see them as part of your tour!

Thank you very much ! It has been my pleasure to meet both of you Enjoy the rest of your visit to Cairo and definitely will be waiting for you again

Airport pickup, Giza Pyramids, Sphinx and back to hotel near airport.

“ Driving tour around Cairo ”

Aton was a great guide, very informative and friendly! Would definitely recommend

Thank you Harry. I hope to see you again in Cairo. Sunny regards, Aton

Cairo Private Tour Guide

Start your Cairo journey with easy access, comfort and adventure with the help of a local, expert tour guide and curate private tours and lifelong memories. 

Welcome to the “City of a Thousand Minarets” where warm orange sunsets and flowing rivers fill your days. To know what lies beneath the word -renowned city, connect with a local tour guide and see the city through a local’s perspective. From gems in Coptic Cairo, to the Cave Churches and sharp corners of the City of The Dead, a private tour of Cairo opens you up to the unknown adventures that inspired you to travel there. 

With a private tour guide, even well known sites like Giza, The Egyptian Museum and the Khan El Khalil bazaar become new grounds for deep exploration. To truly gauge the magnificent pyramids, or see the significance of papyrus art, walking alongside a local is key. You can spend less time researching for yourself, and spend more time touring on the ground, getting the information as you go. 

Cairo Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a tour guide in cairo gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, how much does a tour guide cost in cairo gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, how many days are enough for cairo gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, what is the best month to go to cairo gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, is cairo a walkable city gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, is cairo english friendly gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, what should i be careful of in cairo gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, is cairo tourist friendly gowithguide find your perfect tour guide at gowithguide. relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip, latest cairo articles.

Tourism In Cairo Statistics 2024: All You Need To Know

Cairo, Egypt

  When it comes to the “City Of A Thousand Minarets”, there’s a lot to know. Nestled along the timeless banks of Africa’s longest river, Cairo is a layered mix of the ancient past, and pulsating modernity. It’s an incredibly captivating city with the sme...

4 Day Trips From Cairo You Have To Try

  with a population of 22 million residents and over 14 million tourists yearly, egypt's capital is beautiful and busy. once you've sought souvenirs in the stunning souks, devoured local street foods, and marveled at the old-world architecture, it's time....

Our Top 5 Must-See Cairo Attractions

  cairo is a city rich in history and ancient finery, and the most significant spot to visit to get a sense of current egyptian street life. a visit to egypt would be incomplete without a stop in cairo. few places can compare with cairo for historical to....

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Enjoy cairo with a virtual tours & experience without leaving your home., related cairo tour guide pages.

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Cairo tourist attractions, Explore the most famous places in cairo vast Egyptian Museum including the royal mummies, gilded King and Great Sphinx. Get tour activities offered by independent travel guides in Cairo at tourhq.com

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Cairo Tour Guides

Mohamed El-Esnawy

Greetings! I've been serving as a tour guide all across Egypt since 2002, offering a wealth of ...

Khaled Aly zaki Hussien

I have been working as a professional tourist guide since 2009 for English, Italian, Spanish and ...

Ahmed Shaban

Hello...This is me Ahmed Shaban Egypt's licensed expert tour guide and tour operator ...

Working for tourism since 1999, I hold a Bachelor's degree in English literature and a Diploma in ...

Amany Fahmy

I studied English and Italian languages in Egypt, Cairo, and then I did a diploma in Tourism ...

Dalia Kamel

I studied English and Japanese languages in Egypt, Cairo, and then I did a diploma in Tourism and ...

Ibrahim Mahmoud

Soy Ibrahim Mahmoud , Egipcio. Vivo en Luxor y Aswan, trabajo de guía ...

Mustafa ElSherif

For the past four years, I have meticulously organized and guided tourist excursions in and around ...

Abduo Abdelaziz

Hey Egypt lovers ,I am an Egyptian tour guide who love to share my knowledge and love of Egypt with ...

Heba Haggag

Hello, I'm Heba Haggag, your local tour guide based in Luxor with a rich 17-year experience in ...

Our tour is not just for tourism services it's culture service all we know , read , ...

Mostafa Ibrahim

Hello Guys.To begin with, I just wanted to share some of my love with the fascinating ancient ...

Medhat Nasry

Born and bred in Luxor in Southern Egypt (Thebes), the world’s oldest historic city, I can help ...

Mamdouh Elkammah

 I am one of the most popular and respected tour guides in Egypt.  My presentation is ...

Howayda Saad eldin

Soy una guía turístico privado en Egipto. He sido  guía turístico desde 1995. Soy ...

For Egyptians, Cairo is both the capital city of Egypt and Egypt itself as its Egyptian name ‘Masr’ translates as ‘Egypt City’. The same can be said of tourists’ experience of this place with Cairo’s insignia - pyramids, camels, sphinx and pharaohs - recognisable around the world as embodying ‘Egypt’ as a whole. In Cairo’s long and fascinating history, the Egyptians were replaced and ruled by Persians, Romans, Greeks and Iraqis before 19th century reformer Mohammed Ali put an end to feudalism and welcomed the spoils of European architecture and cultural influence. A startlingly complete history of the civilizations of the world can be experienced in Cairo, but it is of course the influence of the Ancient Egyptians, with their breath-taking monuments and intriguing belief-system, whose resonance has carried down the ages. Both the largest city in the middle-east and African regions and the most densely populated, a trip to Cairo can’t be said to be a relaxing one.  Plan your trip with your Cairo travel guide well in advance to make sure you see all of the many ‘must-sees’ Cairo has to offer.

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A roaring metropolis of nearly 20 million people, Cairo is the cultural capital of the Arab world. Most visitors to Egypt spend at least a few days here, exploring its medieval mosques, sampling its fine museums and shopping in the labyrinthine Khan El Khalili bazaar. It remains one of the earth’s greatest metropolises, still larger in both population and extent than any city west of China . Enriched by the spice trade and the traffic in luxury goods, its sultans and emirs adorned the city over centuries with extravagant architecture.

The best travel tips for visiting Cairo

Best things to do in cairo, where to stay in cairo and around, best restaurants and bars, how to get here, how many days do you need in cairo, tips for getting around, best time to visit cairo, travel ideas for egypt, created by local experts.

The Best of Egypt

Explore the history and culture of Egypt and its ancient rulers on this trip throughout the country. Start and end in Cairo and make your way down to Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel. Instead of domestic flights, you will hop on luxurious sleeper trains for your journey.

Cairo & a luxurious Dahabieh sailing cruise

Explore Egypt at a leisurely pace on board a dahabieh, a traditional sailing ship. In Cairo, visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, and in Giza, the pyramids; cruise to world-renowned sites alongside lesser-known treasures, such as Luxor’s tombs, el Kab and Gebel Silsileh’s Temple of Horemheb.

A Nile Cruise in Egypt

Experience Cairo with the pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian museum before flying to Luxor to board your Nile cruise. Highlights include Karnak temple, Valley of Kings, Hatshepsut temple and an optional visit to Abu Simbel. Spend your last night in fascinating Cairo.

Five Star Egypt

A tour through the ancient wonders of Giza, Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Start and end your trip in beautiful Cairo, exploring the surroundings before heading down to Aswan: you will spend four nights on a luxurious Nile cruise ship, discovering ancient sites such as Abu Simbel.

An introduction to Egypt

Marvel at the pyramids in Giza, explore busy Cairo, sleep on a luxurious sleeper train and explore more temples close to Luxor. This itinerary is fast-paced, with several nights in Cairo at the beginning and end, enabling you to see many fascinating sights in Egypt.

Modern Cairo spins on Midan at-Tahrir (Tahrir Square), a huge square on the east bank from which all distances in Egypt are measured. It was originally named Midan al- Isma‘iliyyah, after 19th-century ruler Khedive Ismail, and was a focal point for the Egyptian Revolution of 2011.

Running northeast from the Egyptian Museum is Shari Qasr El Nil, once the city’s main shopping street and still displaying a few vestiges of the architecture and vintage glamour from when this part of downtown Cairo was planned in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

East of Shari Qasr El Nil, Shari Mohammed Sabri Abou Alam indicates the overlapping of Ismail’s new quarter with old Misr as it was before the French marched in, and leads to Azbakeya, which was founded as a pleasure zone in the 15th century but had evolved into an upper-class residential area by the time Napoleon established his headquarters here in 1798.

The newer districts of Cairo are not without appeal. On Gezira Island, joined to the mainland by three bridges, two of them near Midan at-Tahrir, you’ll find Gezira in the south and Zamalek in the north. These adjoining suburbs are both popular with wealthy Cairenes and European residents and have several cultural attractions.

Want to visit Cairo? Let our local experts craft the perfect trip for you.

Pyramids in Giza and Cairo © Shutterstock

As the Egyptian capital, there are lots of things to do in Cairo from major architecture to cultural gems. There are the best things to do.

#1 Explore the Egyptian Museum

On the north side of Midan at-Tahrir stands the Egyptian Museum The museum was first commissioned in 1835 by the government, which were desperate to stop widespread plundering and looting of the country’s many archaeological sites. It moved between several locations until this present building was built in 1902 under Pasha Abbas Hilmi.

It now holds more than 100,000 of the world’s greatest collection of Egyptian artefacts, from statues to mummies, jewellery and mosaics. Unfortunately, it is now far too small to house this massive collection; some of the exhibits are cramped and dusty, not to mention badly lit and labelled, and many objects within the storerooms have never been on public display.

There’s much to see at the Egyptian Museum, including wonderful objects from the lesser-known Royal Tombs, discovered un-plundered at Tanis in the northern Delta in 1939. The golden objects are simply stunning, dating to the 21st and 22nd dynasties (around 1000 BC) when Tanis was the capital of kings who originated in Libya to the west.

RoughGuides Tip: make sure to read our article about how to spend 24 hours in Cairo.

Museum of Egyptian Antiquities © Shutterstock

#2 See the museums of Rawdah Island

Rawdah (or Roda) Island is dominated by the huge Grand Nile Tower Hotel (formerly the Grand Hyatt Cairo) on the northern tip. There are still some gems to be found on the island. Once belonging to the Muhammad Ali family is Manial Palace built between 1901 and 1929.

It was left to the Egyptian nation in 1955 by Prince Muhammad Ali, the younger brother of Khedive Abbas Hilmi Pasha and a first cousin of King Farouk. It includes a museum exhibiting Farouk’s game-shooting trophies; the prince’s own beautiful residence with its furnishings; and a 14-room museum housing family memorabilia.

On the southern tip of Rawdah Island is the smaller Monastirli Palace. This contains the Umm Kulthum Museum, dedicated to the life and work of Egypt’s best-loved singer, songwriter and actress.

On show are her iconic sunglasses, good-luck handkerchiefs, photos and video clips of her performances, as well as her correspondence with previous leaders and politicians.

In the same compound, at the southern tip of the island, is the Nilometer, clearly visible from across the river (it is distinguished by a conical cap). This is a reconstruction made in 1893 of a 17th-century Ottoman dome destroyed by the French in 1800; its interior is covered with fine Turkish tiles.

RoughGuides Tip: make sure to read our article about the best day trips from Cairo

Nilometer building, an Umayyad era structure for measuring the Nile Rivers clarity and water level during the annual flood season, located at Roda Island, Cairo © Shutterstock

#3 Visit the Mosque of Ibn Tulun

When the Abbasids repossessed Misr for the caliphate in 905, the Mosque of Ibn Tulun, rightly considered one of the architectural glories of the Muslim world, was the only building left standing in Al-Qata’i. It is the oldest mosque in the city surviving in its original form and is the largest in Cairo in terms of land area.

It has undergone several restorations, the first in 1297 and the latest within the decade. Built in the imperial style of the Abbasid court at Samarra in Iraq, where Ubn Tulun had lived as a young man, the mosque is built of red brick and stucco – original materials, rather than granite, limestone and marble borrowed from other sites, as is often the case in later mosques.

The mosque is impressive both for its simplicity and its grand scale – its courtyard alone covers 2.5 hectares (6.5 acres) and the sycamore-wood frieze of Qur’anic verses around the court is more than 2km (1.25 miles) long. The unusual spiral minaret was probably inspired by the minaret in Samarra, Iraq, although legend has it that a distracted Ibn Tulun rolled up a piece of paper and told the architect to use that as the design.

#4 Be wowed by the objets d’art in the Gayer-Anderson Museum

Adjoining the mosque’s northeast corner is the Gayer-Anderson Museum. Two restored houses, Beit el-Kiridiliya (1632) and Beit Amna Bent Salim (1540), have been joined together to create a delightful larger dwelling with a salamlik (reception suite) and haramlik (harem suite).

Both are filled with objets d’art, antique furniture, carpets, silks and embroidered Arabian costumes from all over the Middle East, the collection of Gayer- Anderson, a British major and army doctor, who restored the houses and lived here in the 1930s and 40s. The entrance to the museum leads from the Mosque of Ibn Tulun.

#5 Compare the Mosque-Madrasa of Sultan Hassan with its copycat Al-Rifa’i Mosque

At the northwestern corner of Midan Salah ad-Din square loom two colossal religious buildings: the Mosque-Madrasa of Sultan Hassan, built between 1356 and 1363; and the Al-Rifa’i Mosque, which was built to complement it architecturally between 1869 and 1912.

Visitors sometimes fail to understand that these two buildings were constructed more than five centuries apart, since the modern mosque shows perfect respect for its older neighbour across the street in fabric, scale and style.

The Mosque-Madrasa of Sultan Hassan Madrasa provided a daunting model since it is probably the greatest of the Bahri architectural monuments, and second only to the Mosque of Ibn Tulun in the grandeur of conception among all the historic buildings in Cairo. The walls are 36 metres (117ft) high and so solidly built that the mosque was twice used as a fortress – first in 1381 during a Mamluk revolt and then again in 1517 during the Ottoman invasion. Plan to visit both.

Mosque of Al Rifai and Madrasa of Sultan Hassan - panoramic view of old town in Cairo © Shutterstock

#6 See the historic Citadel

The Citadel, entered from Bab al-Gabal (also known as Bab al-Muqattam) reached from the Salah Salim highway, was begun by Saladin in 1176 as part of a grand scheme to enclose all of Misr within walls. In 1182, by which time he had gone north to fight his last campaigns against the crusaders, it was complete, and though it was later modified it was never without a military garrison.

In 1218 Sultan al-Kamil, Saladin’s nephew, took up residence in the Citadel, and from that time until the construction of Abdeen Palace in the mid-19th century it was also the home and seat of government of all but one of Egypt’s rulers, including Ottoman viceroys.

The Lower Enclosure contains the famous gate-passage where Muhammad Ali conducted a massacre of Mamluks in 1811. It can be approached by an 18th-century gateway, restored in 1988, but it is best seen from the terrace of the Police Museum on the upper level, which contains the Southern and Northern enclosures, nearly two-thirds of the Citadel’s entire area.

Cairo's Citadel © Shutterstock

#7 Gawp at the art in the Museum of Islamic Art

Relocated along Darb al-Ahmar in 1903 from its original home at the Fatimid Mosque of Al-Hakim, The Museum of Islamic Art recently reopened after three years of extensive renovation and reorganisation in 2017.

This museum has more than 1,700 items on display (and thousands more in storage) and is considered one of the world’s finest collections of Islamic applied arts. The ceramics, woodwork, carpets, textiles, manuscripts, calligraphy, metalwork, stonework and arms date from the 7th to 19th centuries, exhibited chronologically beginning with the Umayyad era, before continuing with the Abbasid/ Tulunid, Fatimid, Ayyubid, Mamluk and Ottoman periods.

The entrance on Shari Port Said features a facade with decorations and recesses inspired by Egyptian Islamic architecture from these various periods.

#8 Geek up at the Al-Azhar Mosque and University

Lying a short distance down Shari Al-Azhar to the east, the Al-Azhar Mosque and University were built in AD 970 as the first mosque of Fatimid Cairo; a madrasa was added in 988. Finally, in 1961, Al-Azhar was re-established as a university under Nasser’s government when a wide range of secular faculties were added.

As such it is considered the world’s second-oldest continuous educational institution (after the University of Al Kairaouine in Fez, Morocco), and is still Egypt’s supreme religious authority attracting Islamic scholars from around the world.

It is believed that university black graduation gowns originated from here, inspired by the flowing robes of Al- Azhar’s students. The entrance to the mosque is the splendid 15th-century Bab al-Muzainin (“barbers’ gates”).

Al Azhar mosque in Cairo, Egypt © Shutterstock

#9 Explore Shari Al-Muizz li-Din Allah al-Fatimi

On the other side of Shari Al-Azhar, the Qasabah, or Muizz, continues north until, just beyond a 15th-century madrasa, it is interrupted by another modern street, Shari al-Muski. Traditionally associated with old Christian and European quarters, by the end of the 19th century it was lined with European-owned shops.

Al-Muski is now a chaotic and busy pedestrian street, where wholesale traders offer their wares to small merchants from all over Egypt. The great north–south thoroughfare called the Qasabah is medieval Cairo’s main street and can still be followed on foot from Ibn Tulun northward for more than 5km (3 miles). However, the best place to take a stroll is the 1km (0.6- mile) stretch along Al-Muizz li-Din Allah al-Fatimi between the two gates – Bab Zuwaylah and Bab al-Futuh – which is a pedestrian-only zone.

#10 Wander along Khan El Khalili

Back on Muizz, the first major street to the right (east) leads to the warren of alleyways at Khan El Khalili, famous formerly for Turkish goods and now the tourists’ bazaar, although many traditional workshops continue to operate in the surrounding area, and the adjoining goldsmiths’ souq, for example, is still popular with locals.

There is a variety of goods for sale designed for the tourist trade including silverware, stained-glass lamps, incense, carpets, spices, gold jewellery, perfume, papyrus, gallabiyahs and belly dancing costumes. Naturally, haggling is expected, and some might find it annoying to be badgered by the vendors, but it’s a colourful place where visitors can get any kind of Egyptian souvenir all under one roof.

Khan el Khalili market in Cairo © Shutterstock

Cairo has hundreds upon hundreds of hotels that range from cheap and barely cheerful to gargantuan, gold-plated super-lux hotels that stand over the River Nile. The best areas to stay are downtown, Doqqi and Zamalek, all of them offering accommodation for all budgets.

Make sure to read our article about the best areas to stay in Cairo .

Downtown, Doqqi and Zamalek

Sharia Talaat Harb, the road that connects Talaat Harb Square with Tahrir Square, has oodles of budget places to stay . A short metro ride from Downtown, there are a handful of midrange hotels in this suburb. Expect to pay more for your hotel in Zamalek, but have a little less chaos outside your window.

For the best rooms and views in the city - but the biggest bills as well, look at accommodation around the Nile River.

Browse the best hotels in Cairo .

From street stalls to fine dining, big-name chains to tiny independent cafes, you’ll never go hungry in Cario. This is where to eat and drink.

If you’re on a budget, Downtown is the place to stretch it. Think: street food, cheap Middle Eastern restaurants, shawarma and cafes selling falafels. There are fewer restaurants in Doqqi but still plenty of places to sate your hunger.

Zamalek is home to the best restaurants in the city and some high-class joints. Along the River Nile a lot of the high-end hotels have decent restaurants attached. Book ahead.

Cairo national museum in Cairo, Egypt © Shutterstock

Most visitors will arrive via Cairo International Airport, though you can get to Cairo by bus and train as well.

For internal flights, EgyptAir and their subsidiary EgyptAir Express has the most regular network and flies daily from Cairo International Airport to Abu Simbel, Aswan, Borg El Arab (Alexandria), Hurghada , Luxor , Marsa Alam, Marsa Matruh and Sharm El Sheikh.

Nile Air is the largest airline after EgyptAir and flies to similar domestic destinations as well as several airports in Saudi Arabia and Iraq, among other places in the Middle East.

FlyEgypt is a low-cost carrier that flies from Cairo to Asyut, Borg El Arab (Alexandria), Hurghada, Luxor, Sharm El Sheikh and Sohag.

The government-owned Egyptian National Railways serves the Nile Valley to Aswan, the Red Sea cities of Suez and Port Said, and the Delta and North Coast cities of Alexandria and Marsa Mutrah.

Air-conditioned passenger trains usually have 1st and 2nd classes, while non-air-conditioned trains have 2nd and 3rd classes. There are at least six through trains a day, and fares are inexpensive, but unless one is travelling on an organised tour, tickets are purchased at railway stations (in Cairo inside Ramses Station at Midan Ramses); alternatively, you can book 1st and 2nd-class tickets on the website.

The most popular route for tourists is the twice-nightly air-conditioned sleeper train between Cairo and Luxor (journey time 10 hours) and Aswan (15 hours), which is operated by privately run Watania. This service must be paid for in foreign currency (US dollars, euros or pounds sterling) at the separate Watania sleeper office/counter at the stations.

Air-conditioned buses link most parts of Egypt to Cairo and Alexandria , and beyond the Nile Valley , it’s often the only option. Seats may be reserved up to two days in advance. There is also a fleet of cheaper non-air-conditioned buses, but they can be crowded and stop frequently.

Although bus times change without notice, departures are so frequent that this is rarely a problem. The Cairo Gateway Bus Station (Torgoman) on Shari Al Gisr in Bulaq, close to the Orabi metro station and 1km (0.6 miles) northwest of Midan Ramses and the train station, handles most of the long-distance buses.

There are numerous companies, and tickets can be bought here from different windows depending on the destination; those for airconditioned buses should always be booked in advance. Increasingly, tickets can be booked online.

Find out the best ways to get to Egypt .

Generally, 3-4 days should be enough to cover the major Cairo attractions and get a good sense of the capital. This is enough time to visit the Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx, explore the Egyptian Museum, take a stroll in Islamic Cairo, visit the Citadel of Salah El Din and the Alabaster Mosque, and explore the Khan El Khalili market.

Additionally, you can take a day trip to Memphis, Saqqara, or the Dahshur pyramids. If you have more time, you can also explore other attractions such as the Coptic Cairo, the Hanging Church, or take a Nile cruise to see the city from a different perspective.

Keep in mind that Cairo is a bustling city with a lot of traffic, so plan your time wisely to make the most of your stay.

Looking for inspiration for your trip? Talk to our Egypt travel experts .

Detail of a wall, Khan el-Khalili souk, Cairo, Egypt © Shutterstock

Cairo is a bustling and busy city with many transportation options available to get around. Here are some of the best ways to get around Cairo:

Cairo has a reliable metro system that runs from early morning until late at night. It's a fast and inexpensive way to travel around the city.

Taxis are plentiful in Cairo and can be flagged down on the street. They are usually metered, but it's always a good idea to negotiate the fare before getting in.

Uber is also available in Cairo. It can be more convenient than taxis as you can book and pay for them through the app.

By microbus

Microbuses are small vans that operate along set routes. They are often crowded and can be a bit tricky to navigate, but they are an inexpensive way to get around.

If you want to explore the Nile, taking a felucca (traditional sailboat) is a great way to do so. You can hire a felucca for a few hours or a full day and enjoy the beautiful views of the city from the river.

The best time to visit Cairo is during the cooler months of November to February when the weather is mild and pleasant. During this time, temperatures are typically between 15-20°C (59-68°F) and there is little to no rainfall.

This makes it an ideal time to explore the city's historic sites such as the Great Pyramids of Giza , the Egyptian Museum, and the Citadel.

However, if you don't mind the heat, the summer months of June to August can also be a good time to visit Cairo. While temperatures can soar to over 40°C (104°F), this is also the low season for tourists, which means you'll have a chance to experience the city's attractions without the crowds.

Additionally, the evenings can be pleasantly cool, allowing for enjoyable outdoor activities. It's worth noting that Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, can affect your trip to Cairo, as many restaurants and cafes may be closed during the day. However, this can also be a unique cultural experience if you are interested in learning more about Islamic traditions.

Find out more about the best time to visit Egypt .

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updated 30.03.2023

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The Egyptian Traveler

Unveiling The Wonders Of Cairo: A Comprehensive Travel Guide To The Top 15 Must-See Attractions In Egypt's Capital City 🇪🇬

Cairo is the capital of Egypt, a city rich in world famous history, it is a great place to explore Egyptian history and culture. Even though Cairo is an ancient city; but it is also a modern metropolis. If you are visiting Egypt then Cairo must be on your Itinerary.

15 Top Things To Do In Cairo & Giza

1. giza plateau - giza necropolis - giza pyramid complex.

The Pyramids of Giza are the number one thing you need to visit whenever you are in Cairo. Pyramids are royal tombs, and discoveries are done in that area. You will also find The Great Sphinx of Giza there; which is a large limestone statue with the body of a line and the headed of a human, this is an iconic symbol and it is a must see.

You will find three Pyramids there; Pyramid of Khufu , Pyramid of Khafre , and Pyramid of Menkaure . The Giza Plateau is also set to welcome The Grand Egyptian Museum which will be the biggest museum in the world with exhibitions of antiques from a single civilisation.

You can arrive by Uber or Careem there, and then book your tickets at the entrance of you can book it online. Opening hours are from 07:00 until 17:00, and tickets costs EGP 200 for adults and EGP 100 for students (For Egyptians and Arabs tickets costs EGP 40 for adults and EGP 20 for students), these are entry tickets to The Giza Plateau only, and last ticket can be bought at 16:00. Inclusive tickets that allow entry into the Great Pyramid and Khufu's Boat Museum costs EGP 600 for adults and EGP 300 for students.

Please do not support the use of camels or horse carriages, it is easy to get around on foot via the pavement.

2. Khan El Khalili Market

This is the world's oldest open air market, Khan El Khalili Souq is filled with antiques, jewellery, spices, food, and much more. The word 'Souq' in Arabic means open air market, and this is the best place to buy souvenirs. Be ready to bargain as you should never accept the first price the merchants tell you, also do not follow a vendor to the back of his shop as this is usually a trick. You will also find a lot of coffeehouses around the market that serve Arabic & Turkish coffee.

Disclaimer : Beware for pickpockets, they can have a scarf that they use to cover your bags which will then give them the chance to steal something, the area will be crowded so you should pay good attention to your belongings.

3. Mosque Of Ibn Tulun

Mosque of Ibn Tulun is one of the oldest mosques in Egypt and it is the largest mosque in Egypt in terms of land area. Natural light is able to travel through as it is built around and open square courtyard. The Mosque of Ibn Tulun is located in a non-touristy neighbourhood.

Good to Know : It is appropriate for women to dress modestly and maybe even wear a scarf loosely around the head.

4. The Egyptian Museum

A great way to go back in time is by visiting The Egyptian Museum which is the home of the world's greatest collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts. It is recommended to plan to stay between 2 to 4 hours exploring the museum. Make sure to visit the Tutankhamun Gallery .

The museum is open from 09:00 until 17:00, and tickets can be bought at the entrance of the museum, and ticket window closes at 16:15. Tickets costs EGP 200 for adults and EGP 100 for students (For Egyptians; tickets costs EGP 30 for adults and EGP 10 for students).

5. The Hanging Church

The Hanging Church is built on top of the ancient Roman Fortress of Babylon hence the name 'The Hanging church'. This is one of the oldest churches in Egypt and it dates back to the third century, and the church belongs to the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria. You can see how the church is hanging through glass floor areas in the church and through a small window in the church.

6. Salah Al-Din Al-Ayoubi Castle

Cairo's Citadel is a medieval Islamic era fortification in Cairo that was built by Salah Al-Din Al-Ayoubi, this is one of the most iconic monuments in Islamic Cairo. You can view the whole city of Cairo from the hilltop. You will find the Mosque of Muhammad Ali at the hilltop, and you will also find Mosque of Al Nasser Mohammed Ibn Kalawoun and the Nationals military Museum .

Cairo Citadel is open from 09:00 until 17:00, and tickets costs EGP 180 for adults and EGP 90 for students (For Egyptian and Arabs; tickets costs EGP 40 for adults and EGP 20 for students), for night visiting hours tickets costs EGP 160 for adults and EGP 80 for students (For Egyptians and Arabs; tickets costs EGP 30 for adults and EGP 10 for students).

7. Mosque Of Muhammad Ali

The Mosque of Muhammad Ali is located on the hilltop in the Citadel of Cairo. The mosque is a beautiful site to visit and it has a view overlooking the entire city. Entrance is free since you buy tickets for the entry of the citadel, and opening hours are mentioned above for the Citadel of Cairo.

8. Cairo Tower

Located in Zamalek district, is the 187 meters Cairo Tower that was built in 1961 which offers and amazing view of the city of Cairo from the top. It is open from 09:00 until 01:00, so you have an opportunity to view the sunset from above but beware that it will be crowded during that time.

9. The Coptic Museum

The Coptic Museum contains a lot of information on Egypt's early Christian period and you will find one of Egypt's finest collections of Coptic art. The museum is open from 09:00 until 17:00, and last ticket can be bought at 16:00. Tickets costs EGP 100 for adults and EGP 50 for students (For Egyptians; tickets costs EGP 20 for adults and EGP 10 for students).

10. NMEC - The National Museum Of Egyptian Civilisation

The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization is dedicated to telling the story of Egypt's human history, but mainly this is where you will find the Egypt's most famous Royal Mummies . 22 mummies are displayed in a specially designed Royal Mummies Gallery .

The museum is open from 09:00 until 17:00, and on Fridays it is open from 09:00 until 17:00 and from 18:00 until 21:00. Tickets can be bought at the entrance of the museum or online, tickets window closes at 16:00. Tickets costs EGP 200 for adults and EGP 100 for students (For Egyptians; tickets costs EGP 60 for adults and EGP 30 for students).

11. Synagogue Ben Ezra

Located in Coptic Cairo, and it is said to be built near the spot where baby Moses was found. It is open from 09:00 until 16:00 and entrance is free.

12. St. Sergius & St. Bacchus Church

It is said that this is where the Holy Family sheltered during King Herod's massacre of male babies. The church is open from 08:00 until 17:00 and entrance is free. You will also find a map of the Journey of the Holy Family in that area.

13. Amr ibn Al-A'as Mosque

The original structure of Amr Ibn Al-A'as' Mosque is the first one to be built in Egypt and Africa, and it is located outside of the quarter of Coptic Cairo. Entrance is free and it is open 24/7.

14. Fortress Of Babylon

The Hanging Church was built on top of the Fortress of Babylon, now you cannot actually visit the fortress but parts of it can be seen from the Hanging Church and around Coptic Cairo.

15. St. George's church

St. George's Church is a greek orthodox church in Coptic Cairo within the Babylon Fortress, and the church dates back to the 10th century. The church is open from 09:00 until 15:00 and it is free to enter.

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How to Get to Cairo

Cairo International Airport  is the busiest airport in Egypt and serves as the primary hub for  several airlines. So, it will be easy to reach Cairo that way, and chances are you will find a direct flight from where you are coming from.

How to Move Around Cairo

Moving around Cairo is easy since services like Uber  and Careem  are accessible and cheap as well so it will be easy to hop from one place to another. You can also use a taxi but you will need to pay in cash as they do not accept credit/debit cards.

Best Time to Visit Cairo

The best time to visit Egypt in general is between October and April, but when it comes to Cairo, if you are looking for a nice and warm weather, then it is best to visit in October, November, and April. You can of course visit Egypt during the summer, but it gets really hot during that time.

Accommodations in Cairo

Since Cairo is a huge city, there is a vast variety of hotels that you can find. If you are looking for luxurious hotels, then you will find them along the Nile River or near the Pyramids of Giza such as the Four Seasons , Sofitel Cairo El-Gezirah & Marriott Mena House . If you are looking for mid-range options, then you will find them in Zamalek - my favorite district - and Garden City districts, such as Steigenberger El Tahrir  & Hotel Longchamps . If you are looking for budget friendly hotels; then you will find them in Downtown district such as Cairo Golden Plaza Hotel  & Osiris Hotel .

If you prefer to stay in an Airbnb then you will be able to find a lot options that suits your budget, you will find a lot of hostels if you prefer to stay there. The point is; Cairo is a large city so your options are endless, and it doesn't matter where you stay in Cairo since you will enjoy it regardless. You can book your accommodation through Booking.com , which is the one I use the most, or if you wan to stay in a hostel you can book through HostelWorld . You can also use Agoda , Trivago , or Vrbo  to book your accommodations. I know most people have a favourite website or app to use, so just choose what you prefer best.

Best Cafes & Restaurants in Cairo

Sea Salt Cafe & Bakery (Gluten-free, vegan options available)

Eish + Malh (Gluten-free)

Zooba (Best Koshari in Cairo)

The Bakery Shop (Desert)

Naguib Mahfouz Cafe (Located near Khan El Khalili)

Abou El Sid (Egyptian cuisine)

If you wan to find more cafes & restaurants to try, then you can do so through TripAdvisor .

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Your Trip to Cairo: The Ultimate Guide

Cairo Guide: Planning Your Trip

Founded in 969 AD by the Fatimid dynasty, Cairo has been captivating visitors from all over the world for more than a thousand years. The Mamluks, the Ottomans, the French, and the British have all held sway over the capital at one time or another, and all have left their mark upon its culture and architecture. Just across the mighty River Nile, the remnants of a much older Egyptian civilization await exploration in the pyramid fields of Giza, Saqqara, and Dahshur (which are together inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site ). Despite, or perhaps because of, its history, Cairo is also a thoroughly cosmopolitan modern city, with a thriving cultural scene and a host of world-class restaurants. Read on to discover how you can make the most of everything this fascinating destination has to offer. 

Planning Your Trip

• Best time to visit : Cairo is a year-round destination. However, soaring temperatures in the summer and a combination of crowds and peak season prices in the winter make spring and fall particularly pleasant times to visit. 
• Language: Egyptian Arabic is Cairo’s primary language , although many people (especially those in the tourist industry) speak some English. 
• Currency : Egypt’s currency is the Egyptian pound; one pound is made up of 100 piastres. You will see prices written in EGP or LE, with the latter standing for the French phrase, "livre égyptienne."
• Getting around: Public transport in Cairo includes the metro and shared microbuses. Tourists typically use private taxis or ride-share services like Uber and Careem. 
• Travel tip: Cairo is a predominantly Muslim city, so visitors should take care to dress conservatively to avoid causing offense. 

Things to Do

The majority of visitors to Egypt are drawn by the country’s ancient history, and Cairo should be the first port of call for those wishing to uncover it. Start with a tour of the Egyptian Museum (currently in downtown Cairo, but in the process of being relocated to the Giza plateau ). The world-famous Pyramids of Giza are a short drive away, while Coptic and Islamic Cairo double as open-air museums filled with historic mosques, churches, and markets. 

• Tour the Egyptian Museum : The museum's status as a repository for the most precious treasures excavated from ancient sites across Egypt make it a must-visit. The top attraction is the fabulous contents of the tomb of Tutankhamun, which include the boy king’s funerary mask and sarcophagus. 
• Shop for souvenirs at Khan el-Khalili Bazaar: Cairo’s primary shopping destination since the end of the 14th century, Khan el-Khalili is a maze of streets and stalls selling everything from exotic spices and Bedouin embroidery to silver jewelry and Egyptian street food. 
• Visit the Pyramids of Giza : Hop in an Uber for the quick ride across the River Nile to the Giza plateau, where the iconic pyramid complexes of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure await. The first of these is the oldest and largest, and the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing. 

Get more inspiration with our articles on the best things to do in Cairo , day trips from Cairo , and best places to shop in Cairo . Then, check out our detailed guides to top attractions like the Alabaster Mosque and the Hanging Church . 

What to Eat and Drink 

Cairo’s restaurant scene is as diverse as its people, with cuisines from all over the world represented. Fine French fare, authentic Indian curries, and hearty Italian staples can all be found in establishments across the city. However, there are also plenty of opportunities for sampling traditional Egyptian food, with must-try dishes including koshary (also spelled kushari) and hawawshi. The former is a unique blend of rice, spaghetti, macaroni, and black lentils, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and sprinkled with fried onions and chickpeas. The latter is ground meat (usually beef or lamb) stuffed inside a pocket of traditional baladi bread. Both staples are equally delicious. 

Traditional Egyptian restaurants are unlikely to serve alcohol even in Cairo, a relatively liberal city. Tea is a popular alternative, whether you prefer the black, mint, fenugreek, or crimson-colored hibiscus variety. Coffee is ubiquitous, as are exotic fruit juices and smoothies. More unfamiliar drinks to try include sahlab (a thick, milk-based beverage made with dried and crushed orchid tubers) and qamar al-din, a kind of stewed apricot juice particularly popular during Ramadan. If you find yourself craving a glass of wine or a cold Egyptian Stella beer, do not fret: Alcohol is served in most international restaurants and hotels, and can easily be found in the bars and nightclubs of Cairo's Zamalek neighborhood.

Learn more about Cairo’s dining and drinking scenes with our guide to Cairo's nightlife , as well as our full-length articles about the best restaurants in Cairo , the top traditional Egyptian foods , and Egypt’s best non-alcoholic drinks .

Where to Stay

Cairo is a sprawling city with many different neighborhoods. However, the majority of tourist hotels are located in central Cairo (within easy reach of the Egyptian Museum, and just a short Uber ride from attractions in Coptic and Islamic Cairo). The most luxurious are situated along the banks of the River Nile and boast spectacular river views. These include the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza , the Kempinski Nile Hotel Garden City Cairo , and the Fairmont Nile City Hotel, Cairo . If you want to be close to the city’s best restaurant and nightlife scene, choose to stay in Zamalek, a trendy neighborhood that occupies the northern half of Gezira Island.

For further information, read our article about the top hotels in Cairo. 

Getting There 

Cairo International Airport (CAI) is the city’s main port of entry. It is also Egypt’s primary gateway and the second-largest air travel hub in Africa after O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. The airport is roughly 15 miles from central Cairo, and travelers can reach the city by bus, taxi, or ride-share app. The metro is not currently linked to the airport, although there are plans for a connection in the future. Those who wish to rent a car for their visit to Cairo can do so at the airport, where there are several internationally-recognized rental companies, including Avis, Europcar, and Budget.

Culture and Customs 

Egypt is a Muslim country , and as such, visitors from Western nations may need to adapt their normal dress or behavior to avoid causing offense. Men and women should dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites. Shoes should be removed before entering a place of worship or a local home, and public drunkenness and displays of affection are frowned upon. Remember that in Muslim countries, the left hand is used for bathroom cleansing and is considered unclean; always shake hands and eat with your right hand. 

Tipping, or baksheesh, is customary in Egypt, and is expected of foreigners for almost every service. This includes everything from waiting tables and serving drinks to giving directions or unlocking a tomb or room in a museum. Be sure to carry plenty of small notes with you for this purpose, but be firm in refusing services you don’t want so that you don’t end up paying unnecessarily. As in any country where poverty is rife, petty crime is common. Reduce your chances of becoming a victim of theft by being aware of your valuables at all times, leaving flashy jewelry at home, and carrying your money in a concealed belt or pocket.

In recent years, there have been some concerns about terrorism and political instability in Egypt. The situation has largely stabilized and Cairo is no more dangerous than most big cities. Basic common sense is required, however, such as never walking alone at night. Political and religious topics may inspire strong feelings, and are best avoided unless you know the person well or they initiate the conversation themselves. 

Money Saving Tips

• A favorable exchange rate means that luxury hotels and restaurants are far more affordable than they might be in New York or London. However, travelers can save big bucks and get a more authentic experience by eating and sleeping in local establishments. 
• When souvenir shopping, remember that haggling is expected and the initial price you are given is likely to be hugely inflated. A good method is to offer half of the original asking price before ultimately settling on a number somewhere in the middle. 
• Haggling is often acceptable outside of the marketplace, too. You can haggle for the cost of a camel ride, a sightseeing tour, and especially for taxi journeys. 
• When settling on a fair price for a taxi ride, be sure to come to agreement before getting into the car. Although Cairene taxis are meant to have working meters, many don’t, so it’s easy to be taken advantage of if you aren’t careful. It is often much cheaper to hire a taxi driver for a full day than to pay for several rides individually. This is a great option if you want to explore the different pyramid sites in a single day. 

UNESCO. "Memphis and its Necropolis – the Pyramid Fields From Giza to Dahshur." 2021

CIA World Factbook. "Egypt." 2021

Grand Egyptian Museum. "Opening Announcement." 2021

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Cairo is magnificent, where you’ll hear an array of sounds from donkey carts rattling down lanes to the muezzins' call to prayer from duelling minarets.

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Al Azhar Mosque

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Coptic Museum

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A First-Timer's Guide to Cairo

After almost a decade of political turmoil, visitors are finally returning to Egypt . Hotels are full, boat trips along the Nile require a waitlist to book once again, and the highly anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum promises to draw even more tourists when it opens its doors within the next year or so. I was able to travel to Cairo for nearly a week last November, and while there’s nothing quite like seeing the pyramids in person or listening to the call to prayer at sunset along the Nile , the city can still be overwhelming for a first-time visitor. Here are a few things I wish I’d known before my trip.

Ride the metro

Cairo’s metro system is a pretty well-oiled machine, and it’s easily the cheapest way to get around. Fares start at just three Egyptian pounds (around 17 cents) and increase depending on the distance you’ve traveled to a max of seven pounds (around 40 cents). Considering the city’s notorious traffic, it can often be the fastest way to travel. Just note that you’ll have to submit your bags to an x-ray machine and pass through a metal detector before entering the stations. There are also women-only cars on each train, so pay attention to signage if you’re a female traveler and want to hop on one of them. Side note: The murals in some of the stations are wonderful.

Taxi fares are metered

In many places around the world, you’re expected to haggle flat rates with cab drivers before you get in the taxi in order to secure the best fare and ensure they don’t upcharge you at the end. In Cairo, that’s not the case. Many drivers will happily accept a negotiated flat rate, but you’ll often end up paying more than what the metered fare would come out to be. Clarify with your driver that your ride will be metered before getting in the cab. Additionally, some drivers will double dip into the passenger pool and pick up multiple parties along the way, so if you flag a taxi and the car rolls up with people already inside, you can just wave the driver along. And for what it’s worth, there is Uber in Cairo, and it’s quite affordable.

The Pyramids, just outside of Giza.

Stay the night in Giza if you want to see the pyramids

While the majority of Cairo’s main tourist sites (the Mosque of Mohammed Ali, the Hanging Church, and the Salahdin Citadel) are in central Cairo, the pyramids are located right on the edge of Giza, which is a 20-minute drive from the center of the city. Throw in some bad traffic, however, and the drive takes 45 minutes to an hour—sometimes even longer. If the pyramids are on your to-do list—and let’s be honest, they’re going to be—stay at a hotel in Giza for a night or two instead of central Cairo so you can maximize your day on the site. The Marriott Mena House , which first opened in 1887, sits right in the shadow of the Great Pyramid and guests can watch the pyramids’ evening light show from their room balcony. When the Grand Egyptian Museum opens in the next year or two, it’ll be located just a few minutes’ drive from the hotel.

The tunnel to the Great Pyramid’s burial chamber is cramped—but worth it

In the past, you had to bribe the guards sitting outside the entrance to let you into the Great Pyramid’s burial chamber. Today, that’s not the case—it’s about $20 for a special entrance ticket, on top of the $9 general admission ticket. (Just make sure you buy your additional ticket at the first entrance gate, as you can’t buy it once you’re inside the site.) As for the tunnel itself, claustrophobes beware: One portion of the tunnel is extremely cramped, so unless you’re under four feet tall, you’ll have to crouch to ascend into the burial chamber. There’s one tunnel for both upward and downward traffic, and it’s only a few feet wide, so get ready to be up close and personal with dozens of strangers. The cramped portion of the tunnel only takes a few minutes to get through, but given the close quarters and how humid the air is, it can feel like an eternity. Don’t expect to snap a selfie: There are absolutely no photographs allowed. (Many tourists ignore the rule, but if a guard catches you they could confiscate your phone or camera.) Lastly, the tunnel actually closes for an hour each day around lunchtime to prevent the buildup of too much moisture from people breathing inside the tunnel.

Be wary of a common scam that takes place at popular attractions

I was caught off guard by a scam outside the Egyptian Museum when a local approached me near the entrance and told me it was closed for an hour for prayer. He suggested my friend and I head to the shops across the street to pass the time, and offered to escort us across the major highway running next to the museum and pointed out some shops. As it turns out, the shop owners work with these locals to bring tourists into their stores, offering them a commission for any purchases. We turned around and headed straight for the museum—which, as it turned out, doesn’t actually close for prayer.

Check the official opening hours before your visit, and if someone approaches you outside the gates claiming the museum is closed, politely excuse yourself. And on that note, some people stand around the entrance saying you need a guide to enter the museum—you don’t. You do, however, need to pay an extra fee to take photos inside.

Khan Al Khalili is filled with gems.

Give yourself lots of time to explore Khan el-Khalili

Khan el-Khalili, Cairo’s big souk, has more than its fair share of tourist traps, but there are real gems to be found throughout the market, from antique shops to estate sales to workshops that make leather-bound notebooks. The key to finding the best stuff is to let yourself get lost in the maze-like complex for a few hours—a worthwhile activity even if you don’t plan on buying anything. But if you do want to make a purchase, get ready to haggle, cutting the first price you’re offered by at least half, if not more. As for where the locals go? You’ll find them at the food stalls shopping for fresh produce and oven-hot pita. The bazaar is also home to a number of famous cafés, including Faharat, which is known for its pigeon dishes, and El Fishawy, one of Cairo’s oldest, which reportedly opened more than 250 years ago.

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Traveling to Cairo: A Complete Travelers Guide

Are you planning on traveling to Cairo ? If you are, you’re in for a fantastic journey! Cairo is one of the oldest cities in the world and is full of amazing culture, history, architecture and unforgettable tourist sites. In this guide we will provide you with some essential information to make your Cairo experience an enjoyable and unforgettable one. We’ll cover everything, from getting around, to the best historic sites and other attractions to visit, so you can make the most of your time in The Nile Valley.

Cairo is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience a vibrant culture, explore stunning historical monuments , and have a memorable time. Not only is Cairo a great place to visit for its archaeological sites, but it also offers a variety of fun activities. From luxury shopping to incredible nightlife, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.

Cairo is of course also home to the Great Pyramid of Giza , one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Exploring this ancient site is an experience like no other and is a must for anyone and everyone who is going to be traveling to Cairo.

Design Your Custom Tour

The Cairo Travel Guide

Welcome to Cairo, the bustling capital of Egypt, where ancient history, narrow streets and modern city life collide. Get ready to immerse yourself in a vibrant culture, sample delicious cuisine, and explore iconic tourist sites that have stood the test of time.

Read on to learn everything you need to know.

Before You Travel to Cairo

Before traveling to Cairo, it’s important to make sure you have all the necessary information and that you have made all the necessary preparations. Make sure to check your visa requirements , read up on the local culture and customs, and research the best places to stay.

Additionally, find out what items are restricted and make sure to pack accordingly. If you are uncertain about what items are restricted, then you should contact your nearest Egyptian embassy for advice.

You should also consider picking up a travel guide or phrasebook so you can better understand the language and culture. And, don’t forget to check the weather forecast so you can plan your packing accordingly.

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When to Visit Cairo

Cairo is a great destination year-round, though the best times for traveling to Cairo are during the autumn and winter months. The temperatures are milder and the skies are mostly clear, providing a better view of the monuments. However, if you’re looking for a more unique and a more affordable experience, you may want to consider visiting during the months of June, July, and August. Visiting during these months will help you to avoid large crowds of tourists and also take advantage of lower prices.

Be warned though, the summer months in Cairo can be scorching hot, with average daytime temperatures reaching over 100°F (38°C). So, if you plan on traveling to Cairo during the summer months, make sure to take adequate sun protection.

What to Pack for Cairo

Our advice to people who are going to be traveling to Cairo is that they should always focus on packing light. There is nothing worse than having to lug around huge suitcases containing items which you probably won’t even use. Here is a short list of things to pack which we believe are essential:

• Light, comfortable clothing such as t-shirts, shorts, and sandals.
• Light jacket to wear in the evenings.
• Sunglasses and sunscreen to protect from the sun.
• Laptop and/or other electronic devices which you might need.
• Camera to capture memories. (Be aware that it is forbidden to take photographs of Egyptian government facilities)

4 Must-See Attractions in Cairo

Cairo is a great destination for sightseeing! The city is home to many great historical sites, including the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum, the Khan Al-Khalili bazaar, and the Hanging Church. In Egypt, tipping is not mandatory but it is more or less expectedSo we strongly suggest that you change some of your foreign currency into local currency which is Egyptian pounds.

The city also offers a variety of tours and activities, such as camel rides through the desert. Be sure to take the time to explore the many attractions that Cairo has to offer, including…

1. Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx

The Great Pyramids of Giza are among the most iconic symbols of Egypt and are one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The three pyramids, located on the Giza Plateau, were built by pharaohs from the Fourth Dynasty (2575-2465 BCE). Additionally, the site also includes the Great Sphinx, a large limestone statue of a mythical creature with a lion’s body and a human head. Visiting the Pyramids and Sphinx is a must-do when traveling to Cairo, as it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won’t want to miss. We would also recommend going for a short camel ride while you are at the site.

Visitors are able to go inside the pyramids and view the empty burial chambers but in order to enter the pyramids additional tickets need to be purchased at the site.

2. The Grand Egyptian Museum

The Grand Egyptian Museum is home to the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts. It is a must-see attraction when traveling to Cairo. This impressive new museum is home to some of the most incredible ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the King Tutankhamun collection and the extraordinary Nefertiti bust. Here, you will also have the chance to learn more about the history and culture of Egypt through interactive exhibits, film screenings, and lectures. A visit to this museum is sure to be a unique and memorable experience.

Alternatively, you can visit the original world famous Egyptian Museum (Egyptian Museum of Antiquities) which is located across the road from Tahrir Square right in the heart of downtown Cairo. Even though many of the artifacts were recently moved to the new Grand Egyptian Museum, there is still so much to see.

3. Khan el-Khalili Bazaar

The Khan el Khalili Bazaar is one of the top attractions for tourists in Cairo. This bustling bazaar is the perfect place for shopping, with a variety of merchants selling everything from exotic spices to textiles, to hand crafted jewelry. Even if you don’t plan on buying anything, it’s worth a visit just to the narrow ancient streets, soak up the atmosphere, and watch the hustle and bustle of the market. Be sure to bring your bargaining skills with you as you can often get great deals on souvenirs here.

NOTE: Although petty crime at the market is not very common, things like purse snatching and pickpocketing do occasionally happen.

4. Islamic Cairo and Coptic Cairo

Are you looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience in Egypt? Then you must check out Islamic Cairo , a part of the city where you can explore the rich and diverse culture of the Middle East. Here’s a beginner’s guide for your trip.

First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure you know the basics of Islamic culture before you go. Islamic Cairo has a variety of mosques, churches, and other historical sites, so you’ll want to be aware of the religious customs and dress codes.

Once you’ve done your research and are ready to explore, you’ll want to start with some of the most popular attractions in Islamic Cairo such as the Mosque of Muhammad Ali , the Khan el-Khalili bazaar , and the Cairo Citadel . These are great spots to explore and get a good look at the architecture and culture of the area.

You’ll also want to take some time to explore the smaller alleyways and hidden gems of Islamic Cairo. There are plenty of small, family-run restaurants and shops that offer a unique glimpse into the city’s culture.

Cairo Attractions In-Depth

• Top 10 Cairo Attractions
• 49 Amazing Places to Visit in Cairo

Design Your Custom Cairo, Egypt Tour

Explore Egypt your way by selecting only the attractions you want to visit

Cairo Tour Options

Whether you’re looking for an in-depth tour of Cairo or just a quick day trip, there are plenty of tour options available to suit your needs. Popular day trips offer guided tours of the city’s highlights and many private tour companies offer customized itineraries for those looking for an even more personalized experience.

No matter what your travel plans are, there are plenty of things to see and do in Cairo. A trip to this vibrant and exciting city is sure to be a memorable one.

8-Day Cairo, Luxor, Alexandria Tour

5-Day Tour of Cairo – Pyramids and Culture

4-Day Cairo Tour – Pyramids, Museums, Mosques & Churches

3-Day Cairo Tour – Giza Pyramids, Egyptian Museum & Old Cairo

5-Day Cairo to Luxor Tour

1. cairo tours packages.

Planning a trip to Cairo but not sure where to start? Look no further than our very own Cairo Tours Packages . We offer comprehensive packages that include everything from private guided tours to deluxe air-conditioned transportation to and from your hotel. We pride ourselves on offering high quality personalized and totally hassle-free experiences so you can focus on soaking up the culture and having the time of your life.

So get ready to explore one of the oldest and most captivating cities in the world. We’ll help to make traveling to Cairo an epic experience which you’ll never forget!

2. Cairo Pyramid Tours

No visit to Cairo is complete without a tour of the majestic pyramids. This is the perfect way to explore these ancient monuments and get a real feel for the city. Our expert guides will guide you through the area and answer any questions you may have. We also offer special packages with accommodation and transportation included, for an even more stress-free experience.

Take in the majestic views as you explore the area and make sure to bring a camera to capture all the incredible sights. A tour of the pyramids is sure to be a highlight for anyone traveling to Cairo.

Recommended: Private Pyramid Tours in Egypt

3. Cairo Private Tours

Booking a private tour of Cairo is a great way to get the most out of your trip to this exciting city. With a private Egypt tour , you get to tailor the experience to your own interests and preferences. You can visit the places and attractions that you want to see and spend as much time as you like at each location. Private tours also provide the benefit of having a local guide who can provide insight and advice into the city’s culture and history.

Plus, you’ll have the added convenience of having your guide and driver pick you up at your hotel, take you to the places you want to see, and then drop you off at the end of your tour. No need to worry about navigating the city using minibusses or taxis. With a private tour, you can rest assured that your experience of traveling to Cairo will be hassle-free and truly unforgettable.

4. Tours from Cairo

Want to explore more of the country? At Egypt Tours Plus , we offer a variety of tours from Cairo that take you to some of Egypt’s most spectacular sites. Explore ancient temples, visit the Valley of the Kings , or take a cruise down the Nile . Our experienced guides will help you to make the most of your trip, providing insight and stories that will make your experience even more memorable than ever.

Planning a trip to Cairo is an exciting experience and we’re here to make sure you have the time of your life. With our comprehensive Cairo tour packages and knowledgeable guides, we’ll help you make sure your trip to Cairo is one that you’ll never forget. So get ready to experience the magic of this ancient city.

Recommended: Top 10 Best Egypt Tours with Nile Cruises

5. Cultural Experiences in Cairo

Cairo is full of culture, history and art, and our tours are designed to give you an in-depth look at the city. Our experienced guides will ensure that you not only get to experience the sights and sounds of Cairo, but that you also get to learn about its unique culture.

We also offer cultural experiences in Cairo that help to bring the city’s history to life. You can visit ancient sites and learn about their importance to the Egyptians, or take a tour of a local neighborhood to get a taste of daily life in the city. Whatever you choose, our experienced guides will ensure that you have a truly unique experience when traveling to Cairo.

Islamic Cairo

For those looking for a more spiritual experience, we offer tours of Islamic Cairo . Visit some of the city’s most important mosques, such as the Al-Azhar Mosque , and learn about the importance of religion in the city’s history. You’ll also get to explore the vibrant souks and bazaars, where you can shop for traditional wares and take in the vibrant atmosphere.

Going to the Mosque

If you’re traveling to Cairo to get a better understanding of the Islamic faith, we offer a unique experience – going to a Mosque. You’ll get to join the locals for prayers and learn about the importance of Islam to the city. It’s a unique and rewarding experience that will give you a deeper understanding of the city and its people.

Shopping in Cairo

No trip to Cairo is complete without a trip to the souks. They’re buzzing with energy and the locals are always willing to bargain and make a deal. From spices to jewelry and everything in between, there’s something for everyone. Our experienced guides will help you find the best deals and help you to get the most out of your shopping experience.

Getting Around in Cairo

Private Guided Tours

If you want to explore Cairo in complete privacy, our private Egypt tours are for you. You’ll get to experience the city at your own pace with a highly experienced guide who will be able to answer any questions you may have. Tours can last from a few hours to a few days, so you can choose the perfect itinerary for your trip. All of our Egypt tour packages also include transport in modern company owned vehicles with experienced drivers.

Airport and Public Transportation Options

Getting around Cairo is easy with our Cairo International Airport transfers and no shortage of public transportation options. You can take a taxi from Cairo International Airport or use the city’s highly efficient Metro system to get around the city. Our experienced guides can also provide you with information about the best routes and what to expect during your journey. As has already been mentioned, if you book one of our tour packages , all transport is included, including all hotel and airport transfers.

Mini Busses

If you’re looking to get around in a more local style, there are mini busses available. These are a great way to experience the local way of life and get around the city in a more cost-efficient way. Be warned, getting around the city by way of minibuses is not for everyone. In many instances, you literally need to have nerves of steel.

When traveling to or in Cairo, trains are a fast and comfortable way to get around. With train travel, you’ll be able to get from one place to another quickly and comfortably. The Cairo Metro has seven lines, so you can easily get across the city with minimal hassle. Just be sure to get a ticket ahead of time for the best rates.

Regular trains are also a good and affordable way to get about when traveling to Cairo, but be sure to pay more so that you can enjoy extra comfort and air-conditioning. Rail travel is also available from Cairo to all of the country’s other major cities.

Nearly all trains in Egypt have a number of “women only” carriages, so if you are a female traveling alone and you are concerned about potential sexual harassment, this is an option which you could consider.

Top Travel Tips for Traveling to Cairo

To make sure your trip to Cairo is as safe and as enjoyable as possible, we recommend that you follow our essential travel tips .

• Research your destination and get to know the local customs and culture before you go.
• Consider working with a reliable and reputable local travel agent.
• Make sure to stay in well-lit and populated areas, and avoid walking alone at night.
• Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for pickpockets and scams.
• Only use licensed and regulated transportation services.
• Be sure to only drink bottled water because tap water in Egypt is not safe for drinking
• Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
• Always carry a copy of your passport and other important documents.
• Make sure to keep your valuables and belongings secure at all times.
• Medical treatment can cost quite a lot In good hospitals so we highly recommend that you get adequate medical insurance before visiting the country.
• Be aware that the entry rules vary from person to person, or at least from one nationality to the next. The citizens of many countries can get an entry stamp on arrival at Cairo Airport but this is something you should determine before you travel to the country.

Accommodation in Cairo

There are plenty of accommodation options for people traveling to Cairo. From budget-friendly hostels to luxury 5-star hotels, there really is something for everyone. Staying close to the city center is usually the best choice, as it allows you to easily access all of the city’s famous attractions. Here are a few accommodation options in Cairo:

Cairo has plenty of hotels to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury options. Some of the more well-known hotels in the city include The Nile Ritz-Carlton, The Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza, The Kempinski Nile Hotel, the Fairmont Nile City Hotel and more.

Guest Houses:

For those on a tighter budget, guest houses in Cairo offer comfortable accommodation at an affordable rate. Some of the most popular guest houses include Cairo Backpackers, Aladdin Hotel, and Solomon’s Hotel.

Hostels are a great option for budget travellers, offering basic but clean accommodation at an affordable rate. Some of the top-rated hostels in Cairo include Oasis Hostel, Room Cairo, and Cairo Youth Hostel.

Apartments:

Cairo also has plenty of apartments available for rent, both short and long-term. Apartments in Cairo are a great choice for those looking for more privacy, as well as those traveling with a group. Some of the more popular apartment rentals include Cairo Tower Suites, Casa Leila Apartments, and Nile Suites Cairo.

Where to Stay in Cairo

When traveling to Cairo, you will need to decide where about in the city you want to stay. At Egypt Tours Plus, we put most of our clients into 4 or 5 star hotels in downtown Cairo. However, you can also find great accommodation in other parts of the city:

Giza near the Pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum

The suburb of Giza is the perfect place for those who want to be close to the iconic attractions of Cairo such as the Pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum . There is plenty of modern and comfortable accommodation for those who want to stay in this area.

Downtown Cairo near the Egyptian Museum

If you’re looking for a more local experience, the vibrant downtown district of Cairo is the perfect place for you. It is home to the Egyptian Museum , has a great range of restaurants and shops, and plenty of affordable accommodation options.

For those who want to experience the more traditional side of Cairo, a stay in Islamic Cairo is a must. This area is home to a number of mosques and historical sites, as well as traditional souks and markets. There are plenty of places to relax and explore in this area.

Coptic Cairo

Coptic Cairo is the area of the city inhabited by the Coptic Christians and is home to a great number of churches and other religious sites. This area is great for those who want to explore the city’s Coptic Christian religious history and traditional culture.

Where to Eat in Cairo

Besides sightseeing, traveling to Cairo can also be an unforgettable culinary adventure, and especially for foodies. No matter what your tastes are, or what your preferences are, you will always be able to find mouthwatering food in Cairo.

Traditional Egyptian Cuisine

If you’re looking to sample traditional Egyptian cuisine, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Cairo. From street food markets to high-end restaurants, there is something for everyone. Try the kofta kebab, hummus, and of course, the delicious shawarma.

International Cuisine

Cairo is also home to a great range of international restaurants. From Italian and French, to Indian and Thai, there is something for everyone. There are also plenty of excellent cafes and dessert parlors to explore.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

You don’t have to worry about finding vegetarian or vegan options in Cairo. There are plenty of restaurants that offer delicious plant-based dishes, including the popular falafel and mezze platters.

Restaurants and Cafes

Cairo is a haven for food lovers. With restaurants and cafes serving up traditional Egyptian dishes, there are plenty of options to choose from. From the beloved Koshari and Ful Medames, to Fattah and Molokhia, there is a dish for everyone’s taste buds. Street food is also a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. Falafel, Shawarma, and Kebab sandwiches are among the most popular and are a great way to get a taste of the city on a budget.

Nile Dinner Cruises

For a truly unique experience, consider taking a dinner cruise along the Nile. There are a number of different companies offering this sort of experience, with some cruises lasting several hours and offering a variety of delicious dishes throughout the journey.

What Food Should I Try while in Cairo?

If you’re going to be traveling to Cairo, you’ll be delighted by the delicious food that awaits you. Every street corner in this bustling Egyptian city offers a wide variety of flavorful dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Here are some of the must-try dishes while you’re in Cairo:

• Kushari : A popular street food, kushari is made of macaroni noodles, rice, and lentils covered in a tomato sauce and topped with garlic, lemon, vinegar and crispy fried onions.
• Ful Medames : A classic breakfast dish, this hearty spread is made of mashed fava beans served with bread, pickles, and veggies.
• Feseekh : This is a dish of fermented and dried fish that’s usually served with vegetables and lemon.
• Ta’miya : Also known as falafel, this fried chickpea patty is a staple in every Egyptian home.
• Molokhia : This soup is made from finely chopped jute leaves cooked in a flavorful broth with garlic and chicken.

Cairo has some amazing food, and as an added bonus, it is super affordable, so make sure to leave plenty of time to explore the local cuisine. Bon appetite!

Safety in Cairo

Cairo is generally a very safe city, but it is important to be aware of your surroundings. Tourists traveling to Cairo should avoid carrying large amounts of cash and wearing expensive jewelry. Always keep your belongings safe, and never leave them unattended. Violent crime against foreigners is almost unheard of, but scams and pickpocketing do happen, so stay alert.

Common Scams

• Pickpocketing
• Fake guides and taxi drivers
• Fake goods scams
• Unsolicited exchange offers
• Unofficial “tourist offices”
• “Free” gifts and services
• Street hawkers offering counterfeit items
• Unmarked taxis

Common Sense

It is important to be aware of your surroundings at all times while traveling in Cairo. Be aware of potential scams, and always use common sense. Don’t be afraid to ask locals for advice if you’re unsure of something, and remember to stay vigilant.

Journey beyond Cairo

When traveling to Cairo you don’t have to limit your stay in the country to Cairo alone. There are lots of other interesting and exciting places in Egypt as well. Here are five popular options for you to consider:

How to Travel from Cairo to Luxor

Cairo to Luxor is a popular route for people traveling to Cairo, and there are several ways you can make the journey. The most common way to travel between the two cities is by plane, as domestic flights can be found relatively cheaply and easily. There are also a number of bus companies running routes between the two cities.

There are also trains connecting the two cities. If you enjoy train travel, consider booking a ticket for the overnight sleeper train. Depending on what ticket you opt for, you can have your own private compartment, as well as dinner and breakfast included.

If you are going to be traveling to Cairo, then we would highly recommend visiting Luxor as well, if time permits. If time is very limited, be sure to check out our 12-Hour Luxor Day Trip from Cairo or our more immersive 3-Day Luxor Sightseeing Tour .

How to Travel from Cairo to Alexandria

The easiest way to travel from Cairo to Alexandria is by plane. Domestic flights are cheap and frequent, with most airlines offering direct flights. There are also a number of bus companies running services between the two cities. For those wanting a more luxurious journey, private car hire with a driver is also available.

Train travel from Cairo to Alexandria is also an option, although it’s not as popular as flying or taking the bus. The trip can take up to 4 hours so it’s not the most convenient way to travel. The only train service is operated by the Egyptian National Railways, and tickets can be booked either online or at the train station when you arrive.

Be sure to book your ticket early to avoid disappointment as tickets do sell out, especially during peak season. You can find more information about the train service on the Egyptian National Railways website. Want to visit Alexandria in comfort and style? Our classic 8-Day Cairo, Luxor and Alexandria Tour might be exactly what you are looking for.

How to Travel from Cairo to Aswan

The most convenient and cost-effective way to travel from Cairo to Aswan is by train. Trains depart regularly from Cairo’s Ramses Station and take about 11 hours to reach Aswan. For those wanting more comfort and convenience, there are overnight sleeper trains available.

If you’re looking for a fast journey, domestic flights are also available, with most carriers offering direct flights. The flight time from Cairo to Aswan is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This is the quickest way to travel between the two cities, but can be more expensive than the train. If you are looking for a more economical option, then the train is a great option to consider.

At Egypt Tours Plus we don’t have and pre-packaged Cairo to Aswan tours, but we do offer customized tour to Aswan from Cairo. Also many of our tours that include a Nile cruise will include travel to Aswan, including our 4-Day Movenpick Royal Lotus Nile Cruise and our luxurious 4-Day Oberoi Zahra Nile Cruise . If you want a truly immersive experience without a cruise, you might also want to check out our private guided 4-Day Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel Tour .

How to Travel from Cairo to Sharm El Sheikh

The most popular way to travel from Cairo to Sharm El Sheikh on the South Sinai Peninsula is by plane. Domestic flights are available, with most carriers offering direct flights to the city. Another option is to take a bus from Cairo to Sharm El Sheikh, although the journey can be quite lengthy. Alternatively, you can hire a private car with a driver.

The citizens of many countries can even visit Sharm El Sheikh for up to 15 days without the need for an Egyptian tourist visa, but you need to fly directly to Sharm El Sheikh rather than traveling to Cairo first.

At Egypt Tours Plus , we have a number of pre-packaged travel itineraries that include private sightseeing tours in Cairo, a 5-Star Nile River cruise, and then a few relaxing days at Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada, the choice is yours. If this sounds like the sort of vacation you have been dreaming about, be sure to check out our spectacular range of Cairo and Red Sea Holidays .

How to Travel from Cairo to Hurghada

The most convenient way to travel from Cairo to Hurghada is by plane. Domestic flights are cheap and frequent, with most carriers offering direct flights. Another option is to take a bus from Cairo to Hurghada, although the journey can be quite lengthy and is not recommended for everyone. Alternatively, you can hire a private car with a driver.

Last but not least, you can book a package tour that includes professionally guided private tours in Cairo, a magical Nile River cruise, and a few days for relaxing on the beach at Hurghada. Our epic 12-Day Cairo, Nile Cruise and Hurghada Stay with optional SCUBA diving trips is one of our top selling tours featuring Hurghada.

NOTE: As of the time of writing, tourists were advised against all travel in or through North Sinai. This advice did not apply to Egypt’s popular South Sinai coastal resorts. Under no circumstances should tourists visit the Israeli – Egyptian border crossing. Many embassies, including the American embassy, were also advising against travel in the Western Desert.

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Cairo Travel Guide FAQ

If you are going to be traveling to Cairo and you have not yet found the answers to all your questions, continue reading to find the answers to some more of the most frequently asked questions:

What is the Climate Like in Cairo?

Cairo, Egypt has a hot desert climate with mild to warm temperatures all year round. In summer months, temperatures reach up to 35°C (95°F) and can often be humid. Winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 15°C (59°F). Rainfall is rare in Cairo, with the city receiving around 2 inches (50mm) of precipitation annually. Summers are dry and hot, while in winter, Cairo experiences more mild weather with slightly cooler temperatures.

Are there Any Safety Concerns I Should be Aware of when Traveling to Cairo?

If you are planning on traveling to Cairo, it is important to be aware of certain safety concerns. Of course, there is no need to panic, but it is important to be prepared and informed.

First, it is advisable to exercise caution when traveling outside of the more tourist-friendly areas. Do not wander off alone, especially after dark. Stick to areas that are well-populated and well-lit.

Second, avoid any political protests or demonstrations. Even if you are a bystander, these can be unpredictable and dangerous.

Third, petty crime is somewhat common in Cairo, so take the same precautions you would in any large city. Keep valuables in a safe place and don’t carry too much cash. Women should be especially careful when traveling alone; try to be in the company of other travelers whenever possible.

Finally, make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance and a valid passport. This will help to ensure you are covered in the unlikely event of an accident or emergency.

By following these simple precautions, you can make sure your trip to Cairo is a safe and enjoyable experience.

Is Cairo Safe for American Tourists?

Yes, Cairo is generally safe for American tourists. However, visitors should remain aware of their surroundings and take sensible precautions as they would do in any major Middle Eastern city.

In-depth: Is Egypt Safe for American Tourists?

Is Cairo Safe to Travel Alone?

Yes, traveling to Cairo as a solo traveler is generally safe, however it is recommended that visitors remain aware of their surroundings and take sensible precautions as they would do in any other city or country. Solo female travelers should exercise additional caution and should try to avoid being out on foot after dark.

Is it Safe to Travel to Cairo’s Pyramids?

Yes, the Pyramids of Giza are generally safe for tourists. However, attempting to climb the pyramids is dangerous, and also illegal.

Which Airlines Fly to Cairo?

Most major airlines offer direct and/or indirect flights to Cairo, including Egypt Air, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines and many more.

Can I Take my Prescription Medication to Cairo?

Yes, travelers can take prescription medication to Egypt, provided they have a valid medical prescription and a letter from a doctor.

Check your Country’s Travel Advisory

Before you traveling to Cairo, it’s important to check your home country’s travel advisory website for updates regard safety, security, and any potential risk of terrorism related attacks. This will help you plan your trip more safely and securely.

What are the Main Pros and Cons of Traveling to Cairo?

• Cairo is home to some of the world’s most iconic ancient monuments and artifacts, including the Great Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza.
• The city is full of vibrant markets, restaurants, and nightlife, offering plenty of opportunities for entertainment and exploration.
• Cairo is home to a diverse range of cultures, with many ethnic and religious communities living side by side.
• Petty crimes like pickpocketing are on the rise, particularly in areas frequented by tourists.
• The city can be extremely crowded and can difficult to navigate on your own, making it difficult to reach attractions or find your way back to your accommodation.
• The air quality in Cairo can be poor, due to air pollution from traffic and industry.
• Traveling to Cairo on your own can present some language barriers, as English is not widely spoken in the city. In this regard, It’s important to try and familiarize yourself with some basic Arabic phrases and words before traveling to Cairo so that you’re able to communicate with locals and enjoy your time in the city.

Traveling to Cairo is like venturing into a treasure chest, full of unknown gems waiting to be discovered.

As the largest city in both Egypt and Africa, Cairo is a city of many delights, ancient and modern. From exploring the remnants of the mighty pharaohs to the hustle and bustle of bustling downtown markets, Cairo offers something for everyone.

Since Cairo is a large city, it can be overwhelming to explore on your own. To make sure that you get the best experience possible, it is advisable to hire a guide, who can help you navigate the city and unlock its secrets.

Book Your Cairo Trip Today

Contact us today to begin tailor your trip, or to book a dream holiday in the Land of the Pharaohs today .

At Egypt Tours Plus, we don’t only sell tours – we make dreams come true, and with nearly half a million tours already sold, we know how to make traveling to Cairo a truly unforgettable experience.

Full Safety Guide: Is It Safe to Travel to Egypt?

What are the Must Visit Places in Egypt?

Egypt Travel Tips: This You Need to Know

How to Plan a Trip to Egypt – Start Here!

Best Time to Visit Egypt: Weather & Tourism Insights

What to Pack for Egypt (Simple Packing List)

Last Updated on February 14, 2024

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Cairo Travel Guide + 12 Things To Do In Cairo

Updated May 2024 , Cairo Travel Guide + 12 Things To Do In Cairo was originally written in March 2020

I hadn’t set the bar high for Cairo. It was of utmost importance on 10-year-old me’s travel bucket list, but as an adult, my interest in Cairo had waned. Especially after just how downright nuts Marrakech was, I wasn’t too thrilled about giving Egypt or the North Africa region another chance.

Cairo was a pleasant surprise, I actually enjoyed it- I’ve now visited three times and can honestly say I don’t find it anywhere near as aggressive and tout-laden as Marrakech, but do be warned that this all does go on here and I’m fully aware that everyone will a different experience, so keep that in mind.

I will say that each and every time I’ve been back to Cairo I’ve had countless locals offer to help me or just give me a warm welcome to their country.

So before I get carried away, here are the best things to do in Cairo to add to your itinerary and general Cairo travel guide. If you’re looking for guided adventures, check out these Cairo tour packages and for the remainder of the country these Egypt tour packages .

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12 Things To Do In Cairo

In all honesty, I’d say 5 days is a good amount of time to dedicate to Cairo to hit the highlights without feeling too rushed, but know you could actually spend much longer in the city depending on your interests.

I know that sounds like a lot of time, but trust me there’s a lot to see here. If you don’t have that much time, say 2-3 days I’d be selective of what you truly want to see and cherry-pick the best things to do in Cairo for your needs.

Visit The Pyramids of Giza

Of course, no visit to Cairo would be complete without a visit to the world-famous Pyramids of Giza. I’m a bit of a pessimist, so I didn’t get my hopes up for my first visit to the Giza Pyramids- but wow- they’re definitely worth a visit.

Despite the site being as famous as it is, it doesn’t feel too awfully crowded, especially if you visit in the morning when they open.

With all this said there is one glaring annoyance about visiting Giza- there are touts literally everywhere. This is the only place in and around Cairo I find them truly obnoxious, but hey- it is the country’s biggest tourist attraction.

I will say that if you do want to visit with a guide and/or take camels (or ATVs) around the pyramids I highly recommend booking a tour in advance  here , or via your accommodation. If you try and hire someone off the street, you’ll more than likely pay an  EXTREMELY  inflated price.

The price for admission to the Giza Pyramid Complex is 200 EGP per person. Entry to go inside the Great Pyramid (Khufu) is 400 EGP, entry to the Solar Boat Museum is 100 EGP, and the Pyramids Sound and Light Show is 300 EGP.

Check out the best Pyramids of Giza tours

Depending on your level of interest in the pyramids, this could be as little as a half-day excursion or take an entire day. On my second visit to the Pyramids of Giza, I spent nearly all day there from about 10 am to 5 pm.

If you only want to make a half-day of it I recommend  combining it with a trip to Saqqara  to visit the Step Pyramid of Djoser (or a combo day trip of  Giza, Saqqara, and Dahshur  if you wanna see all the pyramids and are short on time in Cairo).

For epic photos of the pyramids without the crowds get to the pyramids early (especially like the one of me in front of the Sphinx with Khafre Pyramid behind me) get there at 8 am when the Pyramids of Giza open. Most tour buses don’t start showing up until 10-11 am so you’ll have a little time before the larger crowds appear.

I highly recommend staying in Giza the night before you plan to visit the pyramids.

Gorge on Egyptian Food

I won’t lie- one of the things I am always most excited about when returning to Egypt is the food, as Egypt is one of my favorite food countries in the world.

Egyptian cuisine has a heavy influence from its Eastern Mediterranean neighbors  Cyprus , Lebanon, Greece, Palestine/Israel,  Turkey , and so on.

Some uniquely Egyptian dishes to try are

• Koshari- a conglomeration of carbohydrates drizzled in a spicy tomato sauce and vinegar
• Ful medames- mashed fava beans with garlic, cumin, olive oil, and lemon (origins are debated)
• Domty- a salty soft white cheese eaten since ancient times; stuffed pigeon
• Aish baladi- an Egyptian flatbread. Of course, staples around the Eastern Mediterranean are widely available- taamia (falafel), tahina, kofta, kebab, shwarma, and dolma

Some of my favorite restaurants in Cairo include  Felfela ,  Kebabgy Grill ,  Saqqara Restaurant  (Saqqara), and  Andrea El Harem Restaurant  (Giza). If you’re looking to try kosheri head to  Abou Tarek Koshari , which is widely known as the best.

For cheap and quick food my favorites in Cairo are,  Gad Fastfood  and the food stalls (many have a small area with tables and chairs too) along  Gawhar al Qa’ed Street  at Khan El Khalili across from the Al-Azhar University (they look dodgy, but they’re so good).

Explore The Pyramids of  Saqqara with an Egyptologist

Saqqara is a pyramid complex located about 30 kilometers south of Cairo, which once served as the necropolis for the ancient city of Memphis. The ancient Egyptian necropolis is also home to the oldest pyramid in the world, the Step Pyramid of Djoser, constructed between 2670–2650 BC by architect Imhotep.

The Saqqara Complex can easily take an entire day to see all the sights depending on your level of interest, but if you’re not a huge Egyptian history buff you can easily see the highlights in 3-4 hours.

If you are opting to see Saqqara in a shorter span of time it would be wise to  combo your day trip with the nearby Dahshur Pyramid Complex .

Entry to Saqqara and Imhotep Museum is 180 EGP.

I felt that with a history so rich and because the hieroglyphics I found to be so colorful and well intact, I personally felt that if you’re going to splurge for a guided trip with an Egyptologist, Saqqara would be my choice.

Some of the highlights to see in Saqqara to see include: the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the Pyramid of Teti, the Pyramid of Unas, Serapeum, the Tomb of Ankhma Hor, The Tomb of Mereruka, and the Imhotep Museum.

Click here  to shop this Saqqara day tour

See Islamic Cairo

Islam, of course, has a deep-rooted history in Cairo as well as greater Egypt. Islamic elements can be witnessed all over Cairo, so the name ‘Islamic Cairo’ is a bit of a misnomer, however, Islamic Cairo is known for its mosques, madrasas, mausoleums, and souqs.

Head over to Al-Muizz Al-Deen Street to start your adventure into Islamic Cairo. Destinations not to miss in Islamic Cairo include are Ibn Tulun Mosque, Sultan Hassan Mosque, Bab Zuweila, and Al Azhar Mosque.

For female travelers in Cairo, I generally recommend modest dress as that is the norm around Egypt with at least shoulders and knees covered- and especially when visiting Islamic Cairo and any holy sites. A scarf is handy to keep in your bag for covering shoulders or if you need to cover your hair when entering a mosque.

If you’re planning to do Islamic Cairo in the afternoon, I’d recommend enjoying the sunset over at Al Azhar Park and listening to the muezzins sing out the call to prayer from the surrounding mosques. Following the call to prayer, go have dinner and then head over to Khan el Khalili Souq next.

Shop at Khan el Khalili Souq

So, as you just read in the previous section, Khan el Khalili (in my opinion) is best enjoyed in the evening. During the day it’s jam-packed with tourists, but in the evenings you’ll find Egyptian families shopping and watching the evening go by at cafes.

If you’re into photography, I’d recommend getting a second visit in on your trip to Khan el Khalili, however in the earlier part of the day (9 am-11 am) as the souq is quite photogenic and the light is usually beautiful at that time. Several beautiful mosques, madrasas, and complexes can be found inside the Khan el Khalili area including Al-Hussein Mosque, Al-Aqmar Mosque, and Qalawun Complex.

Of course, if you were planning to do any shopping, Khan el Khalili is the place to do it. Be aware that many of the souvenirs in the more touristy sections of the souq are likely made in  China , but if you wander off the main thoroughfares enough you’ll get more into the local wares.

Another favorite thing of mine to do while at Khan el Khalili is to just chill at a cafe, order a coffee or tea, (occasionally a shisha) and just people watch part of an afternoon away.

Check out Coptic Cairo

Although most foreigners associate Islam as being the religion in Egypt (which is the dominant religion in the country), Egypt does have a long and fascinating Christian history as well.

Copts are an ethnoreligious group, predominantly found in Egypt, Sudan, and Libya, and have a rich history in the region which very much warrants a visit to Coptic Cairo while in the city.

Must-sees in Coptic Cairo, of course, include the Hanging Church and Abu Sega Church. The Jewish quarter of Cairo and the Ben Ezra Synagogue are worth including as part of your visit to Coptic Cairo as it’s nearby.

There is a Coptic Museum by the Hanging Church and Abu Sega, admission is 100 EGP.

Discover The Dahshur Pyramids

I recently wrote an entire post about the  Pyramids of Dahshur , and to be quite honest it was an absolute highlight of my third visit to Cairo.

Upon my arrival, I was presently surprised to not see a tout in sight, and encountered about six whole tourists there during the duration of my visit.

According to the officer working the day I visited, the Dahshur Pyramids had only recently reopened to the public in the summer of 2019.

At both Red Pyramid and Bent Pyramid, you can enter into the chamber via a long and narrow tunnel. As mentioned earlier in this post, the  Dahshur Pyramids are a perfect addition for a day trip to nearby Saqqara .

Entry to the Dahshur Pyramids is 60 EGP.

Find everything you need to know to plan the perfect day trip to the  Dahshur Pyramids

Visit The Egyptian Museum Of Antiquities

The salmon-pink colored Egyptian Museum of Antiquities on chaotic el Tahrir Square houses countless artifacts showcasing Egypt’s rich and fascinating history.

In late 2020 the Grand Egyptian Museum (within walking distance of the Giza Pyramid Complex) is slated to open and will be the largest museum in the world. Many exhibitions and artifacts from the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities have already been relocated to their new home in the GEM. Once the GEM does open, the Museum of Antiquities will close its doors.

Admission to the Egyptian Museum is currently 160 EGP, + 50 EGP if you’d like to take photos inside. The Mummy Room at the Egyptian Museum is an additional 180 EGP.

See the Recycling at Garbage City

Garbage City (Manshiyat Nasser) is a district located on the outskirts of Cairo, famous for its, well… garbage.

Cairo is the most populous city in the Arab world, with about 20 million people calling the city home. Despite Cairo being the largest city in the Arab world and among the most populous cities on Earth, until more recently, there had never been a formal garbage collection system in place for the Cairo Metropolitan Area.

This is where the Manshiyat Nasser district (nicknamed Garbage City) comes into play.

For roughly the last 70 or so years the heavily Coptic Christian population of the district have served as unofficial garbage collectors. Referred to as Zabbaleen (meaning  garbage people ), the men who function as the cities informal garbage collectors, go around the city collecting Cairo residents’ trash door-to-door for a nominal fee.

They then use donkey-drawn carts and small trucks to transport the garage back to Manshiyat Nasser. Once back to Garbage City, women and children sort through the trash collection to find recyclable materials and items, recycling an impressive 80-90% of the garbage collected.

Cairo now does have private trash collection service companies that compete with the Zabbaleen of Manshiyat Nasser. With that said visiting Garbage City and seeing the work unfold here is truly fascinating.

If you plan to venture out to Garbage City, I would definitely recommend that you visit the Monastery of Saint Simon while you’re in the area.

Appreciate the Uniqueness of The Monastery Of Saint Simon

The Monastery of Saint Simon is one of the largest and most fascinating Christian churches located in the Middle East & North Africa. Serving as a place of worship to the Zabbaleen inhabitants of Manshiyat Nasser, the Monastery of Saint Simon is located in the Mokattam cliffs that back up to the district.

The monastery is actually built right into a large cave within the cliffs with the capacity to fit 2,000 worshippers within. Other caves nearby have been fashioned into Christian churches too, and have since been linked, creating a unique Christian center within Garbage City.

Citadel Of Saleh Ad-Din

The Citadel of Saleh Ad-Din is a medieval Islamic fortress located right in the heart of Cairo, built under the reign of Saleh Ad-Din, a Kurdish Sunni, who served as the first sultan of Egypt & Syria under the Ayubbid Dynasty. The Cairo Citadel served as the seat of power in Egypt and housed its rulers from the 13-19th centuries.

While visiting, don’t miss the Mosque of Mohammed Ali Pasha inside the citadel, as well as the Hypostyle Mosque of al-Nasir Muhammad and the Mosque of Suleyman Pasha. The National Military Museum, Al-Gawhara Palace Museum, Carriage Museum, and the Police Museum are also worth paying a visit to.

Admission to the Citadel is 180 EGP.

Take A Felucca Ride On The Nile

This is the one thing on the list I haven’t actually done while in Cairo, but have been meaning to do! Felucca are a traditional sailboat used for over a millennia to journey up and down the Nile River.

Of course, you can take a felucca ride day or night, but the best time to take one is in the late afternoon to catch the sunset over the Nile and watch the city as it lights up afterward. You can book a felucca trip  here  on Viator.

Shop different Nile felucca trips

Where To Stay In Cairo

In Downtown Cairo, my personal favorite is the  Steigenberger  (okay, I’ll admit, I’m usually in Cairo at the end of a lovely  Socotra  expedition and am looking to crash in a cushy room… and also I’m there for the epic breakfast buffet).

For those keeping to a smaller budget, a good friend of mine raved about the  Holy Sheet Hostel  (and to be honest I met up with her in there one day- it is an excellent deal for the price).

In Giza, I highly recommend the Hayat Pyramids View Hotel – the rooms have amazing views right out to the Pyramids. They serve a pretty hefty and delicious breakfast that is included in the price of your room.

Best Accommodations In Cairo

Budget Holy Sheet Hostel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Midrange Cleopatra Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Upper Midrange Steigenberger El Tahrir Square |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Splurge The Nile Ritz Carlton |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Best Accommodations In Giza

Budget Abo Stait Pyramid View Homestay |  Booking.com  |

Midrange Hayat Pyramids View Hotel |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Splurge Marriott Mena House |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

How To Get Around Cairo

Uber & taxi.

Navigating Cairo isn’t all too difficult. Uber and Careem are both efficient and relatively inexpensive for getting around the city and to/from the airport.

Another great option for female travelers is to use  Pink Taxi , a ladies-only taxi service startup based in Cairo. You can book a Pink Taxi by downloading their app ( Android   |   Apple ).

I’d advise using Uber, Careem, or Pink Taxi over trying to get taxis off the street for safety reasons and because many times taxi drivers will try to overcharge tourists.

Cairo Metro

The Cairo Metro is also a cheap and efficient way to get around the city as Cairo’s traffic can be mind-bogglingly horrendous, but I would recommend avoiding it during morning and evening rush-hour times (7-9 am and 4-7 pm).

I found the Cairo Metro easy enough to navigate myself without much to any issue. There are women-only cars on metro trains (like in  Iran  and the UAE) that can be a great option for women traveling solo wanting to avoid potential harassment.

Check out the official Cairo Metro page  here , and this handy informational page  here .

A single ride costs 3-10 EGP depending on distance, tickets can be purchased at the desk upon entering the station. You will need to tell the ticket agent which station you’ll be going to. Note that you cannot reach every major attraction in Cairo by metro.

Meekrobas (Minibus)

Meekrobas are minibusses that are commonly used by locals to get between main destinations. Their destinations aren’t marked and can be quite confusing to communicate where you want to go, though in my experience I’ve found Cairenes quite helpful and friendly and have always found someone that could assist in getting me going in the right direction.

Rides cost 2-5 EGP depending on the distance. You’ll take a seat, communicate where you need to get off (usually by hand gestures- this is where you’ll need some assistance by kind locals), and then pass your money up to the driver (similar to on a marshrutka in  Eastern Europe  and  Central Asia ) and change will be passed back to you.

Arriving At Cairo Airport

I without a doubt, recommend either ordering an Uber, Careem, or Pink Taxi to pick you up after you arrive at Cairo Airport, or prebooking an airport shuttle  here , or directly with  Cairo Shuttle Bus . If you will be using Uber, Pink Taxi, or Careem you’ll need to go to a parking lot that is located outside Terminal 2 and 3.

Follow the signs to parking lot B5 or C2, you’ll need to take an elevator or stairs to get down to the lot. One thing I will say with my experience using Uber in Cairo is that many drivers speak only Arabic so if you need to communicate something with the driver through the app prior to pick up it can be a little tricky.

I also recommend either memorizing Arabic numerals, or having a sheet downloaded on your phone showing Arabic to Roman numerals as Egyptian license plates are written using Arabic numerals, but the app will give the driver’s plate numbers in Roman numerals.

Best Restaurants In Cairo

I did mention gorging on Egyptian food a must-do experience on any trip to Cairo earlier in this post, but here is a list of some of my favorite Egyptian food hot spots:

Downtown Cairo Restaurants

Felfela :  I’ve yet to order anything at Felfela I didn’t like. I always order their tahini along with taamia (they have several varieties). You can’t go wrong with the lentil soup, full medames, kofta, or mixed grill either. If you want to try a specialty, get the stuffed pigeon. On the backside of the main Felfela Restaurant, there is a Felfela Express serving up an array of the simpler items off their menu, including shwarma.

Kebabgy Grill :  Located on the banks of the Nile in the Sofitel, this is an upper-scale restaurant, but the food, in my experience was lovely. All of their hot and cold mezze are delicious. For entrees, some of my favorites include the kofta, chicken kabsah, and the seafood grill.

Abou Tarek Koshari :  This is where you need to go to try the national dish of Egypt: Koshari. Abou Tarek is pretty well known for serving up (arguably) the best koshari in Cairo.

Saqqara Restaurants

Saqqara Restaurant :  It can feel a bit like tourist-central with large tour groups stopping off here for lunch on day tours to Saqqara and Memphis, but they serve up a simple and decent Egyptian menu.

Giza Restaurants

Andrea El Harem Restaurant :  Serving up typical Middle Easter fare in Giza, with decent views of the pyramids.

Best Fast Food In Cairo

Gad Fastfood :  I met a chatty Uber driver (actually quite an interesting man) who recommended Gad Fastfood to me and some friends. It seems daunting when you walk into the ground level where cooks are slinging dishes with a frenzy of local fans putting in takeaway orders. As you glance up you’ll notice the menu is in Arabic, but don’t let that put you off. Head upstairs to the main dining area to sit down and put in an order (that is unless of course, you feel comfortable putting in a takeaway order in Arabic!). The food is cheap, plentiful, and good.

Food stall cafes along Gawhar al Qa’ed Street at Khan El Khalili across from Al-Azhar University :  I hired a car on my last day during my last trip to Cairo to go out to the  Dahshur Pyramids , and within a couple of hours me and my driver were basically best friends. I needed to make a stop at Khan el Khalili before heading for the airport to depart and I asked Mohammed what the best place for taamia (Egyptian falafel) and tahina was there. Well fast forward and we met up with his family along Gawhar al Qa’ed Street where we sat down for probably the best taamia, tahina, and ful medames I’ve ever had. If you want drinks you’ll need to pop into a shop along the street for juice, water, or soft drinks. These little hole-in-the-wall stalls don’t usually have names and look a little dirty- but then again that’s never stopped me either.

Best Bars In Cairo

Cafe Riche :  A renowned Cairo landmark located in the downtown area that opened in 1908. Cafe Riche has served as a meeting place for intellectuals and revolutionaries over the years. Most intellectuals tend to meet and form discussions online now, however, it’s still a fun experience to grab a drink with friends in the evening here. Note that smoking is permitted inside.

Cairo Jazz Club :  The best place in Cairo to head for live music that serves great cocktails to boot. Don’t let the name fool you though, Cairo Jazz Club hosts artists that span the musical spectrum including local acts and international bands.

Crimson Cairo :  The Nile view from the rooftop terrace at Crimson Cairo is worth a visit alone. Located on Zamalek Island serving up a variety of cocktails, wines, liquor as well as food.

Cairo Travel Safety & Tips

• In all honesty, the most dangerous thing you’ll do in Cairo is cross the street, it really feels like a game of chicken at first… but after a few days (and likely a few instructional lessons from Cairenes who take you under their wing), you’ll be walking like an Egyptian in no time. If you still don’t trust your abilities to cross on your own in a busy area, just find a local trying to cross and follow their lead- they generally are pretty good at this.
• Occasional harassment does occur on the streets for female travelers, but in my experience, it’s been pretty light- I can think of one time I was whistled at and that’s been about it. However, it does happen at times so do try to be aware of your surroundings.
• Petty crime, along with bag snatchings and pickpocketing do happen periodically in Cairo in busy centers like Khan el Khalili, metro stations, and on buses.
• There are tourist police offices in Khan el Khalili, downtown, Giza, and inside the citadel. If you are a victim of crime, report to the tourist police rather than the regular police.
• Cairo is known for their crafty touts. In my experience, they’re a lot rifer in Giza than anywhere in Cairo, but you do find them in Khan el Khalili and downtown. Just be on guard for anyone wanting to randomly befriend you especially in touristy areas, many times they’re just trying to lure you into a shop. I can say though I’ve met numerous friendly Cairenes that just approach to have a conversation and make small talk, so don’t write off everyone as a potential tout.
• Cairo can be extremely hot in the summer, so sun protection, drinking enough water, and breaking to rest especially midday are especially important. Temperatures in June-August can hover around 35 C (95 F) during the day.
• Spring (March-April) and fall (October-November) are when temperatures are most pleasant to visit Cairo as well as the rest of Egypt.
• The winter months of December-February can make for a great vacation if you don’t mind cooler temps (9-16 C | 48-60 F), With that said, its best to avoid dates around the Christmas holiday as it corresponds with school breaks for Europe, Australia, and the Americas).
• Dressing modestly is the best practice as Cairo is a fairly conservative city. For women, making sure knees and shoulders are covered and for men having trousers that hit below the knee (if not opting for pull length pants) are great choices, especially for visiting holy sites.

Have Any Questions About Cairo Travel Or Any Of The Listed Things To Do In Cairo?

Ask in the comments section below.

More Posts from Egypt:

Why You Need To Visit The Dahshur Pyramids In Egypt

The Best Road Trips In The World

4 thoughts on “Cairo Travel Guide + 12 Things To Do In Cairo”

Cairo’s history is so fascinating! If you want to dive deeper into the city’s past, our audio tours are a must-try.

I stayed at Panorama pyramids inn in Giza after reading the recommendation on this blog, and have to say I was fairly dissappointed, to the point that I actually had to move to a different hotel. Yes, the food and the view is fine, but the problem is that it is extremely noisy. Dogs barking and yelling (lots of them), cars honking, people talking and hussling, tour buses idling: It´s all in your room because it takes place right outside and the windows literally do not close. And on your right hand side you have all the noise from the reception and the stairs, because the doors have zero soundproofing.

Some of the staff felt pushy, kind of weirdly overwelcoming, as if they were trying to cover over something. When i asked the reception when the ticket office to the pyramids opened I was told 8 when I in fact, 5 minutes later, I could confirm 5 that it opened 7 (this proximity to the pyramids might be the only reason to stay there). This was of course a scam to lure me along on one of the overpriced hotel tours (“Why hurry? Have breakfast, relax”).The whole place had a dodgy feeling, despite best, and obviously sincere efforts from individual staff members. Only recommended if you´re staying for one night and planning to go to the pyramids at opening hour and then leave. And I would seriously reconsider visiting the pyramids altogether. Sadly, the way the egyptian authorities has allowed a city to creep right up to them, and then turning the area itself into a fairground is nothing but the world´s most epic tourist trap (which is fairly fascinating to observe in itself, and, if nothing else, perhaps the best reason to go there). Egypt has so many exciting things to offer over this. With regard to this, the recommendation to visit Dashur and Saqqara turned into a highlight of my trip.

Sorry to hear about the not so great experience at the Panorama Pyramids. Last time I stayed there was coming back from Socotra in early March of 2020, so Giza was nearly empty. I was in Giza for a couple of nights this past January and stayed over at the Hayat Pyramids View because they had triple rooms and that’s what we needed. The Giza Pyramids of course I think will always suffer the annoyance of touts and all unless maybe some regulations are instated. Dahshur was still nice and quiet this year, only a handful of others there.

Very interesting site! There is a mistake in a photo above: You present a church as the St. Sergius and Bacchus, but actually this is the St. George Greek Orthodox church. The St. Sergius and Bacchus church is at a distance of about 400-500 m, and it is much smaller. I am a Cairo inhabitant.

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30+ best things to do in cairo, egypt: the ultimate cairo travel guide.

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After visiting Cairo, Egypt more than ten times (and counting), I think I can officially claim that I’ve become somewhat  of an expert on the best things to do in Cairo. Cairo is a city that’s enchanting and infuriating, requiring seemingly endless patience but rewarding you with timeless history, spectacular architecture, and tantalizing food. Cairo’s beauty may be hard to see at first glance, but if you spend more than a cursory two days for the Pyramids and Sphinx, you might be surprised to learn that there are endless places to visit in Cairo, a cosmopolitan and historical city in the country nicknamed “Mother of the World” (Um el Donya).

This comprehensive Cairo travel guide includes pretty much all of Cairo’s tourist attractions as well as plenty of hidden places that most tourists (and plenty of locals) don’t know about. I’ll continue to update this list as I return to Cairo and find even more cool places to visit, but in the meantime, here’s my list of the top things to do in Cairo, Egypt.

Table of Contents

The Best Things to Do in Cairo, Egypt

There are plenty of amazing things to do in this city, and it might feel overwhelming to decide exactly what to see in Cairo. How long to spend in Cairo entirely depends on your interests (and your vacation time). I recommend a minimum of three days, but you could easily spend a week in Cairo without running out of things to do. My recommendations for the top things to do in Cairo (the absolute Cairo must-sees) are the Pyramids of Giza, The Egyptian Antiquities Museum, Khan-el-Khalili Market, Al-Muizz Street, and The Citadel. But like I said, there’s a lot to do and see in this grand city, so the more time you have, the better.

Best Things to Do Around Giza 

The pyramids of giza and the sphinx .

The Great Pyramids of Giza don’t need an introduction. More likely than not, they’re the primary reason you’re planning a visit to Egypt in the first place. This is the number one must-see place in Cairo and because of that, it attracts hordes of tourists and incessantly annoying touts. However, it is possible to have a pleasant experience at the Pyramids. Read my guide to visiting the Pyramids to find out how.

The Other Pyramids and Sphinx: Saqqara, Dahshur, and Memphis

Did you know that there are other pyramids in Egypt besides the famous Pyramids of Giza? They’re not as large, but they’re spectacular in their own right. Want to know the best news about them? They’re virtually devoid of tourists (probably because many don’t know about them).

Saqqara is known as the step pyramid and was built for King Djoser. It’s part of a huge complex that includes some seriously impressive tombs. The Dahshur Pyramids are known as the Bent and Red Pyramids and are some of the oldest pyramids in the country. And lastly, Memphis is the ancient capital of Egypt, where you can see the alabaster Sphinx as well as a colossal statue of Ramses II.

I consider these to be must-visit places in Cairo, so it blows my mind that many skip over them. The three sites are a bit challenging to do independently without a car because they’re in somewhat secluded areas that are far from Downtown Cairo. I highly recommend a tour not just for transportation purposes, but for historical context as well. Book a tour here . Note: I don’t recommend combining these three sites with a visit to the Pyramids of Giza. This would make for a very long and somewhat rushed day.

Best Things to Do in Islamic Cairo

Islamic Cairo stretches far across the city, from the edges of the Citadel to the Museum of Islamic Arts, if we’re being technical. However, there’s a distinct cluster of old Islamic buildings in the area known as El-Gamaleya , stretching from Bab el Futuh to Bab Zuweila. This area is easily reachable by Uber. However, once inside it’s all too easy to get lost and stumble upon a historic door or building or to suddenly find yourself in the Khan-el-Khalili marketplace. That’s part of the fun!

You’ll likely want a guide if you want to explore this area in depth. Otherwise, the larger landmarks are somewhat easy to find on your own. Note: This is not a complete guide to Islamic Cairo, but includes the main highlights. If you’d prefer a guided tour of this area (recommended), check out this tour here .

Note: Please ensure you wear appropriate attire when visiting mosques: covered hair, arms, and legs for the ladies and covered shoulders and knees for the men.

Al-Muizz Street

If you choose to wander through this area on fyour own, the best route to take is the path down Al-Muizz Street , which basically takes you from one end of Old Islamic Cairo to the other. Named after the first Fatimad Caliph in Egypt, Al-Muizz Street has the highest density of Islamic monuments in Cairo , making it the best place to get a healthy dose of Islamic history in the city. It’s worth visiting both during the day and in the evening, as the vibe changes completely. Save the monuments and mosque visits for the morning and come back in the evening for the chaotic (albeit fun) ambiance of Old Cairo. Note: If you’re interested in doing a DIY walking tour of this street and the surrounding area, check out this Islamic Cairo Walking Tour map for guidance.

The Khan El Khalili Bazaar

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sally • Foodie Travel Blogger (@passportandplates) on May 18, 2018 at 8:50am PDT

Built in the 14 th century, Khan el Khalili was initially built as a mausoleum, later becoming a caravanserai and finally, a bazaar. This bazaar is an attraction to locals and tourists alike , selling everything from kitschy souvenirs to valuable gold jewelry to fragrant incense. This open-air market is a sensory overload, but definitely worth the visit. There’s really no place like it in the country and tourists have strong opinions about how much they love or hate it. Nonetheless, it’s a prime example of Egyptian culture so come armed with your bargaining skills and soak up the chaos. Read reviews so you can know what to expect here .

Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sally • Foodie Travel Blogger (@passportandplates) on Jan 22, 2018 at 9:10am PST

Built in the 1300s in dedication to the sultan who took the throne at age 13, this mosque is well known for its striking architecture, particularly the four vaulted halls (called iwans). The iwans represent the four main schools of Sunnism in Islam: Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’I, and Hanbali; this explains the inclusion of “madrassa” in the name, which means “school” in Arabic. Considered one of the finest examples of Mamluk architecture in Cairo , this building is not to be missed! The entrance fee is 120 EGP (January 2024). Read reviews here .

Al-Hakim Mosque

This mosque is over a thousand years old but was used for a variety of purposes throughout history, including a school, prison, psychiatric ward, and more. It’s quite large, albeit plain, especially compared to many mosques in the area. However, its main standouts are its two minarets, which are part of the city walls, and its tranquility; it’s virtually empty compared to Al-Azhar Mosque nearby. Read reviews here .

Al-Azhar Mosque

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sally • Foodie Travel Blogger (@passportandplates) on Nov 9, 2018 at 8:07am PST

To date, Al-Azhar University is the most prestigious place to study Sunni Islam and is highly regarded as the highest religious authority in Egypt. Not only is the Al-Azhar Mosque one of the oldest mosques in Cairo but it’s also associated with the second-oldest educational institution in the world. The white alabaster interior of this mosque is particularly distinct, but every aspect of the architecture, both inside and out, is intricate. If you only choose to visit one mosque in this area, make it this one. Read reviews here .

Whirling Dervishes at Wekalet el GhouriI

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Carolyn Dunn (@csdunn75)

I’ve seen my fair share of whirling dervishes but the performance at Wekalet el Ghouri is easily the best I’ve ever seen. Consisting of chants, music, and singing, this Sufi ritual is mesmerizing on its own; the fact that this particular show is performed in a thousand-year-old building only adds to that effect. The entrance fee is 90 EGP (January 2024) and performances are on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays at 7 pm or 8 pm, depending on the season. Plan to arrive by 6:30 pm to buy your tickets at the door. Read reviews here .

Note: If you’d prefer to book through a company that includes a hotel transfer as well as the show, check out tickets here .

Mosque of Ibn Tulun

As the oldest mosque in Cairo to exist in its original form, the Mosque of Ibn Tulun is the largest by size , spanning an impressive six acres of land. Unfortunately, there are no formal tours of the grounds, but visitors should be sure not to miss the minaret with an external staircase, the painted prayer areas, and the carved columns. Read reviews here .

Bab Zuweila

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Ahmed Elsadre (@ahmedelsadre) on Jul 2, 2018 at 12:29pm PDT

Bab Zuweila is the only remaining southern gate to Old Islamic Cairo, and unlike its northern counterparts, the only one you can enter. On the ground floor is a helpful exhibit written in both Arabic and English that explains the historical significance of the gate. Climb the stairs (and up the two minarets if you’d like) and you’ll get spectacular panoramic views of Old Islamic Cairo and beyond. The entrance fee is 50 EGP (January 2024). Read reviews here .

Best Things to Do in Abdeen and Around Old Cairo

This area is essentially an extension of Old Islamic Cairo, but for planning purposes, you’ll need a separate day to explore the area around Al-Muizz Street and another to visit the places listed below.

Al Azhar Park

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sally • Foodie Travel Blogger (@passportandplates) on Jan 16, 2018 at 9:31am PST

Confession: I’m obsessed with city parks worldwide and always make a point to visit them when I travel. Al-Azhar Park is no exception to this rule and I enthusiastically recommend it to visitors who also enjoy visiting greenery to break up an urban city visit. Once a large dump, it’s now highlighted by beautiful fountains, intricate walkways, and lush gardens. It also has a restaurant and several cafes. I recommend visiting in the late afternoon and staying for sunset. Not only will you see some of the best views in the city, but you’ll also simultaneously hear the melodic call to prayer from several nearby mosques. For dinner, head to the park’s restaurant or pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it on the grass. There’s a small entrance fee (25 EGP as of January 2024) that helps keep the park in good shape. Read reviews here .

Museum of Islamic Arts

This museum was restored and re-opened in 2017 and is easily one of the most beautiful museums I’ve visited in Cairo. It holds thousands of artifacts, ranging from intricately carved doors to ancient manuscripts. It’s well set up, split into sections by time period, with explanations on the walls in both English and Arabic. This museum is a combination of both art and history, with religion taking a back seat. If you’re at all interested in learning about Islamic art, I highly recommend this overlooked gem. Note: the entrance to the museum is on the main road across from the military building and the entrance fee is 120 EGP (January 2024). Read reviews here .

Abdeen Palace Museum

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by AHMED EZZAT (@ahmeddezzatt) on Jan 30, 2018 at 7:21am PST

The lavish Abdeen Palace was the seat of the government until the early 50s. It’s currently one of the presidential residences although now it’s primarily used to host foreign dignitaries. The museums on the ground floor are the only parts of Abdeen Palace that are open to the public and contain the Presidential Gifts Museum, the Historical Documents Museum, the Silver Museum, the Royal Family Museum, and the Arms Museum. The Arms Museum is the most impressive of the collection, but if you aren’t particularly interested in weapons, then Abdeen Palace is by no means a must-do. The entrance fee is 100 EGP (January 2024). Read reviews here .

The Citadel and Mohammad Ali Mosque

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sally • Foodie Travel Blogger (@passportandplates) on Oct 30, 2018 at 11:34am PDT

The Cairo Citadel, also known as the Citadel of Saladin, was built in the late 1100s to protect Egypt against The Crusaders. Nowadays, the complex has a few palaces, several small museums (including the National Military Museum), and three distinct mosques (one of which is the Mohammad Ali Mosque). The Mohammad Ali Mosque is perhaps the most notable of the three, built in a similar architectural style to the Blue Mosque in Istanbul. That being said, the Al-Nasser Mohammed Mosque also holds its own in terms of architectural style. Due to The Citadel’s elevated location (it is a former fortress after all), you can get amazing views of Cairo, encompassing the Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan and even the Pyramids of Giza on a clear day! The entrance fee is 300 EGP (January 2024). Read reviews here .

Best Things to Do in Downtown Cairo and Zamalek

Sunset Sailing on the Nile

Picture this: it’s early evening, the weather is cooling down, and you’re eager to watch the sunset over the Nile. Why simply watch the sunset from the Qasr-el-Nile Bridge when you can see it while sailing on a boat? Hire a felucca (a traditional Egyptian sailboat), complete with music and a captain, and enjoy a beautiful sunset sail. Bring your own food and make a picnic out of it. Or, if you’re more of a party boat kind of person, opt for a Nile cruise : you get flashing lights, Egyptian dance music, and a motorized boat instead. No matter which you choose, you’re in for an enjoyable evening.

Tahrir Square

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Hassan Elfeky (@hassan55699) on Jul 25, 2017 at 12:59am PDT

Tahrir Square was the central gathering point for Egyptians during the 2011 Arab Spring that overthrew former President Mubarak. It’s not a tourist attraction by any means, but rather a historic symbol for Egyptians. It’s located in the middle of the roundabout of the largest street in Downtown Cairo, across the street from the Egyptian Museum. You will likely see it if you visit the Egyptian Museum or stay downtown, so there’s no reason to make a special visit just to see Tahrir Square on its own. Read reviews here .

Cairo Tower

Standing at 614 feet, Cairo Tower is the go-to place for impressive cityscape views, especially on a clear day. An elevator takes you to the observation deck, where you can enjoy 360 views of various parts of the city , including Giza, Zamalek, and Downtown. There’s also a cafe for those interested in dining with a view. I wouldn’t necessarily say Cairo Tower is a must-do activity as there are several places throughout the city where you can get panoramic views of Cairo. At the time of updating, tickets cost 250 EGP. Read reviews here .

Best Things to Do in Coptic Cairo

Even though Egypt is primarily Muslim, there’s a strong Coptic community in Cairo, primarily located in the area known as Coptic Cairo. Here, you’ll find an impressive collection of churches in various architectural styles, as well as the Coptic Museum and the Ben Ezra Synagogue. This area is easily reachable by metro (the stop is Mar Girgis) or Uber. You could easily wander through Coptic Cairo without a guide, provided you map the different parts out. If you’d prefer a guided tour instead (which always helps with context), check out this one here .

Coptic Museum

Home to some seriously impressive Coptic art and artifacts , this museum highlights the fascinating history and current culture of Coptic Christianity in Egypt. Nearly all the pieces have explanations both in English and Arabic and the museum is virtually empty. It was a pleasant surprise and it’s a shame there aren’t more visitors. The entrance fee is 100 EGP. Read reviews here .

The Hanging Church

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Stephen Schimpf (@stephenschimpf) on Oct 18, 2016 at 4:01pm PDT

Also known as the Church of the Virgin Mary, the Hanging Church gets its name because it’s built atop the walls of the Roman Fortress of Babylon . You can actually see the remains of the wall inside the church, where parts of the floor are made of glass. The church has an elegant and intricate design inside and out, with twin bell towers and a small inner courtyard. Read reviews here .

Monastery and Church of St George

Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus

This church is small and was packed when I went but with good reason – it’s easily the most unique church I visited and has a fascinating history. Not only is it the oldest church inside Coptic Cairo, but it’s also built over a cave, which you can reach by descending steps. The guides said that this is where Jesus, Mary, and Joseph stayed when they were in Egypt – that certainly explained the crowds! Either way, it’s a fascinating place to visit. Read reviews here .

Church of St. Barbara

This small church is dedicated to a Christian martyr by the name of Barbara. It isn’t particularly notable in terms of style compared to the other churches, but just beyond the church is the unique Coptic cemetery. Read reviews here .

Ben Ezra Synagogue

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by CairoScene (@cairoscene) on Nov 6, 2018 at 2:55am PST

According to local legend, this synagogue is where the shores delivered baby Moses to the pharaoh’s daughter. I was initially surprised to find a synagogue amongst so many Christian buildings but later learned that the synagogue was purchased and converted from a church in the 9 th century. You aren’t allowed to take photos in here, unfortunately, although there are plenty gracing the internet for some reason. Read reviews here .

Fun Things to Do in Other Neighborhoods 

National museum of egyptian civilization .

To make things a bit confusing, there are several museums in Egypt housing the antiquities found in various tombs and temples across Egypt. Everything was once housed in the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities in Tahrir Square, but is now being split between the National Museum of Egyptian Antiquities (NMEC) near Fustat and the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza (slated to open in the summer of 2024).

I’m updating this post in January 2024 to reflect my most recent visit a couple of months ago. If you, like most visitors, are interested in seeing the mummies , then you should visit NMEC, where they’re all housed in a special temperature-controlled mummies room. Photos are not allowed in the room (the above was taken when they were still housed at the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities), but it’s still fascinating to see the well-preserved remnants of ancient royalty we’ve all read about in history class (tufts of hair included!). And of course, there are plenty of other antiquities to enjoy as well.

I’ll be sure to update this post on my next visit to reflect visits to the other two museums since I’m not sure what artifacts are moving to GEM and which are staying in MEA, but for NMEC, the entrance fee is 240 EGP. Read reviews here .

Catch the views from Mokattam City

For spectacular views of the city from a distance, head up to Mokattam around sunset and enjoy a coffee or tea while gazing out at the city below. Both Cairo Tower and The Citadel offer great views of Cairo, but Mokattam is nice in that it’s a somewhat peaceful getaway from the city center. Note that it is the same mountain where the Cave Church (below) is located, so it might make sense to schedule both activities on the same day. Read reviews here .

Manial Palace / Palace of Mohamed Ali

Built in the early 1900s by Prince Mohamed Ali, the Manial Palace Museum is incredibly impressive and seriously underrated. It has an extensive collection of well-preserved artifacts that showcase what life was like a century ago. The architecture is also beautiful, reflecting a variety of architectural styles. The best part is that the palace is nearly empty since many tourists don’t know about it. I saw maybe five other people during my entire visit. The entrance fee is 100 EGP. Read reviews here .

Hidden Gems in Cairo: Unique and Non-Touristy Things to Do in Cairo

If you’re spending a long time in the city or simply looking to get off the beaten path in Cairo, this section includes some unique places you can visit. The Cave Church is probably the only place where you might encounter some tourists, but you’ll never find the rest of these suggestions on any top 10 list of things to see in Cairo. Adventure awaits!

El Mastaba Center for Egyptian Folk Music

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This community initiative was founded to provide a platform to both preserve and increase appreciation for performing arts and music. It was closed for several years but has recently reopened to the public. They primarily host musical performances from Nubian and Bedouin bands and it’s by no means a touristy thing to do. I only found out about it through a local friend. However, if you’re interested in enjoying a night of traditional music, check out their events on Facebook .

Pharaonic Village

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The Pharaonic Village is a theme park meets museum dedicated to sharing the history and customs of ancient Egypt. I went as a teenager and while I found it to be cheesy AF, it’s still a fun activity to do if you take it for face value (and you have time to kill in Cairo). The most memorable part was the boat ride through the various time periods. Read reviews here .

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Before the construction of the Aswan Dam, Egyptians used a device called the Nilometer to measure the level of the Nile River and predict its behavior. There were several nilometers around the country. The Cairo Nilometer is located on Rawda (or Rhoda) Island inside a modern building and is accessible to visitors. It’s really easy to get to by Uber if you type in Nilometer. The entrance fee is 20 EGP. Read reviews here .

Umm Kalthoum Museum

Even though this museum is dedicated to one of Egypt’s most famous artists , many people don’t know it exists. It’s small but includes a fairly extensive collection of her belongings, as well as an audiovisual library. This museum is best combined with a visit to the Nilometer, since they’re in the same area. The entrance fee is 20 EGP (January 2024). Read reviews here .

The Cave Church and Garbage City

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Deep in the heart of Garbage City, so named because it’s where the majority of the garbage collectors (Zabaleen) live, is The Monastery of Saint Simon, also known as the Cave Church. The Cave Church is a large Orthodox church built into a cave in the mountain – easily one of the most unique churches out there!

You do have to pass through the impoverished Garbage City to arrive at the church, so prepare to be a little shocked by the sights and smells en route. Garbage City itself is really fascinating, taking recycling to a whole new level. However, it’s not recommended to go wandering through on your own. Book a tour for some cultural context. Read reviews here and book a tour here .

The City of the Dead

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Did you know that in Cairo approximately half a million people live amongst mausoleums ? Out of all the countries I’ve visited, this is a phenomenon I’ve only ever encountered in Cairo. Unlike many of the other Cairo attractions, this is a place you cannot visit on your own.

As part of a tour, you’ll get a knowledgeable guide who will share the fascinating history of the mausoleums as well as how people came to live there. I was personally surprised to see an entire thriving city within the walls of the cemetery. Note: you will be touring an impoverished area that many people call their home. Please be respectful and don’t snap photos of people without permission. Read reviews here and can book a tour here .

Birqash Camel Market

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If you really want to get off the beaten path in Cairo, look no further than the Birqash Camel Market, located around 20 miles outside of the city. A camel auction is one of the most adventurous things you can do in Cairo. Most of my local friends have never been, but all of them thought I was crazy for wanting to go at all.  Note: This is not a tourist attraction, but rather a real-life camel market. If you’re easily overwhelmed then I don’t recommend this activity .

If you’d like to visit, there are a few things you should know. Keep an eye out for rogue camels – you don’t want to get trampled! Both men and women should dress conservatively out of respect (a note to women: this is a male-dominated market). Also, keep an eye out for pickpockets in busier parts of the market. Lastly, there are no bathrooms, so keep that in mind when, ahem, hydrating.

The market is open daily from 7 am – 11 am, but Friday is the best day to visit. If you’d like to go independently, an Uber will take you (I recommend asking them to wait). The entrance fee is 50 EGP. Read reviews here and if you’d like to book a tour, click  here .

Zoom through the desert on a dune buggy

Sometimes, when I’m debating whether or not I should get travel insurance, I remember the time I decided to off-road in a dune buggy and ended up with a stitch in my head. Lesson: always get travel insurance . That being said, I have ridden dune buggies since (more cautiously) and can confirm that riding them through the desert is mad fun and you should totally do it, no matter how cheesy or touristy you think it is. You can actually explore the Pyramids on a dune buggy with this tour . Alternatively, if you find yourself at a beach resort, you’ll likely be able to ride one there as well.

Where to Eat in Cairo: The Best Restaurants in Cairo

There is so much good Egyptian food out there, that I wrote an entire guide to the best Egyptian food . I also included some of my favorite Cairo spots in there, for your eating pleasure. You’re welcome. If you’re a foodie, check out my review of this  cool food tour  you can do while you’re there as well.

Where to Stay in Cairo: The Best Hotels in Cairo

Where you stay in Cairo depends a bit on the experience you’re after, as well as on how many days you plan to visit. In general, I recommend staying in Downtown Cairo, Garden City, or Zamalek for the majority of your stay , since they’re central neighborhoods and easily accessible to the rest of the city. However, if you’d like a particularly memorable day at the Pyramids, staying at a hotel in Giza for the night before your visit is a pretty magical experience. I’ve included all the best Cairo hotel recommendations here . Note: The value of the dollar stretches far in Egypt. If you’ve always wanted to splurge on a luxury hotel, this is the country to do it!

Downtown Cairo

Backpack: If you’re all about that backpacker life,  Meramees Hostel is the best budget hostel in Downtown Cairo. It’s centrally located, less than ten minutes walking from Tahrir Square, and offers both dorms and private rooms. The staff is friendly, the ambiance is chill and the beds are clean. Did I mention it’s really affordable too? Check it out here!

Mid-range:  If you’re definitely way over backpacker life (or maybe you just never warmed up to the idea of sharing your room), Tahrir Plaza Suites is your spot for affordable accommodation without the frills. It’s a short walk from Tahrir Square and it’s more like a cozy bed and breakfast (breakfast is only $3 and very hearty). It’s spotlessly clean with excellent service and a small number of rooms. I stayed there on my last visit and would stay there again. It’s a tad noisy since it’s in the heart of downtown, but otherwise, no complaints. Check it out here!

Splurge: Earlier I mentioned that Egypt is the best place to splurge on a hotel. I just looked up January prices for the  Kempinski Nile Hotel , and they start at just $200 per night. SUCH a steal for a luxury hotel. Honestly, if this isn’t the best place to stay in Cairo, it’s definitely one of the top five. Nile views, a spectacular swimming pool, luxury rooms, and plenty of restaurant options are just a few of the fabulous amenities here. It’s a 15-minute walk from Tahrir, but feels like a world away from the chaos of Cairo. Check it out here!

Giza (The Pyramids)

If you have time,  I highly recommend staying at a hotel near the Pyramids for one night  so you can get the true Pyramids experience. It’s magical to be able to see the sun rise and set over the Pyramids and it means you won’t have to wake up quite as early as you would if you were staying in Cairo. If you choose to stay in Giza for a night, I recommend visiting the Pyramids either at the beginning or end of your stay in Cairo so you don’t have to check in and out of hotels multiple times. There are tons of  hotels in the area , so I’ve helped you narrow down your options with my recommendations below.

Mid-range: Great Pyramid Inn is only a 5-minute walk from the main entrance to The Pyramids and has seriously spectacular views. You can watch the evening Sound and Light Show from the comfort of the hotel (for free, heyyy). Plus they have a restaurant on-site, complimentary breakfast, and excellent customer service. Check it out here!

If the Great Pyramid Inn is fully booked and you’re looking for options at a similar price point with good views and service, check out  Pyramids View Inn ,  Royal Pyramids Inn , or  Hayat Pyramids View Hotel .

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Splurge:  Alternatively,  Marriot Mena House is the only 5-star hotel with views of the Pyramids. It’s about half a mile away from the Giza complex itself, but a nice luxury option that’s worth the splurge.

The Best Overnight Trips and Day Trips from Cairo

Although all of these trips can be done in one very long day, I highly recommend staying overnight so as to not feel rushed. Both El Fayoum and The White Desert need 4×4 cars and permits, so they would be nearly impossible to do independently. The other recommendations can be done without guided tours.

El Fayoum and Wadi-el-Hitan 

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Just an hour and a half outside of Cairo lies El Fayoum, a small city known for having the largest oasis in Egypt . A day trip to El Fayoum doesn’t just include a visit to the oasis though. The itinerary usually covers the beautiful Lake Qaroun, Wadi el-Rayan (a protected area where two lakes meet a waterfall), and Fayoum Oasis. If you only have a day to spare, check out this day trip .

The best way to truly experience this area is with an overnight trip, as you’ll be able to camp in the desert as well as visit the famous Wadi-el-Hitan (Whale’s Valley in English). This valley used to be a lake thousands of years ago, and you can visit the on-site museum and see a variety of fish fossils in the valley itself. It’s such a cool experience; I’m not sure why it took me so many visits to Cairo until I finally went. This company offers an overnight tour that includes both El Fayoum and Wadi-el-Hitan. Book it here .

As Egypt’s second-largest city , Alexandria also deserves two days, although you can see the highlights in one. I know this from firsthand experience, having done both one-day and two-day visits. Many visitors are surprised to learn that the majority of the ruins here are Roman, not Pharaonic like in other parts of the country. Some of the highlights of Alexandria include the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, the Citadel of Qaitbay, and the Alexandria Library.

Visitors can easily explore Alexandria independently, although it would be quite difficult to see everything in one day. If you do decide to visit Alexandria on your own, I recommend taking the express train from Cairo (2.5 hours), staying overnight, and exploring at your own pace. Alternatively, check out this comprehensive  one-day tour  or this overnight tour  if you have a little more time.

The Black and White Deserts

There are landscapes that are beautiful and then there are landscapes that are truly out of this world. That’s the only way to describe hundreds of limestone rock formations shaped by centuries of wind and sand against a desert backdrop. The White and Black Deserts are seriously otherworldly , and truly a must-visit when in Egypt (check out my post about my overnight camping experience there). You can technically visit The White Desert in one day but it will be one really long day (I’m talking 12+ hours). However, if you have the time, an overnight trip is the way to go. Check out the day tour option or overnight option .

The Red Sea or The Mediterranean Sea

Eager for a getaway to the beach? Luckily you have a multitude of options! If a day trip is what you’re after, head to Egypt’s North Coast (specifically, El Alamein) for crystal clear waters and pristine beaches. A private car will get you there in less than three hours, but if you’re taking the train, it’ll take around 5.

If you have at least a few days to spare, check out the relaxed vibes at Dahab, the it spot for diving. I recommend flying rather than taking the 12+ hour bus. Other great spots for several days at the beach include Sharm-el-Sheikh, El Gouna, Marsa Matrouh, and Hurghada (Pssst: check some of the cool things to do in Hurghada ). Most beaches can be reached with Go Bus or Super Jet if you’d rather not fly.

What to Pack for Cairo and What to Wear in Egypt

What you’ll pack and wear in Cairo (and Egypt as a whole) depends entirely on the season and which areas you’re traveling in. In general, Egypt is a conservative country. Women don’t have to cover their hair, but as a rule of thumb, shoulders and knees (to mid-calf, really) should be covered at all times, except at beach resorts. The same goes for men, especially if you want to somewhat blend in. Nobody will ever call tourists out for not adhering to this dress code, but I’m a firm believer in respecting local customs.

At beach resorts, you can more or less wear what you want at the beach and pool (although women shouldn’t go topless). However, wearing a cover-up or shirt at hotel restaurants, etc is a good idea.

If you’re visiting Cairo in the winter, it gets mildly cold (50s – 70s Fahrenheit). Leave your winter coat at home, but bring some sweaters, jackets, and pants. Alexandria is usually colder than Cairo, whereas Upper Egypt is warm, even during the winter. In the summer, it’s blazing hot everywhere.

There are quite a few specialty items you’ll need to pack for Egypt which is why I wrote the ultimate Egypt packing list .

Also don’t forget:

• Travel Insurance  (because things can always go wrong!)
• A VPN  for web security and to access many sites that are blocked in Egypt
• Get an eSIM for the road. It’s much easier than buying a local SIM, and it means you don’t have to worry about bad WiFi.

Practical Tips for Egypt Travel

Visas in egypt.

Americans need to get a visa for Egypt, which can be done either on or before arrival. If you choose to do it online, which I recommend, this is the application . If you prefer a visa on arrival, it costs $25 in cash. Bring exact change.

How to Get to Downtown Cairo from the Airport

If you won’t have data on your phone to call an Uber, I recommend booking an airport transfer ahead of time if you aren’t staying in a hotel that provides a shuttle. Taxis are a bit of a free-for-all all (especially at the airport) and the last thing you want to do is to start your trip feeling like you got ripped off.

The Best Time to Visit Egypt

There’s really no bad time to visit Egypt, as the weather is generally pleasant year-round, except for deathly hot summers.

November – March: This is the best time to visit for cooler weather and generally empty sites (except December – early January because of school holidays). Winter is mild in Egypt but Alexandria (and sometimes Cairo) does see quite a bit of rain during this period.

April – May / September – October:  These are the best months to visit Egypt, especially if you’re interested in traveling both in the North and the South. The weather is warmer but not scorching, so it’s pleasant enough to both hike and hit the beaches.

June – August:  If you don’t mind the heat, summer in Egypt is perfect for all-day beach and pool lounging. This is peak tourism season at the Red Sea. Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan have fewer tourists due to temperatures that reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Is Cairo Safe? Travel Safety in Cairo and Egypt in 2024

I am no geopolitical expert, but I have traveled to Egypt enough times (at least ten at this point) in my life to vouch for my  experiences. I have never felt unsafe in Egypt. Many family members and friends have visited countless times over the last few years and have said the same. Plus, the Egyptian government has gone above and beyond in improving security, especially at tourist sites and high-traffic areas. The train station even assigns guards to keep a special eye on tourist groups and travelers! My advice is to be as cautious as you’d be traveling anywhere in the world, but  don’t let the media scare you away from Egypt . Note: my most recent visit was during the height of Israel’s war on Gaza. Cairo is far from the border and was unaffected.

I’ve traveled in Egypt solo, with friends, with family, and on guided tours. I do recommend booking tour guides for certain activities (or ideally for your whole trip) just so you don’t have to deal with the frustrating aspects of traveling in Egypt, since it can be hard even for seasoned travelers. Alternatively, if group trips are more your style, the Intrepid Travel Egypt Adventure Tour was one of my favorite trips to Egypt. You can read my review of my Intrepid tour and decide for yourself!

Currency in Egypt

Egypt uses the Egyptian Pound, and at the time of updating this post (January 2024), the rate was about USD $1 to 31 EGP. Credit cards are accepted at hotels, most tourist sites, and nicer restaurants, but it’s always good to have cash. There are plenty of ATM machines and currency exchanges all over the city.

Transportation in Egypt

There’s plenty of public transportation in Egypt, but it can be confusing for visitors. I have yet to understand the bus and microbus system after several visits. The metro is safe, easy to understand, and inexpensive. There’s even a separate car for women and children, which is kind of nice. The metro doesn’t go everywhere, but I’ve used it a few times. To be honest, most travelers and locals rely heavily on Uber or Careem (the Arab version of Uber). It’s inexpensive, always available, safe, and hassle-free. I don’t recommend taxis unless you’re confident enough to haggle about the price.

If you’re traveling outside of Cairo to other major cities, you can either fly or take a train or bus. Ramses station in Downtown Cairo is the main train station (there’s a large station in Giza as well) and has routes to many popular destinations such as Alexandria, Luxor, and Aswan . If you’re headed to the Red Sea or Sinai, check out Go Bus and Super Jet for routes. Side note: the busses and trains are always freezing so plan accordingly.

Other Things to Know

Check out my Egypt travel tips for first-time visitors for common misconceptions and other things you’ll want to know!

With this comprehensive Cairo travel guide, you’ve got all the tools to explore the city with confidence. Despite the culture shock that you’re certain to experience, you’re guaranteed to leave with life-long memories.

More Egypt Resources

• 30+ Awesome Things to Do in Cairo, Egypt: The Ultimate Cairo Travel Guide
• What to Pack for Egypt: The Ultimate Egypt Packing List
• 2 Days in Luxor Itinerary: The Best Things to Do, See, and Eat in Luxor
• 2 Days in Aswan Itinerary: Best Things to Do in Aswan, Egypt
• Egypt Travel Guide
• Pharaohs and Feluccas: Exploring Egypt with Intrepid Travel
• Camping in the White Desert, Egypt: A First Timer’s Guide
• Traditional Egyptian Food Guide: 20 Must Eat Foods in Cairo, Egypt
• Egypt Travel Tips for the First Time Visitor: Expectations vs Reality
• Bellies En-Route Downtown Cairo Food Tour: The Best Thing to Do in Cairo for Foodies
• Visiting the Pyramids of Giza, Egypt: Everything to Know Before You Go
• Where to Stay in Cairo, Egypt: The Best Hotels in Cairo for Every Budget

Tell me: Have you considered visiting Cairo? Which place would you most like to visit?

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12 thoughts on “ 30+ Best Things to Do in Cairo, Egypt: The Ultimate Cairo Travel Guide ”

The Sphinx was my favorite of all the ruins! I enjoyed shopping at El Khalili – markets are the perfect place to get a real feel of a city.

Yessss agreed on Khan el Khalili! The Sphinx is truly one of a kind. I’m headed back in a little over a week and can’t wait to explore again 🙂

It was 27 years ago when I was teaching at IBI on Shahab St. I recall watching Willie Wanka in a cafe at midnight during Ramadan. I still have dreams of being in Dahab though have heard it has grown exponentially as it was huts and generators then. i swam across the bay then not wanting to walk. Also,I would definitely add taking horses from Giza to Sakkara And I would gladly pay you if you returned with some real karkaday from the market

That sounds absolutely lovely. I’m actually heading back to Cairo next week for the first time in 8 years, so I’m really excited. I hear Dahab is quite the expat destination now. I plan on going to Sakkara this time hopefully! And drink lots of Karakaday :). Sounds like you’re long overdue for a visit!

Very helpful guide! I am planning a trip to Cairo and this is so helpful. Saving it for future reference!

I’m so excited for you, you’re going to love it! Glad you found it helpful 🙂

Love this post! I really can’t wait to go to Egypt but for some reason always considered Cairo a necessary stopover to all the ancient sights. This definitely changed my mind 😉

Yeah, I think that’s common! People come just for the Pyramids pretty much but there’s so much more to the city than people think 🙂

I totally want to go to Egypt! With the occasional attacks it’s a bit hard to feel totally safe but I guess nothing in life is safe so you’ve just got to go for it 😉

Absolutely love this post! Dont think I’ve ever seen such a colplete guide for Cairo:) Can’t wait to go to Egypt!

This is such an extensive guide! I’ve been to Egypt a handful of times and have absolutely adored it every time. Viewing the Pyramids was such an unbelievable experience. El | Welsh Wanderer

Thanks Elen! I’m glad you found it useful! There’s so much to do in the city and it’s a shame people only go for a day or two. Happy travels!

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Cairo   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Audun Bakke Andersen | Getty Images

Why Go To Cairo

The desert heat, the noisy streets and the sheer size of Cairo will leave even the most adaptable traveler with a serious case of culture shock. The constant bombardment of street vendors, the inescapable aroma of livestock and the seemingly chaotic way of life will joggle the senses. But be patient. Take some time to relax over a cup of tea, to wander the ancient streets and to watch the sun lower over the mighty Nile River. It won't take long for the city's treasures to reveal themselves.

Most visitors flock to Egypt's capital to explore the wonders of the ancient world, following the footsteps of the pharaohs. But there are two sides to Cairo; the city's residents embrace their history and rejoice in their progress. The ancient pyramids of Giza , Dahshur  and Saqqara fight with the trendy bars of the Zamalek and Heliopolis neighborhoods for spotlight. Honking taxi cabs vie for space with braying donkeys in the narrow streets. And the traditional Islamic call to prayer, lounge music and boisterous banter can be heard simultaneously. The only way to get a true sense of Cairo is to take the old with the new.

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• # 9 in Best Places to Visit in Africa in 2023

Best of Cairo

Best hotels in cairo.

• in Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino
• in Fairmont Towers
• in Intercontinental Cairo Semiramis

Best Things to Do in Cairo

• # 1 in Coptic Cairo (Old City)
• # 2 in Islamic Cairo
• # 3 in Pyramids of Giza

Popular Tours

8-Hour Private Tour of the Pyramids, Egyptian Museum and Bazaar from Cairo

(2543 reviews)

from $ 99.00

Half Day Tour Giza Pyramids and Great Sphinx with Private Tour Guide

(628 reviews)

from $ 40.00

Special Private All INC-Pyramids, Camel Ride(1 Hour) Four Wheeler(ATV) & Lunch

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from $ 100.00

Cairo Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Cairo are from March to April and from October to November. These short shoulder seasons welcome comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds and low hotel rates on most days of the week. Winter is by far the most popular time to visit Egypt's capital because the days are warm and sunny and the evenings are cool and breezy. If you're planning a trip between December and February, you can expect swarms of tourists. You'll find the best deals on hotels during the summer, but for many, battling the heat isn't worth the savings.

Weather in Cairo

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

• These are troubled times Since the uprisings in early 2011, Cairo has been in a state of political unrest. To ensure your safety, avoid public demonstrations and learn how to reach the American embassy in the Garden City neighborhood.
• Be prepared to chat Cairenes are a very talkative bunch. You'll most likely get stopped on the street by locals wanting to practice their English, sell you something or con you into an unofficial tour. Just smile, wave and keep walking.
• What not to wear Shorts and sleeveless shirts won't fly here. Egyptians tend to dress conservatively – long pants, shoulders covered – and not following dress codes will draw unwanted attention, especially to women.

How to Save Money in Cairo

• Learn to haggle There's no such thing as a set price in Cairo. Depending on how good your bargaining skills are, you should be able to save 20 to 25 percent on everything from souvenirs to taxi rides.
• Be in the know The white and yellow cabs use meters; the others operate on set fares per route. To avoid being scammed, find out from your hotel concierge how much you should spend on a cab ride and set the fare before getting into the taxi.
• Greet the heat Summertime sees temperatures near triple digits. While that may seem unbearable, unbeatable hotel rates could make up for it.

Culture & Customs

Following the Egyptian revolution of 2011, Cairo has suffered from a lack of political stability. This shouldn't affect you as a tourist, but to stay on the safe side, avoid any public protests. You should also ensure that someone at home knows your itinerary. Once you arrive in the city, determine how far you are from the American embassy – located in the Garden City neighborhood in central Cairo – and the most convenient route there.  

A visit to Cairo is like an assault on your senses: The city's barrage of noise – shouting merchants, screeching traffic and braying livestock – is a lot to process. The key to adjusting to Cairo is succumbing to its organized chaos and letting yourself fall into its rhythm. One of the hardest aspects of Cairo's culture to adapt to is the residents' chatty nature. The primary language here is Arabic, although residents may also speak English or French. You're likely to be approached by fellow passersby who wish to strike up a conversation or con you into an unofficial tour or an unwanted souvenir. If you're not in a chatty mood, simply smile and continue on your way. Just make sure you keep a vigilant eye on your belongings; it's easy to get distracted by a market vendor or a street performance only to later discover that your wallet is missing.

Cairo's frenzied atmosphere lulls during Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting. The majority of the city's population participates in this ritual, abstaining from eating and drinking during daylight hours. During Ramadan – which takes place during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar – Cairo exudes a sense of calm. But once the sun sets and the evening call to prayer begins, the clamor resumes as thousands of Cairenes take to the streets in search of a place to break the fast (a ritual known as Iftar ) or to nab a good seat at one of the many free concerts taking place. You should note that finding a daytime snack or drink can be tough during Ramadan; some recent travelers recommend adjusting your schedule (sleeping in and staying up late) and joining in the fast.

You should also follow suit in terms of how you dress. Cairenes tend to dress conservatively in long pants or skirts and shirts that cover the shoulders. This is especially important for women, who often become the object of unwanted attention. Bear in mind that you're less likely to get hassled if you're traveling with a male companion or in a group. If you're visiting a mosque, you'll need to remove your shoes and put on a hijab  (or headscarf), which will be provided to women whose heads aren't already covered.

The primary currency here is the Egyptian pound (EGP), which is roughly equivalent to $0.11 USD. Like Luxor , you'll be expected to tip for any service, including getting your bags carried and having a door held open for you. Be prepared with a pocketful of small change. Depending on the service, you should expect to tip between 1 Egyptian pound and 100 Egyptian pounds ($11).

What to Eat

Cairo's dining scene reflects the people who frequent the city's streets and sights. While many restaurants are influenced by Cairo's geographic location, there are also a variety of internationally inspired eateries for tourists. Some of Cairo's most popular restaurants include Birdcage for Thai dishes, Shogun Japanese Restaurant and Left Bank for European-focused fare. American fast food franchises like McDonald's, Burger King and Pizza Hut are available as well.

However, when you visit Cairo, expect to try Egyptian cuisine. Egyptian meals – like Middle Eastern ones – typically include bread, rice and vegetables like lentils and onions. Fish from the Nile River is also offered on many restaurant menus. To sample local dishes like aish baladi (Egyptian-style pita bread), hamam mahshi (rice- or wheat-stuffed pigeon) and mouloukhiya (rabbit or chicken stew with garlic and mallow – a leafy green vegetable), dine at restaurants like Abou El Sid and Felfela . For a more upscale atmosphere, try fine dining Middle Eastern and Egyptian restaurants like Sabaya and Sequoia .

Keep in mind that Egyptians eat later in the day: Lunch is typically served from 1 to 4 p.m., while dinner service is offered between 8 p.m. and midnight. If your stomach starts to grumble in between meals, snack on street food favorites like koshari (a dish with rice, pasta and lentils covered in a thick tomato sauce) or ful medammes (mashed fava beans with seasonings).

Getting Around Cairo

The best ways to get around Cairo are by metro train or taxi. Egypt's capital is constantly choked by traffic. But below Cairo's congested streets, the metro system is clean, affordable and extremely efficient. If you prefer to stay above ground, several fleets of buses can take you where you need to go for very little money. However, aside from those operated by the Cairo Transport Authority, buses here can be very crowded, tough to navigate and likely to carry pickpockets. Tour buses are safer and more convenient, but you'll have to pay more and stick to a set schedule. Taxis are the more affordable way to get to places that the Cairo Metro doesn't cover, especially from Cairo International Airport (CAI), which is located about 13 miles northeast of the city center. However, taxi drivers are some of the best con artists in the city. Arm yourself with inside knowledge of the city and you should be fine.

Entry & Exit Requirements

Americans visiting Egypt will need a visa and a valid passport with one or more blank pages. Visas can be purchased upon arrival at Cairo International Airport for $25 – though Egyptian officials have occasionally denied visa requests without explanation – or through an Egyptian embassy or consulate before your trip for $15. Tourists who arrive from Israel will need to get a visa before landing in Egypt. All tourist visas are valid for 30 days. To learn more about entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. State Department website .

For some of Cairo's best sunsets, head to Giza to catch a sunset by the Pyramids of Giza .

Explore More of Cairo

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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Egypt Bucket List: Your Expert Guide to Cairo & The Nile

Table of contents, why egypt should be on your bucket list, egypt bucket list #1-journey to cairo, egypt, egypt bucket list #2-exploring the nile river cruise, best time to visit egypt, planning your trip: visa requirements and travel costs , unique egyptian adventures to experience, is egypt safe to visit , what are the best ways to get around egypt, do you need to book tours in advance, or can you explore on your own, what should you wear when visiting ancient sites and mosques in egypt , are there any health concerns or vaccinations required for traveling to egypt, do you need a visa to visit egypt, your egypt bucket list adventure awaits.

Your Egypt bucket list adventure starts here! Egypt , a land steeped in ancient history and rich culture, is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list . From the iconic monuments of Cairo to the winding Nile River, this captivating country offers a unique blend of awe-inspiring sights and immersive cultural experiences.

Having personally experienced the magic of Cairo and a mesmerizing Nile river cruise, here’s my expert guide, insider tips, and recommendations to help you plan an unforgettable Egypt vacation to this bucket list-worthy destination.

There are many reasons to visit Egypt and why it should be on your bucket list. Imagine standing in the shadow of the Great Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, or gazing upon the enigmatic Sphinx, a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Egyptian civilization.

Beyond these iconic landmarks, Egypt offers a diverse array of experiences, from exploring bustling cities like Cairo to cruising along the mighty Nile River, witnessing remnants of ancient temples and tombs.

Egypt is also known for its welcoming people, delicious cuisine, and vibrant markets, making it an immersive cultural journey unlike any other.

Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of ancient wonders, Egypt has something to offer every traveler on an Egypt tour or Egypt vacation.

As the vibrant capital of Egypt, Cairo is a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends ancient wonders with modern life. Here, you’ll find some of the country’s most iconic attractions, along with a lively cultural scene and a rich culinary heritage.

No visit to Cairo is complete without witnessing the awe-inspiring Giza Pyramids and the Great Sphinx . These ancient marvels, dating back over 4,500 years, are a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of the ancient Egyptians.

For a unique experience , consider booking a camel ride to explore the Giza plateau and capture stunning views of the pyramids .

Beyond the pyramids, Cairo offers a wealth of cultural experiences. The Egyptian Museum is a must-visit, housing an unparalleled collection of ancient artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun’s tomb .

For a taste of local culture, head to the vibrant Khan El Khalili Bazaar , where you can haggle for souvenirs, sample delicious street food, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.

For a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Cairo, check out our article on things to do in Cairo Egypt .

Want to see more of Cairo? Get a glimpse of the beauty of Cairo in this video:

The mighty Nile River played a crucial role in the development of ancient Egyptian civilization, and today, it offers a unique way to explore the country’s rich history. A Nile River cruise is an unforgettable experience , providing a luxurious and convenient way to witness some of Egypt’s most remarkable ancient sites.

As you glide along the Nile, you’ll have the opportunity to visit iconic temples and tombs that have stood the test of time.

From the awe-inspiring Philae Temple Complex to the intricate carvings of Edfu Temple , each site offers a glimpse into the grandeur and sophistication of ancient Egyptian architecture.

One of the highlights of a Nile cruise is the chance to explore Luxor , known as the “world’s greatest open-air museum.” Here, you can delve into the Valley of the Kings, where ancient pharaohs were laid to rest, and marvel at the stunning Temple of Queen Hatshepsut , a stunning example of ancient engineering carved into the cliffs.

Throughout your journey, you’ll be treated to the comfort and luxury of a modern riverboat, complete with amenities such as spacious cabins, fine dining, and entertainment. It’s a truly immersive way to experience the wonders of ancient Egypt.

Egypt’s ancient history is also brought to life through captivating performances, such as the whirling dervish dance, a mesmerizing spiritual ritual that dates back centuries. Consider attending a show to witness this captivating display of music, movement, and devotion.

See these ancient wonders come alive in this video:

When planning your trip to Egypt, timing is crucial. The best time to visit Egypt is during the cooler months, from October to April, when temperatures are milder and more comfortable for sightseeing. Here are some key factors to consider:

• The shoulder seasons (spring and fall) offer the best balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
• Peak season brings more tourists, but if that’s your only option, be prepared for the crowds.
• Summer months in Egypt can be scorching hot, so consider that if you’re particularly heat sensitive.

When planning your trip to Egypt, consider attending major festivals like Ramadan or national holidays, which can impact opening hours and crowd levels at popular attractions.

To help you, I’ve created a guide covering everything you need to know while Visiting Egypt During Ramadan: Insider Guide to Celebration .

Before embarking on your Egyptian adventure, it’s essential to understand the visa requirements and travel costs. Check the visa requirements for your nationality well in advance. Many countries can obtain a visa upon arrival at Egyptian airports, but it’s best to confirm and be prepared. The visa fee is generally around $25 USD.

As for the trip to Egypt cost is relatively affordable compared to other popular destinations. You can expect to spend around $50-$100 per day for a mid-range traveler, including accommodation, food, transportation, and entry fees to major attractions. Here’s a rough estimate of some common expenses:

• Airfare: $500-$1,000 roundtrip from major U.S. cities
• Mid-range hotel: $50-$100 per night
• Budget hotel: $20-$50 per night
• Meals: $10-$25 per day (street food and casual restaurants)
• Transportation: $5-$10 per day (for taxis and public transport)
• Entrance fees: $10-$25 per site (e.g., pyramids, temples, museums)

To save money, consider staying in budget-friendly accommodations. A wide range of options exist, from budget hostels to luxurious hotels. Eating at local street food stalls and local eateries is incredibly affordable, and you’ll find delicious meals for just a few dollars. When exploring attractions, transportation like local buses and taxis is budget-friendly. Consider a Nile Cruise package for an all-inclusive experience.

Here are some unique adventures that you must experience when traveling to Egypt.

• Soar over Luxor in a hot air balloon for breathtaking views of temples and the Valley of the Kings at sunrise-a true bucket list moment!
• Camel rides near the Pyramids are a popular choice, but it’s important to be aware of the ethical concerns. To learn more, check out this article, Why A Camel Ride in Egypt Commands a Conflicting Ethical Decision delves into this complex topic.
• Immerse yourself in Islamic Cairo. Discover its rich history and architectural beauty at the magnificent Al-Azhar Mosque.
• No trip to Egypt is complete without sampling the delicious local cuisine! Try  koshari  (a hearty mix of rice, lentils, and pasta),  falafel  (chickpea fritters), and don’t forget stuffed pigeon – an Egyptian delicacy.

Planning a trip to Egypt can raise a lot of questions, so we’ve compiled some frequently asked questions to help you prepare for your journey.

Egypt is generally safe for tourists, especially when traveling with a reputable tour company or guide. However, it’s always important to exercise caution, be aware of your surroundings, and follow the advice of local authorities.

For long-distance travel, consider taking domestic flights or booking a Nile River cruise. Within cities, taxis and public transportation are affordable and convenient options. Hiring a private driver or tour guide can also make navigating Egypt more comfortable.

While it’s possible to explore some sites independently, booking guided tours in advance can provide invaluable insights and ensure a smoother experience. Guided tours are highly recommended for complex sites like the pyramids, Valley of the Kings, and ancient temples.

It’s important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites or Islamic mosques. Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Women may also want to carry a scarf to cover their heads when entering mosques.

No specific vaccinations are required for most travelers, but it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before your trip. Ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date, and consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and typhoid fever. Bringing insect repellent and staying hydrated are also recommended.

Yes, most nationalities require a visa to visit Egypt. However, the process is relatively straightforward, and there are a couple of ways to obtain one:

Visa on Arrival: Citizens of many countries can obtain a visa upon arrival at Egypt’s international airports. The process involves filling out a form, paying a fee (typically around $25 USD, payable in cash), and having a passport valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

E-Visa: For added convenience, many nationalities can apply for an e-Visa in advance through the official Egyptian government portal ([invalid URL removed]). The process is entirely online and typically takes a few days for approval.

Important Notes:

Specific Requirements:  Always double-check the visa requirements for your specific nationality, as there may be variations. Some countries may have additional requirements or longer processing times.

Visa Validity:  The most common tourist visa for Egypt is valid for 30 days. If you plan to stay longer, consider applying for a multiple-entry visa or inquire about visa extensions upon arrival.

Resources:  For official visa information and updates, visit the Egyptian government website or consult your nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate.

By following this expert Egypt travel guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and insider tips to plan an extraordinary journey through Cairo and the heart of ancient Egyptian civilization, Nile.

Egypt promises to leave a lasting impression and will surely capture your heart. So, pack your sense of adventure, embrace the rich culture, and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to this bucket list-worthy destination.

The post Egypt Bucket List: Your Expert Guide to Cairo & The Nile appeared first on The Design Tourist .

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Cairo Travel Guide: Tips for Visiting Egypt’s Capital [2023]

Cairo is one of the craziest on Earth. Home to the oldest Wonder of the World, as well as over 20 million people, this city’s legacy and importance, are tough to match. Cairo was always on my bucket list, but I actually wasn’t sure what to expect.

After visiting, it clicked. All of the good I expected to find in Cairo was indeed there. And the majority of the bad that I expected to find, actually wasn’t there!

Cairo has a reputation for being chaotic. It also has a reputation for being packed with cultural and historical significance. This post will spell out exactly what it’s like to visit Cairo, including everything you need to know before you go.

This post contains affiliate links that may earn a commission on any purchases made at no additional cost to you.

Best Places to Stay in Cairo

Cairo is sprawling and there are many neighborhoods you can stay in. I highly recommend staying in either downtown Cairo, Zamalek, or Garden City. These neighborhoods are all centrally located near the heart of Cairo, making excursions hassle-free.

Steigenberger El Tahrir Hotel

We’ve stayed at two hotels in Cairo – the Steigenberger El Tahrir Hotel in downtown, and the Le Meridien Hotel at the Cairo Airport. The Steigenberger El Tahrir is a great place and is located within walking distance of the Nile. The food here is delicious, the amenities are nice, and the staff is wonderful.

Le Meridien Cairo Airport

The Le Meridien at the Cairo Airport is stunning. This hotel is gorgeous, sparkling clean, and packed with amazing amenities. The restaurants here are incredible, too.

The hotel is linked to Terminal 3 of the airport by a bridge, and there is a free shuttle service to the other terminals. There is no better place to stay near the Cairo Airport. However, if you’re going to be exploring Cairo, this hotel is a bit far from many of the city’s top attractions. 

Marriott Mena House

In Giza, we stayed at the Marriott Mena House and were beyond wowed. While it is pricey, it is worth every penny. Delicious food, stellar service, a stunning property, and the best views of the pyramids. 

This is the best hotel in Egypt, as far as I have heard. It is a bit inconvenient to explore some parts of Cairo, but it is wonderful if you plan on visiting the pyramids, Sphinx, and the new Grand Egyptian Museum.

If you can afford it, I’d recommend staying in a luxury hotel while in Cairo. This is regardless of the neighborhood you decide to stay in. Hotels are very cheap in Cairo compared to many European and American cities, and the comfort of luxury hotels goes a long way after a day in the chaos and heat of Cairo.

How to Get to Cairo

Cairo is the biggest city in Egypt. As such, you can expect its airport to be the best airport to fly into in Egypt! Cairo is served by two airports: one of the past, and one of the future.

Cairo International Airport (CAI)

For now, the best airport to fly into in Cairo is Cairo International Airport (CAI). This airport is located about 30 minutes east of downtown Cairo. It is the biggest hub airport in Egypt, serving thousands of flights to destinations all over the world.

Cairo International Airport is notoriously chaotic. It is inefficiently laid out, riddled with security checkpoints, and also pretty dated. There are three terminals, and one of them (Terminal 1) feels like it hasn’t been updated since the 80s.

While the airport isn’t luxurious, it serves its purpose. Despite what felt like utter chaos, we made it through customs and immigration in under an hour and our bags were delivered in perfect condition. Getting your visa on arrival in Egypt is a bit complex, but all in all this airport isn’t as bad as people say.

From Cairo International Airport, you can get to Old Cairo in 30-40 minutes, the Giza Pyramids in 50-70 minutes, and New Cairo in 15-20 minutes. The best way to get from the airport to anywhere in the city is Uber. I highly advise you to avoid taxi drivers both at the airport and elsewhere in the city.

– R E A D –

Sphinx International Airport (SPX)

Sphinx International Airport is a very new airport designed to take some pressure off of Cairo International Airport. It is located to the northwest of Giza. Because of this, this airport is especially convenient for travelers who are only interested in visiting the attractions in Giza.

Giza is located about 30 minutes west of Cairo, and Cairo International Airport is located about 30 minutes east of Cairo. As a result, anyone solely desiring to visit the pyramids used to need to fly into Cairo and drive over an hour through traffic.

Sphinx International Airport is designed to alleviate this issue. Due to its location, travelers can get to Giza in roughly 30-40 minutes without the need to cross Cairo’s traffic. 

This airport is still new. There aren’t many flights to and from its terminal yet. However, as time goes on and this airport’s operations ramp up, it could be a great option for travelers.

I’ve heard that there are plans for international flights to destinations in Arab countries like Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and the UAE, as well as European and Asian countries. There will also be direct flights to destinations all over Egypt.

While you’re likely going to find better flight options using Cairo International Airport for now, I recommend including Sphinx in your search. You never know what you will find, and both airports are within 45 minutes of Cairo’s downtown area.

How to Get Around Cairo

UBER | METRO | BUS | TAXI

Cairo is absolutely massive, and it is one of the least walkable cities we’ve ever visited. It isn’t just the largest city in Egypt, but it’s also the largest city in the entire Middle East. There are two ways I recommend getting around Cairo: the metro and Uber.

Cairo has a passable metro system. It isn’t one of the best metro systems in the world, but it serves its purpose. Traffic in Cairo isn’t terrible, and the metro is a big reason why.

Cairo’s metro system has 3 lines that connect to areas all over the city. All rides cost less than a dollar, with the actual price depending on the number of stops ridden. The metro is open from 5am to 1am every day of the week, and there are cars on every train reserved specifically for women.

Cairo’s metro system is very safe. However, depending on where you stay, you may have no need to use it. There are plans to open a line that connects all the way to Giza, but that has yet to be realized.

Uber is the best way to get around Cairo. Rides are very cheap, traffic really isn’t that bad, and there are plenty of drivers available. We used Uber in areas all over Cairo and never had a bad experience.

While the cars often aren’t as nice as they are in some other places, the rides are still plenty safe and efficient. At a good time, you can Uber one hour all the way from the Pyramids of Giza to Cairo International Airport for just $5. If you are able, I highly recommend tipping your Uber drivers, simply because the cheap rides mean they’re making next to nothing to drive you around.

Normally I love buses and public transport. But in Cairo, they’re not one of the best ways to get around. It isn’t a matter of safety, but more comfort and necessity.

Simply put, you have no need to take a bus in Cairo. Yes they’re cheap, but Uber and the metro are unbelievably cheap, too. The buses in Cairo aren’t the best quality, and nobody wants to sit in a steamy bus for an hour through Cairo when you can just call a ride on the app for $2.

I advise avoiding taxis at all costs, both around the airport and throughout the city. The taxis in Cairo are of terrible quality, and the drivers are known for being a bit scammy. There is simply no reason to take a traditional taxi in Cairo.

Uber is roughly the same price, and the quality and safety of its rides is exponentially better than taxis. If you’re unable to find a ride, the only taxis I’d recommend are ones commissioned directly by nice hotels. We almost had our hotel in Giza call one for us after an Uber driver to the airport canceled, but luckily a second driver came to pick us up.

Is the Traffic Really that Bad in Cairo?

Cairo has a reputation for having terrible traffic. Many travelers talk about wild driving, hectic streets, and terrible traffic jams. Personally, I think those assertions may be overblown, especially outside of the busy season.

Cairo is definitely hectic. There’s no disputing that. But its traffic and business come nowhere close to cities in places like India and Bangladesh.

New Delhi and Chittagong are next-level craziness. I wouldn’t say Cairo’s traffic is any worse than New York City. Yes, it is worse in the busy season than in the low season, but no it isn’t unbearable.

There may be a culture shock for travelers who aren’t used to hectic destinations. But if you’ve visited places like India, Bangladesh, or China, Cairo will feel shockingly not busy.

The piece of Cairo traffic that really shocked us was how difficult it can be to cross the street in the city center. It is not impossible, but crosswalks are few and far between. Traffic can be challenging to cross, and sometimes you just need to piggyback off of what the locals do. 

If anyone offers to help walk you across the street, be ready to tip them. Personally, I just recommend crossing on your own, but if you’re uncomfortable you can ask a local for help. Egyptians are very friendly and aren’t always looking for money, despite the rude things many other people write.

Best Things to Do in Cairo

Cairo is a city with thousands of years of history. Ranging from the building of the pyramids, through the time of Jesus, past the Egyptian revolution, and onward to the present day, Egypt has been at the forefront of human history for millennia. This rich history has endowed Cairo with a wealth of incredible things to see and do.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of things to do in Cairo, but it is more than enough to fill an itinerary. One site I decided not to include on this list was the Egyptian Museum in downtown Cairo. Located just off of the famous Tahrir Square, this museum was one of the biggest duds of our trip.

While everyone raves about it, I didn’t like it at all. I found it to be underwhelming, dated, and not nearly as nice as the one in Turin, Italy. It is being replaced by a new Egyptian Museum in Giza, which is a much-needed move.

1. Visit the Pyramids and Sphinx

The Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx are the top things to do in Cairo. There are no ifs, ands, or buts about that.

The Great Pyramids of Giza aren’t one of the New Wonders of the World like many people think. They are actually the only surviving member of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World! In fact, they were the oldest member of that list.

The Giza Plateau is a bucket list destination. From entering the Pyramid of Khufu to taking a camel ride through the desert, visiting the pyramids is a full-day activity. If you visit at the right time, it doesn’t have to be hectic or stressful, either. 

I highly recommend hiring a guide to take you on a private tour. We hired a guide with Viator and were very pleased with the result. There are about one million reasons to hire a guide to take you to the pyramids, and the price for a private tour is minimal.

The oldest pyramid on the plateau was built around 3500 BC. There is no posted information throughout the plateau, so unless you are an Egyptologist, you’ll want a guide. 

A guide with a car is even better, as the plateau spans for miles and is not walkable whatsoever. We didn’t realize this before we visited, but the pyramids, Sphinx, and observation point are not close to each other at all, and the heat makes walking challenging. 

There are carriage drivers looking to sell rides, but a carriage ride is likely to cost almost as much as a full private tour.

On a very cool note, did you know you could enter the Great Pyramid of Giza and crawl into a tomb?!

2. Go On a Private Tour of Coptic Cairo and Islamic Cairo

To many people, Cairo is synonymous with the pyramids. But there is so much more to do in Cairo than just the Giza Plateau and other pieces of Ancient Egypt! Coptic and Islamic Cairo are two incredible areas to visit that are filled with history and stunning religious sites.

There is so much more to do in Cairo than just the Giza Plateau and other pieces of Ancient Egypt.

We booked an Islamic and Coptic Cairo day tour with Deluxe Travel which took us to several important churches and mosques in Coptic Cairo and Islamic Cairo. As devout Catholics, we were especially interested in Coptic Cairo. The churches we visited were built over places where the Holy Family stayed during their flight from Herod!

The Hanging Church and Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church are stunning. Equally striking is the Monastery of St. Simon the Tanner, which is carved entirely into a mountain. The stories behind these churches are even more impressive than their designs.

We also really enjoyed visiting some of the most famous mosques in Cairo, like the Al-Azhar Mosque, the Alabaster Mosque, and the Mosque of Sultan Hassan. While the pharaohs are very important, Christians, Jews, and Muslims are a crucial part of Egyptian history, too. These churches and mosques, on their own, are some of the best tourist sites in the city, and their respective neighborhoods are very close to central Cairo.

3. Eat Breakfast with a Pyramid View

The pyramids are striking, and I advise soaking in their glory as much as you can. One great way to do that is by eating a meal with a pyramid view. To do this, we booked a stay at the Marriott Mena House hotel located just off of the Giza Plateau. 

We reserved a room with a direct, uninterrupted view of the Great Pyramid of Giza. While pricey, this was one of the best experiences of our entire trip. We ordered a large breakfast of local foods to our room, and ate as a family looking out at the stunning view of the world-famous Pyramids of Giza.

You don’t have to stay at the Mena House Hotel to do this. There are cheaper options that also offer a great view of the pyramids. However, if you can fit it in the budget and are looking for a truly unforgettable experience, I can’t recommend the Mena House enough.

4. Soak in the Views from the Citadel

The Cairo Citadel is one of the coolest spots in all of Egypt’s capital city. Located just across the street from St. Simon the Tanner Monastery, this area is packed with beautiful structures and surrounded by gorgeous views. This is where the famous Alabaster Mosque is located, and in my opinion, it is the prettiest mosque in all of Cairo.

The Cairo Citadel was used as a palace and royal residence for centuries. Nowadays, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions located just a quick drive from the heart of Cairo. The palace was damaged by an earthquake and is going to take a long time to restore.

5. Head to the Child Museum

The Child Museum is one of the best children’s museums we have ever visited. Tucked away in a park in Heliopolis, this museum is super interactive, very clean, and the perfect place to take your kids.

Entrance to the museum cost us just a few dollars, and it was one of the biggest bargains of our trip. The museum was filled with interactive games, puzzles, and exhibits meant to teach kids about Egyptian history. While our son was a bit young for the museum at just 20 months old, he still had a blast.

I’d recommend the museum for any kids over 18 months. I think 3-year-olds and up would get the most out of it. Outside of the museum, there is a beautiful park filled with statues of animals, playgrounds, and a cafe.

6. Eat Dinner on the Nile

The Nile River is thought of as the life source of Egypt. It has been of the utmost importance to the country for thousands of years. In Cairo, it is a wonderful place to grab dinner!

The Nile River divides Cairo and Giza, with Cairo sitting on the east bank and Giza sitting on the west bank. Along both banks of the river, there are long promenades dotted with restaurants, hotels, cafes, and bars. While this is a lovely way to spend an evening, there’s an even more popular option.

Thousands of tourists flock to boats on the Nile to embark on dinner cruises. A typical dinner cruise on the Nile includes food, views, and live entertainment. These cruises are pretty affordable by Western standards, too, often costing around $50 per person.

7. Visit the New Grand Egyptian Museum

I mentioned earlier that the Egyptian Museum in Cairo is underwhelming and not worth visiting. Egyptian authorities must have realized this, as a brand new Egyptian museum has been built in Giza! This Grand Egyptian Museum is going to be the crown jewel of Egyptian Museums.

The Grand Egyptian Museum is located a short drive from the pyramids. This location was a good idea, as it will encourage more tourists to stay in Giza instead of Cairo, alleviating some of the pressure on Cairo’s infrastructure.

The old Egyptian Museum, sometimes referred to as the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, probably won’t close its doors. The plan is to renovate it after the new museum opens and eventually reopen it to the public. It houses an impressive collection but really falls short from an information and facilities standpoint.

8. Venture Out to Saqqara

Saqqara is the site of the oldest pyramid in Egypt. This small step pyramid was the first of many in Egypt, and it is a very popular place to visit. Despite its reputation, it isn’t nearly as busy with tourists as the Pyramids of Giza.

Saqqara is located about 30 minutes south of the Giza Plateau by car. Many private guides include Saqqara in a full-day tour itinerary of the pyramids. We didn’t have the time to visit, but our tour guide of Coptic Cairo was adamant that Saqqara is undeniably one of the top attractions around Cairo.

9. Explore Khan el Khalili

The Khan el Khalili Bazaar, sometimes referred to as the Khan el-Khalili Market, is widely considered one of the best attractions in Cairo. This tightly woven network of streets is filled with vendors looking to peddle their wares. Similar to the Souks of Morocco, this area is the chief place to barter for wares in Cairo.

We initially planned on visiting the Khan el Khalili neighborhood, but we ultimately decided not to. Our tour guide told us that the vast majority of things sold there are actually made in China. 

This unfortunate reality is the case in many popular tourist attractions in the world, and we’d prefer to support true local artisans instead. This personal conviction doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go! If you want to go for the experience, be ready to haggle and pay in cash!

10. Learn about Papyrus Making

One of the most famous inventions of Ancient Egypt is papyrus. This special type of paper is able to last for thousands of years when preserved properly, and this longevity is what taught modern Egyptians and historians so much about Egyptian history.

Papyrus remains an important piece of Egyptian culture, and there are several special places to go to witness the creation of papyrus and learn about its history. One of the most famous places to go is the Three Pyramids Institute.

Best Time to Visit Cairo

I wrote an entire post on the best time to visit Egypt . In that post, I mentioned that the low season is absolutely unbeatable.

If you’re able to put up with the heat, there is no better time to visit Cairo than August or May. 

It will be hot during these summer months. When we visited in August, the average high temperature was somewhere in the 90s to low 100s. However, if you can stomach the heat, you get to experience the capital of Egypt with practically no lines.

During August, the number of tourists in Cairo is minimal compared to the winter. We visited the Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx around 9am on a weekday in August, and there were no more than 500 people on the entire Giza plateau. In the winter, there are thousands at any given moment.

We didn’t experience a wait for any single attraction in Cairo. From the Grand Egyptian Museum to the Al-Azhar Mosque, there wasn’t a line at any attraction in Cairo or Giza. In fact, when we visited the Sphinx at noon, there were literally no other tourists there. Zero.

When we visited the Sphinx at noon, there were literally no other tourists there. Zero.

If you can’t take the heat, I recommend visiting in the shoulder seasons around September and April. The weather will be a little more tolerable, but the crowds will also be much larger than in the summer. The winter is the busy season, and while the weather is the most comfortable, the crowds and traffic are known to be absurd.

Is Cairo Worth Visiting?

Cairo is unique. Before visiting, we weren’t sure what to expect. We had heard stories suggesting it was chaotic like New Delhi, but also had seen gorgeous pictures of places like Coptic Cairo and the Marriott Mena House Hotel.

All in all, Cairo is absolutely worth visiting. There is no disputing that. The city is packed with things to see and do, and I’d recommend it to anyone.

Cairo is hectic, and Cairo is dirty. In fact, our first impression of Cairo wasn’t all that great. But the more time we spent in Egypt’s capital city, the more we came to love it.

Places like Coptic Cairo, the Giza Plateau, and the Cairo Citadel are amazing. Other places like the Old Egyptian Museum and the Khan el Khalili are underwhelming. If you pick the right things to do and visit the right neighborhoods, Cairo is truly a special place.

Is Cairo Safe to Visit?

We had heard mixed reviews about safety in Cairo before we visited. Very quickly, we realized that the Egyptian capital city is a very, very safe place. This is for multiple reasons.

The Egyptian capital city is a very, very safe place.

Firstly, Egyptian people are incredibly kind and hospitable! We never once felt at risk when among Egyptian locals. We took basic precautions, but at no point did we feel like we were in any more danger than we would be in Paris or New York.

Secondly, there are security checkpoints everywhere in Egypt. There are so many that it gets annoying, but I’d rather be safe than not. Every major building is equipped with a metal detector, and there is a very high police and security presence in the streets. 

At no point did we feel in danger, even traveling with a toddler. I’ve heard many solo female travelers say they’ve had a similar experience, too. Cairo is just as safe as many of the popular international destinations throughout Europe.

The only safety concerns I’d truly beware of are food precautions and crossing the street. I picked up some sort of stomach bug from something I ate while in Cairo, and it wasn’t a fun day. It’s normally best to beware of street food.

When it comes to crossing the street, crosswalks can be hit or miss. Make sure to be safe when crossing the street, as there are a lot of cars on the road that are happy to zip right by you while you cross.

Best Place to Get Egyptian Pounds in Cairo

Egypt’s currency is the Egyptian pound. As I wrote in my post on getting foreign currency for a trip, most people get ripped off when exchanging money before they travel.

In that post, I spell out why currency exchange booths are the worst place to exchange money. Most banks in the US and Europe don’t carry Egyptian pounds for exchange, either. This leaves ATMs as the best way to get Egyptian pounds. 

In Egypt, many ATMs add a markup to the exchange rate in order to make a profit. This gets really pricey, in addition to ATM fees charged by your bank and the ATM’s bank.

I spent a couple of hours walking around downtown Cairo checking out different ATMs to determine which banks offer the best deals. I found that ABC Bank is undisputably the best bank to use for cash withdrawals. Their ATM gave me the live exchange rate without adding any kind of fee or surcharge! 

When I traveled, this was equal to 30 pounds per dollar. Other ATMs offered me between 19 and 25 pounds per dollar, plus a fee. There are several ABC Bank ATMs in Cairo, including the one I used a couple of blocks from the Steigenberger El Tahrir Hotel.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Palermo

Can you explore cairo on your own.

You can absolutely explore Cairo on your own, but hiring a guide is a good idea. We spent the first couple days of our trip exploring on our own, but we enjoyed the days that we had a guide much more.

How many days do you need in Cairo?

You could spend a full week in Cairo and still need more time. However, since you’ll likely want to visit other places in Cairo, you should allot at least 4 full days to explore Cairo.

Is Cairo a walkable city?

Cairo is one of the least walkable cities we’ve visited. The city is massive and most major attractions are far apart. Additionally, the traffic makes crossing the street at certain places very difficult.

Is it safe to go to Cairo as an American?

It is very safe to go to Cairo as an American. Americans are at no greater risk than any other nationality in Cairo, and the city is generally regarded as very safe. There are security checkpoints all throughout the city, including at the entrances to most major buildings.

That’s all we have for you about Cairo! Hopefully, this post is helpful as you start planning your journey to Egypt’s capital city. I really do think that Cairo is worth visiting, and it shouldn’t be skipped on any itinerary to Egypt.

If you’re planning a trip to Cairo, let us know! We’d love to chat ahead of time and answer any questions you have. Otherwise, have a wonderful day and stay present!

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Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Island hopping for summer 2024: agencies offering island-hopping experiences.

Malak Gharib

With summer coming strong, we are all looking for the best locations to take a dip and enjoy some quality time with our loved ones. What better way to spend summer than hopping between the shores of Egyptian islands with their white sand and crystal-clear waves. Here are five agencies to help plan your island-hopping yacht trips to enjoy this summer. 

Rayan Yacht 

Image via Instagram 

Known for its ice-cold fresh fruits and friendly staff, Rayan Yacht organises island-hopping trips to discover Hurghada’s hidden gems. From Dolphin House Island, where you can swim with dolphins and explore breathtaking sea creatures, to Abu Minqar and Jibal Islands BBQ nights, make sure not to miss out!

 The Roam Mates 

The Roam Mates is back with another island-hopping adventure this August. Visitors can enjoy daily parties, a boat safari, and water activities. This adventure combines natural beauty, marine life encounters, and lively entertainment, making it an unforgettable journey for all.

Image via Instagram

Paradise offers a luxurious escape on a private yacht through the Red Sea’s waters. Explore the serene Abu Gathoum Island, the picturesque Jubal Island, and the tranquil Abu Monkar Island. Enjoy vibrant all-day and all-night parties, and participate in fun group games. 

Gazef offers a wide range of packages for island hopping, between a luxurious pack and a budget-friendly pack, ensuring no one gets left behind. This 3-night adventure includes accommodation in double cabins, meals as per the itinerary, and non-alcoholic beverages. Enjoy the company of onboard skippers and a dedicated Gazef chaperone.

Desert Adventures 

Embark on a serene journey to Hurghada. Immerse yourself in the delights of snorkelling, sunset-watching, and sunbathing. Each day begins with a delicious breakfast, followed by endless leisure activities: relaxing on soft sands, swimming with playful dolphins, exploring picturesque islands, snorkelling in crystal-clear waters, indulging in unlimited snacks all day, and trying your hand at sunset fishing. 

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Weekend guide: bazar by sasson, memo, the cadillacs, heya bazaar, dou, nesma herky & more, the timeless tales of mamluk architecture in cairo, cairo 360 editors’ choice awards 2024: health & fitness award winners, cairo 360 editors’ choice awards 2024: nightlife award winners.

Cairo Travel Guide: A Comprehensive Guide to Cairo, Egypt‪.‬

Publisher description.

Cairo, the sprawling capital of Egypt, stands as one of the most historically rich and culturally vibrant cities in the world. Often referred to as "the city of a thousand minarets" for its stunning Islamic architecture, Cairo is a city where the ancient and the modern intertwine seamlessly. From the grandeur of the Pyramids of Giza to the bustling bazaars of Khan El Khalili, Cairo is a city that invites exploration and offers a unique blend of old and new. Cairo's significance is not only historical but also cultural and political. As the largest city in the Arab world and Africa, it plays a pivotal role in the region's affairs. Its influence stretches beyond borders, making it a focal point for understanding the broader Middle Eastern and African contexts. Whether you are an adventurer drawn to its ancient ruins, a history buff fascinated by its past, or a culture enthusiast eager to experience its vibrant present, Cairo offers an unforgettable journey. The city's landscape is dotted with landmarks that narrate tales of bygone eras. The mighty Nile River, which bisects the city, has been a lifeline for civilizations over millennia. Today, its banks are lined with lush gardens, upscale hotels, and bustling promenades. As you delve into Cairo's essence, you will encounter the coexistence of antiquity and modernity, from centuries-old mosques and churches to contemporary art galleries and skyscrapers. Cairo's residents, known for their warmth and hospitality, add to the city's charm. Their daily lives, customs, and traditions reflect a rich tapestry of cultural heritage. Street vendors hawking their goods, families gathering for meals, and the ubiquitous sound of the call to prayer are everyday scenes that paint a vivid picture of life in Cairo. In this travel guide, we will explore Cairo in depth, providing insights into its historical evolution, practical travel tips, and recommendations for accommodations. Whether you are planning a visit or simply wish to learn more about this fascinating city, this eBook will serve as your comprehensive guide to understanding and appreciating Cairo's unique allure.

More Books by Daniel Windsor

Cairo, Cairo

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