Welcome to Cairo, Egypt’s vibrant capital, the place historical past, tradition, and the beautiful Nile River come collectively to create an unforgettable expertise. With a lot to see and do, it will possibly really feel overwhelming—however don’t fear, I’m right here to assist with a listing of the 24 greatest issues to do in Cairo.
I visited Cairo on my honeymoon, and the town utterly amazed me! From exploring historical landmarks to soaking within the native tradition, I’ve included all of the highlights from my journey, plus a number of experiences I didn’t get the prospect to attempt however would like to.
One tip whereas planning: ebook your excursions and actions early. Cairo is a massively fashionable vacation spot, and the very best experiences refill quick—securing your spot forward of time will prevent the trouble.
Let’s get began!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Don’t wait to ebook your guided actions in Cairo and threat lacking some important experiences!
Here are the principle issues to ebook upfront:
And listed here are the very best accommodations: Steigenberger Hotel($$$), Almadiafa($$), Tahrir Plaza Suites($)
1. Admire the beautiful collections on the Egyptian Museum
The first spot I visited on my go to to Cairo was the Egyptian Museum, and I can let you know that it’s one of many must-visit locations to go to in Cairo. The museum hosts the biggest assortment of Egyptian antiquities on the earth, so you possibly can simply spend your entire day admiring the reveals and nonetheless not handle to see all the pieces.
TIP: Plan your museum go to earlier within the morning; sadly, the museum doesn’t have air-con, so it will get fairly scorching and uncomfortable. Also, visiting early within the morning means you’ll escape the larger crowds that normally arrive within the afternoon.
I like to recommend setting apart at the very least 3 to 4 hours on your museum go to, which needs to be sufficient time to see the principle highlights. And if there’s one factor you shouldn’t miss, it’s the Tutankhamun Hall. This is the place you’ll see the funerary golden masks of Tutankhamun, in addition to many different treasures from his tomb.
P.S. You can take photographs of all the pieces within the museum – besides the Tutankhamun Hall! And regardless that that is unlucky, it made me recognize what I used to be taking a look at rather more – it truly is (for many of us) a once-in-a-lifetime alternative.
PRICE: EGP 550 (US$10)
2. Visit the pyramids & the Great Sphinx in Giza
The Great Pyramids and the Great Sphinx of Giza are Egypt’s most well-known landmarks, and Cairo is an excellent handy base for visiting them. I extremely advocate visiting the Giza plateau on a guided tour from Cairo – that’s what I did, and it was undoubtedly cash nicely spent.
TIP: should you’re feeling adventurous (and also you’re not claustrophobic), you too can go inside one of many pyramids. I ventured into the smallest of the three pyramids, the Pyramid of Menkaure, and it was a tremendous expertise. However, this isn’t included within the normal entry ticket, so earlier than you enter the plateau, discuss to your information about getting a ticket from the entrance desk.
During the tour, you’ll see the three Great Pyramids and the Sphinx, have loads of time to take photographs, and even go on a 15-min camel journey – it’s enjoyable and never as scary because it appears. Your information will present invaluable data on the historical past of those monuments, which can add an entire new perspective to your go to.
PRO TIP: Don’t settle for a camel journey that’s not a part of the tour you paid for! The camel homeowners will attempt to rip-off you – you’ll decide on the value, and as soon as they get you to the agreed vacation spot, they are going to request extra money to convey you again. I do know it sounds loopy, however many individuals have fallen sufferer to those scams – be additional cautious round right here.
PRICE: US$22
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3. Embark on a cruise alongside the Nile River
The Nile River runs proper by way of Cairo, and it’s one of many metropolis’s (and the nation’s) most notable pure points of interest. While in Cairo, a cruise on the Nile is an absolute should; I like to recommend reserving a spot on this dinner cruise, which, in addition to an open buffet dinner, features a conventional dance present and is a wonderful alternative for sightseeing.
Unfortunately, I didn’t have the time for a dinner cruise, however I did go on a felucca crusing journey alongside the Nile, and it was a tremendous expertise! The felucca is a conventional wood boat that takes you alongside the river so you possibly can admire the majestic Nile riverfront – I extremely advocate it should you’re brief on time!
PRICE: Dinner cruise: US$51; Felluca crusing journey: US$10
4. Shop on the stalls of the Khan el-Khalili bazaar
One of probably the most iconic Cairo landmarks is Khan el-Khalili (map), a bustling bazaar within the metropolis middle. This bazaar dates again to the 14th century and has been the middle of commerce in Cairo for hundreds of years. In Khan el-Khalili, you’ll discover what appear to be numerous stalls promoting souvenirs, conventional handicrafts, spices, jewellery, and loads of different cool issues.
If there’s just one place you buy groceries in Cairo, it needs to be Khan el-Khalili. It’s the last word place to get some distinctive souvenirs out of your journey, however remember to haggle till you are feeling such as you’re getting a good value. Unfortunately, distributors in Cairo (and Egypt basically) attempt to overcharge vacationers, and it doesn’t really feel good to be scammed.
NOTE: When exploring the bazaar, hold your valuables out of sight and ensure they’re secure. This is such a crowded place, and theft is all the time a threat, so it’s higher to be secure than sorry.
5. Check out the exhibitions at The Grand Egyptian Museum
The subsequent cease in your Cairo explorations will take you to Giza as soon as once more and to The Grand Egyptian Museum. This is a newly constructed museum, and regardless that it’s nonetheless beneath development, some reveals have turn into obtainable to the general public.
Please don’t combine it up with the Egyptian Museum (#1 in my listing), these are 2 completely different locations!
The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is situated close to the Giza Pyramids and it undoubtedly extra trendy. It consists of the whole assortment of King Tutankhamun’s artifacts. The older Egyptian Museum situated in Tahrir Square alternatively, homes an unlimited but conventional show of artifacts, whereas GEM is extra immersive in my view.
Once the museum is totally accomplished, it can turn into one of many largest and most trendy on the earth, in addition to the biggest archeological museum on the earth. Here, you’ll see artifacts which have by no means been displayed earlier than – that’s tremendous cool!
Currently, solely a few expositions are open to the general public, so it’s best to verify on the official web site what is obtainable by the point you go to.
PRICE: EGP 1270 (US$25)
6. Visit the enduring Citadel of Saladin
The Citadel of Saladin (map), often known as the Cairo Citadel, is among the most spectacular Cairo landmarks. Dating again to the twelfth century, this fortress performed an necessary function in defending the town from the Crusaders. Today, it offers the very best panoramic views over Cairo.
Within the partitions of the Citadel, you’ll come throughout the Mosque of Muhammad Ali (map), in addition to the towers of the Citadel and the Citadel jail. Tickets can be found for buy on-site, and the Citadel welcomes guests on daily basis between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
NOTE: Tickets for Cairo points of interest are hardly ever obtainable on-line, which means that you simply’ll have to hitch a queue and purchase them straight on the location. That’s one more reason why I like to recommend taking guided excursions every time doable – guides get the tickets in bulk for your entire group, and so they have a bonus over individuals queuing up – this protects valuable time!
PRICE: EGP 550 (US$12)
7. Go up the Cairo Tower to take pleasure in the very best views of the town
One of the primary issues I noticed within the Cairo metropolis middle was the Cairo Tower (map) – you can’t miss it! This imposing tower will not be solely tall – and it’s the tallest constructing within the metropolis – however it additionally has a really intricate and crowd pleasing design.
Even although you possibly can simply admire the constructing from the bottom, I extremely advocate going as much as the statement deck and having fun with the very best view of Cairo. Besides taking within the views, you too can have a meal on the revolving restaurant, however remember that it’s a bit pricier, and you’ll want to make a reservation upfront – there’s extra information on their Facebook web page.
PRICE: EGP 250 (US$5)
8. Pay a go to to The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
I hope you’re a museum buff as a result of there’s one other spot you completely want to go to in Cairo – The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. This museum covers your entire historical past of the Egyptian civilization, from historical occasions to the current day, and shows greater than 50,000 artifacts.
I recommend taking a number of hours to discover all the galleries within the museum, however it’s best to pay particular consideration to the Royal Mummies Gallery, which accommodates the mummies of 20 Egyptian kings and Queens. This is among the few Cairo points of interest that provides on-line ticket purchases – you will get your ticket right here.
PRICE: EGP 500 (US$10)
9. Spend a soothing day at Al-Azhar Park
Cairo is hectic – there’s little question about that! So, should you want an escape from the crowds and all of the noise, head to Al-Azhar Park (map) and immerse your self in its peaceable environment. This is a large park with many strolling paths, so even when there are different individuals there, you possibly can nonetheless take pleasure in your peace and quiet.
You can stroll round, sit and admire the views of the town, or also have a drink at one of many cafes and eating places inside the park. There’s additionally a devoted children’ space, so the entire household may have enjoyable on this park go to!
NOTE: If a neighborhood presents to take your image, don’t settle for it except you’re prepared to pay them. Remember that they are going to request cash, and a few may not be prepared to offer you your cellphone again except you pay them.
10. Explore Old Cairo on a guided tour
If you don’t prefer to roam the streets of Cairo by your self (and it’s higher should you don’t – you would possibly get misplaced) or should you’re brief on time, I recommend reserving a guided tour that may take you thru Old Cairo.
The tour will cowl websites from each Islamic and Coptic Cairo, together with the Citadel of Saladin and El Moez Street, well-known for its attractive Islamic structure, in addition to the Christian church buildings, Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church. A standard lunch can also be included within the tour, so that you’re set for the entire day.
NOTE: Cairo is a large and bustling metropolis, and sadly, it’s filled with vacationer scams. For instance, our information warned us that as a substitute of change in euros, locals would possibly present the change in Egyptian kilos – the 1 Euro coin and the 1 pound coin are extraordinarily related. That’s simply one of many many causes I like to recommend exploring Cairo on a guided tour.
P.S. Here is an efficient free strolling tour as nicely (a tour primarily based on suggestions) – they’re all the time tremendous informative and enjoyable, I attempt to take one in every metropolis I’m going to!
PRICE: US$55
11. Stop by Al-Azhar Mosque to admire the structure
There are loads of mosques in Cairo, so that you may be uncertain which of them it’s best to go to. Well, if that’s the case, I like to recommend visiting Al-Azhar Mosque (map), Cairo’s oldest mosque and one of the spectacular architectural landmarks.
Take a while to admire the intricate particulars on the facade earlier than you proceed inside. Entrance is free for everybody, however you ought to be dressed modestly to enter (shoulders and knees coated), and also you’ll have to take off your sneakers.
12. Visit the Abdeen Palace Museum
Off to the museum once more, I do know! But this time, it’s a little bit of a distinct museum than those talked about above. The Abdeen Palace Museum (map) is an opulent, ornate palace that was once the house to the Egyptian royal household and now serves as one of many presidential palaces.
The museum assortment accommodates many silver and gold artifacts, in addition to weapons and armor that provide you with a glimpse into newer Egyptian historical past. You also needs to take a while to stroll across the gardens and snap some photographs. If doable, go to on a weekday to keep away from the crowds.
PRICE: EGP 100 (US$2)
13. Have enjoyable on a desert safari from Cairo
Ready to have some enjoyable? Well, get able to embark on a full-day desert safari from Cairo! This safari features a 4×4 journey by way of the sand dunes, a camel journey, sandboarding, and horse driving. You’ll additionally get to benefit from the scenic views all day lengthy and cease for lunch on the Magic Lake camp – you gained’t be bored for a minute.
I took a tour myself and it was probably the most enjoyable I had on your entire journey! Just ensure you put on comfy garments (lengthy pants and a long-sleeve shirt) and get a dessert scarf and a pair of goggles (or at the very least a very good pair of sun shades) and also you’ll be all able to go.
PRICE: US$130
14. Explore the Zamalek neighborhood
Regardless of the place you’re staying in Cairo, you must take a while to discover Zamalek (map), a big and cosmopolitan neighborhood that’s located on a man-made island on the Nile River.
TIP: Before your go to to Zamalek, it’s best to learn The Lady of Zamalek (obtainable for buy right here), a novel that mixes real-life occasions with fiction. The novel will present an perception into the Zamalek neighborhood, in addition to a glimpse into Twentieth-century Egyptian historical past – it’s a very good and informative learn.
You can simply attain Zamalek from Cairo’s metropolis middle through the 6 October Bridge (map) – you possibly can stroll or take a taxi. Once there, go for a stroll across the neighborhood (don’t fear, it’s secure), and hold your eyes peeled for the Cairo Opera House and the Aisha Fahmy Palace.
15. Take a guided personal tour to Luxor
Luxor was presumably my favourite place in Egypt (I nonetheless can’t determine between that and the pyramids). So, when you have time in your Cairo journey, I extremely advocate that you simply ebook a full-day guided tour of Luxor.
Since Luxor is kind of removed from Cairo (660 km or 410 miles), you’ll have to go by airplane – the flights are included within the tour. During this tour, you’ll go to the majestic Luxor and Karnak temples, the Valley of the Kings, and the Hatshepsut Temple, plus go on a felucca journey on the Nile – it’ll be a day filled with actions, however undoubtedly definitely worth the time and vitality.
PRICE: US$300
16. Visit Egypt’s first pyramid in Djoser, Memphis, & the Bent Pyramid
The Great Pyramids of Giza are Egypt’s most well-known monuments, however that doesn’t imply that they’re the one pyramids within the nation. On this guided tour from Cairo, you possibly can go to the primary pyramid ever inbuilt Egypt, the Djoser pyramid in Saqqara, the Red Pyramid and the Bent Pyramid of Dahshur, in addition to Memphis, the traditional Egyptian capital.
The tour lasts between 6 and seven hours, presents lodge pick-up (and drop-off, after all), and can take you to some lesser-known however equally fascinating Egyptian monuments. Your tour information will let you know in regards to the wealthy historical past of all of the locations you go to, so this may even be a terrific studying alternative.
PRICE: US$40
17. Enjoy a soothing stroll alongside the People of Egypt Walkway
If you’re questioning what to do in Cairo within the evenings, I like to recommend a pleasant stroll alongside the People of Egypt Walkway (map). This lengthy promenade stretches alongside the East financial institution of the Nile River and offers a terrific alternative to see a distinct image of the town.
Although you possibly can take this stroll throughout the day, it’s higher should you do it at evening, and the explanation for that’s twofold – firstly, you don’t want to fret in regards to the warmth, and secondly, the walkaway is properly illuminated within the evenings. You can simply stroll round and admire the views or cease in one of many quite a few cafes and eating places alongside the best way.
18. Go on a guided day journey to Alexandria
One of the most well-liked issues to do in Egypt and Cairo is to take day journeys to different elements of the nation (you’ve in all probability guessed that primarily based on my suggestions to date). Well, I’ve one other glorious suggestion – a guided day journey to Alexandria!
Alexandria has a vital place in Egyptian historical past. During this tour, you’ll get to see a few of its most necessary landmarks, together with the location of the well-known Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of many 7 wonders of the traditional world. Lunch and lodge pick-up/drop-off are included within the value – you simply want to make sure you have some comfortable sneakers.
PRICE: US$39
19. Visit The Hanging Church
When you’re not occurring day journeys and nonetheless on the lookout for issues, it’s best to go to one other one of the celebrated Cairo vacationer points of interest – The Hanging Church (map). This Coptic Orthodox church traces its origins again to the fifth century and is recognizable for its distinctive architectural type.
Don’t overlook to look out for the church’s most hanging function – the wood roof formed like Noah’s ark – and take a while to admire the superbly adorned inside. Entrance is totally freed from cost, however be aware of the way you’re dressed; all the time gown modestly when visiting non secular websites.
20. Spend a soothing seashore day on a visit to the Red Sea
Besides its wealthy historic and cultural legacy, Egypt can also be an unimaginable seashore vacation spot. The Red Sea is legendary for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful coral reefs, so that you shouldn’t miss an opportunity to expertise it on this day journey from Cairo.
This tour will take you to El Ain Sokhna, a resort city on the coast of the Red Town, the place you possibly can spend the day swimming and stress-free beneath the solar. And when you have the prospect to go snorkeling, do it! Snorkeling within the Red Sea is a very magical expertise; the coral reefs listed here are one of the lovely pure wonders I’ve ever seen – don’t miss out!
PRICE: US$100
21. Learn about historical Egypt on the Pharaonic Village
The Pharaonic Village is among the coolest issues you are able to do round Cairo! The objective of this attraction is to point out how the traditional Egyptians lived their on a regular basis lives. This is in contrast to the rest you’ll see in Egypt, and one of the best ways to expertise it’s by reserving a personal guided tour.
On the tour, they are going to take you crusing among the many community of canals within the village, and you will note replicas of many necessary Egyptian monuments. You also can watch how conventional papyrus is made (that is tremendous cool!) and even go to replicas of Egyptian properties to get a glimpse of life in Ancient Egypt – it’s the last word expertise!
PRICE: US$82
22. Try conventional Egyptian meals
Your go to to Cairo can be incomplete with out making an attempt some conventional Egyptian meals. I’ll be sincere – I used to be not an enormous fan of Egyptian delicacies, however there have been a number of dishes I actually loved, like koshary, the nation’s nationwide dish.
Koshary is a really numerous dish – it’s made with rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas, fried onions, and tomato sauce, and it’s an actual explosion of taste. I actually like that it was recent but filling, so undoubtedly attempt it! There are a number of nice locations to have koshary in Cairo, comparable to Koshary Abou Tarek (map) and Koshary El Tahrir (map).
P.S. The incontrovertible fact that I personally was not a fan of sure Egyptian dishes shouldn’t flip you away from making an attempt – you may need a totally completely different style, and you might find yourself having fun with it rather a lot.
23. Go on a procuring spree on the Citystars Mall
Sightseeing is enjoyable, however it will possibly additionally get a bit a lot. Well, if that occurs, you possibly can all the time spend a day procuring and stress-free, and there’s no higher spot for it in Cairo than the Citystars Mall (map).
This is a large mall that includes quite a few designer shops, in addition to different outlets, eateries, and cafes. You can spend a whole day right here with out losing interest, and it’s additionally a terrific alternative to get some issues to recollect out of your journey – it’s a win-win!
24. Walk round El-Tahrir Square
Last, and on no account the least, I like to recommend a go to to El-Tahrir Square (map). The sq. is among the focal factors of the town, and also you’ll undoubtedly move it by when exploring. But you also needs to take the time to roam across the sq. and take a look at the imposing obelisk in its very middle.
Nearby, you’ll discover some cool outlets and cafes, so if you get uninterested in strolling across the space, you are able to do some impulse procuring or simply chill and chill out with a espresso in hand. It’ll be time nicely spent, belief me!
Where to remain in Cairo
If you wish to discover out what Cairo is thought for and verify off all (or most) of the issues on this listing, you’ll want to remain within the metropolis. Below, you’ll discover my handpicked lodge suggestions in every value class, however should you want some additional solutions, seek the advice of our full information on the greatest locations to remain in Cairo.
Luxury (US$150 and up)
- Steigenberger Hotel ($$$) – located in Downtown Cairo and overlooking El-Tahrir Square, this upscale lodge is among the final locations to remain within the metropolis, providing entry to a pool, a restaurant, a gymnasium, and room service
- Kempinski Nile Hotel ($$$) – a 5-star lodge situated on the financial institution of the Nile River, that includes a rooftop swimming pool and a wellness middle, in addition to facilities like butler companies {and professional} massages
Mid-range (US$60 – US$150)
- Almadiafa ($$) – this lodge is in a central location and presents air-conditioned rooms, every geared up with a fridge and a minibar, laundry companies, and an airport shuttle at an extra cost
- New President Hotel ($$) – company at this 3-star lodge will take pleasure in a keep in properly adorned rooms, an a la carte restaurant and bar, a scrumptious breakfast, and complimentary Wi-Fi
Budget (as much as US$60)
- Tahrir Plaza Suites ($) – this inexpensive lodge is in a great location for exploring the town and has comfy rooms, a shared lounge, and a 24-hour desk prepared that will help you with any facet of your journey
- Garden City Plaza Hotel ($) – a budget-friendly lodge that provides an on-site foreign money change, room service, and compact rooms that function personal bogs stocked with free toiletries
Practical data
Before we wrap up this put up, I wished to offer some sensible suggestions that may make your Cairo simpler and extra nice – learn by way of the sections beneath!
How to get round
Getting round Cairo will not be as troublesome as it might appear at first – should you strategy it proper! The very first thing it’s best to know – driving is out of the query! Cairo has such hectic site visitors that getting behind the wheel is a horrible thought. Luckily, there are different modes of transport you possibly can depend on, so no want to fret.
Public transport
Cairo does have an in depth public transport community, however I wouldn’t advocate utilizing it, particularly should you’re visiting for the primary time. The buses and the metro are extraordinarily crowded, and vacationers are sometimes the goal of theft; additionally, there’s the danger of harassment of girls, so it’s greatest to steer clear.
However, when you have no different selection otherwise you’re prepared to take your possibilities, yow will discover extra information on the general public transport community right here.
Taxis/Ride Sharing
Taxis and ride-sharing companies can be found in Cairo – and so they’re one of the best ways to get across the metropolis. If you favor ride-sharing, Uber is obtainable in Cairo, and it’s a good way to get round at a good value.
If you wish to order a an airport switch, I’d advocate WelcomePickups, a trusted service that provides honest costs and skilled drivers, so that you don’t have to fret about your security at any given second.
TIP: Whenever doable, go for guided excursions. All of those excursions embrace transfers, and most of them supply lodge pick-up and drop-off, so that you gained’t have to fret about getting from level A to level B. Plus, they’re secure, and you might be accompanied by a neighborhood information that may enable you to navigate the town.
As I discussed, Cairo is teeming with vacationer scams, and if you’re a part of a bunch, you’re much less more likely to be focused. Plus, your information can warn you about a few of the most typical scams, in addition to defend you from the pushy distributors who’re making an attempt to promote you one thing. Also, the information can let you know the honest value of sure gadgets and even negotiate for you.
All about SIM playing cards
As quickly as you land in Cairo, it’s best to get again on-line. The method to try this is both by activating an eSIM in your cellphone or by getting a bodily SIM card with an information plan.
The listing beneath options the very best eSIM and SIM suppliers in Egypt:
Whenever I journey, I exploit an Airalo eSIM, and I’m very pleased with their service. It’s simple to make use of and nice worth for cash. Unfortunately, on my journey to Egypt, I didn’t trouble to buy an eSIM beforehand, so I needed to get a bodily SIM on the airport. I acquired an Orange SIM card, and it labored nicely for me – it was cheap and offered nice protection.
FAQs about the very best issues to do in Cairo
⏲️ Is 3 days in Cairo sufficient?
Yes, 3 days are sufficient to see the principle highlights of Cairo, together with visits to the Egyptian Museum, the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx, and Khan el Khalil bazaar, in addition to occurring a guided tour of Old Cairo and making an attempt some conventional meals.
🏛️ What do vacationers sometimes do when visiting Cairo?
Some of the most well-liked vacationer actions in Cairo are a dinner cruise on the Nile River, procuring at Khan el-Khalili bazaar, visiting the Citadel of Saladin, and going up the Cairo Tower.
💰 Is Cairo an affordable metropolis?
Yes, Cairo is a really inexpensive metropolis in comparison with different vacationer locations around the globe. Every week-long journey to Cairo will price you about US$300 to US$400 per individual (with out flights), and your cash will go a great distance right here.
👖 How ought to I gown in Cairo?
While in Cairo, it’s best to gown modestly, particularly should you’re planning on visiting any non secular buildings. You ought to cowl your shoulders and your knees and keep away from brief skirts and shorts.
🚶 Is Cairo a walkable metropolis?
📅 What is the very best month to go to Cairo, Egypt?
The greatest months to go to Cairo are from October to April when the climate will not be as scorching, and you’ll comfortably discover the town.
Final phrases on the highest issues to do in Cairo
We’re on the finish of this information on the very best issues to do in Cairo. By now, you ought to be all set with actions on your journey!
Don’t overlook to ebook all of the organized actions upfront; Cairo is an excellent fashionable vacation spot, and should you wait too lengthy, the very best experiences will not be obtainable on your journey dates.
If you’ve gotten another questions on Cairo or issues to do, drop me a remark beneath. I’m glad to get again to you and enable you to plan your journey!
Enjoy your time in Cairo,
Hristina
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