Cairo is one of the oldest capital cities in the world. It boasts a rich historical legacy and serves as a melting pot of cultures where the past and present blend seamlessly.
The city captivates visitors with its unique charm. It offers iconic monuments like the Pyramids of Giza, bustling markets, historical sites, exceptional museums, and a vibrant food scene.
While many travelers spend only a few days before moving on to other regions of Egypt, Cairo deserves at least five days to fully explore its dynamic culture, rich history, and fascinating corners.
Where To Stay In Cairo, Egypt
Cairo offers various hotels, ranging from luxurious options to hostels and everything in between. The best place to stay in Cairo depends on which area of the city you prefer. For a visit to Cairo, I recommend staying in one of the two main areas, Zamalek or Downtown.
Where To Stay In Zamalek
Zamalek is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Cairo. It offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. It’s an excellent area to stay in, as it is close to the city center and the Nile, providing a peaceful atmosphere without being too far from the action of Cairo.
- Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino
- Hilton Cairo Zamalek Residences
- Novotel Cairo El Borg
- The President Hotel Cairo
- Golden Tulip Flamenco
- Jewel Zamalek Hotel
- Zamalek House Hotel
Where To Stay In Downtown Cairo
Downtown Cairo is the heart of Cairo, a vibrant area full of life and activities. It is home to many of the city’s historic and iconic buildings, as well as a wide variety of shops, markets, restaurants, and bars.
Downtown is the perfect place to stay if you like being in the middle of the action and having a more local experience. Accessing monuments such as the Egyptian Museum and Tahrir Square is easy.
- The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo
- Intercontinental Cairo Semiramis
- Kempinski Nile Hotel Cairo
- Fairmont Nile City, Cairo
- Ramses Hilton
What To Eat In Cairo
Egyptian dishes are diverse and full of flavor. For breakfast, I recommend trying ful, a traditional dish made from cooked fava beans, usually served with bread, eggs, and pickles. Another common breakfast option is taameya, Egypt’s version of falafel, which is made with fava beans instead of chickpeas.
For lunch or dinner, you can’t miss typical dishes such as koshari, a mix of rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas, and tomato sauce, which is considered the national dish.
Another must-try is mahshi, vine leaves, peppers, or zucchini stuffed with seasoned rice, and molokhia, a green leafy stew served with chicken. Also, kofta or shawarma is a classic meat dish in the region.
In addition to the widely enjoyed coffee and tea, I recommend trying karkadé, a hibiscus infusion that can be enjoyed both hot and cold. Also, don’t miss the opportunity to try sugar cane juice or zobía, a sweet, milky coconut drink that is incredibly refreshing on hot days.
Being a cosmopolitan capital, Cairo offers a wide variety of dining options.
Here are some recommendations:
Coffee Shops in Cairo
- Antique Khana (vintage cafe)
- Sufi Cafe and Bookstore
- Cafe Riche – Established in 1908. A classical, old-fashioned restaurant based in Downtown
- Horreya Bar
Egyptian Restaurants
Rooftops to See the Sunset
Restaurants with International Food by the Nile (you need to book)
Best Things To Do In Cario
The Pyramids Of Giza
The Pyramids of Giza are undoubtedly the main attraction when arriving in Cairo. Considered one of the new wonders of the modern world, they are a must-see for any traveler.
The best way to experience them is with a specialized guide, as the history of Egyptian civilization is vast and complex. Having an expert explain it in detail will greatly enrich your experience.
You can also get there by Uber to the main entrance, where you can buy tickets and pay by card. Different types of tickets grant access to different areas and activities within the complex, so purchasing the correct ticket is essential to make the most of your visit.
I recommend visiting the pyramids early in the morning or near the sunset when the heat is more manageable.
Opening Hours: Every day from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm.
General Entrance Ticket for Foreigners: Area Entry: Adult: EGP 700 Student: EGP 350
This general entrance ticket grants access to the pyramid complex but does not cover the Great Pyramid, Pyramid of Khafre, Pyramid of Menkaure, Tomb of Meresankh III, and Worker’s Cemetery.
If you wish to add access to any specific attractions, you must purchase an additional ticket at the entrance. Once you’re inside the pyramid complex, you won’t be able to buy these extra tickets.
Is it worth entering the Great Pyramid of Giza?
- Yes – Entering the Great Pyramid of Giza is a unique and fascinating experience that immerses you in Egypt’s ancient history. From inside the pyramid, you can gain a deeper perspective on the incredible engineering of the ancient Egyptians.
- No – The chambers and passages inside the pyramid are narrow and dark, which can be uncomfortable for those with claustrophobia. It is also not recommended for older individuals or those with knee problems, as much of the path requires bending down. The temperature and humidity are also often high, making the experience somewhat uncomfortable.
Seeing the pyramids up close is impressive, but it’s also worth enjoying the panoramic view that allows you to appreciate them from a distance. To get this view, you can go by car or, for a more authentic experience, many tourists choose to ride a camel.
Be sure to negotiate the price before getting on and clarify that it includes the tip, as they may try to increase the price after taking photos.
Sound And Light Show At The Pyramids
On some nights, a sound and light show at the Pyramids of Giza provides a unique cultural experience about ancient Egypt and its civilization. During these shows, the pharaohs narrate their incredible stories and achievements while the majestic pyramids are illuminated.
However, depending on your interests, not everyone may consider it essential. For many, a visit to the complex during the day is enough, especially if they feel exhausted by the end of the day.
Another alternative is to enjoy the show outside the complex at nearby restaurants offering panoramic views from their terraces. This allows you to enjoy the show without buying tickets or re-entering the site.
To attend this show, you must purchase tickets. The tickets cost $20 for adults and $11 for children between 6 and 12.
Where To Eat In Giza
In Giza, you can enjoy a unique dining experience at restaurants offering spectacular views of the pyramids. Restaurants within the pyramid complex require you to have paid the general entry fee to access them.
Due to their prime location and the exclusive views they offer, these restaurants are usually more expensive and require reservations. Additionally, like the complex, they close at 5 p.m., so it is advisable to plan your visit in advance.
- 9 Pyramids Lounge – Offers panoramic views of the pyramids. This restaurant serves traditional Egyptian food.
- La Duree – A French patisserie serving international dishes, perfect for those who want a coffee or dessert while enjoying the pyramid view.
- Khuffus – Located at the King Center of the Giza Plateau, this restaurant offers upscale Egyptian cuisine.
Outside the pyramid complex, you’ll also find various restaurants and hotels offering spectacular views of the pyramids. Unlike those within the complex, many places stay open later and offer dinner service.
- 139 Pavilion at Marriott Mena House – This historic hotel features a restaurant with direct views of the Great Pyramid.
- Zeeyara – A restaurant with pyramid views offering traditional Egyptian cuisine.
Necropolis Of Saqqara
Although the Giza Pyramids are the main and most iconic attraction in Egypt, the country is home to many other fascinating pyramids that, while lesser-known, hold great historical significance.
One of these is the Pyramid of Djoser, also known as the Step Pyramid, located in the Saqqara Necropolis. This pyramid is considered the first pyramid in Egypt and marked the beginning of the large-scale use of carved stone in architecture.
In addition to the iconic pyramid, the Saqqara complex features temples, courtyards, and tombs that invite exploration and offer a rich historical experience in this ancient region.
Opening hours: everyday 8:00-17:00
Inclusive ticket Adult: EGP 1000 / Student EGP 500
Inclusive ticket allowing entry into the site, Imhotep Museum, Nobles Tombs, New Kingdom Tombs, Tomb of Mereruka, and the Tomb of Mehu.
Tahrir Square
Tahrir Square is in the heart of Downtown Cairo and is one of the city’s most iconic and historic squares. The square has witnessed key moments in Egypt’s modern history.
In addition to its historical significance, Tahrir Square is a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists, surrounded by important buildings and restaurants. You can also find the Egyptian Museum here, a must-visit for those interested in Egypt’s rich cultural heritage.
Egyptian Museum
Opened in 1902, the Egyptian Museum is one of the oldest museums in the world dedicated exclusively to Egyptian civilization. While it shows some signs of neglect, it houses one of the most impressive collections of Egyptian antiquities, including the treasure of Pharaoh Tutankhamun.
Although you can explore the Egyptian Museum independently, it is highly recommended that you have a guide to appreciate its collection fully. A guide will help you understand the historical context, the details of the displayed pieces, and the stories behind them.
Openings Hours: Everyday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Entrance Fee for foreigners: Adult: EGP 450 Student: EGP 230
Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
Recently, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) has partially opened its doors to the public.
While not all galleries are fully operational, visiting areas such as the Main Galleries, the Grand Hall, the Grand Staircase, the commercial area, and the outdoor gardens are possible. However, access to the Tutankhamun galleries and the Solar Boat Museum remains restricted until the official opening.
You can explore the museum at your own pace or join a 90-minute guided tour in English and Arabic. This new museum promises an unforgettable experience for those passionate about Egyptian history and culture.
Opening Hours:
GEM Complex: Daily from 8:30 AM to 6 PM
Galleries: Daily from 9 AM to 5 PM
Costs Adult 1,200 EGP / Child 600 EGP / Student 600 EGP
Islamic Cairo
Islamic Cairo is one of the city’s most historic areas, home to over 600 monuments dating from the early Islamic period to the Ottoman era. Al-Muizz Street, considered the heart of Islamic Cairo, features about 29 notable sites open to the public, including mosques, madrasas, mausoleums, hammams, and historic houses.
This historic street stretches between two ancient Cairo city gates, from Bab al-Futuh in the north to Bab Zuwayla in the south. I recommend starting your tour at Bab al-Futuh, where you can walk and explore the prominent sites that suit your interests.
Today, markets, vendors, and shops are selling local crafts along Al-Muizz Street, adding to the charm of this historic route.
Opening times: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Cost: Adult: EGP 220 / Student: EGP 110.
A single ticket is sufficient to visit the main sites. Inclusive tickets allowing entry to the sites are available here:
- Qalawun Group
- Suleyman Agha Al-Selehdar Mosque and Sabil
- Al-Kamil School
- Al-Nasir Muhammad Ibn Qalawun Mosque and School
- Sultan Barqouk Mosque
- Musa Bin Maimun Temple
- Hammam Inal
- Amir Bishtak Palace
The mosques in Islamic Cairo generally do not charge an entrance fee. However, it’s common to leave a tip for the person looking after shoes if you choose to leave them at the entrance or for the person who allows you to climb the minaret to enjoy the view from above.
Some of the main mosques in this area include:
- Al-Hakim Mosque
- Al-Azhar Mosque
- Sultan Al-Muayyad Mosque
- Mosque of Al-Salih Tala’i
- Al-Imam Al-Hussein Mosque
- Gamal Al-Din Al-Ustadar Mosque
Other attractions not included in the general ticket for Islamic Cairo require an additional ticket if you wish to enter:
- Bayt Al-Suhaymi
- Sabil-Kuttab of Abdel Rahman Kathuda
- Wekalet Sultan Al-Guri
If you’re in the area, I highly recommend attending the “Al Tannoura Egyptian Dance Heritage Show” every Wednesday and Saturday at 7:00 PM at the Wekalet Sultan Al-Guri.
Tickets can only be purchased at the entrance on the day of the show, a few hours before it begins. Payment is accepted in cash only, and seating is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended. The show lasts approximately one hour and costs around 200 EGP.
Vist The Khan El Khalili Bazaar
Khan El Khalili Bazaar is one of Cairo’s most famous and ancient markets and is undoubtedly a must-visit. Here, you can find a wide variety of products, such as crafts, jewelry, clothing, spices, and traditional souvenirs.
Beyond the tourist items, the vibrant atmosphere, history, and traditional architecture make it a unique experience. Exploring its narrow streets, filled with colors and scents, allows you to immerse yourself in the essence of an authentic Arab bazaar.
Being prepared for vendors constantly approaching you at tourist spots like Khan El Khalili is important. In Arab culture, bargaining is a common practice, so it’s expected to negotiate the price, potentially lowering it by up to a third of the initial offer.
However, if you don’t enjoy bargaining or feel overwhelmed by the experience, there is an exception: a store with fixed prices called “Tienda Sin Dolor de Cabeza,” which translates into “shop without a headache.”
This store is a great option for those who prefer to shop without the stress of bargaining, allowing you to enjoy your purchases without complications.
In the bazaar, you will find various restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy coffee or tea and even try local food. One of my favorite spots is Fishawy, a historic café famous for its cozy atmosphere and traditional décor. Another popular place is Om Kalthoum café, which is located opposite one of the most iconic photos of the bazaar.
Explore The Ibn Tulun Mosque And Gayer Anderson Museum
The Ibn Tulun Mosque is famous for its stunning architecture and iconic spiral minaret. Although Cairo is known as the “City of a Thousand Minarets” due to its impressive number of mosques, this one stands out as one of the most visited despite being located outside the usual tourist areas. Entrance is free. Women should cover their shoulders and legs and bring a scarf to cover their hair.
Next to the mosque is the Gayer Anderson Museum, a historic house that blends traditional Islamic architecture with Western design elements. This museum, once the home of British officer Gayer Anderson, houses a collection of Islamic art, antique furniture, carpets, and ceramics.
Opening times: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Cost: Adult: EGP 100 / Student: EGP 50.
Citadel of Saladin
The Citadel of Saladin, built by Sultan Saladin to protect Cairo from the Crusaders, is one of the city’s main historical landmarks.
Its main attraction is the Muhammad Ali Mosque, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, famous for its grand dome and interior decorations. Since the main attraction is a mosque, remember to dress respectfully, covering your shoulders and legs, and bring a scarf to cover your hair.
Additionally, the Citadel houses other museums and historical structures worth visiting:
- The Military Museum
- The Carriage Museum
- The Mosque of Al Nasir Muhammad
City Of The Dead
Near the Citadel, you’ll find the City of the Dead, a unique place where the living coexist among mausoleums and tombs. This cemetery, dating back to the Islamic era, houses tombs and historic homes, mosques, and mausoleums.
Due to its vastness and the fact that tourists do not often visit it, I recommend starting your tour at the Khanqah of Al-Nasir Faraj Ibn Barquq Mosque.
From there, you can walk to the Sultan Al Ashraf Qaytabay Mosque and Mausoleum, two prominent sites known for their impressive Islamic architecture.
Other sites you will encounter along the way include:
- Sultan Sayf al-Din Inal
- Mausoleum of Mohammed Ali
- Mausoleum of Tashtimur
- Maqad of Sultan Qaitbey – This center hosts art and cultural exhibitions.
In the City of the Dead, numerous glass-blowing factories are renowned for their craftsmanship and tradition. If you’re interested in acquiring unique pieces, this is the perfect place to do so.
Some of the most notable shops include:
Coptic Cairo
Egypt has great religious diversity, where different beliefs coexist harmoniously. The Copts, Egyptian Christians, represent the largest Christian community in the Middle East. You can explore the Coptic Cairo area, a testament to the country’s Christian history.
Some of the main attractions here are:
- Coptic Museum
- Hanging Church
- St. George’s Church
Watch A Performace At The Cairo Opera House
The Cairo Opera House is a must-visit if you’re passionate about theater or performances featuring music, dance, and art. This prominent cultural center in Zamalek offers a diverse range of events throughout the year.
When purchasing tickets, make sure to verify the venue of the event, as not all performances take place at the Cairo Opera House. Some are held at other theaters or cultural institutes. If your event is at the Cairo Opera House Main Hall, remember that there is a formal dress code to follow.
Felucca Rides
You’ll notice numerous feluccas and traditional Egyptian boats along the Nile. These vessels are very popular with local families who rent them for leisurely rides with loud Egyptian music playing.
If you decide to ride a felucca, be sure to negotiate a good price. You can find people offering this service at almost any point along the Nile, but some recommended areas to request a ride include:
Additionally, private or group dinners are available on feluccas or boats, where you can enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful sights of the Nile.
Purchase Unique Souvenirs and Authentic Egyptian Crafts
Many visitors seek a unique souvenir from Egypt to end their journey. While most tend to buy souvenirs in the shops within tourist sites or the famous Khan El Khalili Bazaar, specialty stores also offer high-quality crafts and exclusive souvenirs.
Here, you can find authentic Egyptian products that go beyond the typical mass-produced items. Some of the highlights include textiles, ceramics, home decor, and jewelry with traditional Egyptian designs.
Some noteworthy stores include:
- Madu Cairo
- Mounaya Gallery
- Nomad Gallery
- The Nest Concept Store
- Diwan Bookstore
- Mamlouk Gallery
- Asfour El Nil
- Fair Trade Egypt
- Sami Amin Designs
- Hedeya Masreya
- Caravanserai
Take A Day Trip To Alexandria
If you have the time, a trip from Cairo to Alexandria takes about three hours by car. Situated on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Alexandria is renowned worldwide for its rich history and cultural blend.
You can opt for a private car for more comfort and flexibility, or you can take a train from Ramses Station or a GoBus from Downtown Cairo. Some of the main attractions in Alexandria include:
- Alexandria Library
- Alexandria Lighthouse
- Qaitbay Citadel
- Alexandria National Museum
- Kom El Shoqafa Catacombs
- Roman Theatre
- Alexandria Museum of Art
- The Corniche
How To Get To Cairo, Egypt
Cairo is one of the best-connected cities in the region. Thanks to its position as an important tourist destination, it is easily accessible from most European capitals or major cities in the region.
Once at Cairo Airport, most nationalities can obtain a visa for $25 USD upon arrival. This is paid in cash, either in dollars or euros, and you only need to show a departure ticket from Egypt in case the immigration officer asks for it, along with your accommodation address.
Most hotels offer pick-up services from the airport. If this is not the case, you can opt for an Uber or a local taxi. If you choose a local taxi, you should negotiate the price, generally between $5 and $10 USD, to go downtown.
On the other hand, Uber is the most comfortable and economical option. However, it is important to note that no internet is available at the airport unless you have a local SIM card or an eSIM set up in advance.
How To Get Online In Cairo
The most convenient way to get online immediately in Egypt is by downloading apps that provide an eSIM. Alternatively, you can purchase a SIM card directly from the stores of Egypt’s main mobile providers: Vodafone, Orange, or Etisalat.
These stores are located in the baggage claim area before exiting the airport. While buying a SIM card at the airport is slightly more expensive, it is the most practical and convenient option.
It’s important to note that no public internet is available at Cairo International Airport.
How To Move Around Cairo
There are two main ways to get around Cairo. The first, the most comfortable and expensive, is booking a tour. Tours are convenient because they pick you up and take you to the places of interest. They also include a guide who can explain the sites you visit.
This option is perfect for those who prefer to avoid the hassle of transportation logistics and want to visit tourist spots in an organized way without worrying about practical details, such as traffic or price negotiations.
The second option is to travel independently; Uber is the most convenient way. Street taxis are also a good alternative for the more adventurous, but you must negotiate a fair price and clearly explain your destination.
I suggest using Uber for safety and comfort in tourist areas. Taxi drivers often try to take advantage of tourists and charge higher fares.
Although the distances on the map may seem short, Cairo traffic is one of the most complicated in the world. Therefore, planning your visits and outings with enough time to avoid delays is essential.
Safety And Security In Cairo
The war in Gaza has created a perception of insecurity and instability in the region. However, Egypt remains stable and safe, particularly in tourist areas, with constant and adequate security measures. As with any tourist destination, it is essential to stay vigilant and take good care of your belongings, especially bags and wallets.
In tourist areas, it’s common to feel overwhelmed by street vendors, as their persistence is simply part of the routine. The key is to avoid eye contact and kindly say that you’re not interested in buying. It’s important to stay calm and not appear annoyed, as they will eventually stop insisting.
In my experience, I always felt safe walking around the city, even alone as a woman. The locals are friendly and often greet you with a genuine smile.
While tourist sites can be more challenging since some may try to exploit visitors, I highly recommend exploring non-tourist areas and discovering authentic Cairo. However, it’s essential to dress appropriately and respect local customs.
What To Wear In Egpyt
Although Egypt is a highly touristic destination accustomed to welcoming foreigners, it’s important to remember that it is a predominantly Muslim country. This means that, for women, it’s advisable to dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees, especially in cities like Cairo.
If you visit a mosque or other religious site, wear a pashmina. I also recommend carrying a scarf, but a pashmina is a great option for covering your shoulders over sleeveless shirts, especially when temperatures are high.
Wearing shorts or sleeveless tops at tourist sites like the Pyramids complex is not an issue. However, when leaving these areas and exploring the city, it is recommended that you wear clothing that covers at least your knees and shoulders.
This will not only help you blend in better with the local environment but also allow you to feel more comfortable and respectful of the local culture.
In general, I recommend wearing very comfortable clothes, especially walking shoes. However, since Cairo has a lot of dust, it’s better to wear closed-toed shoes.
Also, temperatures tend to be high, so wearing cool and comfortable clothing is advisable. If you visit in winter, bring a light jacket, as temperatures drop at night, and it can get quite windy, especially near the Nile.
In the south, where most temples are located, or by the Red Sea, where the beaches are, the atmosphere is more relaxed regarding clothing, partly due to the high temperatures. In these areas, it’s common to see lighter and more comfortable attire, such as swimsuits, dresses, or shorts, especially during the hotter months.
Best Time To Visit Cairo, Egypt
Cairo can be visited at any time of the year. However, the best time to visit the country is during the winter, between October and March, when the temperatures are more pleasant.
It’s important to note that during these months, it’s peak season, and the city experiences the highest number of tourists.
While it’s also possible to visit Egypt during spring and summer, temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F) in the latter. The sun’s intense heat makes sightseeing more challenging and requires early morning visits.
Currency in Egypt
Egypt is currently experiencing an economic crisis that has devalued its local currency. As a result, foreign currency is significantly more valuable than the Egyptian pound. At the moment, one US dollar is equivalent to 50 Egyptian pounds.
ATMs are readily available in Cairo, and I recommend this option for getting cash. If possible, withdrawing money at the airport upon arrival will provide you with local currency immediately, making purchases and transportation more convenient.
There are also exchange offices where you can convert euros or dollars. The dollars you bring must be in perfect condition and new, as old or worn bills may not be accepted.
Although most restaurants and businesses accept card payments, I always recommend carrying cash for emergencies, tipping, or making purchases in smaller shops or on the street, which also helps support the local economy.
Tipping is a common and expected practice in Egypt, as many people depend on it as part of their income. It’s a good idea to have small denominations of bills for easy tipping in various situations, such as restaurants, luggage assistance, or public restrooms.
Please note that most tourist sites only accept card payments for tickets and entrance fees.
Cairo Guide Wrap Up
I hope you’ve found my guide to Cairo helpful. Cairo is a magical destination steeped in history and culture that is worth adding to your bucketlist.
If you have questions about visiting Cairo please leave them in the comments below or message me directly on Instagram @alessia.ramponi.
You can also check out all our Middle East guides for more travel inspiration!
We hope that this article has inspired you to visit Cairo! If you have questions about Cairo or tips to share with our readers please leave these in the comments below.
Want to share your travel tips by writing for We Are Travel Girls? Visit our Contribute Page to submit your article.
Read More About Egypt
- Is Solo Female Travel Safe In Cairo?
- 8 Reasons Why You Should Visit Egypt
- How To See The Highlights Of Egypt In Two Days
We Are Travel Girls Ambassador Alessia Ramponi
Connect with Alessia Website | Instagram | Twitter
Pin For Later
This website is a free resource, but we use affiliate links in our articles and may earn a fee when you book from this page. Please see our Disclosures for more information.
Platinum By Trans India says
This is amazing, and Giza Pyramids is seven wonders of the world.
Thanks for sharing this amazing guide to exploring Cairo, Egypt.
Catherine says
Heading to Cairo this week so this guide has come just in time – thank for for taking the time to share of your invaluable knowledge. I didn’t know it was possible, but I am now even more excited to explore this city.
We Are Travel Girls says
Hi Catherine! Glad you found this article helpful and inspiring! Enjoy your trip! Cheers, Vanessa Rivers – Co-Founder, We Are Travel Girls