Best Time to Visit
October to April
Currency
Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Language
Arabic
Timezone
EET (UTC+2)
Discover Cairo
Cairo isn't just a city; it's a living, breathing timeline of human civilization. Stand in the shadow of the Pyramids of Giza at sunrise, feeling the same awe that has gripped travelers for millennia, then descend into the labyrinthine alleys of Khan el-Khalili to haggle for brass lanterns and sip mint tea amidst the cacophony of coppersmiths. The Nile, the city's lifeblood, offers serene felucca rides at dusk, a stark contrast to the exhilarating chaos of Tahrir Square, while the scent of shisha and roasting lamb fills the air in the historic cafes of Islamic Cairo.
This is a city of profound layers. Beneath the modern traffic and towering apartment blocks lies a medieval core of mosques and madrasas, like the stunning Sultan Hassan Mosque. The Grand Egyptian Museum, a new marvel at the Giza Plateau, is set to redefine how we encounter ancient artifacts. Cairo demands engagement—be prepared for relentless energy, overwhelming hospitality, and moments of pure, timeless wonder that connect you directly to the pharaohs, caliphs, and merchants who shaped history here.
Why Visit Cairo?
Walk Among Ancient Wonders: Stand before the only surviving Ancient Wonder, the Pyramids of Giza, and the enigmatic Sphinx. Explore the vast Saqqara necropolis to see the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the world's oldest major stone structure.
Immerse in Islamic History: Lose yourself in the UNESCO-listed Islamic Cairo, home to architectural masterpieces like the Al-Azhar Mosque, the Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan, and the bustling street of Al-Muizz li-Din Allah.
Experience Legendary Markets: Dive into the sensory overload of Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, a 14th-century market where you can bargain for spices, perfumes, jewelry, and lanterns, and visit the historic El Fishawi Café.
Cruise the Timeless Nile: Sail on a traditional wooden felucca at sunset for peaceful views of the city skyline, or take a dinner cruise with live music for a classic Cairo experience on the world's longest river.
Discover Pharaonic Treasures: Explore the immense collection of the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, including the golden mask of Tutankhamun, before the new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) becomes the premier showcase.
Taste an Ancient Culinary Tradition: Feast on koshary (a mix of pasta, rice, lentils, and chickpeas), savory ful medames, succulent grilled kofta, and sweet, flaky baklava in local eateries and upscale restaurants alike.
Cairo is Known For
Ready to explore Cairo?
Cairo Neighborhoods
Downtown Cairo (Khedivial Cairo)
The historic city center built in the 19th century, characterized by grand European-style architecture, wide boulevards, and a vibrant, intellectual atmosphere. It's the bustling heart of modern Cairo, centered around Tahrir Square.
Highlights:
Best for:
Islamic Cairo
The medieval core of the city, a UNESCO World Heritage site dense with historic mosques, madrasas, caravanserais, and ancient gates. The atmosphere is deeply traditional, with narrow alleyways and a palpable sense of history.
Highlights:
Best for:
Giza
Famous for the Giza Plateau, this area on the city's western edge is where the ancient world collides with urban sprawl. It's less about neighborhood charm and more about accessing the iconic pyramids and the new museum complex.
Highlights:
Best for:
Zamalek
An affluent, leafy island district in the middle of the Nile. Known for its quiet, tree-lined streets, art galleries, upscale restaurants, and diplomatic residences. It offers a peaceful, cosmopolitan retreat from the city's chaos.
Highlights:
Best for:
Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Visit the Pyramids of Giza as soon as they open (8 AM) to avoid the worst crowds and heat, and enter the Great Pyramid early as tickets are limited.
- •For the best panoramic view of Cairo and the pyramids, head to the rooftop of the historic Hotel Baron in Heliopolis or a Nile-view restaurant in Zamalek at sunset.
- •Carry small change (5, 10, 20 EGP notes) for tipping (baksheesh). It's customary for small services like someone guiding you, using a restroom, or a waiter refilling your water.
- •Learn a few Arabic phrases. A simple 'shukran' (thank you) and 'la shukran' (no thank you) go a long way in markets and with taxi drivers.
- •Dress conservatively, especially when visiting mosques (shoulders and knees covered). Women should carry a scarf to cover their hair inside religious sites.
- •Use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem instead of hailing regular taxis. They are safer, air-conditioned, and the price is fixed, avoiding negotiation hassles.
- •Eat like a local: seek out small, busy restaurants for koshary (like Koshary Abou Tarek) or ful and taameya (falafel) for an authentic and incredibly cheap meal.
- •Haggle in the bazaars, but do it with a smile. Start at about 50% of the initial asking price and be prepared to walk away if the price isn't right.
- •Avoid drinking tap water. Stick to bottled water, even for brushing your teeth, and be cautious with fresh salads and unpeeled fruit from street vendors.
- •Take a felucca ride on the Nile from the dock in front of the Four Seasons Hotel in Garden City or from the Maadi Corniche for a more local experience.
Cairo Food Scene
Cairo's food is a hearty, flavorful reflection of its history, blending Pharaonic, Levantine, and Mediterranean influences. Dining is a social event, from shared mezze platters in upscale restaurants to quick, delicious bites from street carts. The city is famous for its legumes, grilled meats, and sweet pastries.
Must-Try Dishes
Street Food & Quick Eats
- • Koshary Abou Tarek (Downtown)
- • Ful & Taameya from a local cart
- • Hawawshi (spiced meat in bread)
Look for places with a high turnover and lots of locals. Don't be shy to point at what you want.
Traditional Egyptian
- • Felfela (multiple locations)
- • Abou El Sid (Zamalek)
- • Kebabgy (Giza, for grilled meats)
Order a selection of mezze (appetizers) to share, like tahini, baba ghanoush, and stuffed vine leaves.
Nile View & Upscale
- • Sequoia (Zamalek)
- • The Blue Restaurant & Grill (Giza)
- • Naguib Mahfouz Cafe (Khan el-Khalili)
Book a table for sunset to enjoy the view. These places are perfect for a more relaxed, scenic meal.
Sweet Treats & Cafes
- • El Abd Patisserie (for baklava)
- • Umm Ali dessert at any restaurant
- • Mint tea at El Fishawi Café
Egyptian desserts are very sweet. Pair them with strong, unsweetened mint tea or Turkish coffee.
Popular With
Best Time to Visit Cairo
Spring
Spring (March to May) brings warm, pleasant days and cooler evenings. It's an excellent time for sightseeing before the intense summer heat arrives.
Pros:
- + Ideal temperatures for pyramid visits
- + Fewer crowds than peak winter
- + Comfortable for walking tours
Cons:
- - Occasional sandstorms (khamsin) can occur
- - Prices start to rise towards Easter
Summer
Summer (June to August) is extremely hot and dry, with intense sun and temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). Sightseeing requires careful planning.
Pros:
- + Lowest hotel rates and tourist crowds
- + Long daylight hours
- + Indoor museums are air-conditioned
Cons:
- - Extreme heat can be exhausting
- - Not ideal for prolonged outdoor activities like the pyramids
- - High sun exposure risk
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) sees the heat gradually subside. October and November are particularly pleasant, marking the start of the high season.
Pros:
- + Weather becomes perfect for all activities
- + Nile cruises are especially enjoyable
- + Clear skies for photography
Cons:
- - Tourist numbers increase significantly
- - Peak season prices begin
Winter
Winter (December to February) is Cairo's mild and sunny high season. Days are warm and nights can be cool, requiring a light jacket.
Pros:
- + Most comfortable climate for exploration
- + Vibrant atmosphere with many tourists
- + Ideal for desert tours
Cons:
- - Highest prices for flights and hotels
- - Major sites like the pyramids can be very crowded
- - Some rain is possible
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Day Trips from Cairo
Memphis and Saqqara
About 1 hour by car/taxi from central Cairo
Explore the ancient capital of Memphis and the vast Saqqara necropolis, home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser—the world's oldest pyramid—and numerous other tombs and mastabas.
Alexandria
2.5 - 3 hours by train or private car
Discover Egypt's Mediterranean jewel, founded by Alexander the Great. This historic port city offers a different, more relaxed vibe with Greco-Roman ruins and a scenic corniche.
Faiyum Oasis
1.5 - 2 hours by car from Cairo
A lush depression fed by the Nile, Faiyum is known for its waterfalls, lakes, and unique archaeological sites, including the world's oldest paved road and ancient pyramids.
Cairo Budget Guide
Cairo can be a very affordable destination, especially for budget travelers. Costs are highly dependent on your choice of accommodation, dining, and transportation. Entrance fees to major sites are the most significant fixed expense.
Budget
€30-50 or $35-55 for budget travelers (hostels, street food, public transport)
per day
Mid-Range
€80-150 or $90-165 for mid-range (3-4 star hotels, mix of local & restaurant meals, taxis/Uber)
per day
Luxury
€250+ or $275+ for luxury (5-star hotels, fine dining, private drivers, guided tours)
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Major sites like the Pyramids and Egyptian Museum have separate, often cash-only, ticket fees for entry into specific tombs or chambers.
- •Carry Egyptian Pounds (EGP). While some hotels accept cards, smaller shops, taxis, and street vendors are cash-only.
- •Bargaining is expected in markets (souks) but not in fixed-price shops or malls. Always negotiate with a friendly attitude.
- •Tipping (baksheesh) is a deeply ingrained custom. Budget small amounts (5-20 EGP) for porters, waitstaff, and restroom attendants.
- •Consider the Cairo Pass if planning to visit many antiquities sites; it can offer savings but must be purchased in advance.
Cairo Hidden Gems
The Hanging Church (Al-Muallaqa)
One of Cairo's oldest and most famous Coptic Christian churches, built atop the gatehouse of a Roman fortress in Old Cairo (Coptic Cairo).
Its beautiful wooden roof (shaped like Noah's Ark), ancient icons, and serene atmosphere offer a peaceful contrast to the city's Islamic and Pharaonic highlights.
Al-Azhar Park
A stunning 74-acre green space built on a historic rubbish dump, offering panoramic views of Islamic Cairo and the Citadel.
It's a beautifully landscaped oasis of calm with fountains, restaurants, and the best vantage point for photos of the Muhammad Ali Mosque at sunset.
Manial Palace Museum
A unique royal estate on Rhoda Island built by Prince Mohammed Ali Tewfik in the early 20th century, blending Ottoman, Persian, Andalusian, and European styles.
Its eclectic architecture, lush botanical gardens, and opulent interiors feel like a secret world, far from the typical tourist trail.
Cairo's City of the Dead (Northern Cemetery)
A vast Islamic necropolis where Mamluk sultans and emirs are buried in monumental, mausoleum complexes.
It's a living neighborhood where people reside among the tombs, offering a fascinating, slightly surreal glimpse into Cairo's adaptation and history.
Moez Street (Al-Muizz li-Din Allah) at Night
The main thoroughfare of Islamic Cairo, beautifully illuminated after dark, when the crowds thin and the medieval architecture is dramatically lit.
The evening atmosphere is magical and less hectic. You can admire the intricate facades of mosques and madrasas in peace, and the street vendors are more relaxed.
Cairo Culture & Customs
Cairo's culture is a warm, chaotic, and deeply layered blend of Pharaonic history, Islamic faith, and modern Arab identity. Family and hospitality are paramount; expect generous offers of tea and help. The pace is fast, the noise constant, and the interactions are direct but generally good-natured.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Greet people with 'As-salamu alaykum' (peace be upon you). Handshakes are common, but wait for a woman to extend her hand first.
- •Use your right hand for eating, greeting, and exchanging money, as the left is considered unclean.
- •Dress modestly to respect local sensibilities. This is especially important when visiting mosques or religious sites.
- •When invited to a home, it's polite to bring a small gift like sweets or pastries. Always remove your shoes before entering.
- •Avoid public displays of affection. Couples should refrain from kissing or hugging in public areas.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Cairo
Is Cairo safe for tourists?
Cairo is generally safe for tourists, with a strong police and tourist police presence at major sites. Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so vigilance is advised. Scams targeting tourists (like overcharging) are more common than violent crime.
Do I need a visa to visit Egypt?
Most nationalities require a visa to enter Egypt. Many travelers can obtain a visa on arrival at Cairo International Airport (cost is $25 USD, payable in cash). It's best to check the latest requirements with your local Egyptian embassy before traveling.
Can I go inside the Great Pyramid?
Yes, but access is limited. A separate, more expensive ticket (around 440 EGP) is required to enter the Great Pyramid of Khufu. Only a limited number are sold each day, so go early. Be prepared for a steep, narrow climb in a confined space.
What is the best way to see the Pyramids?
Hire a guide or join a tour for historical context. Arrive at opening time (8 AM) to beat crowds and heat. Tickets are purchased at the main entrance. Consider a camel or horse ride in the desert for panoramic photos, but negotiate the price and route firmly beforehand.
Is it okay to drink the tap water?
No, it is not recommended for visitors to drink tap water in Cairo. Stick to bottled water, which is inexpensive and widely available. Use bottled water for brushing your teeth and be cautious with ice in drinks from less reputable establishments.
How should I dress in Cairo?
Dress modestly to respect local culture and for comfort. For both men and women, clothing that covers shoulders and knees is advisable. Women should carry a scarf to cover their hair when entering mosques. Light, breathable fabrics are best due to the heat.
What's the best way to get around the city?
For most tourists, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are the most convenient and hassle-free option. The metro is excellent for avoiding traffic on north-south routes. For short distances in walkable areas like Downtown, walking is fine, but be very careful crossing streets.
When will the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) open?
The Grand Egyptian Museum at the Giza Plateau has been partially opened for limited tours and special events. Its full public opening has been delayed multiple times. Check official sources for the latest status before your trip, as it will eventually house the Tutankhamun collection.
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