April 23, 2025: Cairo is a city of immense contrasts and timeless appeal. Home to ancient wonders like the Pyramids of Giza and vibrant modern life along the Nile, Egypt’s capital offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. This guide explores top attractions, essential tips, and a full 3-day itinerary to help you make the most of your Cairo adventure.
Top Tourist Attractions in Cairo
1. The Pyramids of Giza & The Sphinx
These 4,500-year-old wonders remain Cairo’s crown jewel. Don’t miss:
The Great Pyramid of Khufu
The Sphinx, guarding the desert sands
Optional camel rides and panoramic desert views
2. The Egyptian Museum
Located in Tahrir Square, the museum houses thousands of artifacts, including:
Tutankhamun’s treasures
Royal mummies and colossal statues
3. Khan El Khalili Bazaar
A labyrinthine market packed with spices, antiques, jewelry, and souvenirs. Haggle with shopkeepers and sip mint tea in a historic café.
4. Islamic Cairo
Wander through ancient mosques and Islamic schools:
Al-Azhar Mosque
Sultan Hassan Mosque
Al-Muizz Street — a walking museum of Islamic architecture
5. Coptic Cairo
Discover Egypt’s Christian roots through:
The Hanging Church
Coptic Museum
Saint Sergius Church
6. Nile River Cruises
Take a felucca or a dinner cruise for stunning city views and live entertainment.
Best Time to Visit Cairo, Egypt
The most comfortable time to visit Cairo is between October and April. During these months:
Daytime temperatures are mild (18–28°C).
Ideal conditions for sightseeing and desert trips.
Fewer tourists than summer, with better air quality.
Avoid peak summer months (June–August) due to high heat and dust.
What to Wear in Cairo as a Tourist
Modest clothing is recommended. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting mosques or local neighborhoods.
Lightweight, breathable fabrics are best for the heat.
Bring a scarf or shawl for women when visiting religious sites.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must for uneven streets and archaeological sites.
Things to Do in Cairo at Night
Take a Nile dinner cruise with live music and belly dancing.
Explore the Zamalek district for cafes, art galleries, and rooftop lounges.
Visit the Sound & Light Show at the Pyramids of Giza.
Night shopping in Khan El Khalili — less crowded and beautifully lit.
Local food tasting tours that dive into Cairo’s vibrant street food scene.
How to Get Around Cairo
Uber and Careem: Safe, affordable, and easy to use.
Cairo Metro: Fast and cheap, especially for visiting Islamic and downtown Cairo.
Taxis: Use metered taxis or negotiate before the ride.
Walking: Ideal in areas like Zamalek and Old Cairo but challenging elsewhere due to traffic.
Is Cairo Safe for Tourists?
Yes, Cairo is generally safe for tourists with standard precautions:
Stick to known tourist areas and avoid isolated spots at night.
Be cautious of pickpockets in busy markets.
Respect local customs, especially during Ramadan.
Women travelers may get extra attention—dressing modestly and staying in groups helps.
Avoid political demonstrations and monitor local news.
Cairo Itinerary for 3 Days
Day 1: Ancient Marvels
Morning: Pyramids of Giza & the Sphinx
Afternoon: Camel ride or visit the Grand Egyptian Museum (if open)
Evening: Nile River cruise with dinner
Day 2: Historical Treasures
Morning: Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square
Afternoon: Islamic Cairo tour (Al-Azhar Mosque, Al-Muizz Street)
Evening: Shopping at Khan El Khalili, coffee at El Fishawy
Day 3: Cultural Cairo
Morning: Coptic Cairo (Hanging Church, Coptic Museum)
Afternoon: Zamalek for lunch and galleries
Evening: Sunset at Cairo Tower or rooftop dining
Local Food to Try in Cairo
Koshari – a hearty mix of rice, pasta, lentils, and spicy tomato sauce
Ful Medames – mashed fava beans, a breakfast staple
Taameya (Egyptian falafel) – made from fava beans, not chickpeas
Molokhia – a leafy green soup with garlic and coriander
Mahshi – stuffed vegetables with rice and herbs
Basbousa – sweet semolina dessert soaked in syrup
Day Trips from Cairo to the Pyramids
Saqqara & Dahshur: Home to the Step Pyramid and Bent Pyramid, both older than Giza’s pyramids.
Memphis: The ancient capital with open-air statues and ruins.
These sites are within a 45-minute drive and offer fewer crowds than Giza.
Cultural Tips for Visiting Cairo
Greeting: A simple “Salam Alaikum” goes a long way.
Tipping (baksheesh): Small tips are expected for services (5–10 EGP).
Photography: Always ask permission before photographing people or religious sites.
Ramadan Etiquette: Avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.
Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are frowned upon.
Final Thoughts
Cairo is more than just a stopover to the pyramids—it’s a living, breathing tapestry of cultures, epochs, and stories. With a bit of planning, cultural awareness, and an appetite for discovery, Cairo will leave you inspired, enlightened, and eager to return. Whether you’re navigating ancient tombs, bargaining in bazaars, or sipping mint tea under a minaret, Cairo promises a rich, unforgettable journey.
