Discover the hidden treasures of Egypt’s capital and find out everything you need to do in Cairo for a memorable journey!
Text: Have you booked your flights to explore the capital of Egypt? It’s the perfect moment to explore the attractions in Cairo with our recommendations on the top places to visit. To fully experience the city, we recommend staying for three to four days to immerse yourself in the destination’s vibes and see the most important sights. If you have the flexibility to stay longer – five days, a week, or more – you’ll have the chance to explore even more attractions.
Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the bustling activities of the Arab culture, experience the warm hospitality of the locals, or delve into the captivating history of the city, it is important to plan your itinerary carefully to fully appreciate all that this iconic culture has to offer. To help you make the most of your visit, we have put together a special guide to the capital city.
We have organized all the details on activities in Cairo, along with essential tips for travelers, including transportation choices, top restaurant recommendations, and accommodation options. Take a look!
In this article, you will find:
- Key attractions in Cairo
- Museums located in Cairo
- What activities are available in Cairo at no cost?
- What activities can children participate in while in Cairo?
- Text: What activities can be enjoyed in Cairo during the evening?
- What activities are available in Cairo when it’s raining?
- Dining establishments in the city of Cairo
- How can I travel from one place to another?
- Text: What are the accommodation options in Cairo?
- View additional advice from Egypt.
- Commonly Asked Questions
Key attractions in Cairo
We have curated a collection of the most amazing landmarks in Cairo, featuring a variety of attractions such as mosques and pyramids that appeal to audiences of all ages, from kids to adults.
- Text: The Great Pyramids of Giza
- Market of Khan El Khalili
- Museum of Egypt
- Egypt’s impressive museum
- Cairo Tower Text
- Cruise along the Nile River on a boat.
- Coptic Cairo
- Tahrir Square – A Description
- Belly dancing
- Text: The Mosque made of alabaster
- Saqqara is the subject of the text.
- The Mosque of Sultan Hassan
Please see the information provided below for details about each.
Text:1 – Giza’s Pyramids
The Giza Pyramid complex, one of the remaining seven wonders of the ancient world, is a remarkable and must-see attraction that is still fully preserved. Situated in the outskirts of Cairo, approximately 20 km away from the city center, you can easily access the pyramids by taxi or Uber. Alternatively, booking a guided tour is a great way to delve into the rich history of the area.
It is truly captivating to consider the construction of the pyramids by ancient civilizations without the modern technology we have today. Even more astonishing is the fact that these structures have stood the test of time, remaining intact for nearly 5,000 years. To enhance your experience, you can make your visit even more memorable by enjoying a camel ride through the complex.
Ticket prices differ depending on the attraction you wish to visit. Some tickets include access to the pyramids of Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinos, as well as the Sphinx. Specific tickets are required to enter the pyramids themselves. While exploring all the sites may satisfy intense curiosity, a single visit is sufficient to grasp the concept and explore the monument’s interior.
You can buy tickets in person, but we recommend making a reservation ahead of time using online platforms like Civitatis or GetYourGuide. Check out some activities to do in Cairo at the Giza pyramids.
- Exclusive tour of the Pyramids and Great Sphinx including a camel ride.
- Half-day excursion to the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
- Exploring the pyramids of Giza, Memphis, and Saqqara on a tour.
Paraphrased: Article number 2 discusses Khan Market El Khalili.
There is a lot to discover at the largest market in Cairo that spending more than a day is essential to fully explore the many shops offering everything from gold to kitchen spices. Moreover, Khan El Khalili Market is the ideal spot for purchasing souvenirs, decorations, and other mementos.
Text: Be wise about the prices and aim for success! Local merchants are eager to make deals with you and encourage you to make purchases from them, as they are aware that they could lose customers to neighboring stores. Pay attention to the quality of the items available, as you may come across anything from low-quality products to high-end luxury items.
A useful suggestion for finishing the tour is to dine in the area. We recommend trying the shawarma, a sandwich made with sheep meat, or for vegetarians, a tasty falafel is a good choice.
- Reserve a personal tour at the Khan El Khalili market.
Egyptian Museum – Text 3
The Egyptian Museum, also called the Cairo museum, houses a remarkable assortment of artifacts from the history of Egypt and the ancient world, including the renowned treasures of Tutankhamun displayed on the first level. Due to the vast number of pieces, it can be challenging to grasp the chronology and layout, making it advisable to consider utilizing a guided tour service for a better experience.
It should be noted that the country constructed the Great Museum of Egypt to accommodate the collections of the Egyptian Museum and showcase impressive sculptures. The aim was to establish it as one of the top three largest museums globally, directly competing with the Louvre and the British Museum. Nevertheless, due to construction delays, the new museum is only partially open, with many artifacts still housed in the ancient Egyptian Museum.
The Egyptian Museum is situated in Midan Tahrir Square and is open daily from 9am to 5pm. It is recommended to allocate at least 3 hours to fully explore the museum. Admission prices are around $11 for adults and $6 for students. Tickets can be bought on location or reserved in advance for a guided tour.
- Reserve a guided tour of the Egyptian Museum.
Text:4 – Impressive Egyptian Museum
The vast collection at The Great Museum of Egypt contains artifacts that showcase the history of Egypt, including the Egyptian Museum which features over 15,000 items related to the life, culture, and religion of the Egyptian people. Special areas like the library and the children’s museum have been accessible to the public since 2023, but visits are currently limited and must be scheduled through the official website.
The museum is not yet fully open because of construction delays, despite having already invested over $1 billion with assistance from Japan. The site is large and showcases famous sculptures. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a statue of Pharaoh Ramses II, weighing 83 tons and dating back over 3,000 years. The museum also features galleries with virtual reality, a restoration laboratory, and a variety of artifacts such as tombstones, sarcophagi, statues, and an obelisk. It is expected that after the grand opening, the museum will display over 100,000 objects.
If you’re interested in delving into the country’s history, we recommend checking out both the Egyptian Museum and the Great Museum of Egypt, as they each have a wealth of interesting artifacts. The Egyptian Museum is open continuously, while the completion date for the Great Museum of Egypt is currently uncertain.
The Grand Museum of Egypt is open daily from 8:30 am to 7:00 pm, except on Wednesdays and Saturdays when it closes at 10:00 pm. Situated close to the Pyramids of Giza, it is just a 10-minute drive away and provides a stunning view of the pyramids. Make sure to plan your visit and verify the prices on the museum’s official website.
Paraphrased: Article 5 discusses the Cairo Tower.
The Cairo Tower, located in the Zamalek district in Cairo, offers a fantastic vantage point for tourists to enjoy a sweeping view of the city from its 187-meter height. We suggest visiting in the late afternoon or early evening to appreciate the city’s illuminated beauty and to indulge in a delicious dinner at the tower’s top restaurant. Both daytime and nighttime visits are worthwhile, but the twilight hours are particularly special.
The average entrance fee is $1.50. The Tower is open from 8:00 to midnight in winter and from 9:00 to 1:00 in summer. Tickets can be bought in person or you can arrange a private tour. It is important to note that the rotating restaurant located at the top of the tower is separate and reasonably priced. A tour is a great activity to do in Cairo with older children who can have fun and enjoy the height.
- Obtain a ticket for the Cairo Tower and explore the area.
Text 6 – Excursion on the Nile River by boat
The Nile River played a crucial role in the development of ancient civilizations in Egypt, and remains vital to the city of Cairo. Besides its undeniable significance, the Nile is also known for its breathtaking beauty as it flows across vast stretches of land.
There are many different ways to explore the Nile River, ranging from multi-day cruises to other cities like Luxor and Aswan, to shorter boat rides with the option of meals. This unique experience offers a different perspective of the city from the water.
We suggest reserving a cruise that offers entertainment, ideal for admiring the scenery while enjoying a delicious meal. Alternatively, for a more budget-friendly option, you can opt for Falakas, small boats docked along the riverbank, where you can purchase a ride for a specific duration.
View some excursions on the Nile River.
- Evening Boat Trip on the Nile River
- Evening boat trip on the Nile River with live performances.
- Exclusive vacation on the Nile River with a meal included.
- Dinner and Show on a Nile River Cruise
7 – The Coptic Quarter in Cairo
The Coptic neighborhood is situated in the historic area of Cairo, east of the Nile River, and is known as the Catholic hub of the city, housing a majority of its followers. Despite being mainly Islamic, including this district in your Cairo itinerary is worthwhile as it offers a unique cultural influence distinct from the rest of the city.
When exploring the area, make sure to visit the Suspensa Church and the Church of St. George, two significant attractions in the region. Interestingly, some people think that the Holy Family (Mary, Joseph, and Jesus) traveled through Coptic during their journey to Egypt.
Paraphrased: The eighth text discusses the events that took place in Tahrir Square.
Situated at the heart of Cairo and constructed around 1860, Tahrir Square is the biggest public square in the city. Besides being a significant tourist attraction, it became even more significant in Egypt’s history in 1952, serving as the backdrop for the revolution that turned the country into a republic. The square gained further prominence in 2011 during the Arab Spring demonstrations.
The location is appealing for individuals looking to fully experience all that Cairo has to offer, especially if you book a food tour to learn more about the local cuisine. 😉
Paraphrased: Chapter 9 – Belly Dance
In Arabic society, belly dancing holds great importance. Both women and men excel in this form of dance, with men also enjoying dancing and being familiar with the moves. Belly dance performances are frequently seen in high-end hotels, on cruises along the Nile, and even at certain restaurants like Fayruz Lebanese Restaurant.
- Reserve a dinner cruise on the Nile with a belly dancing performance.
Paraphrased: The Mosque made of alabaster
The Alabaster Mosque is a grand architectural marvel. Situated in the Saladin Citadel, this monument, envisioned by Muhammad Ali Pasha, the former governor of the Ottoman Empire, took nearly three decades to complete.
To access the mosque, visitors must wear the provided special robes as a sign of respect. The mosque is open from 9am to 5pm in the summer and from 9am to 4pm in the winter. Tickets, priced at approximately $14 for adults and $7 for students, can only be bought in person.
Paraphrase: “Saqqara” is the title of the 11th text.
There are numerous pyramids at the Saqqara complex, situated south of Cairo. The Step Pyramid of Djoser is one of the most significant structures in Ancient Egypt. Despite not being the most famous, it holds special importance as it was the first pyramid built and served as the inspiration for all others. Standing at 60 meters tall, this pyramid was constructed by Pharaoh Djoser and his workers around 2630 BC.
The price to enter the pyramids is around $9 for adults and $5 for students, with admission also granting access to the Imhotep Museum. Visitors have the option to purchase tickets in person or arrange a private tour in advance.
- Reserve a personal tour to explore the pyramids of Giza, Memphis, and Saqqara.
12 – Mosque of Sultan Hassan
One of the standout Islamic attractions to include in your Cairo itinerary is the Sultan Hassan Mosque. Constructed in the 14th century under the rule of a lavish sultan, this mosque showcases Mamluk architectural style. Renowned as one of the world’s largest mosques, it spans an impressive 8,000 square meters, boasting intricate details and opulent beauty.
For those planning to visit, please note that there is an entrance fee of approximately $6 for adults and $3 for students at the mosque. The site is open daily from 9am to 6pm.
Explore additional tours in Cairo to discover essential sights.
Cairo’s museums
Egypt is like an outdoor museum with fascinating history and attractions at every turn. As you explore Cairo, you’ll come across museums that provide insight into the city and country’s past. To assist you, we’ve listed some of the most popular museums in the area. Be sure to include at least one in your travel plans.
- Museum of Egypt
- The Museum of Prince Muhammad Ali’s Palace
- Gayer Anderson Museum – a museum named after Gayer Anderson
- Coptic Museum – Rewording the text “Coptic Museum”.
- Islamic Art Museum
Explore additional tours available in Cairo to discover essential sights.
What activities can be enjoyed in Cairo without spending any money?
While many attractions in Cairo require payment, there are notable landmarks like the Al-Azhar Mosque and the Cave Church that can be visited for free. To cut costs on tours, consider visiting these recommended attractions.
- Market known as Khan El Khalili
- Coptic Cairo
- Church located in a cave
- The Church of the Virgin Mary, also known as the Hanging Church.
- Text: The Al-Azhar Mosque
Explore additional tours in Cairo to see a script that is essential to visit.
Suggestions for activities to enjoy in Cairo with kids.
You are misleading those who believe that visiting Egypt with children is impossible. We recommend traveling with children who are seven years old or older, as some activities may not be as enjoyable for younger children. Make sure to incorporate at least one shopping experience, such as a visit to the Mall of Egypt, during your trip. And don’t forget to explore the majestic pyramids of Giza, a must-see attraction that captivates everyone.
Discover the top choices for family-friendly activities in Cairo.
- Evening Boat Trip on the Nile River
- Market of Khan El Khalili
- Text: Giza’s Pyramids
- Egypt’s shopping mall called Mall of Egypt.
- Festival at the Cairo City Mall
Explore additional tours available in Cairo to discover essential attractions.
What activities can be done in Cairo during the evening?
Arabs tend to sleep in and wake up early, but there is plenty of nighttime entertainment available. To make the most of your evening, we recommend exploring Khan El Khalili market, going on a Nile River cruise with entertainment, or enjoying a Dervish show during dinner.
Explore some recommendations for evening activities in Cairo.
- Market of Khan El Khalili
- Cruise along the Nile River with onboard entertainment.
- Cairo Tower – text to be paraphrased
- Dinner and a nighttime performance at the Giza pyramids.
- “Dervishes perform during dinner.”
Explore additional tours in Cairo to discover an essential itinerary.
What activities can be done in Cairo when it’s raining?
In Cairo, rain is infrequent but can happen from November to May. However, you can still enjoy your time in the city even on rainy days. We recommend visiting indoor attractions like the Egyptian Museum and the Alabaster Mosque during these times. Here are some top options for things to do in Cairo when it rains.
- The Museum of Egypt
- Egypt’s shopping center known as Mall of Egypt
- Cairo City Mall Festival can be rephrased as “Festival at Cairo City Mall”.
- Coptic Museum – A museum dedicated to Coptic art and artifacts.
- Text: Mosque made of alabaster
Explore additional tours in Cairo to experience a script that cannot be missed.
Eating establishments in the city of Cairo
In Cairo, you can sample a variety of dishes that represent the local culture. Two well-known options include Falafel, a crispy fried dish made from chickpeas or beans, and Karkadeh, a cool and refreshing hibiscus tea.
There are various ways to sample Egyptian food. You can opt for a restaurant like Al Khal Egyptian or explore markets like the Khan El Khalili market, where you’ll find stalls selling traditional dishes. It’s important to mention that locals typically have a substantial lunch and a lighter dinner.
For a high-quality dinner experience, we recommend visiting the Saigon Restaurant & Lounge. For a more budget-friendly meal, consider trying Koshary Abou Tarek. Additionally, we recommend including a boat trip along the Nile River in your itinerary, as many of these tours offer entertainment shows.
Here are the restaurants that received the most reviews from travelers on TripAdvisor.
- Egyptian Restaurant called Al Khal
- Saigon Restaurant & Lounge
- The text refers to a dish called Koshary from a restaurant named Abou Tarek.
- Café Esplanade Restaurant
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How can I travel from place to place?
The traffic situation in Cairo is extremely disorderly, with a lack of law enforcement or organization apparent. This disorder extends to public transportation as well, except for the metro which remains relatively calmer.
It is a frequent sight to observe vans moving around the city, where passengers pay and hop on at their preferred spot. In fact, some people even stand by the bus door, ready to jump off at the most convenient location while the vehicle is still in motion – it’s quite unusual!
One option is to opt for a taxi or Uber for a more peaceful journey. It is advisable to negotiate the fare with the taxi driver before getting in and, if feasible, travel with a companion.
Text: What are the best accommodation options in Cairo?
Text: Lacking the time to search for hotels in Cairo? To streamline your search, we’ve compiled a list of top-rated accommodations in different categories. Explore the options to find what suits you best.
| Cheaper: Pyramids Planet Hotel | Note: 9.0 | US$ 32 / day |
| All inclusive: Gold Island Resort | Note: 9.3 | $45 / day |
| Honeymoon: Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir | Note: 9.3 | US$ 190 / day |
| Families: Eileen Hotel Cairo | Note: 8.5 | $50 / day |
| Airbnb: Boutique Residence Layal-Lemon Spaces Downtown | Note: 9.2 | US$ 110 per day |
| Zamalek: Hilton Cairo Zamalek Residences | Note: 8.2 | $153 / day |
| Copitc: Arabelite | Note: 9.9 | $454 / day |
Discover all lodging options in Cairo at the most competitive rates.
View additional advice from Egypt.
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Commonly Asked Questions
Do you still have any inquiries about things to do in Cairo? If so, explore additional detailed questions and answers on the topic.
If you’re looking to explore Cairo with more detailed tours, it is recommended to visit the Civitatis and GetYourGuide websites, check out the tour options, and make your booking in advance of your trip.
On the initial day of your trip, we recommend visiting the Egyptian Museum and taking time to discover the Khan El Khalili market.
On day one, you can tour the Egyptian Museum and wander through the Khan El Khalili market. The following day, you can marvel at the impressive Giza pyramids.
Day one will be spent visiting the Egyptian Museum and exploring the Khan El Khalili Market. On the second day, there are plans to visit Saqqara.
Day 1 includes a visit to the Egyptian Museum and Khan El Khalili Market, Day 2 is dedicated to exploring Saqqara, and on Day 3 you can enjoy the Cairo Tower and a boat ride on the Nile River.
Day 1: Visit the Egyptian Museum and Khan El Khalili Market; Day 2: Explore Saqqara; Day 3: Cairo Tower and a boat trip on the Nile River; Day 4: Discover Cairo’s Coptic area and the Alabaster Mosque on the 5th day.
Day 1: Visit the Egyptian Museum and Khan El Khalili market. Day 2: Explore Saqqara. Day 3: Visit Cairo Tower and enjoy a boat ride on the Nile River. Day 4: Discover Cairo’s Coptic area and the Alabaster Mosque. Day 5: Return to Khan El Khalili market and visit Sultan Hassan Mosque.
Day 1: Visit the Egyptian Museum and explore the Khan El Khalili market. Day 2: Discover Saqqara. Day 3: Enjoy Cairo Tower and take a boat ride on the Nile River. Day 4: Explore Cairo Copta and the Alabaster Mosque. Day 5: Return to Khan El Khalili market and visit the Sultan Hassan Mosque. Day 6: Spend time at the Mall of Egypt and Cairo Festival City Mall on the 7th day.
During the winter, temperatures are ideal for walking around the sights, ranging from 8°C to 24°C. During this time, we recommend visiting the Giza pyramids, Saqqara, and Khan El Khalili market.
In Cairo, summer is considered the off-peak season due to temperatures soaring up to 40°C. If you are thinking of visiting during this time, we recommend exploring the city’s culinary scene, visiting the Cairo Tower, and enjoying a boat ride on the Nile River.
When in central Cairo, make sure to explore the Khan El Khalili market, the Egyptian Museum, and the Muhammad Ali Mosque.
Apart from seeing the pyramids, you can explore the Khan El Khalili market, enjoy the Cairo tower’s panoramic view, go on a boat trip along the Nile River, and check out renowned mosques like the Sultan Hassan Mosque.
Some of the key attractions include the Giza pyramids, Khan El Khalili market, the Egyptian Museum, and Saqqara.
Here are some activities to consider while in Egypt: visiting the pyramids of Giza, exploring the market of Khan El Khalili, touring the Valley of Kings, visiting the Temple of Karnak, and exploring the Egyptian Museum. Be sure to take a look at our comprehensive Egypt travel guide for more information.
Luxor, located a 2-hour plane ride away from Cairo, offers visitors a variety of attractions to enjoy. Key points of interest include the Valley of the Kings, hot air balloon rides, and the Temple of Karnak. Explore further tour options available in Luxor.
