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As with many historic countries, there are hundreds if not thousands of books on visiting Egypt, namely Cairo’s most sought after attractions. This is an attempt to write a comprehensive and easy to follow guide to visiting Cairo. Plan to spend at least 4 full days in Cairo, traffic doesn’t help – even with a jam packed schedule you’re bound to lose some daylight driving from one location to the other. We’ve listed everything in this guide by area to help you plan your vacation!

A bit about Cairo

An energetic metropolitan city- one of the largest in the world, the largest in the Middle East and the largest in Africa. With a population of close to 20 million people, you’ll get a taste of Cairo’s one of a kind traffic jams – yet it’s worth every second exploring the ins and outs. There’s a sense of love that one has for their hometown that’s relentless – but as you begin your journey you too will fall in love with this city.

Getting around can be hectic in a busy city like Cairo, but luckily with technology at our fingertips (literally) nowadays things are much easier. Uber is widely used for the app lovers out there; you can also opt to use a local transport service application called Careem – which works the same way.

Where to stay

The most prominent Cairo question is where to stay; with so much to do we tend to get lost figuring out the most central place. The first intuition is to stay to close to the airport, but on the contrary – Cairo’s International Airport is a bit out of the way (about 15 miles from city center). If you plan to do a lot of sightseeing (which you should), you’ll want to go deeper into the city!

A personal favorite is Zamalek, it’s a bit cliché but it’s incredibly safe, central to most of the nightlife scenes, most prestigious restaurants and a hub of locals and foreigners. The best hotels in Zamalek are the Hilton Residences or the famous Cairo Marriott Hotel. If you’re looking for a private airbnb, we love staying at this little gem. Read more on why we love the Marriott and its history here. If you’re looking for the best food in Zamalek, check out a full post here.

Despite these recommendations, we know there are wild folks out there who would prefer to stay near the Pyramids. The Great Pyramids are located in Al Haram neighborhood. We wouldn’t recommend staying in that general area, but if that’s your preference, here’s a stunning little spot with incredible views of the Pyramids. Keep reading for luxury lodging recommendations nearby as well. Check out this full list of the most beautiful airbnb stays in Cairo here.

The main attraction here is the Cairo Nile Tower, which is great to visit close to sunset to get a view of Cairo in daylight and a glimpse of the city lights in the evening.

One of the main roads on the outskirts of the Zamalek Island is Abu Al Feda Street– home to many restaurants along the Nile, stationary cruise ships for dining and nightlife and also a pick up point for Feluccas. A Felucca is a humble boat famous for evening Nile cruises and some of the best views.

If you’re looking to stay closer to the Pyramids, our favorite hotels are Mena House Hotel or Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel & Spa for the best views! The Pyramids are located in the city of Giza, which is on the outskirts of greater Cairo.

Another popular area, is the infamous Downtown Tahrir Square zone. Known for the monumental 2011 revolution, but also the center of the bustling city. There are plenty of hotel options, but the best views are from the international 5-star chain hotels Ritz Carlton.

Now that that’s settled, here’s everything to see while visiting Cairo. Let’s break this down by neighborhood and what you’ll be seeing in each area. If you’re looking for more off the beaten path sites, check out Cairo’s hidden gems here!

DOWNTOWN CAIRO

A central area connecting Giza and Cairo, and home to the historic Tahrir Square. Here you’ll find the Egyptian Museum where you can visit an assortment of exhibitions – but mainly get to see mummies!

Close to downtown is the Ibn Tulun Mosque. This is the oldest mosque in the city that has remained in its original structure. The mosque is quite similar to many historical structures in Cairo, but it’s attached to a one of a kind museum with preserved artifacts dating back centuries. Hence, the Gayer Anderson Museum is a must.

AL HUSSEIN

Khan Al Khalili is a bustling bazar by day or night and a must for visitors and locals alike. You’ll be greeted by Al Hussein Mosque at the entrance of the bazar and as you go further in you’ll be surprised by the many attractive structures, narrow alleys, and hundreds of shops.

Stop at any of the local restaurants and order feteer, an Egyptian staple essentially made of flake pastry and filled with both savory and sweet deliciousness. The most popular place to grab the warm dish is Egyptian Pancake House. Locals will tell you that another must visit is the El Fishway Cafe – where you can enjoy Egyptian tea and a water-pipe or shisha.

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A favorite is Bayt Al Suhaymi an Ottoman era house museum built in 1648. Another architectural beauty is the Textile Museum adjacent to the Qalawun Complex and mosque.

At the end of the Khan Khalili strip is Bab Zweila (although many don’t make it in that far). Bab means door in Arabic, and it’s essentially just that – a large gate frame highlighting another entrance into Khan Al Khalili.

THE CITADEL

Although the Citadel is really one place, there’s a ton to do around it. The Saladin Citadel and its landmark Mosque of Muhammad Ali will be the main attraction here.

The Madrassa of Sultan Hassan Mosque is massive and you can easily spend hours roaming around. The architecture is so unique – probably my favorite mosque! Right next door is El Rifai Mosque – which is just as spacious and beautiful.

OLD CAIRO

Yet another historic compound combining Islamic, Christian and Jewish histories. At the entrance, you’ll be greeted by Amr Ibn Al As Mosque and several corridors of shops and restaurants. Further down, is the Ben Ezra Synagogue, which dates back to the 9th century.

As you dive into the historic district, you’ll reach Coptic Cairo. The Christian Quarter houses the famous Hanging Church, Church of St. Gergius and St. Bacchus Church.  

GIZA

If you’re in Cairo, you’re here for the pyramids. & here we are. The Giza Pyramids are located in a large complex, which houses several pyramids including the “Great Ones” – Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. This is a great opportunity to get a horse or camel ride around the area as it can be quite a walk (especially in the heat).

From there, check out the Solar Boat Museum then head to see the Sphinx. As you wrap up your day, head over to the Mena House Hotel for some amazing panoramic views of the pyramids and great food. If you’re feeling extra hungry, try some mashawy, or charcoal grilled meats at Andrea Restaurant or have a hefty traditional lunch at Felfela… both within a walking distance of the pyramids.

If you have some free time in the evening, consider checking the sound & light show at the Pyramids. The time table is available here as they offer the show in three languages every night!

Culture & Arts

Egypt, locally known as Um Al Dunya, or the mother of the world, has a charm like no other country. Even with it’s overpopulation, loud car honks, and clouts of smog – it remains one of the most visited countries in the world for both its’ rich history and deeply rooted culture. Here are the most visited sites for Cairo’s arts scene.

Cairo Opera House –the main performing arts venue in the Egyptian capital, be sure to catch a show – ballet, symphonies, orchestras, or internationally renowned performers. Check out the full schedule here!


El Sawy Culture Wheel – a private cultural center and a platform for unique urban initiatives. Here’s a calendar of all their events.


Wekalet el Ghouri Arts Center– If you’re looking to experience a Whirling Dervish Performance (locally known as a Tannoura show) this is where you need to be! Beware that you cannot purchase tickets before hand, so plan accordingly! Typically shows run on Saturday, Monday and Wednesday and begin at 7:30 p.m!

Where & what to eat

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First off, you can download our handy dandy guide to the best traditional food spots in Cairo here.

Koushary – known as the poor man’s dish, but really a superb bowl of carbohydrates. Layers of lentils, rice, pasta, tasty tomato sauce, and fried onions, this 5-layer extravaganza in an Egyptian staple. Favorite places to grab the hefty dish? Koshary Al Tahrir, Koshary Abu Tarek and for a “fine dining” Koshary, try Zooba!

Hawashy – can it get better than a deep fried burger? Yes. Hawashy. It’s not really a burger, it’s an enclosed pita bread stuffed with ground beef & an assortment of spices (not spicy, just spices).  Our favorite place to grab hawashy? Hawashi Al Refaie conveniently located in downtown!

Foul & Falafel – a traditional Egyptian breakfast made of falafel, locally known as taameya, and foul which is a dish of refried fava beans. Popular local spots are the Gad chain (which has locations all over the country) and Felfela (another felfela, not the one by the pyramids for feteer).

Molokhia – an acquired taste, a dark leafy green thick soup base typically served with rice and fried chicken. The official name of the leaf used in this delicacy is “Corchorus olitorius,” which has the features of collard greens before it’s cooked down to this stew.  You’ll find Molokhia served in every restaurant in Egypt, but make sure to try the warm bowl at Abu El Sid for the most favored.

Feteer – remember when you were strolling through El Hussein and we said you have to try feteer at Egyptian Pancake House? Well you do! & not just that, make sure to try the flaky pastry dish as both savory and sweet. Another good spot is 3al 7aseera, which is just a beautifully decorated little hole in the wall but absolutely worth the visit!

Serving the best last – for all those with a sweet tooth! Egyptian desserts are pretty much the same as most Middle Eastern/Mediterranean sweets. You have your typical Baklawa, and Konafa. But what’s really authentic to Egypt is Um Ali, which translates to Ali’s Mother. The dish really has nothing to do with a Ali, it’s a deep-dish bread pudding made with phyllo dough, nuts & milk. Another one of a kind dessert is Bassbousa a crumbly cake made with semolina and drenched in homemade syrup! We don’t have favorite places for dessert, you’ll be able to find these in any restaurant you try in Cairo!
To discover more of Egypt, subscribe to TayaraMuse and get our latest guide of Egypt excursions – how to get there, what to do and what to see. For more Egypt posts, check out blogs here. 

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What better way to know the ins & outs of Cairo than from a local? Check out our ultimate guide to traveling to Cairo, Egypt.

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Comments:

  • Olessian

    February 12, 2019

    These photos are amazing! Keep it up!

    reply...
  • ammroh

    February 12, 2019

    This song goes perfectly with this post! https://youtu.be/u6DIbQhFrGM

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  • February 12, 2019

    Very nice. I love it.
    ________________________________

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  • Ahmad K Alhalawani

    February 14, 2019

    Great work.. love it.

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  • February 16, 2019

    Other than the pyramids I didn’t know there was so many other things to see and do. A Whirling Dervish Performance sounds interesting. I like that you included a lot of food recommendations too.

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  • February 16, 2019

    We have a 10 hour layover in Cairo coming up. We are going to see the Pyramids in Giza and then, explore the historic Islamic quarter. I am now overwhelmed by how much we are not going to see! I knew that would be the case, but reading this list of attractions, I now know that I want to see them all! Thanks for such a comprehensive list. I love the food recommendations too.

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  • Cindy J. Baker

    February 17, 2019

    I had no idea that there is so much to see in Cairo besides the pyramids. I especially love your night shot from the Cairo Nile Tower and of the mosques. It all sounds like it is worth the visit.

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  • February 17, 2019

    Love it, looks so amazing! Can’t wait to visit it one day.

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  • Lance

    February 17, 2019

    Thank you for a great guide to Cairo. There is just so much to see and do. Although you suggest four days, I could see spending so much more time. There are so many amazing museums to see. And I would love strolling around the mosques throughout the city and all the churches in Old Cairo.

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  • February 17, 2019

    Cairo sounds and looks so fascinating. It has been on my bucket list. Unfortunately, not on my husband’s!

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  • February 18, 2019

    Cairo looks like quite a big city. The place looks fascinating and very beautiful with all the old world things, museums, citadels and all. Of course, pyramids are the main attractions for visiting Cairo. I really love the night shots of Cairo and the bazar looks so colourful.

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  • Adele

    February 18, 2019

    I have been on only a very short trip to Cairo – the main visit was to the pyramids and to the eqyptian Museum – Its amazing that I missed a lot of the sights which you have highlighted in the post. Looks like Im gonna have to go again.

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  • February 18, 2019

    Thanks for this great guide, Yara! We’ve been wanting to visit Egypt for over a decade but still haven’t made it! Since we don’t like huge metropolises, we’ll try to avoid Cairo a bit, but still want to stay for a day or two. We would probably choose to stay at Le Méridien because it’s closer to the Giza Pyramids.

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  • February 18, 2019

    I never really thought about checking out downtown Cairo as I would probably go for Giza and see the ancient sights, but there looks like quite a bit to do and see in the city. Now I might add on a day or two when I do come to Egypt. Would love to check out the city now.

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  • February 18, 2019

    Wow, Cairo is just gorgeous!!! It’s a shame of the events from the past few years, but I’m sold on visiting. Your photos are wonderful, especially of Al Hussein, how beautiful is the architecture?! The Egyptian food looks delicious too, I’d probably try everything!

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  • February 19, 2019

    I live in the Middle East (the UAE) so I see a lot of similarities in terms of the architecture and also culturally I am sure. I do, however, want to visit Egypt someday and I’ve heard about the notorious traffic in Cairo. I would prefer to stay somewhere close to Giza I think, and maybe visit the old city and downtown area to explore. The Saladin Citadel looks gorgeous by the way!

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  • February 19, 2019

    It’s been a dream of mine ever since I was a little girl to visit Egypt. I am in love with their ancient history and I think mummies are so cool. I never really know what Egyptian food was but Koushary and Hawashy sound so good.

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  • February 19, 2019

    Cairo clearly offers so much; no wonder it’s one of the most visited destinations in the world! I’ve always wanted to go to see the pyramids at Giza and the great sphinx, but what I realized looking through your photos is how much I would also appreciate the ornate buildings and mosques. They are works of art in themselves. I would be hard-pressed to see everything in just one trip. And the food? Oh yeah. I’m drooling…

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  • February 20, 2019

    Good to know that there are so many things to do in Cairo aside from the pyramids 🙂 I love the structures especially at the Al Hussein. Though I wouldn’t want to miss the sound and light show at the pyramids. 🙂
    Great comprehensive guide on Cairo, BTW. Lots of information especially for first timers. 🙂

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  • February 20, 2019

    Such elegant architecture! How did you manage to get so many pictures of empty corridors and streets and squares? Will keep in mind your recommendations about Mena House Hotel and Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel & Spa for the Pyramids views.

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  • February 21, 2019

    Cairo is such a beautiful place .It has been on my bucket list as I have wanted to see the pyramids of Giza.The architecture of the Citadel looks amazing and I’m drooling thinking about all of that food especially feteer. Hope I can visit some day!

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  • February 21, 2019

    Out of your suggestions, the feluca boat ride and the visit to the bazaar are what attract me the most. One is very relaxed, while the other seems lively, even hectic. I’d love to combine the two one day.

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  • February 23, 2019

    I am dying to go to Cairo. I have thisnplanned on my vision board. Egypt will be possibly in my future but mostly for Indiana Jones type vacation. I want to explore the history and really wrap up in it.

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  • February 26, 2019

    Awesome photos! Thank you for sharing!

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  • Youssef Abdou

    March 6, 2019

    Great Job, amazing pictures, and displayed the true beauty of Egypt ! keep up the great work!

    reply...
  • Tiffany

    March 8, 2019

    The place is absolutely amazing! Thanks for sharing ♥️ ♥️ By any chance you are interested on doing collaborations, you can check out the collaborations portal and connect with amazing brands!
    Xoxo,
    Tiffany

    reply...
  • March 8, 2019

    Your photos are beautiful! I hope to visit Egypt someday – would love to see the pyramids and Sphinx!

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  • March 9, 2019

    Amazing

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  • July 8, 2019

    Great article and photos!
    Brought back memories of when I was in Egypt back in 1985 when I solo-backpacked around the world for 12 months. Cairo looks very different now…

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  • Diala

    November 21, 2019

    The content is amazing! Thank you so much!

    reply...
  • August 12, 2021

    Agree with you respectable article about Cairo, Thanks

    reply...

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