The 5 Best Things to Do in Cairo

Welcome to Cairo, the bustling capital of Egypt! This city is an incredible fusion of ancient history and modern culture, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. Cairo is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks such as the Great Pyramids, the Sphinx and the Egyptian Museum, but there is so much more to explore beyond the tourist hotspots. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the best attractions and things to do in Cairo, including off-the-beaten-path locations, vibrant markets, and delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you’re bound to fall in love with everything that Cairo has to offer. So, let’s get started!

The 5 Best Things to Do in Cairo

  1. See Cairo Luxor Aswan and Hurghada All in One Trip for 7 Nights
  2. Citadel Old Cairo and Khan Al Khalili Tour
  3. Private Tour to Giza Pyramids and Memphis and Saqqara Pyramids
  4. Kairo Ein Tag Mit Dem Flug
  5. Overnight Tour to Luxor from Cairo by Flight

The 5 Best Things to Do in Cairo

1. See Cairo Luxor Aswan and Hurghada All in One Trip for 7 Nights

See Cairo, Luxor, Aswan and Hurghada all in one unforgettable trip with this private tour. Led by an Egyptologist guide, you’ll experience the best of Egypt in just seven days. Your adventure begins in Cairo, where you’ll visit the Pyramids of Giza before cruising the Nile River on a luxurious 5-star boat. From there, you’ll visit Aswan, Karnak and Luxor, taking in the most famous sights and learning about ancient Egyptian history along the way. After all that culture, take some time to relax in the beautiful Red Sea town of Hurghada, where you can swim and snorkel to your heart’s content. All meals and accommodation are included, as is pickup from Cairo Airport. Book now for an unforgettable week exploring Egypt’s wonders!

2. Citadel Old Cairo and Khan Al Khalili Tour

Discover the historic world of Old Cairo and the Citadel on this private tour which takes in Salah El-Don Castle and the Mosque with the Green Dome as well as countless other local monuments and buildings. Learn about the significance of these places in Islam Christianity and Judaism as you see the Hanging Church and the Well of Moses. This is a private tour, so only you will take part, and you’ll explore the Citadel like a local with your guide. See the artworks and architecture of the Great Alabaster Mosque of Mohamed Ali Pasha before moving on to the Khan El Khalil bazaar where you can find treats and souvenirs to take home. This tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, an Egyptologist tour guide, a bottle of water, lunch, and coffee and/or tea. Please confirm the start time with the local provider in advance of your experience.

3. Private Tour to Giza Pyramids and Memphis and Saqqara Pyramids

This private tour is a great way to explore the treasures of ancient Egypt with the comfort of a guide and transportation included. Hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the tour package, and you’ll be accompanied by a Kemet Egyptologist guide throughout the entire day.

The first stop of the tour is the Pyramids of Giza where you will spend two hours exploring these magnificent structures. Admission tickets are included in the package, and your guide will provide you with a fascinating history and insight into the construction of these marvels. Afterward, the tour continues to Memphis and Saqqara Pyramids for three hours. These sites will give you a further glimpse into the rich ancient Egyptian culture and history.

This tour is designed to accommodate travelers of all age groups and physical abilities. Infant seats are available, and strollers are allowed on the tour. However, please note that wheelchairs are not allowed. It’s important to keep in mind that this is a private tour, and only your group will participate.

Canceling the tour up to 24 hours in advance will enable you to receive a full refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start of the tour. Any changes made after the cutoff time will not be accepted.

4. Kairo Ein Tag Mit Dem Flug

This tour offers a full day experience of some of the most famous attractions in Cairo. Starting at 04:30 AM, guests are picked up at their hotel and taken to Hurghada Airport. From there, an air-conditioned vehicle takes them to the Pyramids of Giza. The tour includes admission tickets to the Pyramids of Giza, where tourists can spend an hour exploring the complex. This includes 30 minutes at the Great Pyramid of Cheops (Khufu).

The tour also includes lunch, and transportation is available from select pickup points in Makadi, S. Hasheesh, and El Gouna for an extra fee of 5 Euro per person. This tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level to participate.

Please note that this is a private tour and only the group who have booked it will participate. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and cancellations or amendments are not permitted.

5. Overnight Tour to Luxor from Cairo by Flight

Leave your Luxor itinerary to the Egypt experts with this private round-trip package from Cairo that covers tours, meals, an overnight stay in a 5-star hotel, and flights, giving you more time to sightsee. Accompanied by an Egyptologist guide, you’ll visit the Valley of the Kings, as well as the temples of Luxor, Hatshepsut, and Karnak, while also taking a felucca boat ride on the Nile River. With entrance fees included, and pickup and drop-off at centrally located Cairo and Giza hotels, this package ensures a seamless and hassle-free experience. On the first day, travel from Cairo to Luxor for a day of sightseeing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cairo

Cairo is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich history that attracts millions of tourists every year. As with any popular tourist destination, there are certain questions that people tend to ask more frequently than others. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most common questions that tourists have about Cairo, its people, and its culture.

1. What Are the Must-See Attractions in Cairo?

Cairo is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks and attractions. If you’re planning a trip to the city, here are some of the must-see sights:

• Pyramids of Giza

The Pyramids of Giza are one of the most iconic landmarks in Egypt. They are considered the only surviving member of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. These three pyramids are located on the outskirts of Cairo, and they are truly a sight to behold.

• The Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum is home to the largest and most comprehensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world. If you want to learn more about the history and culture of ancient Egypt, this is the place to go.

• Khan El-Khalili Bazaar

The Khan El-Khalili Bazaar is one of the largest and most famous markets in the Middle East. Here you can find a wide variety of goods, from spices and perfumes to jewelry and textiles.

• Salah El-Din Citadel

The Salah El-Din Citadel is a medieval Islamic fortress that was built in the 12th century. It’s a great place to soak up some history and admire the stunning architecture.

2. What Should I Wear in Cairo?

Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, and as such, it’s important to be respectful of the local culture and customs when it comes to clothing. For men, lightweight cotton trousers and short-sleeved shirts are appropriate. Women should dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees at a minimum. It’s also a good idea to bring a scarf or shawl to cover your head when visiting mosques or other religious sites.

3. What Language Do They Speak in Cairo?

The official language of Egypt is Arabic, and this is the language you’ll hear most often. However, many people in Cairo also speak English, especially in tourist areas. It’s always a good idea to learn a few basic Arabic phrases before your trip, though, as this can go a long way in helping you communicate with locals.

4. Is Cairo a Safe City to Visit?

Like any big city, Cairo has its share of crime and safety concerns. However, with a bit of common sense and caution, it’s possible to have a safe and enjoyable visit. Stick to well-trafficked areas, avoid traveling alone at night, and be vigilant of pickpockets and other petty crime. It’s also a good idea to check the latest travel advisories from your home country before you go.

5. What Foods Should I Try in Cairo?

Egyptian cuisine is rich and flavorful, featuring plenty of spices, vegetables, and legumes. Some traditional dishes to try in Cairo include koshari (a mix of rice, lentils, and macaroni topped with tomato sauce and crispy onions), ful medames (a hearty breakfast dish made from fava beans, herbs, and spices), and ta’ameya (Egyptian falafel made from fava beans).

6. How Should I Get Around Cairo?

Getting around Cairo can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re not used to navigating big cities. However, there are several options available. The Metro system is affordable and efficient, while taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also popular. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try hailing a local microbus or taking a ride on a traditional Egyptian felucca boat along the Nile River.

7. What Souvenirs Should I Buy in Cairo?

If you’re looking for souvenirs to bring home from Cairo, the Khan El-Khalili Bazaar is the perfect place to start. Here you’ll find a wide range of goods, from colorful textiles and ceramics to intricate jewelry and souvenirs featuring Egyptian hieroglyphs. Some other popular souvenirs include papyrus paintings, perfume oils, and traditional Egyptian spices like sumac and za’atar.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cairo

Cairo, the capital city of Egypt, is known for its pyramids, ancient temples, museums, cultural heritage, and bustling markets. As a tourist, there are numerous things to see and experience in Cairo. In this guide, we will provide a step-by-step approach to maximize your time in the city while making sure that you don’t miss out on anything that’s worth a visit.

1. Get Acquainted with the Pyramids

The Great Pyramids of Giza are the most popular tourist attraction in Cairo. The pyramids are about 30 minutes away from the city center and can be accessed by taxi, bus, or car rental. Once you get there, take some time to explore the area on foot, and admire the three giant pyramids, the Sphinx and the surrounding desert.If you’re looking for a unique perspective of the Pyramids, take a camel ride around the area. You can negotiate for a good deal with the camel riders, but make sure you agree on a price beforehand.

2. Visit the Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum is home to an extensive collection of Pharaonic antiquities and is a must-visit destination for history and archaeology enthusiasts. The museum is located in the heart of Cairo and comprises two floors, with the ground floor showcasing the more recent exhibits, and the upper floor dedicated to the ancient treasures.Some of the most famous exhibits of the museum include the golden mask of King Tutankhamun, the mummy of Ramses II, and the statues of the goddess Isis. The museum can be crowded, so plan your visit accordingly.

3. Explore Islamic Cairo

Islamic Cairo is one of the oldest parts of the city and features many mosques, madrassas, and ancient bazaars, providing a glimpse into the Islamic culture of Egypt. Start your visit at the Citadel of Salah El Din, an impressive fortress built in the 12th century that offers panoramic views of the city.One of the best things to do in Islamic Cairo is to explore the Khan El Khalili bazaar, a lively marketplace that has been operating for centuries. Here, you can find everything from spices to traditional garments and souvenirs.

4. Relax by the Nile River

The Nile River, one of the longest in the world, flows through Cairo and offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Take a felucca boat ride along the river and enjoy the breeze, or simply relax at a waterfront cafe and enjoy a cup of tea.Another thing to do by the Nile is to visit the Cairo Tower, a 187-meter-high tower that offers panoramic views of the city and the river. The tower is open daily from 10:00 am to 2:00 am.

5. Experience Local Food and Drink

Egyptian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with specialties ranging from grilled meat to sweet pastries. Try some of the local dishes, such as Koshari, a vegetarian dish made of rice, lentils, and macaroni, and Ful Medames, a savory breakfast dish made of fava beans.For those who enjoy sweet treats, try the Egyptian desserts, including Kunafa, a pastry made of cheese and semolina soaked in syrup, and Basbousa, a cake made of semolina and soaked in syrup.When it comes to drinks, make sure to visit a local cafe and try some of the traditional drinks, such as Hibiscus tea, a refreshing drink made of dried hibiscus flowers, or Sugarcane juice, a sweet and healthy juice made of fresh sugarcane.

Conclusion

Cairo is a city full of history, culture, and adventure. To get the most out of your visit, make sure to include these must-see destinations, but also take the time to explore other hidden gems of the city. With this guide, you’re ready to experience the best of Cairo and make memories that will last a lifetime.

The 5 Best Things to Do in Cairo