Things to do in Cairo

A constant question in Cairo. Best things to do in Cairo? 

Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a mesmerizing city where ancient history and modern life blend seamlessly. From world-famous landmarks like the Great Pyramids to vibrant street markets and hidden architectural gems, Cairo offers travelers an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s your first time or a repeat visit, this guide reveals the top things to do in Cairo so you can plan the perfect itinerary.

Marvel at the Great Pyramids of Giza & The Sphinx

• Why Visit: One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World
• Highlights: Pyramid of Khufu (can be entered), Pyramid of Khafre, the iconic Sphinx
• Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat; guided tours are highly recommended

Explore the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square

• Why Visit: Home to over 120,000 artifacts from ancient Egypt
• Must-See: Tutankhamun’s golden mask, royal mummies, and ancient scrolls
• Opening Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 5 PM

Discover the New Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)

• Why Visit: The world’s largest archaeological museum (near Giza Plateau)
• Unique Feature: Full Tutankhamun collection displayed for the first time
• Expected to be fully open in 2025

Stroll Through Islamic Cairo & Historic Mosques

• Key Sites: Al-Azhar Mosque, Sultan Hassan Mosque, Al-Rifa’i Mosque
• Experience: Islamic architecture, calligraphy, and old city alleys
• Pro Tip: Visit the Citadel for panoramic city views

Wander Around Coptic Cairo

• What to See: Hanging Church, Saint Sergius Church, Ben Ezra Synagogue
• Why Visit: Spiritual and peaceful area rich in early Christian and Jewish history

 Shop at Khan El Khalili Bazaar

• What to Buy: Souvenirs, spices, silver, lanterns, antiques
• Local Tip: Practice your bargaining skills!
• Don’t Miss: A cup of mint tea at El Fishawy, Cairo’s oldest cafe

Visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization

• Highlights: Royal Mummies Hall, interactive exhibits covering all eras
• Location: Fustat, Old Cairo
• Why It’s Special: A modern take on Egypt’s full historical timeline

Take a Nile River Dinner Cruise

• Experience Includes: Egyptian cuisine, belly dancing, Tanoura shows
• Best Time: Evening cruises offer the most atmospheric views
• Popular Options: Nile Maxim, Blue Nile, or a traditional felucca ride

Relax at Al-Azhar Park

• Why Visit: One of the largest green spaces in Cairo with city views
• Great For: Picnics, photography, and watching the sunset
• Extra Tip: Have a meal at the Lakeside or Citadel View restaurants

Visit the Cairo Citadel (Citadel of Saladin)

• Top Attractions: Mosque of Muhammad Ali (Alabaster Mosque), military museum
• Panoramic Views: Overlooks Islamic Cairo and the desert beyond

Tour Abdeen Palace

• Why Visit: A glimpse into royal Egyptian life with luxurious interiors
• Museum Inside: Arms, medals, gifts, and rare artifacts

Enjoy Zamalek’s Art Galleries & Cafes

• Known For: Chic culture, boutique stores, art spaces
• Top Spots: Picasso Art Gallery, Cairo Opera House
• Great For: Walking, brunch, and nightlife

 Explore the Nilometer on Rhoda Island

• What Is It: An ancient device used to measure the Nile’s water levels
• Historical Significance: Dates back to the 9th century

Take a Day Trip to Saqqara & Memphis

• Main Sites: Step Pyramid of Djoser, ancient tombs, statues of Ramses II
• Travel Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour from central Cairo

Visit the Manial Palace Museum

• Architecture: Blend of Ottoman, Persian, and European styles
• What to See: Royal gardens, rare manuscripts, hunting trophies

Experience Local Egyptian Cuisine

• Must-Try Dishes: Koshari, ful medames, taameya (falafel), hawawshi
• Recommended Places: Zooba, Abou Tarek, Felfela

Cruise the Nile on a Traditional Felucca

• Best Time: Sunset or night for a peaceful ride
• Perfect For: Couples, photographers, and those avoiding tourist crowds

Attend a Whirling Dervish Show

• Where: Wekalet El Ghouri Arts Center
• When: Typically held on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays
• Cultural Insight: Mesmerizing Sufi spiritual dance performance

Discover Cairo Tower

• Height: 187 meters tall
• View: 360-degree panoramic view of the city
• Tip: Visit at sunset for the best photography light

Explore Local Markets Beyond Khan El Khalili

• Souq al-Gomaa: A massive flea market open on Fridays
• Attaba Market: Great for electronics, fabrics, and household goods

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🏙️ Cairo Day Tours – Best Excursions & Trips from Cairo

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Cairo At Night

Cairo is a bustling city that offers plenty to do at night. Here are some ideas for night in Cairo

Sound and Light Show in Pyramids

The Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids of Giza is a popular nighttime attraction that combines stunning visual effects with a narrated history of the pyramids. The show takes place every evening and is available in several languages.

Pyramids sound and light show

Nile Dinner Cruise

A dinner cruise cairo is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Many cruises offer dinner or entertainment, and some include live music or traditional dance performances. Best way to enjoy nights in cairo.

Cairo dinner cruise tour

Khan El Khalili

Khan El Khalili Bazaar is a famous bazaar in Cairo that is open late into the evening. Visitors can wander the narrow streets and browse the stalls selling everything from souvenirs to spices.

Sufi Dance at Al Ghouria

See a Sufi dance performance: The Sufi dance, also known as the whirling dervishes, is a spiritual dance performed by members of the Sufi order. Visitors can see a performance at the Al-Ghouri Complex in Islamic Cairo.

Cairo walking tour

Go shopping in Downtown Cairo: Downtown Cairo is a bustling commercial district with plenty of shops, boutiques, and markets to explore. Visitors can shop for everything from traditional Egyptian crafts to designer clothing.

Take a felucca ride on the Nile River

A felucca is a traditional wooden sailboat that has been used on the Nile River for centuries. Visitors can take a ride on a felucca to see the city from a different perspective.

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🏙️ Cairo Day Tours – Best Excursions & Trips from Cairo

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