The Cairo Travel Guide

Cairo, often referred to as the “The City Of a Thousand Minarets” is the largest city in the Arab world and one of the oldest cities in the world. It is the capital of Egypt and located on the Nile River in the south of the country. Whether you’re a history fanatic, a shopaholic, or just looking for an exciting new destination, Cairo has something to offer everyone.

To help make the most of your trip to Cairo, here are the top recommendations and tips for the best attractions, accommodations, food, traditional culture, shopping, and nightlife in the Egyptian capital.

The Egyptian Museum, Pyramids of Giza, and the Cairo Citadel are some of the most iconic landmarks in Cairo that should not be missed. The Sphinx, Cairo Tower, and Coptic Cairo are also popular tourist attractions. For history enthusiasts, the Khan el-Khalili, which is one of the oldest and largest markets in the Middle East, is definitely worth a visit.

The city is home to a varied array of accommodation options ranging from budget to luxury. Popular hotels in Cairo include the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at First Residence, the Fairmont Nile City, and the InterContinental Cairo CityStars. For those who prefer to stay in more affordable accommodation, the city has a wide range of Airbnb’s and hostels to choose from.

In terms of food, Cairo is an absolute paradise, offering everything from traditional typical Egyptian cuisine to international flavours. Street food in Cairo is also incredibly popular and a great way to try something new. Popular dishes include falafel, ful mudammas, ta’miyya, and koshari.

As well as experiencing modern Egypt, it is also recommended to explore Egypt’s rich cultural heritage and ancient monuments, such as the Giza pyramids, Valley of the Kings, and Luxor Temple. To make the most of exploring the country’s historical sites, it is best to join a guided tour.

Cairo is home to some vibrant shopping spots, including El-Moez Street, Khan el-Khalili, and Cairo Festival City. From traditional souvenirs and antiques to modern boutiques, you can find it all here. Cairo is also known for its nightlife, with a range of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues open late into the night.
From the Giza Pyramids that are among the original Seven Wonders of the World to vibrant bazaars and millennia-old mosques, Cairo has some of the most unforgettable sights in the world. Here are the top recommendations for how to make the most of the visit to Cairo.

The Pyramids of Giza are astonishing feats of engineering, constructed over 4500 years ago without the use of computers and modern tools. A visit to the Giza Pyramids is a must on any trip to Cairo, where tourists can also visit the Sphinx, as well as view the stunning grandeur of the pyramid of Khufu and the two other pyramids. It’s worth noting that most visits to Giza will involve being offered ‘guides’ who will point out the highlights, but visitors should expect to pay a fee for the service.

Another wonderful attraction of Cairo is the old Islamic Cairo, which includes the Citadel of Salah el-Din, the Alabaster Mosque, and the Ibn Tulun Mosque. Tourists can visit some of the oldest quarters of the city to experience vibrant cultures, learn about the city’s history, and have access to markets and traditional foods.

The Khan el-Khalili Bazaar is a must visit for any traveler to Cairo. It is one of the oldest bazaars in the world, preserved to reflect Cairo’s past yet incorporating modern shops and restaurants throughout. As a tourist, one should expect to find everything from Egyptian souvenirs and spices to stunning Islamic artifacts and clothing all in this bustling market.

Finally, the Coptic Cairo district is an important stop for anyone interested in learning more about the traditional culture of the city. This part of town contains many ancient churches with captivating stories behind them that are worth exploring.

Cairo is an exciting city with a dynamic mix of ancient and modern sites. By visiting the Pyramids of Giza, exploring traditional old Islamic Cairo, shopping at the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, and exploring Coptic Cairo, travelers can make the most of their experience in Cairo.
Cairo is a bustling and increasingly popular tourist destination in Egypt known for its rich culture and history. Outside of the Giza pyramids and the Sphinx, there is much to explore in the city including world-class luxury hotels, mouthwatering cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, there is something here for everyone to enjoy.

For accommodations in Cairo, there are plenty of options. Luxury hotels in Cairo are plentiful and offer world-class amenities and services for the discerning visitor. From five-star international chains to quaint boutique hotels, you’ll find something to fit every budget and style. If you’re looking for something a bit more affordable, there are plenty of local hostels and mid-range hotels scattered throughout the city.

When it comes to the food scene in Cairo, you will certainly not be disappointed. From traditional Egyptian cuisine to international dishes, the variety and quality of restaurants in Cairo is sure to please even the most discerning palate. Try to visit local eateries and markets so you can truly experience the unique flavors of Egypt.

Cairo is also an excellent shopping destination. The vibrant Khan Al Khalili bazaar dates back to the 14th century and is home to many unique souvenirs and products. So, spend a day exploring the market and sample the goods of the many local vendors.

Cairo’s nightlife scene is also worth exploring. From bars and pubs to world-class nightclubs, you won’t be short of places to experience Egypt’s exciting nightlife.

No matter the length of your stay in Cairo, there is plenty to explore in the city. Keep these tips in mind to make sure you get to experience it all: bring comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather; research and plan where you want to go; try out the delicious cuisine; and, most importantly, have fun!
Ancient Egypt is home to some of the greatest civilizations of all time, and Cairo is the perfect place to explore its rich history and culture. From the iconic pyramids of Giza to the ancient tombs of the Pharaohs, Cairo is a must-visit for anyone interested in delving into the long and illustrious history of Ancient Egypt.

For a truly immersive experience, visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities in Cairo. This massive facility showcases an incredible collection of artifacts, artwork, and archaeological discoveries from all over Egypt. You’ll find treasures from the Kingdoms of Upper and Lower Egypt, as well as the precious artifacts of the New Kingdom period. Get the chance to marvel at the mummies of some of Egypt’s most famous pharaohs, and take in the sights of Tutankhamen’s Jade Pectoral necklace and gold-covered sarcophagus.

To really understand what life was like in Ancient Egypt, visit the Step Pyramid of Sakkara and Memphis. This 5-step pyramid is the oldest in the world and dates back to circa 2600 BC. A complex originally built for Pharaoh Djoser, it is known for its intricate mosaics and limestone layers. Also be sure to visit Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt, and learn about the customs and traditions of Ancient Egyptians.

The Coptic Orthodox Church is another great way to see the traditional culture of Cairo. Dating back to the first century AD, Coptic Christianity is an integral part of Cairo’s culture. Pay a visit to the Coptic Orthodox churches and witness the exquisitely crafted Coptic iconography. While you’re in the area, don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs from the traditional markets of Cairo for a unique reminder of your awesome experience.

Cairo is the perfect place to explore the cultural and religious depths of ancient Egypt. Visit the iconic pyramids, the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, the Step Pyramid of Sakkara and Memphis, and the Coptic Orthodox Church to have an unforgettable travel experience. By immersing yourself in the unique customs and traditions of Cairo, you’ll gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the culture of ancient Egypt.
Cairo is filled with a bustling shopping scene, offering traditional markets, designer outlets, and labyrinth-like bazaars. Shopaholics rejoice! From luxury goods located in the Zamalek and Maadi districts, to the cheeky souvenirs found in the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, the streets of Cairo are surely a paradise for any shopaholic.

One of the best shopping experiences to be had in Cairo is the Khan el Khaliil, a centuries-old bazaar with winding alleys filled with vibrant wares at great prices. Culture vultures will revel in exploring the many boutiques, galleries, handmade crafts, traditional souvenirs, and jewelry on offer. There are plenty of local delicacies and street snacks to try, with many vendors offering samples of different foods to try, too.

Speaking of the nightlife in Cairo, this urban hub is bustling with trendy nightclubs, live performances, and other activities that will keep the party going late into the night. There are plenty of bars, pubs, and lounges that offer a variety of music and drinks, whether you’re looking to rock out to EDM or play some pool. Tourists looking for a bit of culture can also visit one of the grand theaters in downtown Cairo for some traditional folk performances.

When it comes to souvenirs for your stay in the city, there are plenty of traditional and eclectic items available that will keep mementoes of your stay in Egypt. Keep an eye out for handmade wooden and ceramic items, as well as papyrus art, perfumes, and classic narghiles. Popular items among tourists are hand-painted boxes and jewelry, postcards, tiles, and apparel.

When visiting Cairo, no shopping experience is complete without a good haggle. Many of the vendors in the bazaars and markets are open to this negotiating tactic, and a good bargaining chip could give you some serious savings. So, go ahead let your inner shopaholic out in Cairo and explore the nightlife that this captivating city has to offer.
It’s essential to plan ahead and take the necessary precautions when visiting a city as diverse and exciting as Cairo. To make the most of your visit, there are several tips that you can take into consideration.

First of all, always dress modestly. This is especially true when visiting holy places like mosques and churches. It’s also wise to not carry large amounts of cash and valuable items as pickpockets do operate in Cairo. Keep your wallet / purse securely in front pockets and preferably, secured to your body.

When out and about, try to blend in with the crowd and stick to the more populated areas. When visiting local markets, know that the prices will usually be higher for tourists so you should be prepared to haggle. Remember to always be polite, friendly and courteous in order to get the best deals.

It is advisable to book accommodation before you travel. Researching online for the best deals and to reserve a taxi from the airport to your hotel is highly recommended. As in many cities in the world, it is safer to book the reliable taxi companies than to take a random taxi from the street.

Before travelling, you should do your research into the political situation as well as the latest health updates in Cairo. It is a good idea to purchase travel insurance before travelling in case you need to cancel your trip due to unforeseen circumstances.

Finally, do not forget to enjoy yourself in the amazing city of Cairo, whilst also taking the necessary precautions. Try out the delicious and unique Cuisine, explore the city’s many attractions and take some time out to relax. Taking the necessary planning steps in advance will ensure your trip runs smoothly.
Q: What is the best time to visit Cairo?

A: The best time to visit Cairo is in the fall and winter months, from October to March when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing.

Q: What attractions should I visit while in Cairo?

A: Popular attractions in Cairo include the Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, Islamic Cairo, and the Citadel.

Q: Are there any safety concerns in Cairo?

A: Safety concerns in Cairo should not be taken lightly. It is best to avoid any large crowds and remain vigilant of your surroundings at all times. Additionally, it is recommended to use trusted taxis or cars services when travelling throughout the city.