Welcome to Cairo, the vibrant heart of Egypt. A city where the echoes of the past meet the pulse of the present, Cairo seamlessly blends ancient history with a dynamic modern spirit. As you navigate through its bustling streets, you’ll stumble upon grand mosques, colorful bazaars, and inviting local eateries tucked alongside sprawling skyscrapers.
From the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza to the vast collection of antiquities in the Egyptian Museum, the city provides a vast trove of cultural treasures that recount tales of millennia past. Amid the urban cacophony, a felucca ride on the iconic Nile offers serene reprieve. Cairo’s lively essence, its rich history, and the warmth of its people make it a city to be experienced—the city where, as they say, “every day is a festival”.
Getting to Cairo
Cairo is one of the primary gateways to Egypt and the African continent, serving as an important travel hub for both international and domestic flights.
Cairo International Airport (CAI)
The major access point for international travelers is the Cairo International Airport (CAI), the second largest airport in Africa. Situated in Heliopolis, approximately 15 kilometers from the city center, the airport is well-connected with multiple transportation options such as taxis, ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem, and shuttle buses.
Arriving from Europe
Cairo enjoys excellent connections with major European cities. Most airlines, including the Egyptian national carrier EgyptAir, operate direct flights from cities such as London, Paris, Rome, and Frankfurt to Cairo. Estimated flight times are between 4-5 hours.
Arriving from the United States
If you are flying from the United States, you’ll mostly likely need to book a connecting flight. From the East Coast, EgyptAir offers direct flights from New York (JFK) to Cairo. However, if you’re flying from other parts of the U.S, you might need to transit through European or Middle Eastern hubs like London, Frankfurt, Istanbul, or Dubai. The average flight time from New York to Cairo is about 10-12 hours, but it could vary substantially with stopovers.
Once you arrive in Cairo, it’s worth noting that it’s highly recommendable to arrange a pick-up service from the airport through your hotel or a reliable taxi company, especially if this is your first visit or you arrive late at night. This will ensure a smooth and safe transfer to your accommodation in Cairo.
Where to Stay in Cairo
Choosing the right area to stay in can make a significant difference to your trip to Cairo. Here are three of the best areas where you can set up your base.
Giza
If you are keen on being close to the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, then Giza is the perfect place for you. This expansive district, located west of the Nile, has a range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts providing the magnificent view of the Pyramids to budget-friendly hotels. By staying in Giza, you will be in close proximity to Cairo’s most timeless attraction. However, do bear in mind that the area is quite far from central Cairo, therefore plan your stay and travel arrangements accordingly.
Zamalek
Often referred to as the ‘green lung’ of Cairo, Zamalek is an upscale, garden-like district located on the Gezira Island in the Nile. This neighborhood is renowned for its quiet, leafy streets, stunning 19th-century architecture, and its abundance of chic art galleries, restaurants, and cafes. There are several upscale hotels and guest houses offering stunning views of the Nile. This area is also home to Cairo Opera House and the Cairo Tower, an iconic landmark offering panoramic city views.
Downtown Cairo
If you prefer urban charm and the buzz of city life, Downtown Cairo or the central business district is your best option. This area is a melting pot of various eras of the city with a harmonious mix of neoclassical, Art Nouveau, and Baroque architecture. Staying in this area, you’ll be close to attractions like the Egyptian Museum, Tahrir Square, and the Khan El Khalili Market. This area offers a broad range of accommodations from luxurious hotels to more affordable options.
Your choice largely depends on your budget and your interests. Remember, the sprawling city is well-connected with public transportation so you can easily explore all the sights no matter where you choose to stay.
Here is a list of some of the best hotels to stay at in Cairo, offering a range of luxury, location, and unique experiences:
Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza: Located downtown, this 5-star hotel offers plush, spacious rooms and suites, multiple dining options, a wellness spa, and three rooftop pools. The hotel commands spectacular views of the Nile and the city skyline.
Kempinski Nile Hotel Garden City Cairo: Nestled in downtown Cairo’s Garden City district, this boutique luxury hotel offers elegantly appointed rooms and suites, a rooftop pool, a spa, and stunning Nile views. This hotel is known for its personalized service and fine dining options.
Marriott Mena House, Giza: If you fancy waking up to a view of the majestic Pyramids of Giza, the historic Marriott Mena House is an excellent choice. The palace-turned-hotel is set in verdant gardens, offering luxurious rooms, fine dining and a large pool, all right on the doorstep of Egypt’s most iconic symbol.
The Nile Ritz-Carlton: Bringing the hallmark of luxury, The Nile Ritz-Carlton offers palatial rooms and suites, a luxurious spa, outdoor pool, and a variety of luxe dining options. The hotel is centrally located, overlooking the Nile and close to the Egyptian Museum and Tahrir Square.
Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah: Positioned on a promontory in the middle of the Nile in central Cairo, this sophisticated hotel offers stylish rooms, a rooftop pool, multiple dining venues, and stunning 360-degree views of the Nile and the city skyline.
InterContinental Cairo Semiramis: Located in the heart of the city, this 5-star hotel offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a selection of restaurants and bars. It’s conveniently located near the Egyptian Museum and Cairo Opera House.
Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino: Housed in a restored palace, this posh hotel in Zamalek offers elegant rooms, 15 restaurants and bars, a casino, and two outdoor pools. The rooms provide panoramic views of the city or the Nile.
Getting Around Cairo
Navigating through Cairo is a journey in itself. The most popular, and often exciting, modes of public transport are the Metro and the vibrant network of minibuses. For shorter distances, tuk-tuks are an economical choice.
Taxis, Uber, and Careem are also widely available for convenient, door-to-door service. However, be prepared to face bustling traffic during peak hours. As a solo female traveler visiting Egypt, I chose to get around by Uber so I didn’t have to worry about paying in cash and haggling with drivers. I found it to be incredibly cheap and I like the safety of knowing that my ride is being tracked by Uber.
To experience a unique perspective of Cairo, take a traditional Felucca boat ride along the River Nile, offering spectacular views and a calm respite from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Top Tips for Visiting Cairo
Bring Cash for Your Visa on Arrival
When landing at Cairo International Airport, visitors from certain can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival. You’ll need to bring $25 USD cash for your VOA, which can be purchased at the National Bank of Egypt counter at the airport right before immigration.
Dress Appropriately
Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country so you should respect the local culture and dress appropriately. If you’re a female traveler, leave the mini skirts and skimpy clothing at home. Opt for long skirts, flowy dresses or loose linen pants. And don’t forget to bring a jacket or cardigan to cover up your shoulders for mosques and other sites.
Carry Cash
Cash is king in Cairo, so make sure you have some Egyptian pounds with you or exchange some money when you get there. Make sure to carry small denominations with you for tipping guides, servers etc.
Hire a Guide to Avoid Being Hassled
Before I visited Egypt I read a lot of stories about tourists getting scammed or hassled. To avoid this, just make sure you hire a guide to take you to the tourist sites. If people see you are arriving with a local Egyptian guide, nobody will bother you.
While you can visit the attractions on your own, it’s also nice to have someone there to help you take photos and to explain all of the history of each place. No need to book a multi-day package tour to Egypt, you can simply use GetYourGuide or Viator to book guides for individual attractions. Check out my 7-day DIY itinerary for Egypt if you plan on seeing more of the country.
Use Uber
Uber is available in Cairo, and I found it to be the easiest way to get around. Since Uber is linked to your credit card, you don’t have to worry about negotiating with taxi drivers or paying with cash.
Be Careful Crossing the Road
The traffic in Cairo is really chaotic and there aren’t really proper pedestrian crossings. Locals just walk head on into the traffic to cross the road, a bit like in Vietnam. If you need to cross the street, try to walk behind a local and walk quickly.
Stay Hydrated
Cairo is hot. Crazy hot. Make sure you carry a bottle of water with you and stay hydrated.
Try the Local Cuisine
While in Egypt I’d recommend you try the local Egyptian cuisine. Popular dishes to try include Koshari, falafel, shawarma, and stuffed pigeon.
Day 1: Marvel at the Wonders of the Ancient World
For your first say in Cairo I’d suggest checking into a hotel near the pyramids so you can wake up to breakfast with a view. Some great hotel options include Marriott Mena House, Pyramids View Inn, Le Meridien Pyramids Hotel & Spa, and Panorama Pyramids Inn.
Then on your second day you can switch hotels and stay somewhere closer to the city such as Zamalek or Downtown Cairo. This way you get to experience the best of both worlds!
Breakfast Overlooking the Pyramids
Wake up early, and start your morning with a delightful breakfast while gazing at the incredible skyline dominated by the towering Pyramids of Giza. Numerous cafes and lodges, situated in the proximity of the Pyramids, offer splendid views alongside a variety of local and international cuisines.
Explore the Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx
Once you’ve had your breakfast, prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Egypt’s ancient civilization. The Pyramids of Giza, located on Cairo’s outskirts, command power and mystique like no other. These iconic structures, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, stand as awe-inspiring testimony to the ingenuity and ambition of the ancient Egyptians.
Set against the backdrop of the endless desert sands and the clear blue sky, these grand structures have fascinated travelers, historians, and architects for thousands of years. Built around 2600 BC as eternal resting places for the renowned Pharaohs – Cheops (Khufu), Chephren (Khafre), and Mycerinus (Menkaure), these timeless monuments have withstood the travails of time and continue to intrigue everyone who lays eyes on them.
The largest and oldest of the three pyramids, the Great Pyramid of Khufu, is an architectural masterpiece. Its construction involved moving and assembling of over two million massive stone blocks, an incredible testament to the architectural genius of its creators. The inside of Khufu’s pyramid remains minimalist, with narrow passageways leading to the revered King and Queen’s chambers, imbuing an unparalleled sense of awe and mystery.
Similarly, the Pyramid of Khafre, although slightly smaller, is equally impressive and is distinguished by the cap of casing stones that still clings to its point, providing an insight into how these ageless structures would have originally looked. Lastly, the Pyramid of Menkaure, the smallest of the three, stands further south but is no less fascinating, housing three subsidiary pyramids dedicated to the Queens.
Casting a protective eye over these timeless wonders is the enigmatic Sphinx. This captivating monument, with the body of a lion and the face of a pharaoh, is believed to bear the likeness of Pharaoh Khafre and was probably created to guard his pyramid complex. The stern gaze of the Sphinx, a silent witness to millennia of history, adds another layer of intrigue to the Giza Plateau.
To truly savor this exotic journey into ancient Egyptian culture, consider hiring a guide. These experienced individuals offer in-depth insights into the captivating history, intricate construction, and numerous legends that surround these magnificent structures. For the more independent explorers, self-guided tours offer the liberty to discover and soak in the grandeur of these edifices at your own pace.
No visit to Egypt is complete without a visit to the Pyramids of Giza. Their sheer magnitude, timeless appeal, and the whisper of ancient secrets around every corner will create an experience that you’ll undoubtedly treasure for a lifetime.
An Afternoon in Coptic Cairo
Once you have refueled your energy reserves with a hearty lunch, venture to Coptic Cairo, a serene and history-rich area located within the precincts of Old Cairo. This fascinating district is brimming with ancient places of worship and marks the roots of Christianity in Egypt. Coptic Cairo provides a unique perspective into the city’s multi-layered history and serves as a living museum of religious monuments.
Begin your exploration by visiting the famous Hanging Church, also known as El Muallaqa. This remarkable architectural gem, built in the 3rd century atop the ancient Roman fortress of Babylon, seems to rise out of thin air as it ‘hangs’ above two old towers. The Hanging Church derives its name from this unique construction. Inside, you’ll find a beautiful sanctuary decorated with intricate carvings, icons, and murals showcasing biblical scenes and characters.
Next, expand your cultural knowledge with a visit to the Coptic Museum, established in 1910. This impressive facility houses a vast collection of Egyptian Christian artifacts dating from the earliest days of Christianity in Egypt up to the Middle Ages. Its exhibits include remarkable manuscripts, metalwork, sculptures, and textiles, which collectively form an invaluable record of the country’s rich Christian heritage.
As you continue your journey, be sure to stop by the Synagogue of Ben Ezra, which is believed to have been built on the site where Moses was found as a baby in the reed basket. This historical landmark was once a church but was transformed into a synagogue in the 9th century. Boasting an enchanting interplay of Islamic and Coptic architectural influences, the Synagogue of Ben Ezra is treasured for its intricate wooden carvings and rich religious history.
Finally, make your way to the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As, the oldest mosque in Egypt, established in 642 AD. Founded by the Arab commander Amr ibn al-As after his conquest of Egypt, this mosque has been extensively rebuilt over the centuries. Today, it stands as a poignant reminder of the advent of Islam in the country and the blending of diverse religious traditions within Coptic Cairo.
In summary, spending an afternoon exploring the captivating landmarks of Coptic Cairo will enrich your understanding of the city’s diverse spiritual tapestry while allowing you to witness the harmonious coexistence of faiths in this unique enclave of Old Cairo.
Felucca Ride
As the evening approaches, a Felucca ride on the Nile is not to be missed. These traditional wooden sailing boats provide a fascinating view of Cairo’s skyline during the sunset. It’s a perfect way to end your first day, offering a tranquil counterpoint to the bustling city around you.
Day 2: Dive Deep into History and Culture
Egyptian Museum
On your second day, begin your journey through time with a visit to the iconic Egyptian Museum, majestically seated at the heart of Cairo on Tahrir Square. Serving as a testament to Egypt’s deep history and rich culture, this imposing neoclassical edifice built in 1900, is a treasure trove of ancient Egyptian history and a key attraction of the city.
This vast temple of history boasts the world’s most comprehensive collection of pharaonic antiquities, with over 120,000 items on display. Within its high ceilings and stately columns, you’ll find enthralling collections of artifacts spanning over 5,000 years, from the dawn of ancient Egypt through to the Greco-Roman period.
As you explore its halls, you will be mesmerized by the colorful stelae, intricate jewelry, beautiful sarcophagi, ancient mummies, and statues of pharaohs and gods. An impressive range of papyrus scrolls and carved tablets will also provide you insights into the bureaucratic workings of this ancient civilization.
One of the museum’s high points is the exquisite array of treasures unearthed from the tomb of Tutankhamun. The young pharaoh’s tomb, discovered in 1922 in the Valley of the Kings, is arguably one of the most significant archaeological finds of all time. The glorious riches that accompanied him to the afterlife, including the famous solid gold death mask, ornately carved alabaster canopic jars, his ceremonial chariots, and numerous other stunning pieces, are displayed with reverential care.
While the Egyptian Museum can be a little overwhelming due to its size and the volume of exhibits, do take the time to pause, absorb, and delve into the historic tales that surround these fascinating pieces. Hiring a guide or renting an audio guide is recommended for a more structured and informative visit.
Visiting the Egyptian Museum is like stepping into a time machine and provides a captivating glimpse into Egypt’s storied past, making it a must-visit on your Egypt itinerary.
Khan El-Khalili Market
After satisfying your historical penchant, head to the bustling Khan El-Khalili Market, located within the heart of Islamic Cairo. This renowned marketplace, brimming with life and chaos in the best conceivable way, dates back to the 14th century when it was a hub of commerce in the Muslim world.
As you navigate through the labyrinth of narrow alleys, you will encounter a fascinating array of items steeped in history and tradition. This is an incredible place to go shopping for authentic Egyptian souvenirs. From intricately designed pottery, beautiful brassware, and antiques to handcrafted jewelry, leather goods, and vibrant textiles, the Khan El-Khalili Market offers it all.
One of the unique aspects of the marketplace is exploring its myriad of small booths and shops selling aromatic, locally sourced spices. The smell alone will captivate you as you move through piles of cumin, coriander, saffron, and many other spices. This is an ideal spot to pick up those unique spices you want to use in your Egyptian cooking back home.
Furthermore, the market is renowned for its incredible selection of precious metals and gems. With numerous gold shops, the market sparkles with jewelry of all types. And if it’s carpets or rugs you’re after, prepare to be amazed by the stunning range of intricate, handwoven pieces in all sizes and colors.
While the shopping is superb, the Khan El-Khalili Market isn’t just about buying goods. It’s also about immersing yourself in the local culture and tradition. Be sure to visit the local coffee shops and tea houses where you get a sense of the city’s pulsating social scene. Don’t miss out on the delectable local eateries serving mouth-watering Egyptian cuisine. Here, you can indulge in traditional dishes like shawarma, falafel, kebabs and kushari, followed by sweet treats like baklava or kunafa.
Finally, while you’re submerged amid the market’s hustle and bustle, don’t neglect to negotiate – haggling forms a part and parcel of the shopping tradition in Khan El-Khalili.
Visiting the Khan El-Khalili Market is much more than just a shopping trip; it’s a journey through time, warm encounters with locals, a gastronomical adventure, and an unforgettable cultural experience.
The Citadel
The Citadel, also known as the Saladin Citadel, is one of Cairo’s top attractions. Perched atop Mokattam Hill in the heart of the city, this historic Islamic fortification offers stunning panoramic views of Cairo’s sprawling landscape. Built by Sultan Saladin in the 12th century to protect the city against Crusader attacks, the complex also houses the impressive Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, renowned for its domed ceilings, ornate alabaster panels, and exquisite Ottoman architecture.
Amid the noise and hustle of Cairo, the Citadel is a peaceful haven where visitors can soak in centuries of history, appreciate architectural marvels, and witness the fusion of the city’s rich past with its vibrant present day. Remember to bring a camera to capture unforgettable moments, from awe-inspiring sunset views over Cairo’s skyline to intricate details of Islamic architecture.
A Final Word
This Cairo two-day itinerary will steep you into a vibrant blend of antiquity, spirituality, and cosmopolitan flair, a unique forte of the Egyptian capital. Remember, Cairo offers an expanse of experiences beyond the Pyramids. It’s a city where past meets the present, co-existing in an exotic aura that you will cherish forever.
