Cairo - Discovering Egypt

Travelling to Cairo

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Cairo, a pretty good destination in Egypt (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Cairo and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Cairo, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Egypt, here's everything to know about Cairo for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Cairo

Cairo is the capital city of Egypt, located on the banks of the Nile River. It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, with many famous landmarks such as the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum. Cairo is also a bustling metropolis, with a vibrant and colorful street life, bazaars, and cafes. The city has a desert climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. It is a popular destination for tourists who come to explore the city's ancient history and experience its lively atmosphere.

What to visit in Cairo

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Cairo and some information about each of them: 1. The Great Pyramids of Giza - The Pyramids of Giza are one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks of Egypt. They were built between 2550 and 2490 BC and are the last surviving wonder of the ancient world. The Great Pyramid of Khufu is the biggest of the three, standing at a height of 147 meters.
2. The Sphinx - Located in Giza near the pyramids, the Sphinx is a limestone statue of a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human. It is believed to have been built during the reign of the Pharaoh Khafre and serves as a symbol of Egyptian royal power.
3. The Egyptian Museum - The Egyptian Museum is located in Tahrir Square and is home to one of the world's largest collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts. It houses over 100,000 items, including mummies, precious stones, and Pharaonic antiquities.
4. Coptic Cairo - Coptic Cairo is the oldest part of Cairo, and it is home to numerous historic churches, monasteries, and other religious sites. Visitors can explore the Hanging Church, the Church of St. George, and the Ben Ezra Synagogue.
5. Islamic Cairo - Islamic Cairo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features numerous mosques, madrasahs, and other historic buildings dating back to the medieval Islamic era. Highlights include the Citadel of Salah El-Din, the Mosque of Ibn Tulun, and the Al-Azhar Mosque.
6. Khan El-Khalili Bazaar - Khan El-Khalili is a bustling market located in Islamic Cairo where visitors can shop for traditional Egyptian crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs. It's a great place to mingle with locals, try traditional street food, and experience the vibrant energy of Cairo.
7. Saqqara Pyramid Complex - Saqqara is located about 30 kilometers south of Cairo and is home to several historic pyramids and tombs. Visitors can see the Step Pyramid of Djoser, which is one of the oldest pyramids in Egypt, and explore the underground tombs of nobles and high-ranking officials.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions in Cairo, and I highly recommend experiencing as many as you can during your trip to this incredible city.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Egypt, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Cairo.

When to go on holiday to Cairo

The best time to visit Cairo is during the winter months, from November to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant, with temperatures averaging around 20-25°C (68-77°F) during the day, and dropping to around 10°C (50°F) at night. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodation and activities. Summer (June-August) in Cairo, on the other hand, can be very hot and dry, with temperatures often reaching over 40°C (104°F), which can make it uncomfortable to explore the city's outdoor attractions. Winter is also a great time to visit Cairo's ancient ruins, such as the Pyramids and the Sphinx, as the cooler temperatures make it more comfortable to explore these sites.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Cairo

There are several ways to get to Cairo (Egypt): 1. By Air: The Cairo International Airport is the main airport in Egypt, and many international airlines offer direct flights to Cairo from major cities around the world.
2. By Train: There are daily trains from Alexandria to Cairo, and from other major cities and towns in Egypt.
3. By Bus: There are several bus companies that offer services to Cairo from various cities and towns in Egypt.
4. By Car: You can also drive to Cairo from other parts of Egypt, or take a taxi or a private car service.
It's important to note that visa requirements and travel restrictions may apply for visitors to Egypt, so be sure to check the latest information and requirements before making travel plans.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Cairo, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Cairo

1. Ful Medames: This is an Egyptian breakfast dish made from fava beans that have been slow-cooked and mashed, then served with olive oil, herbs and spices.
2. Koshary: This is a popular Egyptian street food made from rice, lentils, chickpeas, vermicelli, and a spicy tomato sauce. It is often topped with fried onions and served with garlic vinegar.
3. Ta'amiya (Falafel): This is a deep-fried patty made from ground fava beans or chickpeas, mixed with fresh herbs, onions and garlic.
4. Mahshi: Mahshi means "stuffed" in Arabic, and this dish is commonly made by stuffing vegetables like eggplant, peppers, zucchini, and vine leaves with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices.
5. Molokhia: This is a green leafy vegetable that is cooked and then puréed to form a thick stew. It is often served over rice and topped with crispy fried onions.
6. Shawarma: This is a popular street food consisting of thin strips of marinated meat, usually chicken or beef, that are grilled on a spit and then wrapped in pita bread with vegetables and tahini or garlic sauce.
7. Um Ali: This is a popular Egyptian dessert made with puff pastry or phyllo dough, milk, nuts, and raisins. It is baked until golden brown and served warm.
8. Basbousa: This is a sweet cake made from semolina flour and coconut, then soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup. It is often flavored with rosewater or orange blossom water.
9. Konafa: This is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made from phyllo dough, shredded pastry, or semolina noodles that are soaked in a sugar syrup and layered with a cream or cheese filling.
10. Feteer meshaltet: This is a flaky, layered pastry that can be filled with savory ingredients like cheese and herbs or sweet fillings like honey and nuts. It is often served with a tomato sauce on the side.
You can find general info about typical foods in Egypt here.

Is Cairo an expensive destination for tourists?

Cairo, Egypt can be an affordable destination for tourists, but it depends on your travel preferences and budget. In general, Egypt is considered an affordable destination with a low cost of living compared to Western countries. However, there are expenses that can add up such as tourist activities, transportation, and accommodations. For example, entrance fees for popular attractions like the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum can be pricey. On the other hand, if you plan your trip in advance, look for deals on accommodations, and eat at local restaurants, you can reduce your expenses significantly.

Where to find accomodation in Cairo

The best areas to find accommodation in Cairo depend on what you want to see and do during your trip. If you are interested in visiting the Pyramids of Giza and other ancient Egyptian landmarks, then the Giza area would be the best choice for you. If you prefer to be in close proximity to the bustling city life, then Downtown Cairo (also known as Tahrir Square) is a good option. You can easily walk to the Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, and other popular sites.
Another popular area to stay is Zamalek Island. It is an affluent residential area with beautiful Nile views, great restaurants and shopping areas.
If you are looking for a more modern and upscale experience, New Cairo could be considered as an option. No matter where you stay, be sure to research the area and read reviews to ensure that it meets your desired criteria.
You can check hotel prices at Cairo here:
Booking.com

Is Cairo a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Cairo is generally a safe place for tourists to visit. However, as in any major city, there are certain precautions that tourists should take to ensure their safety. It is recommended to travel in groups and to avoid traveling alone at night or in remote areas. Additionally, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and to take care not to display valuables such as money, jewelry, or electronics in public. Overall, by exercising common sense and following basic safety precautions, tourists should have a safe and enjoyable visit to Cairo.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Egypt here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Cairo.

What type of travelers will enjoy Cairo the most?

Cairo is a city rich in history, culture and adventure, making it a perfect destination for a wide range of travelers. Here are the types of travelers who will enjoy Cairo the most: 1) History and Culture enthusiasts: For those interested in history and culture, Cairo is a great place to explore. The city has a rich heritage and is home to several iconic landmarks such as The Pyramids of Giza, The Sphinx, The Egyptian Museum, The Cairo Citadel and many more.
2) Couples: Cairo is a great place for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The city is home to several luxurious hotels, restaurants, and spas that offer couples a memorable experience.
3) Families: Cairo is a family-friendly destination with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Families can visit Cairo's numerous museums, cultural centers, parks, and zoos.
4) Young people looking for fun: Cairo also offers an exciting nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs and live music venues to suit different tastes.
Overall, Cairo has something for everyone, making it a great destination for all types of travelers.

How to get around Cairo

The most common mode of transportation in Cairo is taxis. You can easily hail one on the street or use ride-hailing services like Uber or Careem. There is also a metro system which is efficient and affordable, with three operating lines. Buses are also available but can be crowded and confusing for tourists who do not speak Arabic. It is also possible to rent a car, but traffic in Cairo can be chaotic and difficult to navigate.

What to see around Cairo

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Cairo: 1. Giza Pyramids and Sphinx - This is one of the must-see places in Cairo, and luckily it's just a short distance from the city center.
2. Saqqara - This fascinating place has one of the oldest pyramids in Egypt, the Pyramid of Djoser, and it also features intriguing ancient ruins.
3. Memphis - This is an ancient capital city of Egypt that has dotted with some fantastic ruins of old temples and monuments.
4. Wadi El Natrun - This beautiful valley is an ideal spot to escape the city and relax, and it is renowned for its beautiful monasteries, which are perfect for sightseeing and exploring.
5. Fayoum - This is a breathtaking oasis that is perfect for a day of relaxation, and it features beautiful desert scenery, beautiful waterfalls and beautiful ruins and temples.
6. Alexandria - This historic Mediterranean city is just a few hours drive from Cairo, but it offers a unique blend of history, culture and natural beauty, with beautiful beaches and historic landmarks.
7. St. Catherine’s Monastery - Situated on the beautiful Sinai Peninsula and is the oldest working Christian monastery in the world.
8. Bahariya Oasis – Head over to Bahariya Oasis to enjoy beautiful desert scenery, beautiful hot springs and beautiful ancient tombs.
These are just a few examples to get you started on planning your day trip from Cairo, and there are many other beautiful places to see and explore nearby!
For every travel information about Egypt you can click here.

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