Cairo, the sprawling capital of Egypt and the largest city in the Arab world, stands majestically along the banks of the legendary River Nile. Home to over 20 million people in its greater metropolitan area, this ancient metropolis seamlessly weaves together 5,000 years of history with the pulsating energy of modern urban life. Known as “Umm al-Dunya” (Mother of the World) by locals and “Al-Qāhirah” (The Victorious City) in Arabic, Cairo serves as the beating heart of the Middle East and North Africa.

From the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx to the medieval splendour of Islamic Cairo and the treasures of the Egyptian Museum, the city offers an unparalleled journey through time. The contrast is breathtaking: one moment you’re navigating the bustling Khan el-Khalili bazaar with its maze of alleyways filled with spice merchants and artisans, the next you’re sipping mint tea in a rooftop café overlooking the Nile whilst the sun sets behind ancient minarets.

While Cairo can be overwhelming with its notorious traffic, constant hum of activity, and sensory overload, it rewards those who embrace its chaos with experiences that few cities on earth can match. The warmth and hospitality of the Egyptian people, combined with the city’s incredible historical significance and vibrant contemporary culture, make Cairo an essential destination for any serious traveller.

When to Visit Cairo?

Best Time to Visit

The most pleasant time to visit Cairo is during the cooler months from October to April. During this period, daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 20-25°C (68-77°F), making outdoor exploration much more enjoyable. The winter months of December through February are particularly ideal, with mild days averaging 18-22°C (64-72°F) and cool evenings around 8-12°C (46-54°F).

Seasonal Breakdown

Winter (December-February): Perfect weather conditions with mild, sunny days and cool nights. This is peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds at major attractions. Ideal for extensive sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Spring (March-May): Excellent weather with gradually warming temperatures. March and April are particularly lovely, with temperatures ranging from 20-28°C (68-82°F). May can become quite warm towards the end of the month.

Summer (June-September): Extremely hot and dry with temperatures regularly exceeding 35°C (95°F) and often reaching 40°C+ (104°F+). While this is the least comfortable time for sightseeing, it’s also when you’ll find the best hotel deals and fewer crowds. Early morning and evening activities are recommended.

Autumn (October-November): Transitional season with decreasing temperatures and comfortable weather returning. October can still be quite warm but is manageable, whilst November offers near-perfect conditions.

How to Get to Cairo?

By Air

Cairo International Airport (CAI): Located about 20km northeast of central Cairo, this is Africa’s second-busiest airport and Egypt’s primary international gateway.

Direct flights available from: London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Rome, Istanbul, Dubai, Doha, Kuwait, Riyadh, Johannesburg, New York, and many other major cities worldwide.

Major airlines serving Cairo: EgyptAir, British Airways, Lufthansa, KLM, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, and many others.

Airport to city transport:

• Airport Express Bus: Approximately $3-5 USD
• Official taxi: $8-12 USD (negotiate fare beforehand)
• Uber/Careem: $6-10 USD
• Airport transfer services: $15-25 USD

By Land

Overland routes: Cairo is accessible by road from neighbouring countries, though border crossings can be time-consuming.

From Jordan: Via the Taba border crossing in South Sinai (currently restricted – check latest travel advisories) From Libya: Via the Salloum border crossing (currently not recommended due to security concerns) From Sudan: Via the Wadi Halfa crossing (requires advance planning and documentation)

By Sea

Alexandria to Cairo: Many visitors arrive via cruise ships in Alexandria and then travel the 220km to Cairo by road (approximately 2.5-3 hours) or train (3-4 hours).

Getting Around in Cairo

Metro (Subway)

The Cairo Metro is the most efficient way to navigate the city, with three operational lines covering major areas. Tickets cost approximately $0.30-0.60 USD. The first two carriages of each train are reserved for women only.

Taxis

Traditional taxis: Abundant but often lack air conditioning. Always negotiate the fare beforehand (typically $2-8 USD for cross-city journeys). Uber and Careem: Widely available and recommended for tourists. Generally safer and more convenient with upfront pricing.

Microbus and Bus

Local minibuses follow set routes and are very inexpensive ($0.15-0.30 USD) but can be crowded and confusing for tourists.

Walking

Central areas like Downtown Cairo, Zamalek, and parts of Islamic Cairo are walkable, though traffic and crowds require caution.

Car Rental

Not recommended for first-time visitors due to chaotic traffic conditions. If you do rent, expect to pay $25-50 USD per day.

Top Attractions and Things to Do in Cairo

Ancient Wonders

Pyramids of Giza: The last surviving Wonder of the Ancient World, these 4,500-year-old monuments are absolutely unmissable. Entry to the pyramid complex costs $10 USD, with additional fees for entering the pyramids themselves ($15-25 USD each).

The Great Sphinx: Adjacent to the pyramids, this enigmatic limestone statue with the body of a lion and head of a pharaoh has guarded the Giza plateau for millennia.

Saqqara: Home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the world’s oldest stone building. Entry costs $8 USD, and it’s less crowded than Giza whilst being equally fascinating.

Memphis: The ancient capital of Egypt, now an open-air museum featuring colossal statues and ruins. Entry costs $4 USD.

Museums and Cultural Sites

The Egyptian Museum: Housing the world’s most extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts, including treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb. Entry costs $12 USD, with additional fees for special exhibitions ($8-15 USD).

National Museum of Egyptian Civilization: A modern museum showcasing Egypt’s diverse heritage from prehistoric times to the present. Entry costs $10 USD.

Coptic Museum: Located in Old Cairo, featuring one of the world’s finest collections of Coptic Christian art. Entry costs $5 USD.

Islamic Art Museum: Houses masterpieces of Islamic decorative arts spanning 1,400 years. Entry costs $4 USD.

Islamic Cairo

Khan el-Khalili Bazaar: A labyrinthine medieval market that’s been operating for over 600 years. Free to explore, but budget for shopping and refreshments.

Al-Azhar Mosque: One of the most important centres of Islamic learning in the world, dating from 970 AD. Entry is free, but dress modestly.

Citadel of Saladin: A medieval Islamic fortification offering panoramic views of Cairo. Entry costs $6 USD and includes access to several mosques and museums.

Sultan Hassan Mosque: Considered one of the finest examples of Mamluk architecture. Entry costs $4 USD.

Ibn Tulun Mosque: The largest mosque in Cairo by area and one of the oldest. Entry costs $3 USD.

Coptic Cairo

Hanging Church (Al-Muallaqa): One of the oldest churches in Egypt, built above a Roman fortress gatehouse. Entry is free.

Ben Ezra Synagogue: A historic synagogue where the Cairo Geniza manuscripts were discovered. Entry costs $3 USD.

Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus: Built over the crypt where the Holy Family allegedly stayed. Entry is free.

Modern Cairo and Nile Experiences

Zamalek: An upscale island district perfect for afternoon strolls, café culture, and art galleries.

Cairo Opera House: Egypt’s premier venue for performing arts, hosting international and local productions.

Nile Corniche: A scenic waterfront promenade perfect for evening walks with Nile views.

Felucca rides: Traditional sailboat excursions on the Nile, typically costing $8-15 USD for 1-2 hours.

Nile dinner cruises: Evening entertainment with dinner, music, and dance performances ($25-60 USD depending on quality and inclusions).

Where to Stay in Cairo

Luxury Hotels

Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza: Overlooking the Nile with impeccable service and world-class amenities. Rooms from $300-500 USD per night.

The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo: Iconic luxury hotel with stunning Nile views and elegant décor. Rooms from $250-450 USD per night.

Kempinski Nile Hotel Cairo: Modern luxury with spectacular river views and excellent restaurants. Rooms from $200-400 USD per night.

Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah: French elegance on Gezira Island with beautiful Nile panoramas. Rooms from $180-350 USD per night.

Conrad Cairo: Contemporary luxury hotel with impressive city and Nile views. Rooms from $150-300 USD per night.

Mid-Range Hotels

Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir: Centrally located near Tahrir Square with comfortable accommodations. Rooms from $80-150 USD per night.

Hilton Cairo Heliopolis: Near the airport with good facilities and service. Rooms from $70-130 USD per night.

Mercure Cairo Le Sphinx: Convenient location with reliable international standards. Rooms from $60-120 USD per night.

Ramses Hilton: Downtown location with Nile views and multiple dining options. Rooms from $90-180 USD per night.

Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino: Historic hotel with lush gardens in Zamalek. Rooms from $100-200 USD per night.

Budget Hotels and Hostels

Wake Up Cairo Hostel: Modern hostel in Downtown Cairo with clean facilities. Dorm beds from $12-18 USD, private rooms from $35-50 USD per night.

Cairo Downtown Hostel: Basic but clean accommodation in a historic building. Dorm beds from $10-15 USD, private rooms from $25-40 USD per night.

Pension Roma: Family-run guesthouse with character and helpful owners. Rooms from $20-40 USD per night.

Hotel Luna: Simple accommodation in Downtown Cairo with breakfast included. Rooms from $30-50 USD per night.

Australian Hostel: Long-established backpacker favourite with rooftop views. Dorm beds from $8-12 USD, private rooms from $20-35 USD per night.

Best Areas to Stay

Zamalek: Upscale island district with cafés, galleries, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Best for luxury travellers seeking sophistication.

Downtown Cairo: Historic centre near major attractions and transport links. Good for budget to mid-range travellers who want to be in the heart of the action.

Garden City: Quiet, leafy area near the Nile with diplomatic quarter atmosphere. Ideal for those seeking peace whilst remaining central.

Heliopolis: Modern suburb near the airport with shopping and dining. Convenient for business travellers or those with early flights.

Giza: Near the pyramids, but more touristy and less authentic urban experience. Good for pyramid-focused visits.

Food and Dining in Cairo

Local Specialities

Ful medames: Egypt’s national dish of slow-cooked fava beans, typically eaten for breakfast with bread, eggs, and salad.

Koshari: Cairo’s beloved street food consisting of rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas, fried onions, and spicy tomato sauce.

Molokhia: A green leafy vegetable soup often served with chicken or rabbit, considered a delicacy.

Mahshi: Vegetables like courgettes, aubergines, and vine leaves stuffed with rice and herbs.

Roz bel laban: Traditional rice pudding flavoured with vanilla and topped with nuts and cinnamon.

Basbousa: Sweet semolina cake soaked in syrup, often flavoured with coconut or almonds.

Egyptian bread (aish baladi): Flat, round bread baked in traditional ovens and essential to every meal.

Fine Dining Restaurants

Sequoia: Upscale Mediterranean restaurant with stunning Nile views in Zamalek. Mains $20-35 USD.

Zitouni: Elegant Lebanese restaurant at the Four Seasons with excellent mezze and grills. Mains $25-40 USD.

La Gourmandise: French fine dining institution serving classic cuisine since 1975. Mains $30-50 USD.

Pier 88: Sophisticated steakhouse and seafood restaurant on the Nile Corniche. Mains $25-45 USD.

The Blue Restaurant & Grill: International cuisine with panoramic city views from the 40th floor. Mains $20-40 USD.

Traditional Egyptian Restaurants

Naguib Mahfouz Café: Atmospheric restaurant in Khan el-Khalili serving traditional Egyptian cuisine. Mains $8-15 USD.

Felfela: Historic restaurant chain famous for authentic Egyptian dishes and traditional décor. Mains $6-12 USD.

Abou El Sid: Charming restaurant celebrating Egyptian heritage through food and atmosphere. Mains $10-18 USD.

Kazaz: Local favourite serving excellent traditional dishes in a no-frills setting. Mains $4-8 USD.

El Abd Patisserie: Legendary bakery and café famous for its Egyptian sweets and pastries. Pastries $2-5 USD.

Street Food and Casual Dining

Koshari stalls: Found throughout the city, serving Egypt’s national dish for $1-3 USD per serving.

Ful and tamaya carts: Street vendors serving breakfast staples for under $2 USD.

Zooba: Modern Egyptian fast-casual chain reimagining traditional street food. Meals $5-10 USD.

Maison Thomas: Popular pizza chain with Egyptian twists and reliable quality. Pizzas $8-15 USD.

Mandarine Koueider: Upscale patisserie and café chain known for French-Egyptian fusion desserts. Items $3-8 USD.

Cafés and Tea Houses

Café Riche: Historic literary café in Downtown Cairo frequented by intellectuals since 1908. Drinks $2-5 USD.

El Fishawy: Legendary café in Khan el-Khalili operating 24/7 since 1773. Shisha and tea $3-8 USD.

Groppis: Resurrected historic café chain with European-style pastries and coffee. Coffee and pastries $3-6 USD.

The Tap East/West: Trendy gastropubs in Maadi serving craft beer and international food. Drinks $4-8 USD.

Cilantro: Egyptian coffee chain offering good quality coffee and light meals. Coffee $2-4 USD.

Day Trips and Nearby Attractions

Alexandria (2.5-3 hours by road)

Egypt’s second city and ancient seat of learning, featuring the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Roman amphitheatre, and Mediterranean seafront. Day tours typically cost $40-80 USD including transport.

Dahshur (1 hour south)

Home to the Bent Pyramid and Red Pyramid, offering a less crowded pyramid experience. Entry costs $5 USD, and taxis charge approximately $20-30 USD for the round trip.

Fayoum Oasis (2 hours southwest)

Natural oasis featuring Wadi El Rayan waterfalls, Lake Qarun, and the Wadi El Hitan fossil site (Valley of the Whales). Day trips cost $50-100 USD.

Ain Sokhna (1.5 hours east)

Red Sea resort town perfect for a beach day or overnight escape from Cairo’s intensity. Beach resort day passes cost $10-25 USD.

Wadi Natrun (2 hours northwest)

Historic area with ancient Coptic monasteries still active today. Guided tours typically cost $30-60 USD.

Practical Information for First-Time Visitors

Currency

The Egyptian Pound (EGP) is the local currency. US Dollars are widely accepted at tourist sites and hotels, though you’ll often receive change in Egyptian Pounds. ATMs are readily available throughout the city, and major credit cards are accepted at upscale establishments.

Language

Arabic is the official language, with Egyptian Arabic being the local dialect. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. French is also understood in some upscale establishments. Learning basic Arabic greetings will be greatly appreciated by locals.

Safety Tips

Cairo is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions apply. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, keep valuables secure, and be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. Traffic is chaotic, so exercise extreme caution when crossing streets. Political demonstrations should be avoided entirely.

Women travellers should dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Harassment can occur, so remain confident and seek help from police or tourist police if needed.

Health

Tap water should be avoided; stick to bottled water which is readily available and inexpensive. Street food can cause stomach upset for sensitive travellers, so choose busy stalls with high turnover. The sun is intense year-round, so use strong sunscreen and wear a hat.

Cairo has excellent private medical facilities including As-Salam International Hospital and Dar Al Fouad Hospital.

Cultural Customs and Etiquette

Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, so dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or religious sites. Remove shoes before entering mosques and cover shoulders and knees. During Ramadan, be respectful of those fasting and avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.

Tipping (baksheesh) is customary and expected for most services. Tip restaurant servers 10-15%, hotel staff $1-2 USD per service, and taxi drivers round up to the nearest pound.

Bargaining is expected in markets and with taxi drivers (except Uber/Careem). Start by offering 30-50% of the asking price and negotiate from there.

Photography of military installations, government buildings, and some museums is prohibited. Always ask permission before photographing people.

Business Hours

Government offices: Sunday-Thursday 8:00-14:30 Banks: Sunday-Thursday 8:30-14:00 Shops: Generally 10:00-22:00, though hours vary widely Restaurants: Most open 12:00-24:00 or later Museums: Usually 9:00-17:00, closed Mondays

During Ramadan, hours may be significantly different.

Connectivity

Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, restaurants, and cafés. Local SIM cards are inexpensive and readily available from Vodafone, Orange, or Etisalat stores. International roaming can be expensive, so consider purchasing a local data package.

Transportation Apps

Download Uber and Careem for convenient transport. Google Maps works well for navigation, though traffic conditions change rapidly throughout the day.

Suggested Itineraries

One Day in Cairo

Morning: Visit the Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx (4 hours) Afternoon: Explore the Egyptian Museum (2 hours) Evening: Stroll through Khan el-Khalili bazaar and dine at a traditional restaurant

Three Days in Cairo

Day 1: Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, and Saqqara Day 2: Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo (Citadel, Sultan Hassan Mosque, Khan el-Khalili) Day 3: Coptic Cairo, Zamalek district, and Nile felucca ride

Five Days in Cairo

Follow the three-day itinerary and add: Day 4: Day trip to Alexandria Day 5: National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, Hanging Church, and Memphis

Shopping Guide

Souvenirs

Papyrus: Hand-painted papyrus scrolls make excellent gifts ($5-25 USD) Spices: Saffron, cardamom, and spice blends from Khan el-Khalili ($2-10 USD) Perfumes: Traditional Egyptian scents and oils ($5-20 USD) Jewellery: Silver cartouches with hieroglyphic names ($10-50 USD) Textiles: Hand-woven carpets and traditional fabrics ($20-200 USD) Brassware: Traditional lamps, trays, and decorative items ($10-100 USD)

Where to Shop

Khan el-Khalili: Historic bazaar with traditional crafts and souvenirs City Centre Almaza: Modern shopping mall with international brands Mall of Egypt: Large shopping complex in New Cairo Zamalek: Boutique shops and art galleries Wekalet al-Balah: Artisan workshops producing high-quality crafts

Cairo awaits with open arms and countless stories to tell. This ancient city will challenge your senses, expand your horizons, and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. Welcome to the Mother of the World – welcome to Cairo.