Cairo is a city full of wonders, and this Cairo itinerary will help you make the most of your visit. From the stunning Pyramids of Giza to the bustling streets of Islamic Cairo, there’s so much to see. You’ll find ancient history and vibrant culture everywhere you go. Whether you want to explore famous landmarks or try delicious food, this guide has something for everyone.
Get ready to dive into the magic of Cairo and create unforgettable memories. Let’s jump into the itineraries that will show you the best of this amazing city!
3-Day Cairo Itinerary
Cairo is a lively city filled with amazing history and attractions. If you only have three days, here’s how to enjoy your trip.
Day 1: Pyramids and Egyptian Museum
Start your first day at the Pyramids of Giza. It’s best to go early to avoid crowds. Don’t forget to see the Great Sphinx too. If you want, you can take a camel ride around the pyramids for a unique view.
After lunch, visit the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square. This museum has thousands of ancient artifacts, including treasures from King Tutankhamun’s tomb. Spend some time walking through the exhibits and learning about ancient Egypt.
In the evening, enjoy a boat ride on the Nile River. You can choose a traditional felucca or a dinner cruise with live music and entertainment.
Day 2: Islamic Cairo and Khan El Khalili Bazaar
On your second day, visit the Salah El-Din Citadel first. This spot gives great views of the city. Explore the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, known as the Alabaster Mosque, located in the citadel.
Next, wander through Islamic Cairo. Check out the beautiful mosques like Sultan Hassan and Al-Rifa’i. The old streets have stunning architecture, so take your time admiring them.
In the afternoon, head to Khan El Khalili Bazaar. This market is bustling and perfect for shopping. You can find souvenirs, spices, jewelry, and traditional crafts. Sit in a café and enjoy mint tea while watching the lively atmosphere.
Day 3: Coptic Cairo and Old Cairo
Spend your last day in Coptic Cairo. Visit the Hanging Church, one of the oldest churches in Egypt. Then go to the Church of St. Sergius, said to have sheltered the Holy Family during their stay in Egypt.
In the afternoon, visit Ben Ezra Synagogue to learn about Cairo’s Jewish history. Don’t miss the Coptic Museum, which has a great collection of Coptic art.
End your day at Al-Azhar Park. It’s a peaceful spot where you can relax and watch the sunset over Cairo’s skyline. It’s a nice way to wrap up your trip.
Summarized Itinerary
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1: Pyramids and Egyptian Museum | Visit the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Explore the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square. Enjoy a Nile River boat ride. |
| Day 2: Islamic Cairo and Khan El Khalili Bazaar | Tour the Salah El-Din Citadel and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Explore Islamic Cairo and shop at Khan El Khalili Bazaar. |
| Day 3: Coptic Cairo and Old Cairo | Visit the Hanging Church and St. Sergius Church. Explore Ben Ezra Synagogue and relax at Al-Azhar Park. |
5-Day Cairo Itinerary
With five days in Cairo, you can see more of the city and its attractions. Here’s a plan for you.
Day 1: Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, and Saqqara
Start your trip with the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Take your time exploring these famous sites. After lunch, go to Saqqara to see the Step Pyramid of Djoser, which is the oldest pyramid. This area is quieter than Giza, giving you a nice view of ancient architecture.
Day 2: Egyptian Museum and Downtown Cairo
Spend the morning at the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square. Explore the many ancient artifacts, including mummies if you’re interested.
In the afternoon, check out Downtown Cairo. Walk around Tahrir Square and visit Abdeen Palace, a beautiful royal residence. Grab a coffee at a local café for a break.
Day 3: Islamic Cairo, Citadel, and Khan El Khalili
On your third day, visit the Salah El-Din Citadel and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. After that, explore Islamic Cairo, checking out the impressive mosques of Sultan Hassan and Al-Rifa’i.
In the afternoon, return to Khan El Khalili Bazaar. Look for souvenirs and try bargaining for good deals. Relax in a café with some traditional food and drink.
Day 4: Coptic Cairo and Old Cairo
Today, head back to Coptic Cairo. Visit the Hanging Church, St. Sergius Church, and Ben Ezra Synagogue. The Coptic Museum is also worth a visit for its collection of Coptic history.
In the afternoon, check out the Mosque of Ibn Tulun. You can climb its spiral minaret for a nice view of the city.
Day 5: Al-Azhar Park and Nile Cruise
For your last day, enjoy a morning at Al-Azhar Park. Take a leisurely stroll in the gardens and enjoy the views.
In the evening, relax with a dinner cruise on the Nile. It’s a lovely way to see the city lights and enjoy your final night in Cairo.
Summarized Itinerary
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1: Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, and Saqqara | Visit the Pyramids and Sphinx, then head to Saqqara to see the Step Pyramid. |
| Day 2: Egyptian Museum and Downtown Cairo | Explore the Egyptian Museum, then check out Downtown Cairo and Abdeen Palace. |
| Day 3: Islamic Cairo, Citadel, and Khan El Khalili | Tour the Citadel and mosques, then shop at Khan El Khalili and enjoy local food. |
| Day 4: Coptic Cairo and Old Cairo | Visit the Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue, then see the Mosque of Ibn Tulun. |
| Day 5: Al-Azhar Park and Nile Cruise | Enjoy Al-Azhar Park in the morning, then relax with a dinner cruise on the Nile. |
7-Day Cairo Itinerary
Spending a week in Cairo allows you to dive deeper into the city and visit nearby places. Here’s a guide for your seven days.
Day 1: Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, and Memphis
Begin at the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Spend your morning exploring these sites. After lunch, visit Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt. You can see statues and learn about its history.
Day 2: Saqqara and Dahshur
Today, head to Saqqara to see the Step Pyramid. Afterward, go to Dahshur to visit the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid. These sites are less crowded and give you a unique look at ancient Egyptian architecture.
Day 3: Egyptian Museum and Downtown Cairo
Spend the morning at the Egyptian Museum, exploring its many artifacts. In the afternoon, take a walk around Downtown Cairo, visiting Abdeen Palace and enjoying a coffee at a local café.
Day 4: Citadel, Islamic Cairo, and Khan El Khalili
On day four, visit the Salah El-Din Citadel and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Next, explore Islamic Cairo, checking out Sultan Hassan and Al-Rifa’i mosques.
In the afternoon, shop at Khan El Khalili. Look for unique souvenirs and try to haggle for the best prices. Take a break at El Fishawi, a historic café in the market.
Day 5: Coptic Cairo and Old Cairo
Visit Coptic Cairo today. Explore the Hanging Church, St. Sergius Church, and Ben Ezra Synagogue. Don’t forget to check out the Coptic Museum for more history.
In the afternoon, visit the Mosque of Ibn Tulun. The spiral minaret offers great views of Cairo.
Day 6: Al-Azhar Park and Zamalek
Spend your sixth day at Al-Azhar Park, enjoying the gardens and city views. After lunch, head to Zamalek, a peaceful neighborhood on Gezira Island. Here, you can visit the Cairo Opera House or simply stroll along the Nile.
Day 7: Day Trip to Fayoum Oasis
For your final day, take a trip to Fayoum Oasis, about 100 kilometers from Cairo. Visit Wadi El Rayan for its lakes and waterfalls. Check out the ancient ruins of Karanis for more history.
After returning to Cairo, spend your last evening relaxing. A Nile dinner cruise is a great way to enjoy your final night with lovely views of the city lights.
Summarized Itinerary
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1: Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, and Memphis | Explore the Pyramids and Sphinx, then visit Memphis to see ancient statues. |
| Day 2: Saqqara and Dahshur | Visit the Step Pyramid at Saqqara and the Bent Pyramid at Dahshur. |
| Day 3: Egyptian Museum and Downtown Cairo | Explore the Egyptian Museum, then walk around Downtown Cairo and visit Abdeen Palace. |
| Day 4: Citadel, Islamic Cairo, and Khan El Khalili | Tour the Citadel and mosques, then shop and relax at Khan El Khalili. |
| Day 5: Coptic Cairo and Old Cairo | Visit Coptic Cairo’s churches and museums, including the Mosque of Ibn Tulun. |
| Day 6: Al-Azhar Park and Zamalek | Enjoy the gardens at Al-Azhar Park, then explore Zamalek and its sights. |
| Day 7: Day Trip to Fayoum Oasis | Take a trip to Fayoum Oasis for nature and ancient ruins. Return to Cairo for a dinner cruise. |
Practical Tips for Visiting Cairo
When you visit Cairo, keep some helpful tips in mind. First, dress modestly, especially at religious sites, to show respect. The sun can be strong, so bring sunscreen and a hat. Drinking lots of water is important, especially in the heat.
Learning a few Arabic phrases can help you connect with locals. Simple words like “hello” and “thank you” are appreciated. Use cash for small purchases, as not all places take cards. It’s good to have Egyptian pounds for markets and street food.
Public transport can be crowded, so be patient. The Metro is cheap and covers many areas, but it gets busy during rush hours. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber are also available. Make sure to agree on a fare or check that the meter is on before your ride.
Finally, be aware of your surroundings. Keep your belongings close to avoid theft, especially in crowded areas. Enjoy the amazing sights and sounds of Cairo!
Cairo’s Culture and History
Cairo has a rich history that goes back thousands of years. It’s often called the “City of a Thousand Minarets” because of its many beautiful mosques. The city started in 969 AD, but the history of the nearby Pyramids of Giza goes back to around 2500 BC.
Islam is a big part of life in Cairo. You’ll see stunning mosques and hear the call to prayer five times a day. The mix of old traditions and modern life makes the city special. History is everywhere you look.
Cairo is also known for its art and literature. You can find museums and galleries showcasing local artists. The Egyptian Museum is a must-see, full of treasures from the pharaohs.
Festivals are important in Cairo, too. Ramadan is a special time with unique traditions and food. The Cairo International Film Festival brings together artists from around the world. This cultural blend makes Cairo an exciting place to visit.
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Food and Restaurants in Cairo
Cairo has a delicious food scene. You can’t miss trying traditional Egyptian dishes. Koshari is a local favorite, made of rice, pasta, and lentils, topped with tomato sauce and crispy onions. It’s hearty and perfect after a day of exploring.
Ful medames, a dish made from fava beans, is often eaten for breakfast. You’ll find it at many restaurants and street vendors. Don’t forget to try fresh pita bread, which goes well with many meals.
Street food is a big part of the experience in Cairo. Vendors sell grilled meats and sweets. Try kofta, which is spiced minced meat grilled on skewers. For dessert, enjoy baklava, a sweet pastry filled with nuts and honey.
Cairo has both casual and fancy restaurants. Visit Abou Tarek for koshari or Sequoia for local flavors for beautiful Nile views. Many places offer a mix of international dishes, so there’s something for everyone.
Take time to enjoy tea or coffee in a traditional café. It’s a nice way to relax after a busy day. Whether you dine in a nice restaurant or grab a snack from a street vendor, Cairo’s food will surely please your taste buds.
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Transportation in Cairo
Getting around Cairo can be an adventure. The city is big, so knowing your options is important. The Metro is popular, affordable, and covers many areas. But it can be crowded during peak times.
Taxis are another choice. They are easy to find, but it’s best to agree on a fare before you start. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are also good options and can be more comfortable.
Buses are available but may confuse visitors. They are cheaper, but often crowded, and routes may not be clear for non-locals. Walking is a great way to explore some areas, especially historical districts. Just be careful and watch for traffic.
Consider hiring a private driver or joining a guided tour for longer trips. This way, you can see more without worrying about transportation. No matter how you get around, navigating Cairo is part of the adventure.
Conclusion
Cairo is a city rich in history, culture, and great food. With this Cairo itinerary and practical tips, you’ll have a wonderful time. Enjoy your trip and make lasting memories in this amazing city!
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Cairo?
The best time to visit Cairo is from October to April when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing.
Is Cairo safe for tourists?
Cairo is generally safe for tourists, but it’s essential to stay alert and keep your belongings close, especially in crowded areas.
What should I wear when visiting Cairo?
Dress modestly to respect the local culture, especially when visiting religious sites. Lightweight, breathable clothing is best due to the heat.
What currency is used in Cairo?
The currency used in Cairo is the Egyptian pound (EGP). It’s a good idea to have cash for small purchases.
How do I get around in Cairo?
You can use the Metro, taxis, or ride-hailing apps like Uber. Walking is also a good option in some areas.
What are must-see attractions in Cairo?
Don’t miss the Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum, and historic neighborhoods like Islamic Cairo.
Things to do in Cairo
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5-Day Tour around Cairo, Luxor, Alexandria and Suez Canal – $750.00 Visit Cairo, Luxor, and Alexandria. Experience historical sites like the pyramids and the Egyptian Museum. |
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Full-Day Cairo Tour to Discover Citadel, Coptic and Islamic Cairo – $120.00 This private tour explores Islamic and Christian sites. Visit the Hanging Church and the stunning Alabaster Mosque. |
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Cairo Private Day Tour to The Egyptian Museum, Citadel and Coptic Cairo – $120.00 Explore ancient Egypt, Coptic Cairo, and Islamic Cairo. Visit the Egyptian Museum and the Alabaster Mosque. |
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2 Days Private Guided Tours of Cairo and Giza – $200.00 Visit top attractions in Cairo and Giza with an Egyptologist guide. Enjoy visits to the pyramids and the Egyptian Museum. |
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Private Day Cairo Tour with Egyptian Museum and Coptic Cairo – $140.00 Explore the Egyptian Museum and Coptic Cairo. Discover ancient artifacts and learn about Egypt’s history. |
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Ron Hoekstra, a Dutch designer based in Taiwan, combines his passion for creativity with a love of travel. Inspired by his adventures, he launched a travel blog to share his experiences and insights. Professionally, he excels as a web designer and SEO expert, blending technical expertise with artistic vision to create impactful digital projects.