Cairo is loud, chaotic and unforgettable: 5,000 years of history, the Nile, and a megacity of 20+ million people. This guide covers the essentials and links to our detailed Cairo guides.
Top things to do in Cairo
- The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. See Giza Pyramids tickets.
- The Grand Egyptian Museum, with Tutankhamun’s treasures. See GEM tickets.
- Saqqara: the Step Pyramid of Djoser.
- Islamic Cairo: Al-Azhar, Sultan Hassan Mosque and Al-Muizz Street.
- Khan el-Khalili: the historic bazaar and El Fishawy café.
- The Citadel and the Muhammad Ali Mosque.
- A felucca ride on the Nile at sunset.
See all 20 best things to do in Cairo, or compare Cairo and Giza tours.
Where to stay in Cairo
- Giza (near the Pyramids): Pyramid-view hotels, next to the GEM.
- Zamalek: a leafy Nile island with cafés and embassies.
- Downtown / Garden City: central, with Nile-view hotels.
- New Cairo / Heliopolis: modern and close to the airport.
Read our full Cairo area guide, or check hotel prices in Cairo.
Getting around Cairo
Uber and Careem are cheap and the easiest way to get around, with prices shown up front. The metro is very cheap and useful for Downtown, with women-only cars. Traffic is intense, so allow plenty of time, especially between Giza and the eastern districts.
Airport to the city
| Option (CAI → Downtown / Zamalek) | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Uber / Careem | ~US$11–16 | 25–45 min |
| Official white taxi (voucher) | ~US$16–22 | 25–45 min |
| Private transfer | ~US$27–43 | 25–45 min |
Full details, including Giza, are in Cairo Airport to the city.
Best time to visit Cairo
October to April is the most comfortable time, with warm days and cool nights. December and January are peak season. June to August is extremely hot (35–40°C+). Visit the outdoor sites early in the morning. During Ramadan, sites stay open but hours may change.
Visa, safety and tips
See our Egypt visa guide. Expect persistent touts and scams around the Pyramids: agree prices before any camel or horse ride, and ignore “the site is closed” stories. Dress modestly, especially in mosques. Carry small notes for tips (baksheesh). Drink bottled water. Get an Egypt eSIM and travel insurance.
Cairo guides
- 20 best things to do in Cairo
- Cairo itinerary: 2, 3 or 4 days
- Where to stay in Cairo
- Giza Pyramids tickets and tips
- Grand Egyptian Museum tickets
- Egypt visa on arrival and e-visa
- Cairo Airport to the city
FAQ: Cairo travel
How many days do you need in Cairo?
Three days covers Giza and the GEM, Saqqara, Islamic Cairo and Khan el-Khalili. Add days for Alexandria, or fly to Luxor and Aswan.
Is Cairo safe for tourists?
Major tourist areas are generally safe, with a visible police presence. The main annoyances are scams and aggressive selling. Check your government’s travel advice before you go.
Is Cairo expensive?
Food and transport are cheap, but entrance fees for foreigners have risen sharply. Budget for the GEM and the Pyramids.
Should I stay in Giza or central Cairo?
Giza for Pyramid views and the GEM, and Zamalek or Downtown for the city’s culture and restaurants. Many visitors split their stay.
Plan your trip to Cairo
The trusted services we use to plan our own trips.
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