Cairo, Egypt Travel Guide

Discover Cairo: The timeless city where ancient wonders meet vibrant modern life, offering a rich cultural experience and unforgettable memories.

Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a city where ancient history and modern life blend seamlessly. Known for its iconic pyramids and the Sphinx, Cairo offers a journey back in time. The Egyptian Museum houses a vast collection of relics, including treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun. The city's bustling bazaars, such as Khan El Khalili, provide a unique shopping experience with their array of spices, textiles, and handcrafted goods. Beyond its historical landmarks, Cairo is a vibrant metropolis. Take a leisurely cruise along the Nile River and enjoy the stunning views of the city's skyline. The Al-Azhar Park, with its beautiful gardens and fountains, offers a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Don't miss the historic Islamic Cairo district, home to many mosques and architectural wonders. Cairo's culinary scene is also a highlight for visitors. Indulge in traditional Egyptian dishes such as koshari, ful medames, and fresh falafel. The city's lively cafes and restaurants provide the perfect setting to savor these flavors. Whether you're exploring ancient sites or enjoying modern amenities, Cairo promises an unforgettable adventure.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cairo.

Visit the pyramids early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the midday heat.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
Carry small change for tips, known as 'baksheesh,' which are customary for various services.
Bargain when shopping at bazaars for the best prices, but always do so politely.
Use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth to avoid stomach issues.

Neighbourhoods in Cairo

Giza

Heliopolis

Zamalek

Maadi

Downtown Cairo

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Cairo

Explore Cairo: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Cairo

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Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Giza Necropolis

Explore the Giza Necropolis, home to the Great Pyramids and Sphinx, a remarkable testament to ancient Egyptian civilization and its timeless wonders.

4.6

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo

Explore the wonders of ancient Egypt at The Egyptian Museum in Cairo, home to Tutankhamun's treasures and countless historical artifacts.

4.5

Al-Azhar Park

Experience the beauty of Al-Azhar Park, a serene escape in Cairo with stunning gardens, breathtaking views, and rich cultural heritage.

4.5

Giza Zoo

Discover the rich fauna and serene landscapes at Giza Zoo, a historic gem in Al Giza, where wildlife conservation meets family-friendly fun.

3.8

Best landmarks in Cairo

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The Hanging Church

Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of The Hanging Church, a pivotal site of Coptic heritage in the heart of Old Cairo.

4.7

Giza Necropolis

Explore the Giza Necropolis: Witness the majestic pyramids, the enigmatic Sphinx, and ancient Egyptian wonders on the Giza Plateau.

4.6

Giza Plateau

Explore the majestic pyramids and ancient wonders of the Giza Plateau, a testament to Egypt's glorious past and enduring legacy.

4.6

Giza, Egypt

Explore the majestic Giza pyramids and the Sphinx, testaments to ancient Egyptian ingenuity and pharaohs' beliefs, a journey through time.

4.7

Best restaurants in Cairo

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Oldish ( Restaurant & Cafe )

Discover Oldish Restaurant & Cafe: where authentic Egyptian flavors meet modern culinary creativity in the heart of Cairo.

4.2

Zööba

Experience authentic Egyptian street food at Zööba in Zamalek—where tradition meets modernity in every delicious bite.

4.2

Abou El Sid Restaurant

Experience authentic Egyptian cuisine and innovative izakaya dishes at Abou El Sid Restaurant in Zamalek, Cairo.

3.9

CaiRoma

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at CaiRoma in Cairo - where delicious flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.2

Best bars in Cairo

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Crimson Bar & Grill, Cairo, Egypt.

Experience the vibrant flavors of Cairo at Crimson Bar & Grill, a luxurious dining spot in Zamalek with exquisite cuisine and a lively atmosphere.

4.4

Pub 28

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Pub 28 in Zamalek, where good drinks and great company await in the heart of Cairo.

4.0

Cap D'or

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cairo at Cap D'or, where local flavors and a lively atmosphere come together in the heart of Abdeen.

4.2

Carol Bar

Discover a culinary gem in Cairo at Carol Bar, where grilled delights and tapas create an unforgettable dining experience.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Cairo

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Cairo Jazz Club

Explore the dynamic Cairo Jazz Club, where live music meets lively nightlife in the heart of Egypt's capital.

3.8

El-Regina Club Nile Tower

Discover the vibrant nightlife at El-Regina Club Nile Tower, where beats and ambiance unite along the stunning Nile River.

3.8

OMNI club cairo

Discover the electrifying nightlife at OMNI Club Cairo, where world-class DJs and vibrant dance floors create an unforgettable experience.

3.6

Night life

Discover the electrifying nightlife in Al Giza, where music, dance, and unforgettable memories await in a vibrant night club setting.

4.1

Best shops in Cairo

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Citystars Mall

Experience the ultimate shopping and entertainment destination at Citystars Mall in Nasr City, Cairo, where vibrant culture meets modern convenience.

4.5

Cairo Festival City Mall

Experience the ultimate shopping and entertainment hub at Cairo Festival City Mall, where luxury meets leisure in New Cairo.

4.6

Mall of Arabia

Explore Mall of Arabia, a vibrant shopping destination in Giza with a diverse range of stores, dining options, and entertainment for all ages.

4.5

Mall of Egypt

Discover the Mall of Egypt, an ultimate shopping and entertainment destination in Giza with top brands, diverse dining, and family-friendly attractions.

4.6

Explore Cairo on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Cairo, mapped for you.

Cairo Essentials

Cairo is served by Cairo International Airport (CAI), which is the primary gateway for international travelers. The airport is located approximately 22 kilometers northeast of the city center. Most major airlines operate flights to Cairo from various global destinations. From the airport, you can reach the city center by taxi, which is the most common and convenient option. Alternatively, airport shuttle services and private car hires are also available.
Cairo has a comprehensive transportation network. The Cairo Metro is a fast and affordable way to navigate the city, with three lines covering major areas. Taxis are widely available, but it is advisable to use reputable companies or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem. For short distances, tuk-tuks and minibuses are common, though they can be crowded. Renting a car is an option, but driving in Cairo's heavy traffic can be challenging for newcomers. Buses are also available, but they can be confusing and less reliable for tourists.
The official currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and markets. ATMs are readily available throughout Cairo. It's wise to exchange some currency at the airport or local banks for immediate expenses upon arrival.
Cairo is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, it has areas where caution is advised. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded places like markets and tourist attractions. Avoid isolated areas, especially at night. Areas like Downtown Cairo and Garden City are generally safe, while neighborhoods like Imbaba and Ain Shams have higher crime rates. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
In case of an emergency, dial 122 for police assistance, 123 for medical emergencies, and 180 for fire services. Most hospitals in Cairo have emergency departments, and there are numerous pharmacies for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For consular assistance, contact your respective embassy or consulate in Cairo.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect for local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes and cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be patient and respectful. Public transport can be crowded. Don't eat or drink on the metro. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a polite nod. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and accept hospitality graciously. Don't drink tap water; always opt for bottled water.
To experience Cairo like a local, visit the bustling Khan El Khalili bazaar for authentic shopping and local crafts. Enjoy a traditional Egyptian breakfast of foul and taameya at a local cafe. Take a felucca ride on the Nile for a relaxing evening. Engage with locals who are often friendly and willing to share insights about their city. Explore less touristy neighborhoods like Zamalek and Maadi for a more authentic experience.

When is the best time to visit Cairo?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Cairo

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Cairo. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
- Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
- Yesنعم
  [na'am]
- Noلا
  [la]
- Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlak]
- Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
- Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [a'ithir]
- How are you?أزيك؟
  [ezayyak?]
- Fine. And you?تمام. وأنت؟
  [tamam. w-ant?]
- Do you speak English?بتتكلم إنجليزي؟
  [betetkalem ingilizi?]
- I don't understandمش فاهم
  [mish fahem]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseعايز أشوف القائمة، من فضلك
  [ayiz ashuf elqa'ima, min fadlak]
- I don't eat meatأنا مش بآكل لحم
  [ana mish ba'akol lahme]
- Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseعايز أدفع، من فضلك
  [ayiz adfa', min fadlak]
- Help!النجدة!
  [elnajda!]
- Go away!امشي!
  [imshi!]
- Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [etssel baleshorta!]
- Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [etssel balta'ib!]
- I'm lostانا ضايع
  [ana daye']
- I'm illانا مريض
  [ana mareed]
- I'd like to buy...عايز أشتري...
  [ayiz ashtari...]
- I'm just lookingأنا بس بتفرج
  [ana bas batefarrag]
- How much is it?بكام؟
  [bikam?]
- That's too expensiveده غالي أوي
  [da ghali awe]
- Can you lower the price?تقدر تنزل السعر؟
  [takdar tenzel elsa'r?]
- What time is it?كام الساعة؟
  [kam elsa'a?]
- It's one o'clockالساعة واحدة
  [elsa'a wahda]
- Half past (10)العاشر ونص
  [ela'ashar wanas]
- Morningصباح الخير
  [sabah alkheir]
- Afternoonمساء الخير
  [masa' alkheir]
- Eveningمساء الخير
  [masa' alkheir]
- Yesterdayالأمس
  [al'ams]
- Todayاليوم
  [alyoum]
- Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
- 1واحد
  [wahed]
- 2اتنين
  [itneen]
- 3تلاتة
  [talata]
- 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
- 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
- 6ستة
  [sitta]
- 7سبعة
  [saba'a]
- 8تمانية
  [tamaneya]
- 9تسعة
  [tesa'a]
- 10عشرة
  [ashra]
- Where's a/the...?فين ...؟
  [fein ...?]
- What's the address?ايه العنوان؟
  [eh el'anwan?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?تقدر توريني؟
  [takdar tureen?]
- When's the next (bus)?الباص الجاي امتى؟
  [elbas elgay emta?]
- A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (لـ ...)
  [tazkara (li ...)]

History of Cairo

Cairo, known as Al-Qahirah in Arabic, was founded in 969 CE by the Fatimid dynasty. The city was established as the capital of the Fatimid Caliphate, marking the beginning of its rich historical journey. Before Cairo's establishment, the area was inhabited by older settlements, including the ancient city of Memphis and the Roman fortress of Babylon-in-Egypt.
During the Fatimid era, Cairo grew rapidly in size and influence. The Fatimids built many significant structures, including the Al-Azhar Mosque, which later became one of the oldest universities in the world. The city served as a center for Islamic learning and culture, attracting scholars from across the Muslim world.
In the late 12th century, Cairo came under the control of the Ayyubid dynasty, founded by Saladin. The Ayyubids were succeeded by the Mamluks in the mid-13th century, who ruled until the early 16th century. During this period, Cairo became a major center for trade, culture, and architecture. Iconic structures such as the Citadel of Cairo and numerous mosques and madrasas were built.
Cairo was conquered by the Ottoman Empire in 1517, marking the beginning of a new chapter in its history. The city remained an important provincial capital within the empire. Although the Ottomans ruled from Istanbul, Cairo retained a significant degree of autonomy and continued to thrive as a cultural and economic hub.
In 1798, Napoleon Bonaparte's forces briefly occupied Cairo, bringing with them European influences and sparking a period of modernization. Although the French left in 1801, their impact paved the way for future reforms. Muhammad Ali Pasha, an Ottoman governor, initiated significant modernization efforts in the early 19th century, transforming Cairo's infrastructure, military, and education system.
In 1882, the British occupied Egypt, including Cairo, ostensibly to protect their interests in the Suez Canal. British rule brought further modernization but also led to increased nationalistic sentiments among Egyptians. Cairo became a focal point for political activity, culminating in the 1919 revolution against British rule.
Cairo continued to grow throughout the 20th century, becoming a symbol of Arab nationalism under leaders such as Gamal Abdel Nasser. The city expanded rapidly, grappling with challenges such as overpopulation, traffic congestion, and pollution. Despite these issues, Cairo remains a vibrant metropolis, rich with historical sites, cultural landmarks, and bustling markets.