Cairo

Cairo Travel Guide – Top Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Essential Travel Tips

Cairo, the vibrant capital of Egypt, is a fascinating blend of ancient history and modern energy. Known as the “City of a Thousand Minarets,” Cairo sits gracefully along the River Nile, offering travellers a captivating mix of bustling markets, historic mosques, ancient pyramids, and lively street life. Whether you’re exploring the awe-inspiring Giza Pyramids, wandering through the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, or cruising on a traditional felucca boat at sunset, Cairo promises an unforgettable travel experience filled with culture, colour, and charm.

Things to Do in Cairo

• Visit the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx – One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, these monuments are a must-see for every traveller.
• Explore the Egyptian Museum – Discover ancient treasures, mummies, and artifacts from the time of the Pharaohs.
• Wander through Islamic Cairo – Admire centuries-old mosques such as Al-Azhar Mosque and Mosque of Muhammad Ali at the Citadel.
• Shop at Khan el-Khalili Bazaar – A vibrant marketplace for handmade crafts, perfumes, jewelry, and local souvenirs.
• Cruise the Nile River – Take a scenic evening cruise and enjoy Cairo’s skyline and traditional Egyptian music.
• Experience Local Life in Downtown Cairo – Relax in classic coffee houses, taste Egyptian tea, and enjoy the city’s buzzing nightlife.

Best Time to Visit Cairo

• March – May (Spring): Pleasant temperatures (20–30°C) and fewer crowds make sightseeing ideal.
• June – August (Summer): Very hot (30–40°C), suitable for early morning or evening activities only.
• September – November (Autumn): Comfortable weather (22–32°C), great for outdoor exploration.
• December – February (Winter): Mild and sunny (15–25°C), perfect for visiting historic sites and the desert.

Best overall months: March, April, October, and November – warm days, cool nights, and ideal for exploring the pyramids and museums.

Cairo Travel Tips

Local Transport

• Use Uber or Careem for safe and affordable rides.
• The Cairo Metro is efficient for short city trips.
• Private tours or hotel taxis are convenient for day trips to the Giza Plateau or Saqqara.

Local Food

Try traditional Egyptian dishes such as:

• Koshari – a popular street food made with rice, pasta, lentils, and tomato sauce.
• Ful Medames – mashed fava beans served with olive oil, herbs, and bread.
• Molokhia – a local soup made from jute leaves.
• Baklava and Basbousa – sweet desserts that pair perfectly with Egyptian mint tea.

Seasons & Weather

• Spring (Mar–May): 20–30°C – warm and dry.
• Summer (Jun–Aug): 30–40°C – very hot; stay hydrated.
• Autumn (Sep–Nov): 22–32°C – ideal for sightseeing.
• Winter (Dec–Feb): 15–25°C – mild and sunny.
  Always wear sunscreen and a hat; Cairo’s sun can be intense even in winter.

Safety

Cairo is generally safe for tourists, especially in main areas and guided tours. Always be aware of your surroundings, avoid unlicensed taxis, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Currency

The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit cards are accepted in hotels and large restaurants, but it’s best to carry cash for markets and small shops.

What to Visit around Cairo

• Giza – Just 30 minutes away, home to the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx.
• Saqqara & Memphis – Explore Egypt’s oldest pyramids and ancient ruins.
• Alexandria – A 3-hour drive north; famous for its Mediterranean coastline and the historic Bibliotheca Alexandrina.
• Fayoum Oasis – A peaceful desert escape with waterfalls, sand dunes, and wildlife.
• Saint Catherine’s Monastery (Sinai) – A UNESCO World Heritage site near Mount Sinai, ideal for history and nature lovers.