- The Pyramids are in Giza, on the edge of the city (about 30-45 mins from downtown).
- Traffic is insane. Crossing the street is an extreme sport.
- The Egyptian Museum (Tahrir) is old school, but the new GEM (Grand Egyptian Museum) near the pyramids is the future.
- Haggling is mandatory in markets like Khan el-Khalili.
- Uber is the best way to get around safely and cheaply.
If you want, you can open the search in a new tab via Aviasales. Реклама. Go Travel Un Limited. ИНН 9909520797
When to go: Winter is best
October to April is the only time to go. The weather is pleasant (warm days, cool nights).
Summer (May-September) is brutally hot and polluted. Sightseeing in 40°C heat is not fun.
- Winter: Perfect sightseeing weather.
- Summer: Avoid if possible.
- Shoulder Season: Good balance.
Airport to City: Uber
Cairo International Airport (CAI) is about 45-60 minutes from downtown or Giza. The best way is to order an Uber. Ignore the taxi touts in the arrivals hall.
Pre-arranged private transfers are also good for peace of mind, especially if arriving late.
- Uber: Safe, tracked, fixed price.
- Private Transfer: Stress-free.
- Taxi: Expect to haggle hard.
Where to stay: Nile View or Pyramids?
Stay in Downtown/Zamalek for city vibes, restaurants, and the museum. Zamalek is an island in the Nile, greener and more upscale.
Stay in Giza if you want to wake up looking at the Pyramids. It's far from the city center but magical for a night or two.
- Zamalek: Upscale, embassies, dining.
- Downtown: Chaotic, central, historic.
- Giza: Pyramid views, but dusty and far.
What to see: Pyramids and Museums
The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx are non-negotiable. Go early (8 AM) to beat the buses. Go inside the Great Pyramid if you're not claustrophobic.
The Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square is a treasure trove (literally piles of artifacts). The Citadel of Saladin offers great views and the stunning Alabaster Mosque. Khan el-Khalili market is for shopping and atmosphere.
- Pyramids of Giza: Ancient wonder.
- Egyptian Museum: King Tut's gold.
- Citadel: Mosque and views.
- Khan el-Khalili: Souks and tea.
- Coptic Cairo: Ancient churches and history.
Food: Koshary and Falafel
Eat Koshary—a mix of rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and fried onions with tomato sauce. It's carb overload and delicious. Falafel (ta'ameya) here is made with fava beans, not chickpeas, and it's greener and fluffier.
Drink sugar cane juice or hibiscus tea (karkade).
- Koshary: The national dish.
- Ta'ameya (Falafel): Breakfast staple.
- Shawarma: Beef or chicken wraps.
- Om Ali: Bread pudding dessert.
Getting around: Uber
Do not drive. Do not take local buses unless you speak Arabic and know the routes. The Metro is efficient and cheap (and has women-only carriages), but limited in coverage.
Uber is your best friend. It's cheap and saves you from haggling.
- Uber: The gold standard.
- Metro: Good for specific routes.
- Walk: Only in specific areas like Zamalek or Downtown.
Budget: Very Cheap
Egypt is very affordable for Western tourists. Food, transport, and entry fees are low. You can stay in 5-star hotels for the price of a 3-star in Europe.
Tipping (baksheesh) is expected everywhere for everything. Keep small change handy.
- Food: Very cheap street food.
- Hotels: Great value luxury.
- Tipping: Essential part of the culture.
3 Days in Cairo
Day 1: Giza Pyramids and Sphinx. Afternoon at the Grand Egyptian Museum (if open) or Saqqara (Step Pyramid). Sound and Light show at night.
Day 2: Egyptian Museum (Tahrir). Lunch in Downtown. Afternoon at the Citadel. Sunset at Al-Azhar Park.
Day 3: Coptic Cairo (Hanging Church). Afternoon shopping in Khan el-Khalili. Tea at El Fishawy cafe.
- Day 1: Ancient Egypt.
- Day 2: Islamic Cairo and Museums.
- Day 3: Coptic history and Souks.
FAQ
Is it safe?
Yes, generally. Tourist police are everywhere. The main annoyance is touts trying to sell you things. A firm 'La, shukran' (No, thank you) works.
Can I drink the water?
No. Stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth.
What should women wear?
Dress modestly. Cover shoulders and knees to avoid unwanted attention. A scarf is useful for visiting mosques.