Cairo Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Top things to do in Cairo

Cairo holds more than five thousand years of history, from pharaonic monuments to medieval mosques and a lively modern riverside.

• Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx — The last surviving wonder of the ancient world, on the western edge of the city; arrive early to beat the heat and the crowds.
• Grand Egyptian Museum — A vast museum near the Giza Plateau devoted to ancient Egypt, including treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun.
• Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square — The historic museum in the city centre, packed with statues, sarcophagi and everyday objects from the pharaonic era.
• Islamic Cairo and Khan el-Khalili — A UNESCO-listed historic district of minarets, madrasas and gates, with the city’s famous bazaar at its heart.
• Citadel of Saladin — A medieval fortress crowned by the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, with panoramic views across the city.
• Coptic Cairo — The old Christian quarter, home to the Hanging Church, ancient churches and the Coptic Museum.
• Felucca on the Nile — A traditional sailing boat trip at sunset is one of the most relaxing ways to see the city.

Best time to visit Cairo

The best time to visit Cairo is from October to April, when days are warm and sunny and temperatures are comfortable for exploring the pyramids and the old city. December and January are the coolest months, with mild days and chilly evenings, and this winter period is also the busiest for tourism, so popular sites can be crowded.

From May to September, Cairo is hot and dry, with summer temperatures often reaching the high 30s°C. Sightseeing is still possible if you start early in the morning and rest during the hottest hours. In spring, occasional hot, dusty winds from the desert, known as the khamsin, can reduce visibility for a day or two.

Rain is rare at any time of year. During Ramadan, whose dates change annually, the city’s rhythm shifts: days are quieter, while evenings are festive, with lanterns, family gatherings and busy streets until late. Sham el-Nessim, the spring festival, sees families picnic in parks and along the Nile.

Getting from the airport

Cairo International Airport (CAI) lies around 20 km north-east of downtown Cairo, close to the Heliopolis district. Journey times vary greatly with traffic: allow around 40 minutes to an hour to reach the city centre, and longer to Giza or at peak times.

• Airport taxi — Official taxis and limousine services are available at the arrivals halls. Agree the fare in advance or use a pre-booked service.
• Ride-hailing apps — App-based car services are widely used in Cairo and are a convenient option, with fares shown before you travel.
• Airport buses — Airport shuttle buses and public buses connect the terminals with central Cairo and other districts. They are inexpensive but slower and busier.
• Hotel transfers — Many hotels offer pick-ups, which are especially useful on a first visit or when arriving late at night.

The airport has several terminals, so check which one you are using before heading back for a departure, and leave plenty of time, as Cairo’s traffic can be unpredictable.

Where to stay

Cairo is huge, and where you stay makes a big difference to travel times. Consider which sights matter most to you and choose a base nearby to avoid long journeys through traffic.

• Downtown and Garden City — Central and well connected, close to the Egyptian Museum and the Nile; suits first-time visitors and those using the metro.
• Zamalek — A leafy island in the Nile with embassies, cafés, galleries and restaurants, popular with travellers who want a calmer atmosphere.
• Giza — Stay near the pyramids for early-morning visits and views of the plateau, ideal for short trips focused on ancient sites.
• Heliopolis — An elegant district near the airport with distinctive early 20th-century architecture, convenient for short stays and business trips.
• New Cairo — A modern eastern district of business parks, malls and international schools, suited to business travellers.

Many hotels along the Nile Corniche offer river views, which are among the most memorable sights in the city, especially at night.

Travel tips

• Getting around — Ride-hailing apps are the simplest way to travel. The Cairo Metro is fast and useful for central areas, with women-only carriages available. Allow extra time for road traffic.
• Dress and etiquette — Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, particularly in Islamic Cairo and at religious sites. Women should cover their hair when entering mosques, and shoes are removed.
• Tipping — Tipping, known as baksheesh, is part of daily life. Small tips are expected for services such as guides, drivers and restaurant staff, so keep small notes handy.
• At the sights — Unofficial guides and touts are common around major monuments. Politely decline unwanted offers and agree any price before accepting a service.
• Health and payment — Drink bottled water, and use sun protection. Cards are accepted in hotels and larger venues, but cash is needed for markets and taxis.
• Entry requirements — Visa and entry rules depend on nationality and can change, so check before you travel.