Travel Guide to Cairo, Egypt

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Ra's Travel Guide to Cairo

The capital of Egypt and home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World; a complete travel guide to Cairo.

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    One of the largest cities in Africa and the capital of Egypt, Cairo is steeped in ancient and modern history. From the iconic Great Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Historic Cairo, the Sphinx, the Nile, and more, Cairo captivates millions of visitors annually as a bucket list destination. Immerse yourself in the bustling streets of the city and prepare to embark on a journey in the footsteps of the pharaohs. Utilize this travel guide to Cairo to ensure you make the most of your unforgettable adventure.

    Getting to Cairo, Egypt: Transportation Options and Travel Tips

    The most popular method for people to travel to Cairo is by plane to the large international airport. Many flights from major airports around the world offer direct flights to this city since it is a popular destination. This was the method I used to reach Cairo, in which my tour guide met us directly at the airport. Once at the airport, there are many direct shuttles through tour and excursion agencies to take you directly to your hotel. This is usually the safest and most effective way to reach your accommodation, especially if you don’t speak Arabic and don’t want to deal with the stress of the local public transportation or the taxis that try to take advantage of foreigners.

    However, if you’re visiting from within Egypt or nearby countries, it may be possible to reach Egypt by bus, car, train, or ferry. These options will need to be booked in advance and may require for you to secure your entry visa in advance, since they may not be able to be purchased at these border crossings. Be sure to purchase your travel tickets in advance.

    For efficient route planning, cost evaluation, and consideration of various transportation methods, I often rely on Rome2rio. This invaluable tool provides comprehensive information, offering insights into possible route combinations and suggestions for strategic stops along the way, ensuring a tailored and well-informed travel experience. Link to Rome2rio

    Where to Stay in Cairo, Egypt?

    Cairo is a large city with hundreds of thousands, sometimes even millions, of people, both locals and tourists. Given its status as a major tourist destination, you'll find a plethora of accommodations ranging from budget-friendly hotels, Airbnbs, and hostels to luxurious resorts, perfect for unwinding and escaping the heat. When choosing where to stay in Cairo, consider the following areas:

    Midan Tahrir - Ideal for First-Time Visitors Situated in the heart of modern Cairo between the Nile River and downtown, this neighborhood offers a quieter atmosphere while still being close to major attractions.

    Downtown - Perfect for Budget Travelers Located in the city center, Downtown provides easy access to public transportation, making it a convenient and affordable option for exploring Cairo.

    6th of October - Great for Celebrations Located outside the city center, this area boasts Beverly Hills-style hotels and resorts, making it ideal for events and celebrations.

    Zamalek - Best for Nightlife and Unique Accommodations Situated on the island of Gezira, Zamalek offers a European ambiance with its array of restaurants, historical sites, and shopping destinations, making it a vibrant choice for nightlife enthusiasts.

    Giza - Ideal for Families Part of the expanding Cairo, Giza offers stunning views of the pyramids and provides a family-friendly environment.

    During my visit to Cairo, I was part of a guided tour of Egypt, and all accommodations were arranged by the tour group. I stayed in a resort hotel in the 6th of October area, which offered excellent security and a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Our tour guide ensured seamless transportation to and from the hotel each day.

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    Guides to Egypt

    Best Places to Visit in Egypt

    Authentic Egyptian Souvenirs

    Getting Around Cairo, Egypt

    Car

    I highly don’t recommend renting a car to drive yourself through Cairo or Egypt. In Cairo, the traffic is crazily congested with people weaving in and out between cars and mopeds because there are often no road lines. If you’re still not convinced, the drivers in Cairo are extremely aggressive, and Egypt has one of the highest fatalities per mile in the world. Please opt for one of the other options below to get around Cairo.

    Bus

    This is my second least recommended method of getting around the city. While usually buses are a great way to travel and to save money, the bus system in Cairo is super confusing, and congested, with the buses often unmarked and no one speaking English. Within the city, there are three types of buses: local privately-owned buses, orange minibusses, and Cairo Transit Authority. If you have to take a bus, I recommend the last option since they’re usually the cleanest, most consistent, and travel between the main tourist hubs which means you’re more likely to catch someone who speaks English. Watch out for pickpockets!

    Metro

    Avoid the busy streets and opt for one of the best methods to get around the city below, the metro. Three lines cover the entire city which takes people to the main tourist sites. Eventually, the third line will connect directly to Cairo’s International Airport. The trains operate from 5 AM to 1 AM daily, until 2 AM during Ramadan, with ticket booths located in each station. A ticket is required to enter and leave the metro station. For women traveling in groups or solo, board one of the middle cars which are reserved for women only.

    Taxi

    One of the most common ways to travel around tourists is by taxi or Uber since the metro doesn’t cover all of the sites. In Cairo there are two types of cabs the traditional yellow cabs and the black and white ones that are older, don’t have air conditioning all the time, and set the fares based on haggling. If you don’t want the stress of haggling, ask your hotel or local guide to call the cab for you or ask how much a cab to your destination should usually cost. Make sure that in the yellow cabs, the meter is turned on and you agree on an expected price because some may try to add additional rates to foreigners for air conditioning or traffic congestion.

    Guided Tour

    This is my most recommended way to travel around the city because the transportation and destinations are arranged in advance for you and with a set price. Additionally, you will have a tour guide to watch out for you and to tell you about all the sites you visit. When booking, check to ensure that the entrance fees to the sites you’re visiting are included in your tour guide package. This is also the safest option because you will be with a local guide who speaks the local language and knows the area, as well as pick you up and drop you off at your hotel.

    Walking

    While the entire city of Cairo isn’t walkable, many neighborhoods are which is a great way to explore parts of the city. Just be careful of cars and bikes since pedestrians aren’t always given the right way. Note that you will need to combine this method of transport with one or more of the ones above.

    What to Do in Cairo, Egypt?

    The Pyramids of Giza & The Sphinx

    No trip to Cairo or Egypt would be complete without a visit to the iconic Great Pyramids of Giza and the legendary Sphinx. As the most renowned attraction and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, these ancient marvels offer an awe-inspiring experience. For an additional fee, visitors can explore the interiors of the pyramids, although without the presence of mummies or jewels. Beware of scammers selling overpriced or counterfeit tickets outside the site, as well as aggressive vendors hawking tourist trinkets within. Horse and camel rides are available for cash payments. Note that the site closes at 4 PM in winter and 5 PM in summer.

    Coptic Cairo

    Also known as Mogamaa Al-Adya in Arabic, this area holds significant religious importance, encompassing sites of worship for three major monotheistic traditions. Visitors can explore the Coptic Museum, the Hanging Church, the oldest mosque in Egypt dating back to 642 AD, and the Ben Ezra Synagogue, which stands as the oldest continually maintained synagogue in the Middle East. The Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus, believed to have provided shelter to the Virgin Mary and baby Jesus, and the Ben Ezra Synagogue, said to be built near the spot where baby Moses was found in the reeds, are among the highlights. Presently, Copts represent up to 10 percent of Egypt’s religious population.

    Manyal Palace

    After extensive restoration efforts, the Manyal Palace has reopened its doors to the public. Constructed in the early 20th century, this architectural gem boasts several stunning buildings reflecting a blend of Arabic and European influences. Visitors should not miss the opulent Thorne Palace adorned in gold, as well as the exquisite Reception and Residential Palaces featuring intricate artwork and architectural details.

    Saqqara & Dahshur

    Located 30 miles south of Cairo is this necropolis of the ancient city of Memphis and Egypt’s largest ongoing archaeological site containing the pyramids: the Pyramid of Djoser, the Step Pyramid (the world’s oldest pyramid), and the Mastaba of Ti tomb. Then 6 miles away is Dahshur the location of the Red Pyramid and Bent Pyramid. Be sure not to miss the Serapeum, where the mummies of the sacred Apis bulls were buried, and the colorful and detailed walls of Mastaba of Ti. If you were to opt for only one guided tour during your visit to Cairo, this should be it otherwise you will miss a lot of information.

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    Al-Azhar Mosque

    One of Cairo’s earliest surviving mosques, built in 972 CE, Al-Azhar Mosque is now one of the world's oldest universities and a leading theological center of the Islamic world. Visitors must remove their shoes upon entry and women are required to wear a scarf. Inside the courtyard, the El-Taibarsiya Medrese boasts a prayer niche dating back to 1309, while the main prayer hall awaits across the courtyard.

    Khan El-Khalili Bazaar

    The largest bazaar in Cairo that contains anything and everything you could possibly want to buy related to ancient and modern Egyptian culture, as well as traditional food… but get ready to haggle. The bazaar established the shopping labyrinthine in 1400 CE and was the center hub for local artisans to conduct trade. If you’re looking for a place to try traditional food or to get your souvenir shopping done, this is it. Some important information, the easiest entry to the Khan el-Khalili area is from Al-Azhar Street, directly across the road from Al-Azhar Mosque and the main souq road is Al-Muski Street (called Gawhar al-Qaid Street at its eastern end).

    Museums

    Cairo is a large city with a lot of history, which means it has a lot of museums. It is also the location of some of the most famous museums in the country such as the newest massive museum The Grand Egyptian Museum, the original Egyptian Museum, The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, and the Museum of Islamic Art.

    Despite the completion of The Grand Egyptian Museum, The Egyptian Museum will remain open and the location of many famous artifacts including several mummies. The main exhibit of Tutankhamun's funerary mask and collection have been moved to The Grand Egyptian Museum which is close to the Pyramids of Giza and is now the world’s largest archaeological museum containing over 50,000 artifacts, including two Khufu solar boats and the full Tutankhamun collection which consists of about 5,300 pieces.

    The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization displays the mummies of 18 kings and 4 queens. It also showcases parts of Egypt’s history spanning the Pharaonic up to the Coptic and Islamic eras and the golden coffin of priest Nedjemankh, which was repatriated from the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York when an investigation revealed it had been taken out of Egypt illegally.

    Lastly, the Museum of Islamic Art has one of the most important collections of Middle Eastern artistry in the world. Inside are Ottoman tile work, Ayyubid ceramics, frescoes, patterned wood-inlay, coinage, carved marble tombstones, jewel-toned carpets, and more.

    Muhammad Ali Mosque

    Nicknamed the "Alabaster Mosque," the most is a part of Egypt’s iconic skyline and is also the final resting place for Ali, one of the founders of modern Egypt. The mosque was constructed in the Ottoman style and is decorated with gold, hanging lamps, and many stained glass windows. Nearby is El-Nasir Mosque and several museums: the Police Museum, National Military Museum, and Carriage Museum. Be sure to visit the Gawhara Terrace for a beautiful panoramic view of Cairo.

    Sultan Hassan Mosque

    An exquisite example of Mamluk architecture, Sultan Hassan Mosque showcases intricate Islamic artistry and is renowned for its soaring minaret, the tallest in Cairo at 81.5 meters. Visitors can explore the mosque’s main prayer hall and the Sultan’s mausoleum, which houses remnants of the original dome and the sultan's sarcophagus. Across from the mosque lies El-Rifai Mosque, home to the tomb of Khedive Ismail.

    Felucca Ride

    Escape the city hustle and enjoy a leisurely cruise along the historic Nile River aboard a traditional felucca. These wooden sailing boats, equipped with a single sail, offer a refreshing experience amidst Cairo’s bustling streets. While shorter hour-long cruises are widely available for around USD 7, larger companies may offer extended cruises paired with onboard meals, ideal for larger groups.

    Cairo provides a mesmerizing blend of ancient wonders, vibrant culture, and rich history, making it a captivating destination for travelers worldwide. With its iconic landmarks, bustling bazaars, and diverse culinary scene, Cairo promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor. Whether you're exploring the majestic Pyramids of Giza, wandering through the historic streets of Coptic Cairo, or immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, this dynamic city never fails to enchant you. With this comprehensive travel guide to Cairo, you're well-equipped to embark on a memorable journey filled with exploration, discovery, and cultural immersion.

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    Travel Tip

    Be aware of scams with locals selling fake tickets outside of popular tourist attractions and charging an extreme amount.

    My Playlist for Cairo, Egypt

    "Tamally Maak" by Amr Diab

    "Enta Omri" by Umm Kulthum

    "Habibi Ya Nour El Ein" by Amr Diab feat. Allem Alby

    "Inta Omri" by Fairouz

    "El Helwa Di" by Hakim

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Each note played will remind you of your Canadian adventure. Prairie Provinces: Wheat and Grain Crafts Exploring the Prairie provinces shows many unique crafts that celebrate Canada’s agricultural heart. Local artisans make beautiful pieces from wheat and grains. They transform these materials into decorative items, jewelry, and home goods. Their craftsmanship shows great respect for the land. Often, they use traditional techniques passed down through generations. Things like wheat weavings represent cultural identity and tell stories about life on the prairie. When visitors discover these crafts in local markets, they can bring home a piece of Canada’s heritage and natural beauty. West Coast: Native Artwork and Jewelry Exploring the art scene in Western Canada shows a rich variety of indigenous craftsmanship. From detailed totem poles to beautifully made jewelry, each piece shares a story full of cultural meaning. 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Celebrating Canada Through Local Crafts Craftsmanship in Canada is flourishing. Artisans tap into the country’s rich history. Each piece of craft tells a story from different cultures. You can see this in the detailed beadwork made by Indigenous peoples and in the delightful handicrafts from Nova Scotia's beautiful coast. Visiting local craft fairs or markets lets you connect with the lively community and discover unique treasures. You can support local talents and find handmade items that reflect their regions, like wooden carvings or traditional textiles. These crafts help keep heritage alive and celebrate the skill of people from Canada’s provinces. Introduction to Canadian Craftsmanship Craftsmanship in Canada shows its rich heritage and diversity. It combines ideas from First Nations, European settlers, and modern artists. Each item has a story, like a hand-carved Inuit soapstone sculpture or beautiful beadwork from indigenous traditions. The crafts often include symbols like the maple leaf or wildlife, making them even more appealing. Local artisans in cities such as Toronto and Vancouver put their creativity into special products. This way, each souvenir holds a part of Canada's cultural background. This craftsmanship helps the economy and also shares the spirit of the nation. Popular Craft Fairs and Markets Canada has a lot of colorful craft fairs and markets that show its rich culture. Events like the Toronto Signatures Show and Vancouver's Artisan Marketplace offer handmade items from local artists. You can find everything from beautiful jewelry to fine woodwork. Quebec's outdoor markets often highlight traditional crafts made by Indigenous people, showing the country’s diverse culture. Visitors can check out unique items and meet the artists, making these events great for finding real souvenirs. The atmosphere is lively, letting everyone feel the creativity and stories that represent Canada’s artistic spirit. Practical Souvenirs from Canada Travelers looking for practical souvenirs from Canada have many great choices that mix usefulness with a sense of national pride. You can grab durable Canadian weather gear. This gear is great for handling the various climates in the country. Another option is eco-friendly reusable items that show Canada’s commitment to sustainability. Insulated mugs with the classic maple leaf design and strong totes featuring local art can be taken home. These items make everyday life better and remind people of their trips. From Vancouver to Quebec City, these nice souvenirs last and capture the spirit of Canada. They are perfect for any suitcase. Canadian Weather Gear Canada has a diverse climate, so you need reliable weather gear that mixes style and function. If you are getting ready for the cold in Quebec or the rainy days in British Columbia, durable outerwear like down jackets and waterproof boots will keep you warm and dry. Accessories like cozy beanies and thermal gloves add extra warmth. This way, you can stay comfortable no matter the season. The well-known Canadian flannel shirts show both function and the country’s craftsmanship. Pack your suitcase with these must-haves to deal with Canada’s various weather, making your travel smooth and fun. Eco-Friendly Reusable Items Sustainable gifts are wonderful Canadian souvenirs. They mix function and care for the environment. Reusable shopping bags with designs like the maple leaf or beaver are a must for eco-friendly travelers. Think about getting a stainless steel water bottle. It is useful and shows off the beautiful scenes from British Columbia to Newfoundland. For those who love coffee, a travel mug made in Canada with creative designs shows respect for local craft. These eco-friendly gifts help cut down on waste. They also make special keepsakes that capture the spirit of Canada and support a greener way of living. Edible Souvenirs to Relish Exploring Canada’s food offers a tasty way to remember your visit. Pure maple syrup is a must-try. It's often called liquid gold and makes pancakes amazing. It also improves many recipes. In Nova Scotia, famous seafood sauces and traditional jams made with blueberries and cranberries show off the area’s great harvests. You can enjoy rich ice wine from Ontario's vineyards, gourmet cheeses, and local meat treats. Each bite shares a story about the land and its people. These tasty gifts do more than please your palate; they connect you to your experiences in this gorgeous country. Sweets and Snacks Unique to Canada Canada has many tasty sweets and snacks that reflect its diverse culture and flavors. Trying pure maple syrup is a must. People often drizzle it on pancakes or use it in candies. This is a key experience for any visitor. Butter tarts are another popular treat, known for their gooey filling and flaky crust, giving a sweet taste of tradition. Nanaimo bars, a delicious dessert from British Columbia, and kettle corn, enjoyed at festivals, are also favorites. Tasting these treats will remind you of Canada. They make great souvenirs to remember your trip. Local Cheese and Meat Delicacies Enjoying local cheese and meat lets you experience Canada’s rich food culture. Quebec is famous for its amazing artisanal cheeses. They make delicious options like creamy blue cheese and strong cheddars, using local ingredients. You can also find meats such as wild game and smoked salmon, showing the great food from both the land and ocean. Plus, famous items like Quebec's tourtière or Alberta’s beef jerky make great souvenirs. They truly represent the variety of Canadian flavors. Every bite reminds you of your travels and Canadian heritage. Souvenirs for Kids A treasure of fun items is ready for kids who want to take home a piece of Canada. Plush toys that look like famous animals, like the moose and beaver, make soft friends that show the spirit of nature. There are also fun puzzles shaped like the maple leaf or showing the beautiful places in British Columbia. These can keep young minds busy and become special reminders of their time in Canada. Each item shows the beauty of Canadian culture and sparks creative play. These souvenirs don't just connect kids to Canada; they also help share stories of adventure with family and friends at home. Canadian Wildlife Plush Toys Soft and cuddly, Canadian wildlife plush toys are great keepsakes for both kids and grown-ups. These plush friends show off the different animals of Canada, like the majestic moose and the playful beaver. They create a lovely view of the country’s wildlife. You can often find these toys in gift shops, markets, and grocery stores. They not only remind you of the great outdoors but also bring comfort and joy. Sometimes, you will find educational tags with facts about Canada's wildlife. This adds a fun learning experience to the mix. Fun Maple Leaf Shaped Puzzles Maple leaf-shaped puzzles are fun and exciting souvenirs. They are great for kids and collectors. These puzzles show a symbol of Canada. They also provide a fun way to learn. Everyone can enjoy putting them together. Each puzzle is colorful and shows Canada’s beauty. You will see designs with moose and maple syrup. You can find these puzzles in many shops in big cities. They offer a fun experience that you won’t forget. Taking home a piece of Canada's charm is easy with these charming puzzles. Conclusion Authentic Canadian souvenirs are special reminders of your experiences in this wide and varied country. You can find unique items from the busy markets of Quebec City to the breathtaking views of Western Canada. Each souvenir tells a story that you can share. This could be a handmade Indigenous piece or a jar of pure maple syrup, both representing Canada’s rich culture and history. Choose souvenirs that connect with your personal memories. This will help keep the spirit of Canada alive even after you unpack your suitcase. Celebrate these unique treasures that show what Canadian life is all about. Frequently Asked Questions What is the Most Popular Souvenir From Canada? The most popular souvenir from Canada is maple syrup. It's known for its rich taste and many uses. Visitors usually bring back bottles of this sweet treat. It captures the heart of Canadian culture and serves as a cherished memory of their trip. Can I Find Authentic Indigenous Crafts Easily? Yes, you can find real Indigenous crafts in many local markets and cultural centers in Canada. These places usually have true pieces created by Indigenous artists. Also, there are online platforms that focus on Indigenous goods. They provide a large variety, making it easy for everyone to access them. Are There Eco-Friendly Canadian Souvenirs? Yes, Canada has many eco-friendly souvenirs. You can find reusable shopping bags, bamboo utensils, and organic cotton clothes. Many local artists make products using sustainable materials or practices. This lets visitors support the environment and take home a piece of Canadian craft. Check out markets for these special items! What Are Some Uniquely Canadian Flavors to Bring Home? To enjoy some special Canadian flavors, think about getting maple syrup, butter tarts, and Nanaimo bars. You should also try unique jams made from local berries like blueberries and saskatoons. These sweets show off Canada's rich food culture and make great gifts for family and friends; canadian souvenirs

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