18 Best Things To Do in Cairo

It is a destination steeped in history where there is so much to see that it is impossible to get bored, as it is full of pyramids, temples, museums and fascinating places. Here are the must-sees:

The thrill of seeing the pyramids of Giza, the only one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world that survives today, is comparable to no other travel experience. That is why it is so advisable to take a trip to Egypt to have the opportunity to see them in person by taking a tour of the famous pyramids.

Located 18 kilometres from Cairo on the Giza plateau, the pyramids are funerary constructions that were built under the orders of pharaohs of different dynasties. The three main pyramids at Giza are Cheops, Chephren and Mykerinos, although there are many smaller pyramids.

Although the precise date of construction of these pyramids is not known, it is estimated that work began around 2500 BC. Admiring them from the Giza plateau is a marvel, but seeing them from the inside takes the experience to a whole new level - a unique memory!

Located near Tahrir Square, in a majestic neoclassical building inaugurated in 1902, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo houses a major collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts, making it the second most visited tourist attraction in the city after the Pyramids of Giza.

Since it opened its doors, its collection has been steadily expanding with the discovery of new artefacts and the recovery of many that were looted during the wars or were in museums and private collections abroad.

During a visit to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, don't miss the Tutankhamun room, where the treasures found in his tomb and his famous death mask are on display, as well as the mummy room, where the mummified remains of important pharaohs and priests rest. Although it is not possible to take photos, I assure you that it is an image that will not fade from your retina.

Another site of tourist interest in Islamic Cairo is the Citadel of Saladin, a medieval fortification built by this Muslim conqueror in the 11th century to protect the city from enemy incursions. One of the best things to do and see in Cairo is to visit this spectacular military construction of great walls and defensive towers that was so effective in its purpose that it was used as the seat of the Egyptian government until the 19th century.

The citadel was once a small city within a city that was inhabited by ten thousand people. Inside you can see some interesting sites such as the Gawhara Palace, the military museum and the carriage museum as well as several important mosques such as the Sultan Hassan Mosque, the Al Rifa'i Mosque and the Ibn Tulun Mosque.

Another major attraction of the Saladin Citadel in Cairo is the privileged views from the heights. Don't forget your camera because you'll have plenty to photograph here.

One of the coolest and most authentic things to do in Cairo is to go shopping in the city's markets because it allows you to mingle with the locals and get to know the authentic side of the Egyptian capital. The most popular bazaar in the country and probably in the Middle East is Khan El Khalili, located in the epicentre of Islamic Cairo, in a walled area with a medieval feel that will leave you pleasantly surprised.

More than 900 stalls make up this bazaar where you'll find practically everything: perfumes, jewellery, fabrics, belly dancing costumes, handicrafts, coloured lamps, spices and musical instruments. Wander the narrow streets in search of the perfect souvenir and try your hand at haggling.

It's not easy at first, but little by little you'll get the hang of it. With practice, you'll leave Khan El Khalili an expert in the field, which you'll be grateful for on future trips to other markets around the world. Once you've finished your shopping spree, if you have a sweet tooth I suggest you round off your visit to this impressive Cairo souk with a cup of tea and some traditional sweets sold in some of Khan el Khalili's cafes.

Egypt has been a deeply spiritual country since time immemorial, whether in the time of the pharaohs or in our own time.

Through an excursion to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the Pyramids of Giza or the necropolis of Saqqara, we as travellers can delve into ancient Egypt's conception of the afterlife, while a tour of the city's mosques will bring us closer to the religious vision of the Islamic world. Some of the temples you can visit are:

• Alabaster Mosque, Sultan Hassan Mosque, Al Rifa'i Mosque and Ibn Tulun Mosque.
• The Coptic Quarter of Cairo is the area where the Holy Family is believed to have lived during their exile in Egypt according to the Gospel. Here you will see interesting sites such as the Coptic Museum, the Church of St. George, the Church of St. Sergius and the Church of St. Barbara.
• In the Old Cairo area, the Coptic Hanging Church stands on the remains of one of the towers of the Roman fortress of Babylon.
• The Ben Ezra Synagogue, a place of great prestige and reference for the Jewish religion.

The city is a melting pot of religions and cultures, so a trip to see its spiritual side is a highly recommended activity to do in Cairo. You'll love it!

Discovering the Al-Azhar Mosque in Cairo will allow you to get to know a sacred place of deep religious significance. Founded in 970, this mosque is one of the oldest and most prestigious Islamic educational institutions in the world, as well as an important centre of religious and cultural life in Egypt.

The mosque, which bears the name of the Shining Light in Arabic, is an exceptional example of Islamic architecture. Its central courtyard surrounded by columns and arches, as well as its high minaret, are features that reflect the aesthetics and architectural influence of different periods. Visiting it after sunset to discover its artificial illumination is one of the best night-time activities you can do in Cairo.

Interesting details

• Price: Admission is free.
• Hours: Every day from 7.00 am to 8.00 pm.
• Location: El-Darb El-Ahmar, Cairo.

A visit to the Islamic quarter of Darb Al-Ahmar in Cairo will give you an insight into a world of history and culture that has endured over the centuries. This neighbourhood, located in the heart of the city, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, historic buildings and ancient mosques that will transport you back to the ages of Islamic splendour.

One of the highlights of the neighbourhood is the Ibn Tulun Mosque, one of the oldest and largest temples in the city. Its distinctive architecture and tall minaret are exceptional examples of Egypt's Islamic heritage. In addition, you can also visit the Historic Citadel, which is a network of streets housing historic buildings, mosques, schools and bazaars.

The Islamic quarter of Darb Al-Ahmar is also a centre of craftsmanship and daily life. Local workshops still practise ancient crafts such as blacksmithing and pottery, providing an authentic insight into life and culture in this corner of the capital. You can also visit Cairo's City of the Dead.

A walk through the Zamalek neighbourhood on Nile Island will allow you to enter an urban oasis that contrasts with the bustling life of the city. Zamalek is a tranquil and sophisticated enclave that offers a unique experience in Egypt's at times indecipherable capital. The island is characterised by wide avenues, lush parks, elegant buildings and embassies.

Zamalek combines cultural life and nightlife harmoniously. Its streets are lined with art galleries, chic cafes and trendy restaurants that reflect the creativity and modern spirit of the city.

If you want to learn about Egypt's cultural history beyond the Pyramids of Giza, a visit to the Sultan Qalawun Museum is a must. This exhibition is located in the mausoleum complex of Sultan Qalawun, a prominent ruler of the Mamluk dynasty in the 13th century. The structure itself is an outstanding example of Islamic architecture, with ornate detailing and a design that reflects the grandeur of the period.

The museum houses a variety of artefacts spanning from the early Islamic era to the Mamluk period, providing an in-depth insight into the cultural and artistic history of the region. Here you can find ceramics, textiles, illuminated manuscripts, weapons and decorative art.

In addition to its collection, the Sultan Qalawun Museum allows you to explore the historic structure itself, which includes the mosque and the sultan's mausoleum. The intricate decorations and unique architectural features are outstanding examples of the skill and care that characterised Islamic architecture of the period.

Details of Interest

• Price: Tickets cost approximately 5 euros per person.
• Opening hours: Every day from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm.
• Location: El-Gamaleya, Cairo.

Founded in the early 20th century by Belgian businessman Edouard Louis Joseph Empain, Heliopolis was conceived as a planned suburb reflecting modernity and elegance, and contrasting with the chaotic layout of the Egyptian capital. Today, this neighbourhood is a living testimony to Empain's architectural and urban planning vision.

Heliopolis is distinguished by its main avenue, El Horreya Avenue, which is flanked by majestic eclectic and art deco buildings, such as the Montaza Palace, a historic residence and an example of the architecture and design of the period. It is also one of the most popular neighbourhoods for tourists due to its proximity to Cairo Airport.

Heliopolis is a dynamic neighbourhood where the historical and the contemporary intertwine in a unique fusion. Although the area has undergone changes and modernisation, it still retains the essence of its time and building heritage.

Next to the pyramids is another of Egypt's emblems, the Great Sphinx of Giza, which watches the passing of time undaunted.

It is a sculpture more than 20 metres high with the body of a lion and a human head that represents the union of strength and intelligence for the ancient Egyptians. Its construction is attributed to the pharaoh Chephren, son of Cheops and father of Mykerinos, around 2,500 BC to guard the tomb of the sovereign.

The Sphinx at Giza is part of the funerary complex that includes the pyramid, the valley temple and the causeway linking them. It has often been theorised that its nose has disappeared and that Napoleon was blamed for its wear and tear, but this hypothesis was disproved when drawings made by a traveller before Napoleon's birth were found.

If you're an Egyptology buff, you should add a trip to Memphis and Saqqara to your trip to Egypt for a more complete and comprehensive experience of ancient Egypt. They are located just 30 kilometres from Cairo and since ancient times, they have always been linked by the activities that took place in their territories.

For more than 3,000 years, Memphis was an important political and religious centre where pharaohs were crowned and the god Ptah was worshipped. The city was founded around 3100 BC by Egypt's first pharaoh Narmer and was the first capital of the country from its unification until 2040 BC when Thebes replaced it in that role.

The second part of this exciting excursion is a visit to the ruins of Saqqara, the most important necropolis of Memphis from the first dynasty to the Christian era where the first pharaohs were buried. This is the site of the step pyramid of Zoser, the world's first pyramid, which was to usher in the golden age of Egyptian civilisation.

If you have several days to get to know Cairo, I recommend that you dedicate some of them to visit some essential places that are no less interesting for being outside the city. I'll tell you which are the best destinations:

• Excursions to Alexandria from Cairo
• How to get from Cairo to Luxor
• The best excursions to Fayoum from Cairo
• Excursions to the Red Sea from Cairo

Inside the Citadel of Saladin, on top of the Muqatam Hill, is the Alabaster Mosque which is visible from any point in Old Cairo. It was built in the 19th century in the style of Ottoman mosques commissioned by Muhammad Ali in memory of his deceased eldest son and was at the time the largest mosque. It is one of the most frequented by travellers because it has an exceptional location and is one of the most beautiful.

To enter, remember to dress respectfully. Once inside you can admire the large prayer hall decorated with mosaics and precious stones, the numerous lamps that decorate the temple, the prayer rugs, the tomb of Muhammad Ali in white marble and painted flowers, and the pulpit and rostrum, both in alabaster and white marble.

In the western part of the mosque is the courtyard with the ablutions fountain. Here, too, there is a small square tower on which rests a clock given by Louis-Philippe of France in 1846 in exchange for the obelisk that was placed on the Place de la Concorde in Paris.

A Nile River cruise from Cairo is a captivating experience that will give you a unique insight into Egypt's history and modern life. The Nile, known as the river of life, has been the epicentre of Egyptian civilisation for millennia, and a cruise on its waters is an opportunity to explore the cultural and architectural heritage of the region from an alternative perspective.

From the cruise you can admire panoramic views of the city's iconic landmarks, such as the Cairo Tower and Montaza Palace, as you cruise along the serene waters of the tributary. In addition, the lights of the city will create a magical atmosphere if you opt for an evening cruise, turning the cruise into a romantic and enchanting experience which, if you wish, can also include dinner.

The Nile cruise also offers a window into the daily lives of Egyptians who depend on the river for their livelihood. The scenes of fishing boats and merchant ships sailing along the river, along with the towns and villages along the banks, offer a glimpse into everyday Egypt.

Cairo does not have many viewpoints from which to contemplate the skyline, but if this is one of the things you want to do during your visit, next to the aforementioned Saladin Citadel we can also mention the Cairo Tower, in the Zamalek district, especially to enjoy the sunset.

It is a stylised 187-metre high telecommunications tower designed in granite and inspired by the figure of the lotus flower. Did you know that for a decade it was the tallest in Africa? If you have time, take the opportunity to dine at the tower's revolving restaurant, which gently scrolls to offer different views of the city and the Nile River to guests, and stay until nightfall to see Cairo Tower lit up.

Tahrir Square or Liberation Square is next to the Egyptian Museum and is the political epicentre of Cairo. This is where the events of the Arab Spring took place in 2011, culminating in the resignation of President Hosni Mubarak. In the square you can see the statue and mosque in honour of political leader Omar Makram and the surrounding area is home to government offices, shops and institutional headquarters.

If you want to learn about Cairo's medieval history, a visit to the Bab Zuwayla Gate is a must. Built in the 10th century, this gate is part of the ancient city walls and is one of the few remnants that have survived over the centuries.

The gate itself is a masterpiece of Mamluk architecture, with intricate detailing and a façade that towers over the surrounding streets. Entering through Bab Zuwayla, you are greeted by a setting that reflects Cairo's former glory. The inner courtyard is surrounded by galleries, offering panoramic views of the city and the opportunity to enjoy a unique perspective from above.

In addition to its architectural value, Bab Zuwayla is also known for the stories and legends that surround it. During the 14th century, the gate was said to have an inscription forbidding entry to outsiders after sunset.

Egypt's capital is a lively but chaotic city. That's why I recommend that you think ahead about arrival transfers from Cairo airport.

Once there, a tour of Cairo is the best way to explore this immense city and all the legendary treasures it holds without missing a single detail. If you are planning a trip to Egypt, I advise you to take a look at the best Cairo tours and excursions you can do during your visit.

Decide on the date of your trip

Although any month of the year is a good time to discover the charms of this city, I'll tell you which are the most visited months and what you can do in each of them:

• 10 things to see and do in Cairo in January
• 10 things to see and do in Cairo in July
• 10 things to see and do in Cairo in August
• 10 things to see and do in Cairo in November
• 10 things to see and do in Cairo in December

If you take advantage of your Christmas holidays to travel to the legendary city, you can read this post with the best Christmas plans in the Egyptian capital.

How much time do I need to visit Cairo?

Depending on the time you have available for your visit, you will have to concentrate more or less on the main Cairo attractions. Here are the best guides depending on the number of days of your trip:

• Cairo in 1 day: what you can't miss
• Cairo in 2 days: the best itinerary
• Cairo in 3 days: all you need to see
• Cairo in 4 days: a guide to the must-see sights
• Cairo in 5 days: make the most out of your trip