For centuries, Cairo has stood as a must-see destination, located right on the lush Nile. In many ways, it still dominates the Egyptian landscape as the home to Tahrir Square and King Tutankhamun's artifacts. Whether you enjoy the vast history on display here or want to marvel at the thriving population and unique culture, there are many reasons to visit Cairo.
Bustling streets are an understatement, but this hub in the Middle East is a modern metropolis, one that’s fascinating for the people and culture, the food and the desert dunes. Each neighborhood is distinct, offering a glimpse into how a culture that is thousands of years old has thrived in one of the most challenging environments.
So, is Cairo worth visiting? From its history to its people, Cairo offers an exciting, near culture shock for those visiting the Middle East for the first time. If you’re planning a trip, we can help you find the ideal Egypt vacation packages that take you throughout the region, including Cairo’s exciting communities.
Top Reasons to Visit Cairo
There are many reasons to visit Cairo, and it’s challenging to compile a comprehensive list. As you consider the following, know that the area is far more than “just” the pyramids, though those are some of the best reasons to visit themselves.
When you visit, you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the city by exploring iconic ancient sites. Don't miss the vibrant markets and bustling streets that offer a glimpse into local life. Indulge in authentic Egyptian cuisine and experience the warm hospitality of the locals. With its unique blend of tradition and modernity, Cairo is sure to captivate you at every turn.
Here are some of the best reasons to visit Egypt’s capital of Cairo:
1. Explore the Historical Sites
By far the most common reason to visit Cairo is to visit the historical sites. As the cradle of where civilization grew, this is one of the best destinations to visit, even if you are not a history lover. Some of the most important historical sites to explore include:
- Pyramids of Giza, including the Sphinx and Great Pyramid
- Cairo Citadel, a medieval Islamic fortress with museums and mosques
- The Egyptian Museum, with its collection of King Tut’s treasures
- Islamic Cairo, an area of mosques including the Mosque of Muhammad Ali
2. Explore the Neighborhoods
One of the best experiences you can have is to explore the individual neighborhoods located throughout Cairo. Many know that a visit to Giza will mean history, situated about five kilometers west of the city center. However, there are other destinations to explore as well.
In the downtown area, which is on the east side of the Nile River, you’ll find shopping and street food. This is also where you will find Tahrir Square. Just to the south of the Downtown area is Maadi, a green, stunning area along the bank of the Nile River. Finally, don’t overlook Zamalek, an affluent area where expats often live. This is where you will find higher-quality antique shops, jewelry areas and luxury restaurants.
3. Shop the Riches of Cairo
Shopping in Cairo comes in various forms. Many street vendors offer their wares for your consideration along the city streets. For those who want to explore more of the established and higher-end destinations, there are some excellent choices in and around the city’s neighborhoods (Zamalek being one of the most desirable).
The souks, or markets, are an excellent choice for seeking artisan options. However, bazaars, like the Khan Al-Khalili Bazaar, are a unique experience themselves. You will find leather goods, antiques, jewelry, spices and just about anything else here. For luxurious shopping, head to the Mall of Arabia for more worldwide brands.
4. Check Out the Art Museums
Though history dominates many of the museums here, you will find some special destinations for those who love art. The Museum of Islamic Art is an excellent choice. It provides you with a look at art from a very different cultural view. There’s always a historic element, but the art tells the story here.
The Papyrus Institute is another destination. It has long served as a history storytelling experience, in the area’s culture, in the form of art.
5. Explore the Nightlife
Cairo’s nightlife comes in various forms. For some people, that means visits to the baladi bars, also known as “people bars.” You’ll mingle and meet people here. For a more elegant setting, visit one of the Ahwas to enjoy shisha and coffee.
Alternatively, many people find the discos and live entertainment to be ideal. You’ll find much of that type of experience in Zamalek, where there are various clubs.
6. Try Egyptian Cuisine
An excellent way to experience this culture is through food. There are a shockingly high number of eateries throughout the city, about 6,000 during peak tourism season. Though Egyptian cuisine is quite common, world life cultures are present here as well. We suggest the Yemenite and Sudanese options but explore more with a guided food tour.
The best way to experience it is through the street food. It’s perfect for small bites to eat when you want to explore the area’s nightlife. An excellent choice is the Kebdet El Prince street located in Imbaba. You’ll find authentic cuisine at every corner in Cairo.
7. Explore the Nile River
The heart of Egyptian culture is the Nile River, making it an important area to explore. You can plan a one-hour adventure down the Nile River by booking a Nile water taxi, for example. Alternatively, there’s nothing quite like the experience of a luxury dinner cruise along the Nile River. Many of the activities you’ll enjoy throughout the area are along the Nile River, but getting into a boat and exploring it from the water creates a very different vantage point.
How to Get Around Cairo
Whether you’re planning a short break in Cairo or a long, 15-day tour of Egypt that includes stops in Cairo, you’ll need to know how to navigate the city with confidence. This is a very densely populated area, and while numerous transportation options exist, the following are some of the best recommendations for tourists.
- Metro: The Metro system is the most efficient transportation option in Cairo, especially for tourists. There are three Metro lines that converge at the center of the city, allowing you to choose where you wish to go. One line takes you towards the Egyptian Museum, while another will take you into the central Cairo area, heading towards the airport. Trains run consistently from 5 a.m. through midnight. They operate on tickets, typically inexpensively purchased.
- Taxi: Another option is to use the city’s network of taxis, of which there are two types. The black-and-whites are the older taxis and the least expensive, but you’re not likely to enjoy air conditioning in them. They are older vehicles. Alternatively, the white cabs are more modern and tend to be available through hotels. It’s important to know that taxis don’t have cost monitoring, and it’s easy to be overcharged.
- Tour bus: Another option for getting around the city is to use one of the tour buses. A Cairo City Tour can be one of the most efficient ways to see the main stops. There are options to choose from, including microbuses, which are very small, often overcrowded buses that zip through the city and air-conditioned, higher-end buses. There are also Cairo Transit Authority buses, which tend to be the most reliable and safest option.
- By foot: Once you reach each of the neighborhoods you wish to visit in Cairo, navigating the community on foot tends to be the easiest way to see the area. In this way, Cairo can be very walkable. For example, if you visit Coptic Cairo, you can walk through the area to take in the cultural heritage sites.
Renting a car in Cairo isn’t very common and can cause problems. Traffic can be simply too challenging to navigate, and it's likely you will spend more time (and money) on the road than seeing the destinations.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Cairo?
For the best experience possible when visiting Cairo, aim for a trip that allows you enough time to explore the area with the ideal climate for your tastes. A private Egypt tour for 12 days can be much better if you know when to travel.
- October to December: To avoid the heat, visit Cairo during October and into December. For many people, this will be essential since the heat can be highly limiting during the summer months.
- March to May: The next ideal time to visit Cairo is from March to May, when you have the ideal combination of lower tourist numbers and moderate temperatures. Tourism is present all year, but in the early March to April season, you’ll see fewer tourists overall.
- Winter: Winter is the most common time to visit Cairo. The reason? Cooler temperatures. The problem with this time of the year is that the sheer number of tourists grows rapidly, creating a very high risk of overcrowding and missed opportunities.
It’s not ideal to visit Cairo during the summer months. It can be simply too warm for most tourists to get the most out of the experience.
FAQs About Cairo
If you have questions about planning a Cairo vacation, AAA can help! Here are some common questions about making a visit to Egypt's capital:
Why should I visit Cairo?
As you plan your exploration of Egypt, it is worthwhile to make a point of visiting Cairo for several reasons. It’s often referred to as the cradle of civilization, and you’ll see that in the incredible history on display. As one of the most densely populated cities in Africa, Egypt is not a simple trip, but it is culturally diverse and worthy of exploration.
What should I not do when visiting Cairo?
There’s a significantly different culture present in Cairo than in Western cultures. Paying attention to this and altering your expressions can help you get a feel for this culture. Avoid public displays of affection and dress modestly. This is very important in religious areas, as you will not be permitted into areas without proper attire.
What do I need to visit Cairo?
If you’re a U.S. citizen with a passport, you’ll need that passport to be valid for at least six months after your intended visit to the country. You also need to obtain a 30-day tourist visa when you arrive in the city. These are obtained, for a fee, at the airport when you arrive or through an e-visa available online.
Where are the best restaurants in Cairo?
Cairo offers a unique combination of fabulous food. Be willing to try the local options, and you’ll find a wide range of cuisine that you’ve never had. The best restaurants in Cairo, Egypt, include the following:
- Bullona: A seafood destination, it is a very modern and upscale location with a wide range of food options. It’s quite chic.
- El Mwardia Restaurant: This restaurant is quite elaborate and beautifully decorated, offering authentic Egyptian cuisine prepared in a traditional manner.
- Breeze Café: More of a lounge with drinks and small bites, and some of the best outdoor seating, Breeze Café is a very modern destination.
- JW Steakhouse Cairo Mirage City: For those who want more of a contemporary American meal, this steakhouse, which requires reservations, is an excellent, elevated experience.
What are some of the best places to stay in Cairo?
Numerous hotels are located throughout the city center and its surrounding neighborhoods. Each has a bit of a different flavor. Some of the best hotel experiences in Cairo include:
- Sofitel Cairo The Nile: This beautifully accommodating location offers some of the best views of the city’s features. Ask for an upper room for improved views.
- Sonesta Nouba Hotel Aswan: Located in Bahariya Abu El Rish, this hotel offers an authentic Egyptian experience, featuring a fabulous outdoor pool and recreation center. The views are exceptional.
- St. Regis Cairo: For luxuriousness at its finest, the St. Regis Cairo is an excellent choice. Excellent views of the waterfront, fine dining, luxurious and spacious living quarters and a rooftop terrace make this location one of the best in the city.
- Novotel Cairo El Borg: Another exciting option is more of an authentic experience. It offers a fantastic restaurant, outdoor pool and spacious interior spaces (lounges and shared common areas). The rooms are well-appointed, often with incredible views of the waterfront.
Ready to Visit Cairo?
With so much to offer, Cairo should be on your must-visit list when exploring the Middle East and Africa.
If you’re inspired to start planning an Egyptian vacation, make sure you talk to the AAA Travel experts. They can help you find the accommodations you want, plan an itinerary and much more.
Whether you’re traveling halfway around the world or just down the road, if you’re an AAA member, you can get exclusive discounts on lodging, rental cars and a whole lot more.