Before I tell you about the best things for families to do in Cairo, I would like to say that the city is fantastic. For this reason, I have listed things to do in Cairo in this article.
Do you need a guide in Cairo?
First, I’ll talk about this problem, which you’ve probably been thinking about. You can see the Egyptian capital without a tour guide and figure your way around.
But isn’t it dangerous? My time in Cairo went smoothly, and the city’s tourist area seemed well-prepared for visitors because there were a lot of police. But I think it’s essential to stress basic safety measures: stay on the tourist path, dress fitting, and pay attention to your “tourist pals.”
But going to Cairo with a local who can tell you about the history of the city and the funny things Egyptians do is a great way to learn! The best way to book a trip to Cairo is through a travel agency since they can help with any paperwork needed.
If you aren’t used to strange places and are uncomfortable exploring alone, you should book a guided tour. It’s better to do it with someone who can keep you safe and give you peace of mind than alone on the streets.
What are the things you shouldn’t miss in Giza?
Tourists who have never been to Egypt should spend some time in Cairo. Cairo is one of the oldest cities in the world, and it is also a starting point for trips to other great places in Egypt, like Luxor and Aswan.
Seeing all of Cairo’s markets, museums, and mosques. So, you should cut at least three days off your trip to the capital. At the end of this article, I’ve given you some sample travel plans to help you plan your trip.
1- Pyramids of Giza
It makes sense to start with your all-time favorites. If you go to Cairo and don’t see the Pyramids of Giza, you’ve never heard of Christ the Redeemer or Rio de Janeiro. They are not the only pyramids in Egypt but some of the largest and most famous. Both the details and scale of the buildings make them stand out.
The fact that it is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing can help you understand how important it was. The look is very nice. People used to think enslaved people built them, which was weird, but new evidence suggests that hired experts did the work.
Around 2700 BC, they were completed. They were built to house the bodies of the pharaohs and their families. Symbolically, they are surrounded by the side of the Nile where the sun sets and the side of death.
The pyramids are part of a large archaeological site, and you can also find smaller tombs, temples, famous pyramids, and sphinxes in that area. Altogether, there are three pyramids (Khufu, Khafre, and Mekorinus).
It would be best if you took the time to look around the complex; it has a lot of exciting history and is a great place to take pictures. And if you want to know the whole story, take a half-day excursion. We did, and the best parts of the trip were the stories our guide told us.
2- Enjoy the night light show of the pyramids.
The night show atop the Pyramids of Giza is just one of the many ways to view these ancient wonders. Since many people see her, this is done almost every night.
A show is put on where the pyramids of Giza are lit, and music is played to the delight of the watching audience. It’s a must-see sight, and I must ensure everyone sees it.
3- the Great Sphinx of Giza
The Great Sphinx of Giza, which stands bravely next to the pyramids and watches time pass, is another symbol of Egypt.
It is about 20 meters high and has a lion’s body and a human’s head. This indicates that the ancient Egyptians believed that strength and wisdom go hand in hand. Most people agree that Pharaoh Khafre built it.
However, the head of the Great Sphinx of Giza holds up better than the body. This is because the stone on which it is built is burdensome. But because the corpse was buried in the sand for so long, it was protected from the harsh desert environment.
3- Saqqara Pyramid
The Saqqara pyramid is located only about 33 kilometers from Cairo. Being the first pyramid built in Egypt and with a history of more than 4,700 years, it is impossible to overstate its significance. The building was built in honor of Djoser.
This pyramid is part of Egypt’s most important archaeological site and is about 6 kilometers long. There are more tombs and 11 other pyramids, but not all are open to the public. Information about these locations is continually updated as new information about ancient buildings is found.
Tip: set aside a day to do an intensive at the pyramids
The cemetery of Memphis, the ancient Egyptian capital, is located in Saqqara, part of Giza. Visit the Great Pyramid of Giza and the Smaller Pyramid of Saqqara on a full-day excursion to learn about the area. A private tour can be an unforgettable experience, but book it in advance to ensure it’s still available.
3- Egyptian Museum
The Egyptian Museum in Cairo is the best cultural center in the country and one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. The middle of the city is right in Tahrir Square, and the Museum opened in 1863. It has a fantastic collection of about 120,000 objects, including artifacts from the old empire, royal mummies, sculptures like Nefertiti, and, most notably, the Tutankhamun treasure.
In the east and north wings of the Museum, you can see things that Tutankhamun had. The set is made up of more than 1,700 different pieces, and one of them is the full-size gold Pharaoh mask written about in history books.
How to visit the Egyptian Museum in Cairo?
Anyone can go to the Egyptian Museum any day of the week between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. You can find out more about the collection and use it as a reference on the museum website.
4- Khan el Khalili
As the most prominent part of Cairo, Khan el Khalili is often mentioned when discussing the city’s notoriously chaotic urban life. This market is in the city’s historic business district, and it is a maze of streets filled with incredible sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and, most importantly, chances to bargain!
The history of the bazaar is tied to that of Cairo. Along with Al-Muski, it was a big part of how Cairo became Egypt’s historic center of trade (another critical market in the city).
The most exciting shopping I did in Egypt was at the Khan el Khalili market. Not only are the things beautiful, but you can also find a wide variety of textiles, crafts, clothing, spices, and decorative items there.
It’s a great way to spend a day and a great place to look for unique souvenirs and other items you won’t find in most tourist shops.
5- Naguib Mahfouz Café
When you’re in Khan el Khalili, you must stop by the Naguib Mahfouz CafĂ©. The restaurant is in the middle of the market and is known for closely sticking to traditions. Any meal, from lunch to a snack to a cup of tea or coffee in the evening, can be made better by going there.
If you’re out shopping all day, the market is a great place to stop for a good meal and to try a wide range of traditional Arab dishes. The restaurant’s excellent reputation isn’t just based on its food quality. The Naguib Mahfouz CafĂ© is open daily from 10 a.m. to 1 a.m.
6- Zainab Khatoon Café
Putting the CafĂ© on your list of things to do in Cairo would be best. No tourists were around when I was there, which didn’t surprise me. Even though it is close to the Hussein Mosque and the Hussein Hotel, it is in a lane few people know about.
The mood is young and from the area. There are drinks and shisha for people to enjoy.
7. Islamic Cairo
People usually think that Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is known for its long history and chaotic city life, with people and cars constantly moving in and out of every space. Cairo is shaped by the ancient Egyptian pyramids and pharaohs and the history of Islam’s so-called Islamic Cairo.
Even though Egyptian culture has changed for over a thousand years, Arab influences are easy to see. So, people who want to learn about Egypt’s history can learn about a more recent and essential time by visiting Islamic Cairo’s buildings and monuments.
In the Middle Ages, when Islam was the most popular religion in the area, Cairo became known as “the city of a thousand minarets.” Because there are so many religious landmarks, like around 800 mosques and fountains, which show how important faith is in the area. When inside a mosque, we often felt like we were in a calmer, quieter place.
What to See in Islamic Cairo
There are a lot of mosques and old buildings in Cairo. Who among them is the best? I have compiled a list of the most impressive mosques for you to visit:
1- Muhammad Ali Mosque
The Muhammad Ali Mosque is one of Islamic Cairo’s most important and famous buildings. It is located on top of the Citadel, a medieval castle on a hill.
The Muhammad Ali Mosque resembles the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey. Egypt was part of the Ottoman Empire when Muhammad Ali built the mosque, so the similarities are no coincidence. Muhammad Ali also helped build modern Egypt, so the similarities are no coincidence.
Inside, the building is magnificent and has a lot of detail. Everything is made of marble and alabaster. The beauty of the monument, the history of the place, and the view from the top make it worth a visit.
2- Ibn Tulun Mosque
The Ibn Tulun Mosque was built in 879 AD, making it the oldest in Cairo. It is also the largest mosque in Egypt and one of the largest mosques in the world in terms of the land area it occupies (there are about 7 acres).
It was built by Ahmed Ibn Tulun so that the soldiers could stay in it during the Friday prayers. Inside are some courtyards and galleries, and the decoration is vibrant and detailed. The outer minarets are also interesting because they are the only ones of their kind in Egypt and have become a symbol of Cairo.
3- Al-Azhar Mosque
Al-Azhar Mosque is also a significant place in Islamic Cairo. Not only does its unique architecture make it essential, but so makes its history. It was built in AD 970, and now, less than 30 years later, it’s home to the largest university in Egypt (and the second oldest in the world).
In the center of Cairo is a natural oasis. People study, pray, and meet there. It’s a peaceful place and an excellent place to start a tour of Islamic Cairo.
4- Sultan Hassan Mosque
Sultan Hassan Mosque is one of the places you must visit in Cairo, and it is very similar to the Al-Azhar Mosque and worth seeing. It is not far from the castle and right next to the madrasa mosque, so it is worth seeing both simultaneously.
Sultan Hassan Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Cairo and has some of the most beautiful architecture there. In addition to all its details, it has an open courtyard with a fountain in the middle.
8- Coptic Quarter
One of the best places to see in Old Cairo is the Coptic Quarter, one of the oldest and home to many Egyptian Christian communities.
Copts lived in this part of the city, and the Bible says that this is where Jesus’ family hid when he was sent to Egypt as a prisoner. This was before the Arabs took over Egypt. Walking its streets, a mixture of Christian and Jewish history is a real treat for the senses. Many of the buildings contain details from the Byzantine and Arab cultures.
What to see in Coptic Cairo
Ben Ezra Synagogue, St. George’s Church, and St. Barbara’s Church are just a few places of interest. It is said that the Holy Family took refuge in the Church of the Saints. Sergius and Bacchus.
1- Hanging Church, one of the places to see in Cairo
The Hanging Church of Our Lady is located in the center of Old Cairo, one of the oldest churches in Egypt. In the third century AD, the Church was built on top of one of the towers of the Roman-Babylonian castle. After the Muslims captured it, the Copts reclaimed it and turned it into their central place of worship. The high marble altar and thirteen columns showing Jesus and the apostles are worth the price of admission alone.
2- St. George Church
St. George’s Greek Orthodox Church is in the center of the Coptic Quarter. It has a beautiful dome that a flight of steps can access.
Folklore says that Sue Jorge was executed in prison not far from the cathedral. The building we see today was built around the turn of the 20th century.
3- Cave Church and the City of Garbage
The Cave Church is similar to the Hanging Church but far from Cairo’s center. A church was cut from the rock at the top of Mokattam Mountain. After appearing to Simon in the Hanging Church, the Virgin Mary chose him for the miracle of moving the mountain. This is why the two churches are linked.
It is said that Simon, who later became an essential Coptic saint, could move a mountain several meters with just his faith. After that, the Su Simo Monastery, also known as the Cave Church, was built.
9- Dinner at a restaurant on the Nile River
Knowing the most popular places in Cairo and learning about Egypt’s long history is excellent. In the evening, dinner at a restaurant on the Nile is a unique way to relax and be more peaceful.
When I was in town, I ate at the restaurant of the Intercontinental Hotel Semiramis. There are dishes from many different cultures, such as Italian, Thai, and Lebanese. One of the best parts of the meal was the beautiful view of the Nile at night.
10- Felucca ride along the Nile River
Egyptian postcards often have pictures of the Nile River and sailing boats. People use these boats, called felucca, to get around, but it is also an excellent place for tourists.
A great way to get some exercise (and get your feet wet!) One of the most important rivers in the world flows through a beautiful area. This trip is a big plus because it takes place close to sunset when the sky is bright, and there is still time to see the beginning of the city’s nightlife.
The boats can hold up to 15 people, but on the right day, you can get on the water yourself.
11- Gastronomic Tour
Taking a culinary tour of Cairo is a great way to try local food and learn about the flavors of Egypt. It is also an excellent choice for travelers who want to know about local food as part of their trip.
A guided culinary tour of the city is the best way to taste Egyptian food and culture.
Read more about the Traditional Egyptian Food
12- Alexandria
Alexandria is also a fun place to visit for a day. This is truly a trip back in time, especially if you go on this tour. So, you will get a complete explanation from the time of the Greeks and Romans to the present day.
You must know some essential things about Alexandria. One is the Roman amphitheater in Kom al-Dila, made of marble. The catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa are a mixture of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman culture, and you can’t miss the famous Library of Alexandria. The walls of the Qaitbay Citadel are also a must-see for tourists.
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Now that you know the best things to do and see in Cairo, you must figure out how to fit them into your schedule. We have put together many itineraries with ideas for something to do for two, three, or five days since there are many sights, and it is not always possible to see them all.
What to do in 2 days
If you only have a short time in Cairo, the best thing to do is get to know the main sights. On the first day, you can tour the Giza complex to see the pyramids and the Sphinx.
Afterward, you can go for a felucca ride on the Nile in the afternoon. It’s a beautiful place to relax, put your feet in the water, and watch the sunset. A meal by the river is an excellent way to end the day.
On the second day, you should go to the Egyptian Museum to see the treasures of Tutankhamun. Afterward, go to Khan El Khalili to buy small items. Naguib Mahfouz Café is a great place to dine at any time of the day.
Last, you must go to the Muhammad Ali Mosque if you can. To ensure that the city’s beautiful buildings can be seen from above.
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What to do in 3 days
How can I spend three days in Cairo?
You can do many activities in Cairo in 3 days, possibly taking a day trip to Luxor or Alexandria or spending the entire vacation in Cairo enjoying the stunning scenery.
You are the best trips for three days in Cairo:
- 3 Days Private Cairo Tour Package
- 3 Days Tour Package to Cairo & Alexandria
- 3 Days Cairo & Luxor Tour Package
What to do in 5 days
To get to know Cairo well, you should spend five days there. With a more extended stay, you can see the main sights and go on a guided walk in a very peaceful way.
On the first day, you can save money for the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. So why not go on a food tour? You can go to Saqqara on the second day and have dinner in a nice restaurant on the Nile in the evening. On the third day, the tour to Alexandria is a good idea.
You can go to the Egyptian Museum on the morning of the fourth day, Immediately go to Islamic Cairo and walk around the mosques and the Citadel.
On the fifth and final day, you can visit Khan El Khalili, dine there, and end the day (and trip) with a felucca ride along the Nile in the late afternoon.
You are the best trips for five days in Cairo:
- 5 Days Cairo Tour Package – Private Guided Tour
- 5 Days Cairo & Luxor Tour by Flight
So, did you manage to decide what to visit in Cairo?
These are our suggestions for the must-see tours in Cairo. After reading this article, I’m sure you’ll be able to plan your trip much more safely.
Tell us about it if you’ve been there or want to visit another fantastic place.
Check out our guide to things to do in Cairo to learn more about the best parts of the city.
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Our company makes sure tourists are safe in every way. For example, we can give them a professional tour guide who knows the area inside and out and can take them to different places without worrying about danger. We are also in charge of contacting a qualified representative who helps you at the airport and ensures everything is handled. So, choose a professional travel agency if you want to have fun, relax, meditate, and feel safe in Egypt.
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