Top 5 BEST Things To Do in Cairo, Egypt
Cairo, Egypt, is a vibrant city which is best known for its history of Egyptian civilisation – however, it has a lot more to offer than just that. I was lucky enough to spend 5 days in Cairo in September with my boyfriend, and here are my top 5 things to do in Cairo!
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Contents:
Why Visit Cairo?
Why visit Cairo? Cairo, the sprawling capital of Egypt, is a city that seamlessly melds ancient history with modern vibrancy, making it a compelling destination for travellers.
One of the foremost reasons to visit Cairo is its unparalleled array of historical and cultural treasures, with the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx standing as iconic testaments to ancient Egyptian civilization. The Egyptian Museum houses a remarkable collection of artefacts, including the famed treasures of Tutankhamun, offering visitors an intimate glimpse into the nation’s illustrious past.
Beyond its historical allure, Cairo boasts a lively urban atmosphere, with bustling bazaars like Khan El Khalili offering a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and smells. The city’s diverse culinary landscape serves tantalizing Egyptian dishes such as koshari and falafel.
Furthermore, the warmth and hospitality of the local people enhance the visitor experience, making every trip to Cairo a richly rewarding journey of discovery and connection.
What Is Cairo Famous For?
What is Cairo famous for? Cairo is most famous for its extraordinary heritage sites that showcase the grandeur of ancient Egypt, particularly the timeless marvels of the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx (which are actually in the city of Giza – right next to Cairo). These iconic landmarks, dating back over 4,500 years, are among the last remaining wonders of the ancient world, drawing millions of visitors each year who seek to witness their awe-inspiring scale and architectural brilliance.
The city’s fame is further cemented by the Egyptian Museum, which houses an unrivalled collection of ancient artefacts, including the opulent treasures of Tutankhamun. Complementing these historical wonders is the atmospheric Islamic Cairo district, home to stunning medieval architecture such as the Al-Azhar Mosque and the Citadel of Saladin.
The pyramids, the rich collections at the Egyptian Museum, and the profound Islamic heritage collectively cement Cairo’s reputation as a cultural and historical epicentre, providing an unparalleled window into human civilisation’s long and intricate tapestry.
Is Cairo Safe?
Is Cairo safe? Cairo, while generally considered safe for tourists, does require visitors to exercise common sense and remain vigilant, as with any major city. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas like markets and tourist sites. Therefore, it’s advisable to keep personal belongings secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash (unlike my boyfriend, who lost his wallet with 300 pounds in it…luckily, it was Egyptian Pounds 😉 ).
Visitors should stay informed about current events and listen to travel advisories, as occasional demonstrations or political unrest can emerge. The city has a significant police presence, particularly in tourist areas, providing an added layer of security. Using reputable transportation options, such as registered taxis or ride-sharing services, is also wise.
Top 5 Things To Do in Cairo:
Cairo has so many things to offer for everyone’s different interests and aspirations. Here are the top 5 things to do in Cairo that I would recommend:
1. Pyramids Of Giza
So, although the Pyramids of Giza are located in, well, Giza, they are probably the most famous landmark in Egypt, and no visit to the country would be complete without seeing them. In order to see the Pyramids of Giza, we booked a tour with Amr from TourMate – who was able to accommodate us the night before, as we literally decided to visit Egypt 4 hours before the flight departed, so we hadn’t planned much.
The tour was private and included a driver who had a very cool car – and the AC was much needed at points! Amr took us to Memphis, Saqqara, a buffet which was included in the price, and finally, the Pyramids of Giza. He took amazing photos of us, which I will be able to cherish for the rest of my life and provided us with lots of interesting information about the places. It also made the whole experience much easier as we didn’t get hassled as much, and it saved us time when getting entry tickets.
Visiting the Pyramids of Giza offers a profound journey into ancient history, allowing travellers to witness firsthand the architectural sophistication and monumental scale of these timeless wonders, particularly the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the tallest and oldest from the trio. The site also offers panoramic desert views that beautifully juxtapose the modern cityscape of Cairo, creating a unique and unforgettable backdrop that enhances the mystical atmosphere
To contact Amr and arrange a tour, his Instagram is: @tourmate.eg
2. Quadbike At Sunset in The Desert
Quadbiking by the Pyramids of Giza at sunset is an exhilarating adventure that offers a unique and unforgettable perspective of these ancient wonders. As the day winds down and the sky transforms into a canvas of fiery oranges and purples, the golden sands of the desert glow in the dusky light, creating a surreal and mesmerizing landscape.
This thrilling activity allows you to navigate the undulating dunes and vast open spaces, feeling the rush of the cool desert breeze while marvelling at the majestic pyramids silhouetted against the setting sun.
Additionally, the tranquil and serene atmosphere of the desert at sunset offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Cairo and provides an amazing backdrop – I felt like I was Lara Croft and couldn’t believe I was actually quad biking with the Pyramids right next to me.
Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or a history buff, quad biking by the pyramids at sunset is a must-try experience that combines the best of both worlds, leaving you with cherished memories and stunning photographs to last a lifetime.
3. Visit Cairo Tower
Cairo Tower offers an unparalleled panoramic view of the sprawling metropolis of Cairo, offering a unique perspective highlighting the city’s blend of ancient and modern wonders. Soaring 187 meters above the city, this iconic landmark provides a 360-degree observation deck from which visitors can marvel at the juxtaposition of timeless treasures like the Pyramids of Giza and cutting-edge urban development.
On a clear day, the view extends far beyond the city limits, reaching towards the vast stretches of the Nile River and the distant desert horizon. Beyond the stunning vistas, the Cairo Tower itself is a marvel of modern design, inspired by the lotus flower, a symbol significant to ancient Egyptian culture.
The tower also houses a revolving restaurant, where tourists can enjoy a leisurely meal while soaking in the ever-changing views of the cityscape below. Whether by day, when the bustling activity of Cairo is in full swing, or by night, when the city is beautifully illuminated, a visit to Cairo Tower promises a memorable experience that encapsulates the essence of this dynamic city. Tickets to go up the tower are very reasonable and there are different options to choose from.
4. See Tutenkahumun in The Egyptian Museum Of Cairo
Visiting the Egyptian Museum of Cairo is an absolute must for tourists due to its unparalleled collection of ancient artefacts, most notably the stunning gold mask of Tutankhamun, which is a symbol of Egypt’s glorious past and a unique window into the life and death rituals of the pharaohs.
The museum houses over 120,000 items, offering a comprehensive journey through 5,000 years of history, from the predynastic era to the Greco-Roman period. The breathtaking Mask of Tutankhamun, crafted from 11 kilograms of solid gold and inlaid with semi-precious stones, is not merely an object of aesthetic wonder but a profound connection to the legendary king whose tomb was discovered nearly intact in the Valley of the Kings.
Beyond Tutankhamun’s treasures, visitors can explore an extensive array of mummies, statues, jewellery, and everyday items that vividly depict ancient Egyptian civilization. The richness and diversity of the exhibits, coupled with the historical significance of the artefacts, make the Egyptian Museum an educational and awe-inspiring experience. Stepping into this museum is like stepping back in time, providing a deep and tangible link to the world’s first great civilization and making it an indispensable part of any trip to Cairo.
5. Take A Nile River Cruise
Taking a Nile River cruise is a quintessential experience that allows tourists to immerse themselves in the ancient and contemporary wonders of Egypt while enjoying the serene beauty of the world’s longest river. As the lifeblood of Egyptian civilization, the Nile has been the backdrop for millennia of history, and a cruise along its waters offers a unique and intimate way to explore the country’s rich heritage.
Passengers can relax in luxurious comfort aboard traditional feluccas or modern boats, all while witnessing the ever-changing landscape that includes bustling cities, farmlands, and timeless rural villages. Each cruise has something different to offer, and they guarantee a great evening of enjoyment.
As the sun sets, you can enjoy lavish dinners and traditional Egyptian entertainment, such as belly dancing and folkloric music, under a starlit sky. It’s very fun and very affordable thing to do, making it one of the top 5 best things to do in Cairo!
Top 5 Things To Do in Cairo – FAQ:
While Cairo can be affordable compared to many Western cities, with inexpensive local food, budget accommodations, and low-cost public transportation options, tourists seeking higher-end experiences, international dining, and luxury hotels may find costs rising significantly, making the city adaptable to a wide range of budgets.
Typically, spending around three to four days in Cairo is sufficient to explore its major attractions, including the Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum, and the bustling Khan El Khalili market, while also allowing some time for leisurely activities like a Nile River cruise or a visit to the historic Islamic Cairo district.
The most visited attraction in Cairo is the iconic Pyramids of Giza, which draw millions of tourists each year, captivated by their ancient grandeur and architectural marvel.
Top 5 Things To Do in Cairo – Conclusion:
After reading this post all about the top 5 best things to do in Cairo, hopefully, you’ve been inspired to go and do some of these activities yourself! What top 5 best things to do in Cairo are the most interesting to you? Do you have anything that you think should be on this top 5 best things to do in Cairo list? If you enjoyed this post and would like to read some other similar posts, then these are what I’d recommend:
