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Cairo travel guide

Egypt

Basics

CountryEgypt

Time zoneAfrica/Cairo

CurrencyEGP

Official language(s)Arabic

Stay hydrated and prepare for the hot weather when traveling in Egypt.

Places to visit

Museum of Islamic Art, Cairo

A major museum showcasing metalwork, ceramics, textiles, and manuscripts from Egypt and the wider Islamic world.

LocationBab Al-Khalq, Cairo, Egypt

Nearest stationAtaba

HoursUsually 9:00–5:00

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipGo early in the day for a quieter visit, and pair it with a walk around Bab El-Shaaria.

Mosque-Madrasa of Sultan Hassan

A monumental Mamluk complex widely regarded as a masterpiece of Cairo’s Islamic architecture.

LocationSaladin Square, Cairo, Egypt

Nearest stationSayeda Zeinab

HoursUsually daily 8:00–5:00

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipMorning or late-afternoon light brings out the stone details especially well.

Cairo Citadel (Citadel of Saladin)

A fortress overlooking Cairo that includes several mosques and museums within its historic walls.

LocationMokattam Hills, Cairo, Egypt

Nearest stationSalah El-Din

HoursUsually daily 9:00–5:00

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipWear comfortable shoes, as there is a fair amount of walking inside the complex; clear days are best for views.

Khan el-Khalili

Cairo’s iconic historic bazaar, packed with spice stalls, silver shops, souvenirs, and cafes.

LocationAl-Hussein, Cairo, Egypt

Nearest stationAtaba

HoursGenerally daily, late morning to late night

AdmissionFree entry

Travel tipIt is liveliest in the evening, and bargaining is expected.

Coptic Cairo

A historic district packed with early Christian heritage, including the Hanging Church and other ancient churches. It offers a rich look at Cairo’s religious history and architecture.

LocationOld Cairo, Cairo, Egypt

Nearest stationMar Girgis

HoursGenerally daily 09:00–17:00

AdmissionSome free / some paid

Travel tipPlan a walking route between churches and dress respectfully for an easy visit.

Cairo Tower

A famous observation tower with panoramic views over the Nile and central Cairo. Evening views are especially popular.

LocationGezira Island, Zamalek, Cairo, Egypt

Nearest stationOpera

HoursDaily 09:00–00:00

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipGo around sunset to enjoy both daytime and night views.

Karnak Temple

The largest temple complex in ancient Egypt, featuring fascinating architecture.

Hours06:00 - 18:00

Admission150 EGP

Travel tipIt can get hot in the summer, so be sure to stay hydrated.

Great Pyramid of Giza

An iconic structure of ancient Egypt and one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Hours09:00 - 17:00

Admission200 EGP

Travel tipIt's best to visit the pyramids early in the morning.

Egyptian Museum

Houses the world's largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts.

Hours09:00 - 19:00

Admission100 EGP

Travel tipBe sure to allocate enough time for the visit.

Al-Azhar Park

A famous park in Cairo featuring beautiful lawns and gardens.

Hours08:00 - 22:00

AdmissionFree

Travel tipIt's best to avoid peak hours.

Food to try

Popular Koshary Spot in Cairo

A classic local place to try koshary, Egypt’s national comfort food, at a very affordable price. It is a filling and fast meal loved by travelers too.

LocationDowntown Cairo, Cairo, Egypt

Nearest stationSadat

HoursGenerally daily 11:00–23:00

AdmissionAbout EGP 40–120 per bowl

Travel tipGood for lunch or a light dinner, with large portions and low prices. Adjust the spicy sauce to taste.

Events

Cairo International Book Fair

One of the largest book events in the Middle East, with publisher booths, talks, and children’s programs.

WhenUsually in January–February

LocationEgypt International Exhibition Center, New Cairo, Egypt

Nearest stationTransport to the exhibition center varies

HoursUsually in January–February

AdmissionAdmission or programs vary

Travel tipWeekends can be very crowded, so weekday visits are usually more comfortable.

Egyptian Cultural Festival

A festival to experience Egypt's diverse culture and art.

WhenEvery April

Travel tipAdvance reservations may be needed, so check ahead.

Egyptian Art Exhibition

An exhibition showcasing contemporary Egyptian art.

WhenEvery October

Travel tipReservations may be required based on the exhibition schedule.

Subway lines

Line 1: New El-Marg → HelwanLine 2: Shubra El-Kheima → El MounibLine 3: Kit-kat → Adly Mansour

Basic travel phrases (English)

Hello

Hello · Greeting

Thank you

Thank you · Thanks

Nice to meet you

Nice to meet you · Nice to meet you

Have a great day

Have a great day · Wishing a good day

Welcome

Welcome · Welcome

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