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15 Best Things to do in Cairo, Egypt

15 Best Things to do in Cairo, Egypt

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Looking for the best things to do in Cairo? You’ve come to the experts!

The Egyptian capital is known for its ancient wonders, but what not everyone realizes is that it’s also a very modern city, with way more to see than the pyramids. Don’t get me wrong, they’re epic, but with day trips, desert safaris, and sailing cruises on offer, there’s also a lot more to enjoy. 

When we visited Cairo, we were super keen to see and do as much as possible! By the end of our time here, I think we had ticked off as much as humanly possible, and now, we’ve rounded up our top 15 choices. This list will help you to plan an unforgettable adventure, so stay tuned. 

Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!

Pyramid and Great Sphinx seen on a tour from Cairo Egypt

The tour we love the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!

Our personal FAVORITE experience in Cairo was this private tour to the Giza Pyramids and Egyptian Museum! Having a private guide to teach us all about this ancient place was priceless, and we loved the ease of this tour.

Check out the 5,500+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!

Things to do in Cairo, Egypt

1. See the Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum, and the Great Sphinx with a private guide 

Camels sit by the Pyrmids on a tour from Cairo Egypt
Camels at the Pyramids of Giza, is there anything more iconic?
Carvings of pharoes seen on a tour from Cairo Egypt
We couldn’t believe how much we learned thanks to our private guide!
  • Duration: 8 hours 
  • Time: 2 am or 9 am 
  • Highlights: seeing the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx, visiting the mask of Tutankhamun in the Egyptian museum, exploring the Valley Temple
  • Inclusions: hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance fees, professional tour guide, lunch, private tour
  • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 6,000+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: yes 
  • Price: Check price here!

Of course, seeing the Pyramids of Giza is the number one thing to do in Cairo! We just could not go all the way to Cairo and not see one of the most famous landmarks in the entire world, and neither should you. 

We booked this guided tour not only because it was the top-rated option in Cairo, but also because we knew that visiting the pyramids on your own can be pretty tricky. This is one of the most iconic ancient sites on the planet, so it’s also very busy and rife with scams if you’re not careful. The hassle of navigating the city on your own, haggling prices, and figuring out tickets can be overwhelming, but this tour took care of everything for us. 

And believe me when I say that the pyramids themselves are absolutely breathtaking! Standing in front of them – plus the magnificent Great Sphinx – was an experience that neither of us will ever forget. 

After exploring the pyramids, we continued to the Egyptian Museum, which houses the largest collection of Ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world. We were blown away by it all, and having a guide to share insights on all of the exhibits made all the difference. We especially loved the Tutankhamun exhibit, where we got to see his world-famous mask. It was surreal! 

We loved this tour because it made it so easy to see Egypt’s most iconic sights! In fact, the entire day was surprisingly relaxed. This is hands down the best way to visit the pyramids from Cairo, so do yourself a favor and book it ASAP! 

2. Cruise down the Nile River on a private sailboat 

Tarzan Egypt Tours a boat cruises down the Nile River on a tour from Cairo Egypt
Our boat was so luxurious! Photo credit: Tarzan Egypt Tours
Tarzan Egypt Tours a boat cruises down the Nile River at night on a tour from Cairo Egypt
The Nile at night is magical. Photo credit: Tarzan Egypt Tours
  • Duration: 4 hours 
  • Time: 10 am – 10 pm 
  • Highlights: traditional felucca sailing boat cruise, stylish furnishings, attentive crew, meal on board, private tour for just you and your group 
  • Inclusions: hotel pickup and drop-off, 2-course meal, bottled water, tea or coffee 
  • Rating: 5 stars (check 1,000+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: yes 
  • Price: Check price here!

Sailing down the Nile on this private luxury felucca cruise is one of the most relaxing and memorable ways to experience Cairo. The boat is elegantly decorated, with comfortable seating and plenty of space to stretch out, making it easy to settle in and enjoy the ride as the city drifts by.

Timing this experience around sunset is especially rewarding. As the sun sinks over the Nile, the skyline takes on a warm glow, and the busy energy of Cairo feels worlds away. From the water, you’ll see the city from a completely different perspective—calmer, quieter, and far removed from the traffic and crowds on shore.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared Egyptian meal served onboard, with a range of classic dishes to choose from. Dining as you glide along the river adds to the atmosphere and makes the experience feel slow, unhurried, and indulgent.

Because the felucca is private, this is also a great option for something a little more special. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or romantic evening, the setting feels intimate and personal, with the option to arrange thoughtful extras like flowers or a cake. It’s an easy way to turn a simple evening on the Nile into a truly memorable one.

3. Visit the Citadel of Saladin & the Muhammad Ali Mosque

Walls of the Saladin Citadel of Cairo - Egypt
The walls of the Saladin Citadel
Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali seen in Cairo Egypt
Mosque of Muhammad Ali

Perched high above the rest of the city, the Citadel of Saladin is one of Cairo’s most iconic and unforgettable landmarks—and for good reason. Built in the Middle Ages as a mighty military fortress, the Citadel once protected the city from invaders and today offers sweeping panoramic views of Cairo’s sprawling skyline and the Nile beyond. 

Wandering through its ancient stone walls feels like stepping back in time, with layers of history around every corner and plenty of spots to pause and take in the scenery. Inside the Citadel, you’ll find the breathtaking Alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali—easily one of the most visually striking religious sites in Cairo. Its elegant silhouette, soaring domes, and gleaming alabaster walls make for an unforgettable sight against the backdrop of the city. 

Visiting the mosque isn’t just about ticking off a must-see: it’s about soaking up the atmosphere, appreciating Ottoman-era architecture, and understanding the cultural heartbeat of Cairo. Entry to the Citadel costs around $12 USD, which includes access to the mosque, and for the views, history, and beauty packed into one place, it’s well worth it.

4. See Alexandria’s historic sights on a day trip from Cairo

The Library of Alexandria in Alexandria on a trip from Cairo Egypt
The Library of Alexandria is one of the most famous in the world
The Catacomb of Kom el Shoqafa in Alexandria on a trip from Cairo Egypt
The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa
  • Duration: 10 – 12 hours 
  • Time: 6 am or 7 am 
  • Highlights: Roman Amphitheatre, the corniche and harbor, the Pharos of Alexandria, the Citadel of Qaitbay, the Montazah Palace Gardens, Stanley Bridge, the Mosque of Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi, El Nabi Daniel Mosque 
  • Inclusions: hotel pickup and drop-off, transport, lunch (if selected), entrance fees (if selected), Egyptologist guide (if selected) 
  • Rating: 4.7 stars (check 1,200+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: yes 
  • Price: Check price here!

It’s no secret that it gets pretty hot in Cairo, so we couldn’t wait to visit the coastal city of Alexandria and feel that Mediterranean breeze on our faces! Well, that was one reason – we also were keen to dive deep into the history of a city that has helped shape the course of human civilization. 

We wanted a stress-free experience, so we booked this tour. There is the option to just book a private driver for the day, but we went for the VIP option so that we benefited from an expert guide, entry fees, and lunch. It meant that we had nothing to worry about throughout the day!

We began at the Bibliotheca, which is a modern architectural masterpiece that houses an ancient library – how cool is that?

From there, we went on to explore the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, an underground labyrinth that’s actually one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages. We’re so glad that we had our guide, Yasir, to teach us about the history of this eerie site.

We loved visiting Saint Mark’s Cathedral, which is the oldest church in Africa, as well as the Roman Amphitheatre, and the Lighthouse of Alexandria – so that’s two World Wonders that we ticked off! We’d be here all day if we told you everything that we saw, but I think it’s safe to say that we had our fill of ancient and medieval history. If you don’t have time to stay overnight in Alexandria, then booking this tour is a must! 

Related Read: The good hotels book up fast, so look at our where to stay in Cairo guide to get a great one – especially if you want views of the pyramids!

5. Explore the Khan El-Khalili Market with a local guide

khan el khalili market alley on a tour in Cairo Egypt
Khan El Khalili market has so many cool areas to explore
khan el khalili market shop door on a tour in Cairo Egypt
And with a local guide, you’ll always get a good price!
  • Duration: 4 hours 
  • Time: 8 am – 9 pm
  • Highlights: exploring one of the biggest bazaars in the Middle East; the chance to shop for local favorites; enjoying a local lunch; learning about the market from a guide; a felucca ride, visiting El-Moez Street, and Al-Azhar Mosque (if selected)
  • Inclusions: hotel pickup and drop-off, transport, private guide (if selected), local lunch, extra activities included in VIP tour
  • Rating: 4.8 stars (check 500+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: yes 
  • Price: Check price here!

A visit to Khan El-Khalili Bazaar is an absolute must when you’re in Cairo, and experiencing it on this guided tour takes it to another level. This historic market is loud, colorful, and full of energy, with narrow lanes packed with spice sellers, lantern shops, jewelry stalls, and souvenir stands all competing for your attention.

Going with a guided tour helps you cut through the chaos and actually understand what you’re seeing. They’ll show you how to haggle confidently, navigate the maze-like streets, and shop the way locals do. Instead of wandering aimlessly, you’re taken straight to some of the best stalls and shown where to find authentic, high-quality souvenirs rather than touristy knockoffs.

Because the tour is private, it can be tailored to what interests you most, whether that’s spices, jewelry, textiles, or handmade crafts. There’s also flexibility to add extra experiences, like a relaxing felucca ride on the Nile or visits to other Old Cairo highlights if you want to see more in one go.

If you’re short on time but want a deeper, more meaningful look at Cairo’s culture, booking the guided, all-inclusive version of this tour is a fun and stress-free way to experience one of the city’s most iconic spots.

6. Explore Al Moez Street

Al Moez Street in Cairo Egypt (1)
This is such a fun and historic area
Al Moez Street in Cairo Egypt (2)
Authentic Cairo at its best!

After soaking up the energy of Khan el-Khalili, it’s an easy transition to head just down the road to Al Moez Street, one of the oldest and most fascinating streets in Cairo. Stretching between the gates of the old walled city, this historic thoroughfare dates back to the 10th century and is often described as an open-air museum thanks to the sheer number of mosques, madrasas, and historic Islamic buildings packed along it.

It’s definitely a bit hectic here—expect crowds of locals shopping, kids running around, and vendors calling out to sell everything from spices and sweets to colorful clothing. That’s all part of the charm. We loved grabbing a quick falafel snack from one of the stalls and just soaking up the atmosphere.

If you’re up for sightseeing, make sure to check out Bab al-Futuh, one of the original entrances into the city, or step inside the Mosque of Al-Muayyad, which towers dramatically at the southern end of the street. But honestly, the best part of Al Moez Street is simply wandering. The narrow alleyways twist and turn, each one filled with architectural details and hidden corners that make you feel like you’ve stepped back centuries.

Plan to spend a couple of hours here—enough time to explore at your own pace without rushing. It’s a lively contrast to the more structured morning sightseeing and gives you a real taste of Cairo’s everyday street life.

7. Get off the beaten path and see the pyramids of Memphis, Saqqara, and Dahshur

Famous Bent Pyramid in Dahshur on a trip from Cairo Egypt
The famous Bent Pyramid
Statue of Ramses II in Dahshur on a trip from Cairo Egypt
The Statue of Ramses II is massive!
  • Duration: 5 hours 
  • Time: 7 am – 10 am 
  • Highlights: enjoying fewer crowds at Egypt’s less-visited pyramids, learning about Ancient Egypt from an expert Egyptologist, and visiting Memphis
  • Inclusions: hotel pickup and drop-off, private transport, private Egyptologist guide, admission fees, bottled water, lunch (if option selected) 
  • Rating: 4.7 stars (check 570+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: yes 
  • Price: Check price here!

We love getting off the beaten tourist track, and as much as the Pyramids of Giza are a must-see, we couldn’t resist the chance to explore some quieter attractions. This half-day tour proved to be a perfect escape from crowded tourist spots, and one of the most fascinating parts of our trip! 

We were picked up right on time by our guide, Hazem, and driver, Mohammed, who were both so friendly and professional. Hazem’s deep knowledge of Egyptian history brought each site that we visited to life, beginning with our first stop, Saqqara. It’s home to the pyramid of Djoser, aka the oldest one in Egypt. 

Then, we visited Memphis, Egypt’s ancient capital. We loved seeing the enormous statue of Ramses II up close, as well as the Alabaster Sphinx.

But for me, the highlight of the day was Dahshur, where we got to see the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid. Both of them were incredibly cool, especially the Bent Pyramid, whose asymmetry proves how the Egyptians perfected the art of construction through trial and error. These sites were so much quieter than the Pyramids of Giza, which made visiting them so enjoyable.

We opted to include lunch, and the meal that we got was absolutely delicious. This tour was so much fun, and we’re really glad we got to experience some quieter ancient sites.

8. Explore museums

Tutankhamun mask in the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo Egypt (2)
Tutankhamun mask in the Grand Egyptian Museum
The statue of Ramses II in the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo Egypt
Museums are a great way to see and learn about ancient Egypt

Cairo has no shortage of museums, and even visiting just one or two adds a lot of context to everything you see around the city. Most of these museums cost around $6–$12 USD and are open daily from about 9 am to 5 or 6 pm. The main exception is the Grand Egyptian Museum, which is pricier but also a full experience on its own, and stays open a little later (9 pm) on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

  • The Egyptian Museum in Cairo – If you didn’t visit this on a guided tour, this is the big one and a must-see in Cairo. It’s packed with iconic artifacts and gives a broad, unforgettable overview of ancient Egyptian history.
  • The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization – Best known for the Royal Mummies Hall, this museum offers a more modern, easy-to-follow look at Egypt’s history. Seeing the mummies up close is both fascinating and surprisingly impactful.
  • The Grand Egyptian Museum – Home to the complete collection of King Tutankhamun’s treasures, this massive, state-of-the-art museum uses immersive and interactive exhibits to bring ancient Egypt to life. Entry costs around $30 USD and is worth it if you have the time.
  • Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo – One of the most important Islamic art collections in the world, this museum highlights beautiful calligraphy, textiles, and architectural pieces. It’s a great way to understand Cairo’s deep Islamic heritage.
  • Coptic Museum – Located in Old Cairo, this museum focuses on Egypt’s early Christian history. It’s quieter and more relaxed, making it a nice contrast to Cairo’s busier attractions.

9. Take an overnight camping trip in the White Desert

A vehicle in the white desert on a camping trip from Cairo Egypt
The White Desert is absolutely epic
Egypt White Desert Tours a man sets up a tent in the white desert on a camping trip from Cairo Egypt
Our guide getting things set up for a magical evening! Photo credit: Egypt White Desert Tours
  • Duration: 2 days, 1 night 
  • Time: 6 am or 6:30 am 
  • Highlights: exploring the Black Desert, visiting the Crystal Mountain Ridge, staying overnight in the White Desert, seeing the Bahariya Oasis, soaking in a hot spring
  • Inclusions: hotel pickup and drop-off; 3 meals per day; air-conditioned transport; tent accommodation with mattresses, blankets, and sleeping bags
  • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 650+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: yes
  • Price: Check price here!

The White Desert National Park is one of Egypt’s most surreal landscapes, known for its wind-sculpted chalk formations that look like something straight out of a sci-fi movie. Because it’s located about 4–5 hours from Cairo, the best way to experience it is on this overnight desert tour, which allows you to see far more than just the highlights.

The journey begins with a drive into the Black Desert, where you’ll switch to a 4×4 vehicle to explore the dramatic basalt-topped hills. The dark, volcanic terrain feels completely otherworldly, and climbing to the top of one of the mounds rewards you with sweeping views of the desert stretching in every direction.

Along the way, there are stops at natural highlights like a freshwater spring for a quick swim and Crystal Mountain, a striking ridge made entirely of calcite crystal that sparkles in the sunlight. It’s one of those places that feels almost unreal when you’re standing there.

The real star of the experience is the White Desert itself, where massive chalk formations rise from the sand in strange, sculptural shapes. This is also where you can try sandboarding, adding an adrenaline-packed burst of fun to the otherwise surreal scenery. 

As the sun sets, the tour settles into a desert campsite, where you can stargaze in complete silence before sleeping in a comfortable tent. Waking up to sunrise over the desert the next morning is an unforgettable way to end the experience before heading back toward Cairo via the Bahariya Oasis.

Why We Book Tours with Viator

Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:

  • Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
  • Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
  • Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
  • Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
  • Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.

Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.

10. Fly to Luxor for the day

The Luxor Temple in Luxor on a trip from Cairo Egypt
Luxor Temple is huge!
Tomb of Ramses V and VI in Luxor on a trip from Cairo Egypt
Seeing the tomb of Ramses V and VI in person is a bucket list item for sure
  • Duration: 8 – 12 hours 
  • Time: 4 am – 9 am 
  • Highlights: the Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut at Deir El Bahary, the Colossi of Memnon, the Temple of Karnak, 
  • Inclusions: hotel pickup and drop-off, return flights to Luxor (if selected), private Egyptologist (if selected), guide, lunch with a soft drink, all admission fees (if selected)
  • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 490+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: no
  • Price: Check price here!

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing Luxor’s ancient sites, this private tour is a must! It allowed us to fly to Luxor and back in just one day, and since we booked the all-inclusive option, we didn’t have to organize anything ourselves.

We were picked up from our hotel and whisked off to the airport by a super-friendly driver, then before we knew it, we were on our way to Luxor!

Our guide, Remon, met us at the airport with a warm smile, and we headed off to explore the Valley of the Kings. We loved seeing all of the carvings inside this fascinating site, which are still colorful after thousands of years. While King Tut’s tomb required an extra ticket, it was totally worth it! 

Next, we visited the Temple of Hatshepsut, a majestic ancient structure that was built by Queen Hatshepsut during her reign. We were fascinated as Remon taught us all about this female pharaoh, who was one of the most prolific builders in Ancient Egypt. Then, we had a simple but delicious lunch – I mean, you really can’t go wrong with falafel, can you? 

We then headed to Karnak Temple, which was the largest one ever built. Its sheer size was mind-blowing! The day ended at the iconic Luxor Temple, which was the perfect place to wrap up the tour before flying back to Cairo. 

This tour was a dream come true for anyone with an interest in ancient history. And since it was a private tour, it felt so personal. Be sure to book the option with flights, admission tickets, and a guide included, because then everything will be sorted for you, and all you need to do is enjoy the day! 

Related Read: If you’re feeling overwhelmed with all there is to do, we narrow it down to all the best activities in our 3-day Cairo itinerary!

11. Relax at Al-Azhar Park

Al-Azhar Park in Cairo Egypt
Al-Azhar Park

After a busy day of exploring Cairo’s streets and historic sites, Al-Azhar Park is the perfect place to slow things down. As one of the largest and most important green spaces in the city, it offers a rare chance to escape the traffic and noise and just breathe for a bit. Locals come here to walk, picnic, and catch up with friends, which makes it a great spot to see everyday Cairo in a more relaxed setting.

The real highlight is the view. From the park, you’ll get one of the most iconic skylines in Cairo, with domes, minarets, and historic neighborhoods stretching out in every direction. Try to time your visit for sunset, when the light turns warm and golden, and the call to prayer begins to echo across the city. 

It’s one of the most atmospheric moments you can experience in Cairo and a reminder of just how special this city is. Whether you’re strolling the paths or sitting on a bench, taking it all in, Al-Azhar Park is a simple but unforgettable stop.

7. Go on a desert safari – sandboarding, camel riding, dune bashing, and waterfalls 

A-camel-in-the-desert-on-a-tour-from-Cairo Egypt
I love camels and camel rides!
A-person-sand-boards-on a desert safari in Cairo Egypt
Sandboarding is so much fun!
  • Duration: 10 hours 
  • Time: 8 am 
  • Highlights: visiting the Wadi El-Rayan nature reserve, dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, seeing waterfalls, a photo stop at the Mudawara Mountains, and a delicious barbecue lunch in the desert 
  • Inclusions: hotel pickup and drop-off from Cairo or Giza, transport, all activities, lunch, professional guide
  • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 400+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: yes 
  • Price: Check price here!

You really can’t visit Cairo without spending some time out in the desert, and a desert safari to Wadi El Rayan is a great way to do it. This full-day adventure blends adrenaline, wide-open landscapes, and local flavors into one action-packed experience.

The day starts with hotel pickup and a scenic drive out of the city, including a photo stop at Qarun Lake, before heading deeper into the desert. Once you arrive, the pace picks up with dune bashing in a 4×4, followed by sandboarding down the golden dunes. It’s fast, fun, and a serious leg workout on the way back up.

You’ll also visit the Wadi El Rayan waterfalls, a surprising natural oasis in the middle of the desert, and learn more about the surrounding landscape and wildlife from a knowledgeable guide. A camel ride along the lakeshore adds that classic, bucket-list desert moment you can’t help but smile about. 

Lunch is a barbecue meal at a Bedouin-style camp, a well-earned pause before the fun continues. Then, the day wraps up with stops at Magic Lake, known for its shifting colors, and the Mudawara Mountains, perfect for snapping a few final photos.

It’s a fun, varied way to experience Egypt’s desert beyond the city—and an easy choice if you’re looking to add a little adventure to your Cairo itinerary.

13. Eat your way through Cairo 

Street food eaten on a food tour in Cairo Egypt
Come hungry because you’re going to leave full!
Falafel eaten on a street food tour in Cairo Egypt
Mmm falafel
  • Duration: 3 hours 
  • Time: 10 am, 11 am, 12 pm, 6 pm
  • Highlights: choose between street food or signature dishes, exploring Cairo on foot with a local guide, and learning about the local culture
  • Inclusions: enough samples for a full meal, coffee and tea, soft drinks 
  • Rating: 4.9 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: yes 
  • Price: Check price here!

For foodies like us, this Cairo food tour is an absolute must! I have to admit that we had some trouble deciding whether to go for the street food option or the specialty restaurants, but ultimately we chose the former because we wanted to eat as the locals do. 

It paid off – we loved every dish we got to try, from sizzling kebabs and fresh falafel to sweet treats like basbousa and knafeh!

Honestly, everything we tried was seriously delicious, and we loved exploring the city on foot with our local guide, Sarah, who took us to many local hotspots we would have totally missed otherwise. We couldn’t have gone further off the beaten tourist track, so we really felt as though we got to see the real Cairo. 

While we loved the street food, we would like to try the specialty restaurant option in the future. It’s the perfect choice for those seeking a more refined experience or who want to delve into the flavors and nuances of Egyptian cuisine. 

Cairo is known as “the Culinary Capital of the Middle East”, so you can’t miss the opportunity to do a food tour while you’re in town, and we loved every second of this one. Whichever option you choose, you can’t go wrong by booking this tour!

14. See the views from Cairo Tower

Panorama of Cairo cityscape from the Cairo Tower in Cairo Egypt
Panorama of Cairo from the Cairo Tower

For the best views in the city, head to Cairo Tower, a 187-meter-tall (614-foot) observation tower that rises above the Nile. It’s the only place in Cairo where you can get a true 360-degree view of the city, which really helps put Cairo’s massive size into perspective. From the top, you’ll see everything from the Nile winding through the city to mosques, bridges, and neighborhoods stretching out as far as the eye can see.

Visiting in the evening is especially memorable. Once the sun goes down, Cairo lights up, and the reflections dancing across the Nile make the view even more impressive. It’s a great spot for photos, but also one of those places where you just want to pause and take it all in.

There can sometimes be a decent wait to get up the tower, especially around sunset. So, to keep things simple, you can also do this skip-the-line tour that includes transportation and faster entry, making the whole experience much easier and more relaxed if you don’t want to deal with logistics on your own.

15. Learn about Cairo’s historic churches

The Hanging Church seen on a tour in Cairo Egypt
The Hanging Church
The Cave Church of Saint Simon seen on a tour in Cairo Egypt
The Cave Church of Saint Simon is one of the biggest in the Middle East
  • Duration: 5 hours 
  • Time: 8 am – 11 am 
  • Highlights: exploring the Coptic Cairo neighborhood, the Hanging Church, the Cave Church, the Church of Santa Barbara, the Church of Saint Sergius, learning about Cairo’s religious heritage 
  • Inclusions: hotel pickup and drop-off, transport, professional guide, bottled water 
  • Rating: 4.8 stars (check 240+ reviews here)
  • Free cancellation: yes 
  • Price: Check price here!

Visiting Cairo is a chance to dive into Egypt’s rich religious heritage, and this church tour through Coptic Cairo offers a fascinating window into the country’s ancient Christian roots. This historic area feels calm and timeless, with centuries-old churches, quiet courtyards, and stories that add an entirely new layer to Cairo’s past.

The churches in Old Cairo are steeped in history, starting with the iconic Hanging Church, one of the oldest churches in the city. From there, the tour continues to the Church of Saint Sergius, believed to stand on the spot where the Holy Family sheltered during their flight into Egypt. There’s also a stop at a historic synagogue, which helps show how Judaism and Christianity have long been intertwined in Cairo.

The undisputed highlight is the remarkable Cave Church of Saint Simon. Built directly into the rock, it’s enormous and easily one of the most unique religious sites in the Middle East. Stepping inside feels both peaceful and powerful, with carved stone walls and an atmosphere that’s surprisingly serene.

Even if religious sites aren’t usually at the top of your list, this church tour reveals a totally different side of Cairo. It’s an eye-opening experience for anyone curious about history, culture, or the many layers that make this city so fascinating.

Related Read: Planning to see more than just Cairo? Our seven-to-ten-day Egypt itinerary maps out the next stops.

Where to Stay in Cairo, Egypt

Fairmont Nile City in Cairo Egypt
Photo credit: Fairmont Nile City

Cairo may be a bustling city, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a tranquil stay! There are lots of great options, whether you want to be right downtown, have a Nile River view, or be a little outside the city but wake up looking at the pyramids – my personal preference! Here are three fantastic accommodation options for those with a luxury, mid-range, or budget taste.

Luxury – $$$

If you’re looking for an upscale stay, the Fairmont Nile City is an easy choice. You can choose between city or Nile River views, enjoy the Art Deco decor, relax in the rooftop pool, or dine at one of the restaurants onsite. The rooms are exquisite, ranging from standard hotel rooms up to a Presidential Suite. 

Prices can get as low as $170 USD but average around $250-$400 per night. You can check out all the options and book this stay on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

Hilton Cairo Grand Nile is an excellent hotel option at a moderate price point! Located along the Nile River, you can enjoy views from your room, whether you have a twin or king room. The rooms are comfortable and modern, and you can dine at one of the seven onsite restaurants or relax at the spa.

Rooms are well priced, starting around $150 USD. You can book this stay on Booking.com!

Budget – $

You don’t have to break the bank to get Pyramid views from your hotel! Pyramids Height Hotel is a budget friendly hotel, offering an outdoor pool, sauna, garden, terrace, and restaurant. The rooms are quaint and simple, but clean and provide everything you need for a comfortable stay.

Prices start at $50 USD per night and can be booked on Booking.com.

For more options, check out all of the hotels in Cairo here!

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An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card. Instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. It connects your phone to a local network in whatever country you’re visiting — no stores, no waiting, and no fiddling with tiny cards.

In simple terms, it’s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.

We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs over the years, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.

💡 Bonus: We’ve got an exclusive 15% discount for our readers. Use the codes:

Thanks for reading!

Daniel-and-Bailey-take-a-selfie-at-a beach in Egypt
Thanks for reading!

While the great pyramids might have initially drawn you to Cairo, I hope this list has shed some light on all the other amazing things you can do here! We were amazed by this city in so many different ways that I can see why it’s on so many travelers’ bucket lists. So get out there and explore Cairo!

If you found this blog helpful, be sure to check out our other travel guides! We’ve been all over the world and have put together lots of resources to help fellow travelers plan their perfect getaway. Here are a few related blogs that might be helpful:

8 Best Things to do in Casablanca, Morocco

10 BEST Things to do in Istanbul, Turkey

10 Best Things to do in New Delhi, India

Maria

Tuesday 10th of February 2026

Excelente información, detallada y completa, integral. Gracias

Bailey

Tuesday 10th of February 2026

Thanks for your support and for your kind words!😊

Doaa Jabir

Monday 26th of January 2026

Amazingly well curated blog post and the details and accuracy is fantastic, thank you team

Bailey

Friday 30th of January 2026

Hi Doaa,

Thanks a lot for your kind comment!

We are glad you like it and find it helpful.😊

Cheers, Bailey

Shruti

Wednesday 22nd of January 2025

At the airport and we are off to Egypt now and will probably follow your itinerary and advice. Well explained and super exciting.

destinationlesstravel

Thursday 30th of January 2025

Oh, how exciting! You'll have to let me know how you're trip goes!

Jasmine

Thursday 16th of January 2025

Planning my trip to Egypt 🇪🇬 this November and I can't to visit these exciting places.Hurghada,Sharm el sheikh,Luxor,Asian, Alexandria and the 6th October city.just hope it will be a pocket friendly trip