Cairo 10 days

The primary international airport serving Cairo and the gateway to Egypt. It is a busy hub with multiple terminals and ongoing development.

• Arrange airport transfer in advance for a smoother arrival.
• Have Egyptian Pounds (EGP) ready for any immediate needs like a SIM card.

A historic mosque founded in 970 AD, it is one of the oldest mosques in Egypt and a significant center of Islamic learning. Its architecture showcases centuries of additions and renovations.

• Dress modestly; shoulders and knees should be covered. Women may need a headscarf.
• Visit outside of prayer times for a more peaceful experience.

A vibrant and bustling medieval-era bazaar, famous for its labyrinthine alleys filled with shops selling souvenirs, spices, perfumes, and traditional crafts. It's a sensory overload and a great place to practice bargaining.

• Be prepared to bargain firmly but politely.
• Try a traditional mint tea at a local cafe like El Fishawy.
• Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

Located within the Khan el-Khalili, this cafe is named after the Nobel laureate Egyptian writer. It offers traditional Egyptian cuisine and a charming atmosphere, often with live music.

• Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
• Try the Koshary or the mixed grill.

The oldest and largest of the three pyramids in the Giza pyramid complex, and the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It's a monumental feat of ancient engineering.

• Consider hiring a licensed guide at the entrance.
• The option to enter the pyramid itself incurs an additional ticket fee.
• Be aware of persistent vendors and touts.

The iconic statue of the Great Sphinx, with the body of a lion and the head of a human, guards the plateau. Nearby is the Valley Temple of Khafre, a remarkably preserved example of ancient Egyptian architecture.

• The best vantage point for photos of the Sphinx is from the front.
• The Valley Temple offers a glimpse into the funerary rituals of the Old Kingdom.

Opened in November 2024, this state-of-the-art museum houses over 100,000 artifacts, including the complete Tutankhamun collection. Its vast scale and modern design make it a world-class destination for ancient Egyptian history.

• Allocate at least 4 hours; it's immense.
• Check for special exhibition tickets, which may have separate pricing.
• Photography policies can vary by gallery; be mindful of signage.

A popular restaurant near the Giza pyramids offering traditional Egyptian dishes with views of the pyramids. It's known for its grilled meats and mezze platters.

• Request a table with a pyramid view if possible.
• The mixed grill is a good option for trying various meats.

The ancient capital of Egypt during the Old Kingdom, Memphis is now an open-air museum featuring a colossal statue of Ramesses II and a large alabaster sphinx. It offers a glimpse into Egypt's early grandeur.

• The site is relatively small but historically significant.
• Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven ground.

A vast ancient burial ground that served the capital of Memphis. It is home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone structure of its size in the world, and numerous other tombs and pyramids.

• The Step Pyramid complex is the highlight, but explore the surrounding tombs for intricate reliefs.
• Consider hiring a local guide on-site to navigate the expansive area and understand the tomb decorations.

Located at the entrance to Saqqara, this museum provides context and displays artifacts found at Saqqara, focusing on the life and achievements of Imhotep, the architect of the Step Pyramid.

• Visit this museum first to get an overview before exploring the necropolis.
• It offers a cooler respite from the sun.

Dine at a local restaurant in the Giza area, perhaps trying a Koshary or Ful Medames at a more casual spot. This offers a taste of everyday Egyptian street food and local flavors.

• Look for busy local spots for the best authenticity.
• Street food can be delicious but choose vendors with good hygiene practices.

Enjoy a traditional felucca sailboat ride on the Nile River. It's a peaceful way to see Cairo from a different perspective, especially during the cooler morning hours.

• Negotiate the price before boarding.
• Best experienced at sunset, but morning offers fewer crowds.
• Bring water and sun protection.

Explore the historic heart of Cairo's Christian community, featuring ancient churches like the Hanging Church and St. Sergius and Bacchus Church, built on the site where the Holy Family is said to have stayed. The Coptic Museum offers insights into early Christian art and artifacts.

• Dress modestly out of respect for religious sites.
• The Hanging Church is built over a Roman fortress gate, giving it its unique name.

Houses one of the most important collections of Egyptian Christian artifacts in the world, spanning from the 3rd to the 14th century. It includes papyri, textiles, icons, and architectural elements.

• The museum is located within the Coptic Cairo area.
• Look for the collection of illuminated manuscripts.

A popular waterside restaurant offering a chic ambiance with stunning Nile views, specializing in Middle Eastern and fusion cuisine. It's a great spot for a relaxed dinner.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for a table with a view.
• Known for its extensive mezze selection and seafood.

A free-standing concrete tower in Islamic Cairo, designed to resemble a lotus plant. It offers panoramic 360-degree views of Cairo, the Nile, and on clear days, the pyramids of Giza.

• Go on a clear day for the best visibility.
• There is a revolving restaurant at the top, but you can also just visit the observation deck.

An upscale island district known for its leafy streets, elegant architecture, art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. It offers a more relaxed and European feel compared to other parts of Cairo.

• Wander through the streets and admire the Art Deco buildings.
• Explore the numerous small art galleries dotted throughout the area.

Housed in a beautiful historic building, this center showcases contemporary Egyptian art. It's a great place to see modern artistic expressions from the region.

• Check their schedule for temporary exhibitions.
• The building itself is architecturally interesting.

A trendy dining and entertainment complex offering various restaurants and cafes with stylish interiors and often live music. It's a popular spot for locals and expats alike.

• Offers a variety of cuisines, so you can choose based on preference.
• Great for people-watching and enjoying the evening atmosphere.

A medieval Islamic fortification built by Saladin in the 12th century, offering commanding views over Cairo. It houses several mosques, museums, and historical buildings.

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking up inclines and uneven terrain.
• The Al-Nasir Muhammad Mosque and the Museum of Military History are key attractions within the Citadel.

Located within the Citadel, this Ottoman-style mosque is one of Cairo's most famous landmarks, known for its striking dome and slender minarets. It was built between 1830 and 1848.

• The interior is elaborately decorated with calligraphy and stained glass.
• Remove shoes before entering the prayer hall.

One of the oldest and largest mosques in Cairo, dating back to 879 AD. It's renowned for its unique spiral minaret and its serene, spacious courtyard, offering a different architectural style from the Citadel mosques.

• Climb the minaret for excellent views of the surrounding historic district.
• The mosque complex includes a museum of Islamic art.

A classic Cairo institution, Felfela is famous for its traditional Egyptian cuisine, vibrant decor, and lively atmosphere. It's a great place to sample local favorites in a fun setting.

• Try their signature dishes like pickled eggplant and various mezze.
• The original downtown location has a unique charm.

While the GEM now houses the main collections, the original Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square remains open, featuring its famous Royal Mummies Hall and a significant portion of its vast archaeological treasures.

• The Royal Mummies Hall requires a separate ticket.
• Focus on the galleries not replicated at the GEM, such as certain Old Kingdom statues and sarcophagi.

Wander through the historic heart of Cairo, characterized by its Belle Époque architecture, grand boulevards, and bustling commercial streets. Discover hidden cafes, vintage shops, and local life.

• Admire the architecture of buildings like the former Continental Hotel and the American University in Cairo's old campus.
• Look for local bakeries selling traditional sweets.

A historic and iconic cafe in Downtown Cairo, known for its elegant ambiance and delicious pastries, cakes, and traditional Egyptian coffee. It's a beloved spot for a sweet treat and a break.

• Their cakes and traditional Oriental sweets are a must-try.
• It's a perfect spot to relax and soak in the historic atmosphere.

Experience Cairo's national dish, Koshary, at this famous, no-frills eatery. It's a delicious and incredibly affordable vegetarian meal made of rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and a spicy tomato sauce.

• Add garlic vinegar and chili sauce to taste.
• It's a very popular spot, so expect a bustling atmosphere.

Take a comfortable train from Cairo's Ramses Station to Alexandria. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours and offers scenic views of the Egyptian countryside.

• Book tickets in advance, especially for first-class seats.
• Arrive at Ramses Station at least 30 minutes before departure.

A modern architectural marvel and cultural center, the library is designed to commemorate the original Library of Alexandria. It houses millions of books, several museums, and hosts various exhibitions.

• Photography is restricted in some areas; check signage.
• Consider visiting the attached museums, such as the Antiquities Museum.

A 15th-century defensive fortress built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It offers great views of the Mediterranean Sea.

• Walk along the ramparts for sea breezes and photo opportunities.
• Explore the interior fortress and learn about its history.

Enjoy fresh seafood at one of Alexandria's renowned seaside restaurants. The city is famous for its Mediterranean-influenced cuisine.

• Try local specialties like grilled fish and calamari.
• Many restaurants offer excellent sea views.

Return to Cairo by train after a day exploring the coastal city.

• Ensure you know the departure time of your return train.
• Consider a late evening train to maximize daylight hours in Alexandria.

Home to one of the world's most important collections of Islamic art, featuring artifacts from across the Islamic world spanning over a thousand years. It showcases ceramics, textiles, metalwork, and more.

• The newly renovated museum offers a comprehensive overview of Islamic art.
• Look for the beautiful reconstructed rooms and architectural fragments.

A legendary, centuries-old cafe in the heart of Khan el-Khalili, famous for its traditional ambiance and mint tea. It's a historic spot where artists, writers, and intellectuals have gathered.

• Order a traditional shisha if you're inclined.
• It's a great place to people-watch and absorb the atmosphere.

One of the most beautiful medieval streets in the world, lined with a dense concentration of medieval Islamic architecture, including mosques, madrasas, and palaces from various eras.

• Visit in the late afternoon as the light becomes golden and the street comes alive.
• Many buildings can be entered, offering a glimpse into historic interiors.

A popular local restaurant known for its authentic Egyptian cuisine and generous portions at reasonable prices. It offers a taste of home-style cooking in a casual setting.

• Try the Molokhia or the Mahshi (stuffed vegetables).
• It's a great place to experience genuine local dining.

Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping at local shops or hotel gift stores for any items you missed.

• Focus on smaller, easily transportable items like spices, tea, or small crafts.

Complete your check-out process from your accommodation.

Depart from Cairo International Airport, reflecting on your journey through Egypt's rich history and vibrant culture.

• Allow ample time for airport procedures, especially during peak travel times.
• Consider purchasing any last-minute duty-free items.