Cairo 3 days

The Grand Egyptian Museum, fully operational since November 2024, is a monumental new museum near the Giza pyramids. It houses the complete Tutankhamun collection, over 100,000 artifacts, and features vast exhibition halls designed for a world-class visitor experience.

• Allocate at least 4 hours to explore.
• Consider a guided tour to fully appreciate the exhibits, especially the Tutankhamun collection.

Home to the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site offers a breathtaking glimpse into ancient Egypt's architectural prowess. Visitors can explore the pyramid complex and take in panoramic views of the desert landscape.

• Hiring a local guide at the entrance can enhance your experience.
• Be prepared for camel and souvenir vendors; polite but firm negotiation is key.

A popular restaurant offering traditional Egyptian cuisine with views overlooking the pyramids. It's a great spot to enjoy local dishes after a morning of sightseeing.

• Try the Koshary or mixed grill platters.

Experience the history of the pyramids and the Sphinx illuminated against the night sky. The show uses dramatic lighting and narration to bring ancient tales to life.

• Check showtimes in advance as they vary by season.
• Book tickets online to secure your preferred seating.

A vibrant historic bazaar in the heart of Islamic Cairo, known for its narrow alleys filled with shops selling spices, perfumes, lamps, jewelry, and traditional crafts. It's a sensory overload and a great place for souvenir hunting.

• Haggling is expected, so be prepared to negotiate prices.
• Look for authentic handcrafted items and local delicacies.

One of Cairo's most important mosques, founded in 970 AD, it is a significant center of Islamic learning. The mosque features beautiful architecture, including minarets, courtyards, and prayer halls.

• Dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered for both men and women. Women should bring a headscarf.
• Remove shoes before entering prayer areas.

This historic street is an open-air museum showcasing stunning Islamic architecture from various periods, including Fatimid, Ayyubid, Mamluk, and Ottoman eras. You'll find beautifully preserved mosques, madrasas, and mausoleums.

• Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
• Visit the Gayer-Anderson Museum for a glimpse into traditional Cairo life.

A charming cafe within the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, named after the Nobel laureate Egyptian author. It's a great place to relax with a mint tea or coffee and soak in the atmosphere.

• Try their traditional shisha if you are inclined.
• Enjoy the live oud music often performed here.

The historic Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, while largely superseded by the GEM, still houses significant artifacts, most notably the Royal Mummies Hall. It offers a more traditional museum experience.

• Focus on the Royal Mummies Hall and any specific exhibits that interest you.
• The museum is centrally located and easily accessible.

Experience a traditional felucca sailboat ride on the Nile River, offering a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. It provides unique perspectives of Cairo's skyline, especially beautiful around sunset.

• Negotiate the price before boarding.
• Opt for a sunset ride for the most picturesque views.

This distinctive tower offers panoramic 360-degree views of Cairo, including the Nile, the pyramids in the distance, and the sprawling city. There's a revolving restaurant and cafe at the top.

• Visit on a clear day for the best visibility.
• Consider going near sunset for stunning city lights.

A popular mid-range restaurant serving modern takes on traditional Egyptian street food. It's known for its lively atmosphere and delicious, accessible dishes.

• Try their Koshary or the Egyptian cheese sandwiches.
• It's a great place for an authentic, yet comfortable, dining experience.