Cairo 3 days

The monumental Grand Egyptian Museum, which officially opened in November 2024, is home to the complete Tutankhamun collection and over 100,000 artifacts spread across 24,000 square meters. It offers a state-of-the-art experience for exploring Egypt's rich ancient history.

• Allocate at least 4 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits.
• Consider a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the artifacts.

Witness the iconic Great Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx, ancient marvels that have stood for millennia. The plateau offers breathtaking views and a tangible connection to Egypt's pharaonic past.

• Purchase tickets for entry to the pyramid complex.
• Be prepared for vendors and camel ride offers; polite but firm refusal is effective.

Experience authentic Egyptian street food at this renowned koshary restaurant. Koshary is a hearty and flavorful dish made from rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and a spicy tomato sauce, topped with fried onions.

• Order the large size for a very filling meal.
• Try the chili sauce and garlic vinegar for extra flavor.

Enjoy a serene and romantic felucca ride on the Nile River as the sun sets. This traditional sailboat offers a peaceful escape from the city bustle and beautiful views of Cairo's skyline.

• Arrange your ride from a reputable dock, often near Zamalek or Garden City.
• Bring a light jacket as it can get breezy in the evening.

Immerse yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of one of Cairo's most famous souks. Khan el-Khalili is a maze of alleys filled with shops selling spices, perfumes, jewelry, souvenirs, and traditional crafts.

• Haggling is expected; start at about half the asking price and negotiate respectfully.
• Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.

One of Cairo's oldest mosques, Al-Azhar is a significant center of Islamic learning and a beautiful example of Fatimid architecture. Its serene courtyards and intricate minarets offer a peaceful respite.

• Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Women should bring a headscarf.
• Visit outside of prayer times for a more relaxed experience.

Explore one of the world's most important collections of Islamic art, featuring ceramics, textiles, metalwork, and manuscripts spanning 1,200 years. The museum building itself is an architectural gem.

• Check for temporary exhibitions which often showcase unique pieces.
• Photography may be restricted in certain areas.

Step back in time at El Fishawy, a legendary Cairo coffeehouse operating since the 18th century. Famous for its mint tea and traditional ambiance, it's a perfect spot to soak in the local culture.

• Try the traditional mint tea or hibiscus juice.
• It's an ideal place to relax after exploring Khan el-Khalili.

The historic Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, though now complemented by the GEM, still houses significant artifacts, including the captivating Royal Mummies hall. It offers a more traditional museum experience.

• The Royal Mummies exhibit requires a separate ticket.
• Focus on specific collections if time is limited.

A popular and long-standing Cairo institution, Felfela offers delicious and affordable Egyptian cuisine in a charming, mosaic-decorated setting. It's known for its falafel, hummus, and various mezze dishes.

• Order a selection of mezze to try a variety of flavors.
• The outdoor seating area is particularly pleasant on a nice day.

Explore the historic Coptic Quarter, home to some of the oldest Christian churches in Egypt, including the Hanging Church and the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus, believed to be built over a temple where the Holy Family rested. It's a fascinating glimpse into Egypt's religious heritage.

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven cobblestone streets.
• Visit the Coptic Museum for additional context on the area's history.

Ascend Cairo Tower for panoramic 360-degree views of the sprawling city, the Nile River, and the Giza pyramids in the distance. It's an excellent spot for sunset and nighttime cityscapes.

• Consider having a drink or meal at the revolving restaurant at the top for a full experience.
• The view is particularly stunning as the city lights begin to twinkle.