Things to Do and Places to Visit in Cairo: A Guide
Published: · Updated:
Must-see places in Cairo, Egypt’s capital: the Pyramids, the Egyptian Museum, Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, and a Cairo itinerary.
Things to Do and Places to Visit in Cairo
One of Africa and the Middle East's largest metropolises, Cairo is a city that will draw you in with its winding streets, thousands of years of history and the life-giving waters of the Nile. When you find yourself in Cairo, known as the "City That Never Sleeps," be sure to:
1. Visit the Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx
The first thing that comes to mind when you think of Cairo is, of course, the Giza Pyramids. It's hard not to be awestruck by the enormous structures of the pyramids of Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. Don't forget to take iconic photos with the Sphinx, which lies majestically just in front of the pyramids.
2. The Egyptian Museum (Tahrir Square)
At the Egyptian Museum, home to thousands of years of Egyptian history, you'll have the opportunity to get a close look at King Tutankhamun's famous golden mask, royal mummies and more than 100,000 ancient artifacts. The recently opened Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) should also be on your itinerary.
3. Get Lost in the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
It is one of the largest and most historic open-air markets in the Middle East. Stroll through its narrow streets amid the scent of spices, and shop for handmade copperware, papyrus and antiques. Sipping mint tea at the famous El Fishawy Cafe (Mirror Café) in the middle of the bazaar is a Cairo classic.
4. Dinner and a Boat Tour on the Nile
Leave the daytime heat and crowds behind and set sail on the tranquil waters of the Nile. Enjoy dinner on a luxury boat tour with a view of Cairo lit up at night, and watch traditional Egyptian dances (Tanoura).
5. Cairo Citadel and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha
Explore the Citadel of Saladin, built on a hill overlooking the city. The Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha, located within the citadel and reminiscent in its architecture of the mosques in Istanbul (it was inspired by the Blue Mosque), is one of Cairo's most important Islamic landmarks. It is the best spot to take in a magnificent panorama of Cairo.