World · 26 Places · Best Year-round
Cairo is the sprawling capital of Egypt and one of the largest cities in Africa and the Arab world, home to roughly 21 million people. Straddling the Nile River, Cairo is a city of overwhelming contrasts — ancient pharaonic monuments stand alongside medieval Islamic architecture, Coptic Christian churches, and a bustling modern metropolis. The city serves as the gateway to the Giza Pyramids, the last surviving wonder of the ancient world, and houses world-class museums including the Egyptian Museum and the new Grand Egyptian Museum. From the labyrinthine alleyways of Khan el-Khalili to the elegant Nile-side Corniche, Cairo overwhelms and enchants in equal measure.
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
The 26 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
The last surviving wonder of the ancient world, the Giza Pyramid Complex includes the Great Pyramid of Khufu (built c. 2560 BCE), the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure, along with the Great Sphinx. The Great Pyramid stood as the tallest man-made structure on Earth for over 3,800 years.
Founded in 1902, the Egyptian Museum houses the world's most extensive collection of ancient Egyptian antiquities, with over 120,000 items. Highlights include the treasures of Tutankhamun's tomb (over 5,000 objects), royal mummies, and millennia of pharaonic artifacts.
The world's largest archaeological museum, opened in 2023. The Grand Egyptian Museum houses over 100,000 artifacts including the complete collection of Tutankhamun's treasures across 21 display units. The 480,000 sq metre complex also features restaurants, a cinema, and panoramic pyramid views.
Cairo's most famous medieval bazaar, founded in 1382. A maze of alleyways selling spices, gold and silver jewellery, papyrus, perfume, lamps, carpets, and souvenirs. The area is also home to El-Fishawy Café, one of the oldest coffeehouses in the Islamic world.
Built by Saladin (Salah al-Din) between 1176 and 1183 CE, the Citadel dominated Cairo's skyline for 700 years and served as Egypt's seat of government until the 1870s. The complex includes several mosques, museums, and sweeping panoramic views over Cairo.
Once the main artery of Fatimid Cairo, Al-Muizz Street is one of the world's greatest concentrations of medieval Islamic architecture. Walking its length reveals mosques, madrasas, caravanserais, and fountains dating from the 10th to 19th centuries.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Iconic five-star hotel on the Nile in Garden City, consistently rated one of the best hotels in Cairo. Features two towers with stunning Nile views, world-class dining, a luxurious spa, and impeccable service.
Check rates on Booking.comSituated on Tahrir Square with direct views of the original Egyptian Museum and the Nile, the Ritz-Carlton occupies a prime Downtown Cairo location. The hotel offers refined rooms, an award-winning spa, and rooftop dining with panoramic views.
Check rates on Booking.comA legendary 19th-century hunting lodge converted into a hotel, with rooms and gardens overlooking the Pyramids of Giza just minutes away. A historic property that has hosted Winston Churchill, Agatha Christie, and numerous world leaders.
Check rates on Booking.comA striking circular tower hotel at the north end of Zamalek Island with 360-degree Nile views. One of Cairo's best five-star values, combining French Accor luxury with a prime island location and excellent dining.
Check rates on Booking.comCafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
The most famous koshary restaurant in Cairo and arguably in all of Egypt, Abu Tarek has been serving the beloved Egyptian staple — layers of pasta, rice, lentils, chickpeas, fried onions, and tangy tomato sauce — since 1950. A four-storey institution beloved by locals and tourists alike.
A Downtown Cairo institution since the 1960s, Felfela serves home-style Egyptian cooking in a colourful, kitschy atmosphere complete with hanging cages and aquariums. Beloved by locals, politicians, and celebrities for its authentic mezze, grilled meats, and Egyptian specialties.
Named after Egypt's Nobel laureate and located deep in the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, this elegantly decorated café-restaurant offers a refined setting for traditional Egyptian food and shisha in an area where the writer himself used to walk. The decorative mashrabiya screens and antique lanterns create a magical atmosphere.
The flagship Egyptian restaurant of the Four Seasons Nile Plaza, Zitouni is widely considered one of the finest Egyptian dining experiences in Cairo. The menu celebrates Egyptian culinary heritage with refined presentations, using the freshest local ingredients. Spectacular Nile views complete the experience.
Sequoia is one of Cairo's most glamorous restaurants, set on a spectacular open-air wooden deck extending over the Nile at the northern tip of Zamalek. Perfect for a long leisurely meal, sunset drinks, or special celebrations. The diverse menu spans Lebanese, Mediterranean, and international dishes.
Abou El Sid recreates the atmosphere of a 1940s Egyptian home complete with antique furniture, sepia photographs, and mashrabiya screens. The menu is a celebration of Egyptian home cooking with grandmotherly dishes often overlooked by modern restaurants. One of Zamalek's most beloved restaurants.
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Transportation options in Cairo include local buses, taxis, and rental cars. Check local conditions before planning your travel.
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15-40 | $50-120 | $150+ |
| Food (per day) | $10-25 | $30-60 | $80+ |
| Transportation | $5-15 | $20-50 | $75+ |
| Activities | $5-15 | $20-50 | $75+ |
| Daily total | $50-100 | $100-200 | $300+ |
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Egypt.
The currency in Cairo is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
The main language(s) spoken in Cairo: Arabic (Egyptian dialect), English. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
The cities below have their own guides — hotels, attractions and where to eat, in depth.
