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.
Bars & pubs
Where locals drink.
La Bodega
Sophisticated tapas bar and lounge above Abou El Sid, with an excellent cocktail and wine list, good music, and a lively late-night crowd of expats and affluent Cairenes.
157 26th of July Street, Zamalek
After Eight
A Cairo nightlife legend — one of the city's few dedicated entertainment venues with live music (jazz, fusion, Arabic pop), a dance floor, and a mixed local and international crowd. Intimate venue that gets very busy on weekends.
6 Qasr el-Nil Street, Downtown Cairo
Flair at The Nile Ritz-Carlton
The most spectacular rooftop bar in Cairo, with unmatched views of the Nile, the Egyptian Museum, and the city skyline. An extensive cocktail menu and sophisticated crowd. Reservations strongly advised on weekends.
1113 Corniche El Nil, Downtown
Tamarai
An upscale pan-Asian lounge that transitions into a nightclub later in the evening. Nile views, excellent DJs, and Cairo's well-heeled social elite make up the crowd. The city's most fashionable late-night destination.
Nile City Towers, Corniche El Nil, Bulaq
Estoril Bar
A Downtown institution since 1947, beloved by writers, artists, and bohemians. The opposite of glamorous — cheap beer (Stella), simple food, vintage atmosphere, and real Cairene character. One of the few old-school Downtown bars.
12 Talaat Harb Street, Downtown Cairo
El-Fishawy Café
Not a bar — alcohol-free — but one of Cairo's most atmospheric evening destinations. Open 24 hours since 1773, El-Fishawy is all about mint tea, Turkish coffee, shisha, and the remarkable theatre of Khan el-Khalili at night.
Khan el-Khalili, Islamic Cairo
Deals Bar (Cairo Marriott)
A popular hotel sports bar in the historic Cairo Marriott grounds, known for its casual atmosphere, cold beer, live sports screenings, and late-night crowds. One of the more casual and welcoming bars for international visitors.
16 Saray El Gezira Street, Zamalek
Nile Maxim Dinner Cruise
Cairo's best-known dinner cruise features belly dancing, live Arabic music, and a dinner buffet while cruising the Nile under the city's lights. A quintessential tourist evening experience.
Corniche El Nil, Downtown Cairo
Nightlife tips
Stay safe and have fun.
Most venues warm up after midnight — earlier arrivals get easier entry and shorter queues.
Carry ID, even if you look older — bouncers check at most venues.
Plan your ride home before you go out — last transport runs earlier than the clubs close.