Cairo, Egypt’s bustling capital, is one of Africa’s most populous cities, hosting over 20 million people. What sets Cairo apart is its rich cultural heritage. Three days are perfect for exploring the city’s major attractions, but if you have more time, consider checking my idea for the fourth day (at the end of this blog) or my blog about day trips from Cairo (posting soon).
Egypt offers diverse destinations to suit various tastes, from the ancient wonders of Luxor and Aswan to the coastal charm of the Red Sea. Stay tuned for future blogs, where I’ll highlight worthwhile places beyond Cairo for those looking to dive deeper into Egypt’s beauty.
DAY 1: The Great Pyramids & Grand Egyptian Museum
Highlights: Great Pyramids, Grand Egyptian Museum, Ancient Egyptian Museum
Visiting the Pyramids of Giza is a no-brainer for anyone heading to Cairo. As an Egyptian native, born and bred in Cairo, I can assure you that each encounter they leaves me in awe. The trio of pyramids—Cheops, Chephren, and Menkaure—are the stars of the show.
A general admission ticket grants access to the site. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore the pyramids’ interior for an additional cost. In my experience, the Great Pyramid (Cheops) justifies the extra expense. While you can venture into all three, it can get pricey.
I’ll do my best to provide updates on prices for your future visits. I find the interior of the pyramids at Saqqara (just an hour away) to be particularly captivating. I’ll delve into that later on in this blog. For now, here’s a sneak peek into the inside of the pyramids.
A quick heads up: The air inside the pyramid can be quite stifling, and the passages are notably narrow. If you have asthma or claustrophobia, it might be best to give the interior exploration a pass. Your comfort and safety come first!
After entering the pyramid, why not elevate your experience by hopping on a camel or horse? Let your guide know you’re keen on reaching the panoramic viewpoint for the ultimate photo with the three pyramids. Just a heads up, the prices here aren’t as fixed as those at the ticketing office. So, mastering the art of negotiation is key.
Before saddling up, make sure to settle the agreed-upon price with your guide. Once that’s settled, embark on your camel or horse ride for a unique experience.
Following this, don’t miss out on the enigmatic Sphinx—a silent guardian standing watch over the desert for centuries.
In the afternoon, head to the Grand Egyptian Museum, a collection of ancient artifacts showcasing Egypt’s history. Currently, only a part of the museum is open. The grand opening date is yet to be announced. I’ll keep you posted once it’s official. Despite the limited access, the building is impressive, and the open section is worth a visit.
If you’re interested in seeing more artifacts, consider checking out the ancient museum in downtown Cairo as an alternative.
In the evening take a felucca ride in the Nile.
Tip 1: Ensure your credit card is functional. Egypt transitioned to a completely digital ticketing system last year. However, having cash on hand is crucial, especially if you plan on taking a camel or horse ride.
Tip 2: Public transport in Cairo isn’t the most dependable, so it’s wise to steer clear. Opt for Uber instead—it’s not only affordable but also a reliable mode of transportation.
DAY 2: Islamic & Coptic Cairo
Highlights: Sultan Hassan Mosque, Al-Azhar Mosque, Hanging Church, Saint Sergius and Bacchus Church, Coptic Museum, Synagogue of Ben Ezra, Khan El Khalili
Islamic Cairo is a treasure trove of historical landmarks and cultural heritage. The area is home to one of the oldest universities in the world, Al-Azhar University, founded in 970 AD.
Sultan Hassan Mosque: Marvel at the grandeur of this Mamluk-era mosque known for its intricate architecture and design.
Al-Azhar Mosque: is a symbol of Islamic scholarship.
Tip: Make sure to cover up per Islamic culture. Scarf and long sleeves and pants for women and shorts underneath knees for men.
Coptic Cairo, also known as Old Cairo, is a treasure trove of Christian history. The area is home to numerous churches and the Coptic Museum
Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church): A masterpiece of Coptic architecture. It is called so because it is suspended or “hanging” over the gatehouse of the Babylon Fortress.
Saint Sergius and Bacchus Church: Explore one of the oldest churches in Cairo, believed to be the resting place of the Holy Family during their flight to Egypt.
Coptic Museum: Dive into the rich history of Egypt’s Christian community with artifacts dating back to the early Christian era.
Hidden Gems: Discover the Synagogue of Ben Ezra and the Church of St. George, housing the famous cave where Saint George is believed to have slayed the dragon
As the sun sets in Cairo, Khan El Khalili market transforms into a truly enchanting space. Lanterns and twinkling lights illuminate the market, creating a magical atmosphere that sets it apart as a special destination for nighttime exploration. While many tourists prefer visiting during the day, I find that the market’s true charm reveals itself after sunset.
In my experience, daytime visits often find sellers dealing with the heat, impacting their mood. However, as the night falls, a remarkable shift occurs: Sellers become some of the friendliest people you’ll encounter. Many are multilingual, adding an inspiring touch to your interactions. Feel free to communicate in your language; they might surprise you! Another bonus is the opportunity to negotiate prices since they are not fixed.
DAY 3: Cairo Tower & Museum of Egyptian Civilization
Highlights: Cairo Tower, Citadel, Museum of Egyptian Civilization
Ascend the Cairo Tower for breathtaking views of the city. While the ticket might be a bit pricier compared to most attractions, it’s still relatively affordable when you consider European standards. At the tower’s summit, you’ll find a rotating restaurant in case you’re interested.
After soaking in the views, take a stroll along the Nile Corniche and treat yourself to a riverside lunch.
Following lunch, make your way to the Museum of Egyptian Civilization to witness the fascinating world of mummies.
The Citadel of Cairo stands proudly on the Mokattam Hills, offering panoramic views of the bustling city below. Built by Saladin in the 12th century, it served as a fortress to protect against Crusader invasions.
Pro Tip: Visit during sunset for a magical view of the city lights.
*EXTRA: DAY 4: Saqqara – Pyramid of Djoser*
Saqqara, located just south of Cairo, is an ancient burial ground that holds immense historical significance. Home to the iconic Step Pyramid of Djoser, Saqqara offers a captivating journey through Egypt’s rich past.
Saqqara is easily accessible from Cairo. You can get there easily by Uber.
Step Pyramid of Djoser:
The Step Pyramid is the focal point of Saqqara. It is the first pyramid and the first large stone building in history (2700 BC)
Serapeum of Saqqara:
Uncover the mysteries of the Serapeum, an underground burial site for the sacred Apis bulls.
