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
The Great Pyramids of Giza
Visiting the Pyramids of Giza is a must for anyone traveling to Cairo. As someone born and raised in the city, I can tell you that every visit still leaves me in awe. The three pyramids—Cheops, Chephren, and Menkaure—are, without a doubt, the stars of the show.
First of all, a general admission ticket gives you access to the site. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also explore the interiors of the pyramids for an extra fee. In my experience, the Great Pyramid (Cheops) is the only one truly worth entering. Stepping inside, it feels like walking straight through history. On the other hand, the interiors of the other two pyramids are much smaller and less impressive. So, unless you’re a hardcore history fan, you might want to skip them and save a bit of money.
Finally, tickets are easy to get—you can either book them online through the official website or buy them on-site. Here’s a little sneak peek of what it’s like inside the Cheops Pyramid.
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!
Camel & Horseback Riding
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.
Grand Egyptian Museum
In the afternoon, visit the Grand Egyptian Museum, the largest museum in the world dedicated to a single civilization. It’s filled with amazing ancient artifacts that tell the story of Egypt’s rich history.
Until recently, only part of the museum was open, but as of October 16, 2024, all 12 main galleries are now open to the public! The Tutankhamun Galleries and the Solar Boat Museum — which houses the massive ancient ship discovered near the Giza Plateau — are set to open on November 1, 2025. I’ll share an update as soon as there’s news. For now, enjoy a glimpse inside through some of the photos I took at the museum.
The museum closes at 6 pm, so plan at least three hours to explore it properly. Admission is 1,220 EGP for foreigners, and a guided tour costs 1,700 EGP. Tickets can be purchased online through the museum’s official website or upon arrival using a credit card (cash is not accepted), so make sure to book or plan accordingly!
If you’re interested in seeing more artifacts, consider visiting the ancient downtown Cairo museum as an alternative.
Felucca on the Nile
In the evening, take a felucca ride on the Nile — it’s one of the most peaceful and magical experiences you can have in Egypt. I recommend booking this tour through GetYourGuide. A felucca is a traditional wooden sailboat, and gliding along the river at sunset offers breathtaking views of Cairo’s skyline and the golden reflections on the water. The ride is slow and relaxing, providing a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can book a private felucca for a quiet, romantic outing or join a group for a more social experience. Don’t forget to bring a light jacket, as it can get breezy after sunset.
Tip 1: Ensure your credit card is functional. The Egyptian tourism sector transitioned to a completely digital ticketing system in 2024. However, cash 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 an affordable and reliable mode of transportation.
DAY 2: Islamic & Coptic Cairo
Highlights: Abu Segra Church, Saint Mary’s Church, Ben Ezra Synagogue, Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque, El Rifai Mosque, Sultan Hassan Mosque, Khan El Khalili
If you want to experience the heart of Cairo’s history without getting lost in its winding streets, this guided tour of Islamic and Coptic Cairo is a great way to go. Not only will you get insider stories about each landmark, but your guide will help you appreciate the incredible history tucked into every corner.
On this tour, you’ll visit some of Cairo’s most iconic sites:
- Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus (Abu Serga): One of Egypt’s oldest churches, said to be built where the Holy Family rested during their journey into Egypt.
- The Hanging Church (Saint Mary’s Church): A beautiful 3rd-century Coptic church that literally “hangs” above the Roman Babylon Fortress.
- Ben Ezra Synagogue: Famous for the Cairo Geniza, a treasure trove of ancient Jewish manuscripts now preserved in libraries around the world.
- Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque: Egypt’s first mosque and the first in Africa, dating back to 641 AD, located right in Old Cairo.
- El Rifai Mosque: Sitting next to the Sultan Hassan Mosque, this 14th-century mosque combines Islamic and European architectural styles.
- Sultan Hassan Mosque: A massive Mamluk-era mosque and madrasa, known for its grand scale and stunning details.
Tip: Dressing respectfully is important at all these sites. In mosques, women should wear a scarf and long sleeves and pants, while men should ensure their shorts fall below the knees. In churches, both shoulders and knees should be covered.
Khan El Khalili Market
As the sun sets head to Khan El Khalili market by uber. It 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 tour guides 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, which impacts 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: Citadel, Cairo Tower & Museum of Egyptian Civilization
Highlights: Citadel, Cairo Tower, Museum of Egyptian Civilization
Salah El Din Citadel
Start your day at the Citadel of Cairo, perched high on the Mokattam Hills. From up here, the city stretches out in every direction—it’s honestly one of the most stunning views in Cairo. Built by Saladin in the 12th century to protect the city from Crusader invasions, the Citadel is full of history and character. To make your visit smooth, you can buy your tickets directly from the official Citadel website.
Cairo Tower
Next, head over to the Cairo Tower for another perspective of the city. The ticket might cost a bit more than other attractions, but considering the incredible 360-degree view, it’s well worth it. And if you’re feeling indulgent, there’s a rotating restaurant at the top where you can enjoy a coffee or meal while watching the city spin slowly beneath you.
After taking in all these views, unwind with a leisurely stroll along the Nile Corniche. Feel the breeze off the river, watch the boats drift by, and maybe stop for a relaxing riverside lunch.
Museum of Egyptian Civilization
Finish your day at the Museum of Egyptian Civilization, where you can dive into Egypt’s fascinating past. From ancient artifacts to the incredible world of mummies, it’s a chance to connect with history in a really tangible way. Tickets can be purchased on the official website or on-site.
*EXTRA: DAY 4: Saqqara – Pyramid of Djoser*
Just south of Cairo is Saqqara, one of Egypt’s most interesting ancient sites. Walking around this huge burial ground, you can really feel how advanced Egyptian civilization was thousands of years ago.
Step Pyramid of Djoser
The main attraction is the Step Pyramid of Djoser. Built around 2700 BC, it’s not only Egypt’s first pyramid but also the world’s first large stone building. Standing in front of it, you can see how smart and creative the ancient Egyptians were.
Getting to Saqqara from Cairo is easy. Taking an Uber is the simplest option—it drops you right at the entrance. Once you arrive, take your time. Don’t just rush to the Step Pyramid—walk around the smaller tombs, look at the carvings, and imagine the stories behind them. Admission prices can be found on the official website.
Serapeum of Saqqara
Uncover the mysteries of the Serapeum, an underground burial site for the sacred Apis bulls.
Cairo is a city of contrasts, where ancient history and modern life exist side by side. From the majestic pyramids of Giza and the fascinating Step Pyramid at Saqqara to the spiritual heart of the Islamic and Coptic sites, every corner tells a story. Wandering through Khan El Khalili, you feel the city’s vibrant energy, its colors, sounds, and smells filling the senses.
Visiting Cairo is more than just ticking off sights—it’s about soaking in the layers of history, culture, and daily life that make the city so unforgettable. Whether you’re exploring sacred mosques and churches, wandering ancient streets, or marveling at world-famous monuments, Cairo leaves a lasting impression that stays with you long after you leave.