Top Attractions & Activities in Cairo Egypt

• By Egypt Day Trips
• 04 January 2025
• Egypt Things to do

As you arrive in Cairo, you're hit with the smells of spices and the sounds of markets. Standing at the Great Pyramid of Giza, you see its massive height. It was once the tallest thing made by humans, built around 2570 BC.

Your excitement grows as you think about all the amazing things to see in Cairo. From the Sphinx to the Egyptian Museum, every moment is filled with wonder. This city is full of history and life.

Looking for adventure or local culture? Cairo has it all. From exciting sightseeing to the Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, there's something for everyone. Let's explore the top attractions that make Cairo a must-visit place.

Explore the Great Pyramid of Giza

The Great Pyramid of Giza is a marvel of ancient engineering. It draws millions of visitors every year. Built around 2570 BC, it's the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

It stands tall at 481 feet and is 756 feet at its base. For nearly 4,000 years, it was the tallest man-made structure in history.

Visiting the Great Pyramid is a top thing to do in Cairo. It's part of a complex with nine pyramids, the Great Sphinx, and smaller tombs. All are on the Giza Plateau.

Expect to spend at least three hours to fully see its grandeur. The entrance fee is 160 EGP. An extra 360 EGP gets you into the Great Pyramid itself. Exploring its chambers adds about 30 minutes to your visit.

• Always check for crowded days; Fridays and Saturdays are often busier.
• Plan your visit to avoid climbing the pyramids, as it is prohibited for safety reasons.
• The site is approximately 15 km (9 miles) southwest of central Cairo, making it easily accessible.

In summary, the Great Pyramid of Giza is a must-see in Cairo. It offers a deep look into the past and enriches your journey through Egypt's history.

Marvel at the Sphinx

The Sphinx, also known as Abu Al Hol in Arabic, is a famous landmark in Cairo. It's a limestone statue with a lion's body and a human head. It dates back to around 2500 BC and shows the skill of ancient Egyptian craftsmen.

The Sphinx is huge, standing 20 meters tall. It's 73 meters long from paw to tail. Its width at the haunches is 19 meters. It's a must-see in Cairo, and you'll be amazed by its size.

• Built during Pharaoh Khafre's reign, the Sphinx shows the talent of ancient builders. They carved it from nummulitic limestone.
• Excavation started around 1400 BC. Big restoration work was done in 1931 to keep it safe.
• The Sphinx is missing its famous nose. There are many theories on how it got lost, like possible damage by Napoleonic troops.

Despite being worn down over time, the Sphinx is a big draw for visitors. Take your time to understand its history and the secrets it holds. A visit to the Sphinx is essential for anyone exploring Cairo.

Discover the Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo is a key to ancient history. It has one of the biggest collections of Pharaonic artifacts worldwide. With over 170,000 items, it gives a unique look into the past.

This museum, started in 1902, is on Tahrir Square. It covers over 13,600 square feet and has more than 100 halls.

The museum shows items from the Predynastic to the Graeco-Roman eras. This covers about 5,500 BC to AD 364. You can see the famous Golden Mask of Tutankhamun and over 3,500 items from his tomb.

For those interested in the Amarna Period, there's a special room. It shows artifacts from a 16-year reign that changed Egyptian art and culture.

• Mummified remains of Pharaohs, showing ancient burial practices
• Stunning jewelry pieces that show great craftsmanship
• Remarkable artworks and sculptures that bring ancient civilization to life

Visiting the Egyptian Museum is an amazing experience. But, it's best with a guide for deeper insights. Admission costs E£160 for adults and E£80 for students. There's an extra fee for the royal mummies' chamber.

As the Grand Egyptian Museum opens, the Egyptian Museum is a must-see. It will display over 100,000 artifacts in a modern facility.

Things to see and do in Cairo Egypt

Cairo is full of life and history. It has many activities for all travelers. Famous spots like the Great Pyramid and the Egyptian Museum are must-sees. But, there are many more fun things to do in Cairo.

• Try traditional Egyptian food at local restaurants. Don't miss koshari and molokhia.
• Walk through lively neighborhoods with street vendors and markets. Khan El-Khalili Bazaar is a great place to shop.
• See cultural shows with music and dance. They show Egypt's artistic side.
• Have mint tea or Arabic coffee at a local cafe. Enjoy the atmosphere.
• Go on guided tours to learn about Cairo's history. Discover its cultures and traditions.

Cairo is the biggest city in Africa, with over 22 million people. It's a place full of life and history. You can explore ancient streets in Islamic Cairo, a UNESCO site, or relax at a local cafe. Cairo's culture will amaze you.

Wander Through Khan El-Khalili Bazaar

The Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, started in 1382, is a lively spot in Cairo. It's in the heart of Islamic Cairo. Here, old and new mix, making it a great place to shop.

Walking through, you'll see many shops. They sell everything from jewelry to spices. It's a treasure trove of finds.

• Jewelry with local gemstones
• Handmade textiles for souvenirs
• Spices that smell amazing
• Unique pottery and paintings
• Beautiful leather goods

Take your time to explore. Every corner has something special. The buildings, with their Islamic and Mamluk designs, make it beautiful.

Try koshary, Egypt's favorite dish, at a nearby café. It's a great way to enjoy Cairo.

Talking to local artisans makes your visit better. They make jewelry with special designs. Remember, haggling is part of the fun here.

For a quieter visit, go early in the morning. Or, visit late afternoon for a lively atmosphere. With so much to see, Khan El-Khalili is a top spot in Cairo.

Looking for a mix of shopping, culture, and food? Khan El-Khalili Bazaar is perfect. You'll find amazing things and have a great time.

Visit Al-Azhar Mosque

Al-Azhar Mosque was founded in the 10th century by Sultan al-Muizz li Din Allah. It's a key spot for Cairo sightseeing. It has five minarets and a big courtyard with a fountain, showing Islamic art.

Next to the mosque is Al-Azhar University, started in 970 CE. It's one of the oldest universities in the world. The university teaches Islamic studies and Arabic literature, drawing students from everywhere.

The mosque can hold over 20,000 people. It's not just for worship but also for talks and events.

• Visitors are welcome from sunrise to sunset without any entrance fee.
• For an engaging experience, consider visiting during Ramadan, when the atmosphere becomes particular vibrant.
• Dress modestly and respectfully; women should wear headscarves.
• A basic fitness level is beneficial due to the need for walking and climbing stairs.

Visiting Al-Azhar Mosque lets you dive into Cairo's Islamic culture and history. You can buy souvenirs like prayer beads and Islamic art nearby. This mosque is a mix of spirituality, education, and culture, making it a top spot in Cairo.

Stroll Through Al-Azhar Park

Al-Azhar Park is a beautiful oasis in Cairo, covering 30 hectares. It opened in 2005 and is a peaceful escape from the city. You'll find lovely gardens, calm paths, and stunning fountains here.

Walking through the park, you'll see amazing views of Cairo landmarks like the Citadel. The park's design is inspired by Islamic landscaping, adding to its beauty. There are also cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy local food in a peaceful setting.

• Operating hours: Daily from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm
• Ticket prices: Approximately 40 Egyptian pounds for adults and 30 Egyptian pounds for children
• Over 760,000 cubic meters of debris cleared to create this beautiful escape

People love the park's playgrounds and its beautiful water features. Even though it's not always in tour packages, Al-Azhar Park is a must-see in Cairo.

Admire the Museum of Islamic Art

The Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo is a treasure trove of Islamic culture. It was founded in 1881 and is one of the oldest museums for Islamic art. It's located in Bb Al-Khalq square and has over 100,000 objects.

These objects tell the story of the Islamic world's rich history. You'll see stunning calligraphy and detailed metalwork. Each piece has its own story to tell.

Visitors can see two floors filled with artifacts from different Islamic dynasties. The ground floor has temporary exhibitions. The upper floor has the museum's permanent collection.

Highlights include pieces from the Umayyad dynasty and the Ottoman Empire. These exhibits show how Islamic art evolved over time. They reflect the changing nature of Islamic art.

Despite facing challenges, like renovations after a 2014 bombing, the museum is back to its glory. It's a must-see for anyone exploring Cairo. Spend at least half a day to enjoy the beauty and learn from the collections.

• Explore items from various Islamic periods.
• Participate in guided tours and educational programs.
• Visit the museum store for unique souvenirs and books.
• Enjoy refreshments at the museum's cafe.

Explore Saqqara and the Step Pyramid

Saqqara is about 30 kilometers south of Cairo. It shows us ancient Egypt's life. The Step Pyramid of Djoser, built around 2700 BC, is a key sight. It's the oldest stone pyramid, built for King Djoser.

Visiting Saqqara costs E£150. This price lets you see the Step Pyramid and more. You can also visit the Imhotep Museum. The Necropolis has tombs with colorful scenes of life and rituals.

Some attractions in Saqqara might cost E£60 to E£150 more. You can see amazing structures like:

1. The Step Pyramid of Djoser
2. The Tomb of Mereruka, showing a festive banquet
3. Mastabas with scenes of hunting and fishing

Following a Cairo travel guide? Make sure to spend enough time here. Don't miss the serdabs, with statues of the deceased. Hiring a local guide for E£850, plus tips, can make your visit better.

Visiting the Saqqara Pyramids is a must in Cairo. It's great for photos or learning history. Visit in March or April for the best weather, around 21⁰C.

Experience the Cairo Tower

The Cairo Tower stands at 614 feet (187 meters). It's the tallest structure in Egypt and a must-see. Built in 1961, it looks like a lotus plant, symbolizing beauty and strength.

From its observation deck, you get amazing views. The deck rotates every 70 minutes. At sunset, the city lights up in colors.

The Cairo Tower also has a revolving restaurant. It serves international and Egyptian dishes. You can enjoy your meal while seeing downtown Cairo and the Great Pyramids of Giza.

People love the atmosphere here. It's a top activity in Cairo.

• Entry to the Cairo Tower costs approximately 200 EGP ($10).
• The Tower operates daily from 9 am to 1 am, making it easy to plan your visit.
• Getting there is simple with taxis and Uber. Inside, lifts make it easy to get around.
• The best time to visit is winter for clearer skies and nice weather.
• There are strict security checks for a safe visit.

After your visit, check out local shops for souvenirs. You can find Egyptian cotton, jewelry, and Cairo Tower miniatures. This landmark makes your city trip special. Enjoy stunning views, tasty food, and Cairo's culture. See Cairo through the Cairo Tower's lens.

Check Out the Mosque of Muhammad Ali

The Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture. It's part of the Citadel of Cairo. Built from 1830 to 1848, it has a central dome that's 52 meters tall.

It's filled with colorful tiles and beautiful chandeliers. These show scenes from Islamic history. The mosque can hold up to 4,000 people in its big prayer hall.

This mosque is a top spot in Cairo. Its entrance is huge, almost 9,000 square feet. It welcomes visitors into a world full of history and spirituality.

The Turkish-style minarets are 82 meters high. They are amazing to see. Inside, you can find Muhammad Ali Pasha's tomb. It shows his big role in Egypt's modernization.

When you visit, remember to dress modestly. Take off your shoes before going inside. Be respectful while you're there.

The mosque is open every day. In summer, it's open from 9 AM to 5 PM. In winter, it closes at 4 PM. This gives you plenty of time to see its beauty.

• Location: Citadel of Cairo
• Entrance fees: Generally, modest fees apply
• Transportation: Taxis or ride-sharing services cost around 10-15 Egyptian pounds (EGP)
• Security: Enhanced security measures, including CCTV and bag checks, ensure a safe visiting experience

Visiting the Mosque of Muhammad Ali is a chance to see Islamic architecture. It's also a deep dive into Egypt's culture. Don't miss it when you're in Cairo. It's a true highlight.

Learn at the Coptic Museum

The Coptic Museum is a top spot in Cairo, showing the history of Coptic Christianity in Egypt. It was started in 1908. It has over 16,000 items from 5,000 years ago.

Here, you'll see many artworks like textiles, manuscripts, and ceramics. They tell us about Christianity's growth in Egypt.

At the Coptic Museum, you can see things from the 4th century AD. This includes the oldest Bible, made of thirty leather books. The museum's design makes you feel like you're part of Egypt's Christian history.

• Admission fee: LE 100, with an extra LE 50 for photos.
• Open daily from 9 am to 4 pm, giving you plenty of time to explore.
• Plan to spend at least two to three hours to see everything.
• Guided tours are available, lasting from one to three hours to help you understand more.

Getting to the Coptic Museum is easy. Taxis are easy to find, and there's street parking. Make sure to visit this museum in your Cairo trip. It will make your trip to Egypt even more interesting.

Conclusion

Cairo is a city where old history meets lively culture. This guide shows you the best activities in Cairo. You'll see the Great Pyramid of Giza and Khan el-Khalili Bazaar.

The Egyptian Museum, Al-Azhar Park, and Saqqara are full of stories. They invite you to explore.

With a good plan, you can see Cairo's sights in four days. You can stay in budget places or luxury hotels. Each choice makes your trip better.

You can see the Muhammad Ali Mosque and walk in Zamalek. There, you'll find great food.

Going on this trip will excite your senses and teach you about ancient Egypt. Choose experiences like those from Egypt Day Trips. This way, your Cairo visit will be memorable.

Let Cairo's charm draw you in. You'll find many treasures here!