Things to Do in Cairo, Egypt: Top Attractions and Landmarks
Thousands of years of history · Islamic architecture · The Giza Pyramids · The Nile · Egypt's capital
Cairo is the capital of Egypt and one of the most fascinating cities in Africa. It combines thousands of years of history, the famous Giza Pyramids, masterpieces of Islamic architecture, the picturesque banks of the Nile and the energy of a vast modern metropolis. Exploring Cairo lets you discover many sides of Egypt on a single trip – from the remains of pharaonic civilisation and historic bazaars to the city's modern districts. In this guide, Sharara Tours shares the best things to do in Cairo and practical tips for planning your visit.
Cairo – where ancient history meets modern life
The history of the Cairo region goes back much further than the Islamic city. In antiquity, Memphis – one of the first great capitals of pharaonic Egypt – lay further south. After the Arab conquest in the 7th century, Fustat was founded. Then, in the 10th century, the Fatimids established the city of Al-Qahira, "the Victorious", which gave modern Cairo its name.
Over the centuries, Cairo became one of the most important intellectual, commercial and religious centres of the Islamic world. The Mamluk and later Ottoman periods left an exceptional architectural legacy. You can still see traces of this history today in the streets of Islamic Cairo, its mosques, monuments, old houses and historic bazaars.
Top things to do in Cairo – the best attractions and landmarks
Cairo and neighbouring Giza are home to some of Egypt's most famous historic sites and attractions. When planning your Cairo sightseeing, make sure to include the following places:
The Giza Pyramids and the Great Sphinx are the most recognisable symbols of ancient Egypt. On the Giza Plateau, west of Cairo, stands the Great Pyramid of Khufu – the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World to survive largely intact to this day.
The Egyptian Museum on Tahrir Square remains one of the most important places to discover the heritage of ancient Egypt. In Giza, near the pyramids, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) presents Egyptian antiquities in a vast, modern museum complex, including the treasures of Tutankhamun.
Founded in the 10th century, Al-Azhar Mosque is one of the most important religious monuments of Islamic Cairo. Linked to Al-Azhar University, it remains a major centre of learning and thought in the Sunni Muslim world.
The Citadel of Saladin towers over part of the city and offers wonderful panoramic views of Cairo. Inside stands the famous Mosque of Muhammad Ali, recognisable by its impressive Ottoman-inspired domes and minarets. Read our guide to the Citadel of Saladin and the Alabaster Mosque.
Khan el-Khalili is the famous historic bazaar of Islamic Cairo. Its lanes are full of shops selling spices, jewellery, textiles, handicrafts and souvenirs, as well as traditional cafés. It is one of the best places to soak up the authentic atmosphere of the old city.
In Old Cairo, the Hanging Church, the Church of Abu Serga, the Ben Ezra Synagogue and the Coptic Museum tell the story of nearly two thousand years of Christianity in Egypt. Discover more in our guide to Coptic Cairo.
South of the city lie the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the ruins of ancient Memphis and the Bent and Red Pyramids – a perfect day trip. See our guides to the Saqqara pyramids, Memphis and the Dahshur pyramids.
Why does Cairo hold such a special place in Egypt's history and life?
Cairo is not just a popular tourist destination. It is also Egypt's most important political, economic, academic and cultural centre. For decades, the capital has attracted people from every region of the country, who come here to study, work and pursue their dreams.
The atmosphere of Cairo is just as special. Many districts buzz with life until late at night. Cafés, restaurants, shops and the Nile promenades remain popular meeting places. This constant energy, combined with local humour and hospitality, is an essential part of the city's character.
The Cairo Corniche – a stroll along the Nile
The Corniche runs along the Nile through several Cairo districts and is a popular place for a walk, especially in the late afternoon. At sunset, families, couples and groups of friends gather by the river, while passing boats and traditional feluccas add to its charm. A short felucca ride on the Nile is one of the most relaxing things to do in Cairo after a busy day of sightseeing.
Cairo today – a modern metropolis with a thousand-year history
Today, Greater Cairo is home to more than 20 million people and is one of the largest metropolises in Africa and the Middle East. While new districts and the New Administrative Capital are growing east of the city, Cairo remains the cultural, economic and historic heart of Egypt. Whether on a first visit or a longer stay, the capital offers a variety that is hard to find anywhere else in the country.
Practical tips for visiting Cairo
How many days? Two to three days let you see the Giza Pyramids, the Grand Egyptian Museum, Islamic and Coptic Cairo and Khan el-Khalili. Add a day for Saqqara, Memphis and Dahshur.
Best time to visit: October to April offers the most comfortable temperatures for sightseeing.
Getting around: traffic in Cairo can be heavy, so a private car with a driver saves time. Exploring with a professional English-speaking Egyptologist guide helps you make the most of every site.
Coming from the Red Sea? Cairo can be reached from Hurghada by road or by plane. Browse our Cairo tours from Hurghada, including the Cairo trip by plane.
Cairo is not just a city you visit. It is a city you experience.
Things to do in Cairo – frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Cairo?
The must-sees are the Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx, the Grand Egyptian Museum, the Egyptian Museum on Tahrir Square, the Citadel of Saladin, Al-Azhar Mosque, Khan el-Khalili bazaar and Coptic Cairo.
How many days do you need in Cairo?
Two to three days cover the main highlights. Add an extra day if you want to visit Saqqara, Memphis and Dahshur.
What is the best time to visit Cairo?
October to April is the most pleasant period, with milder temperatures for sightseeing.
Can I visit Cairo on a day trip from Hurghada?
Yes, by road or by plane. A day trip is long, so many travellers choose a flight or an overnight stay. Sharara Tours organises both options.
Is Cairo good for a first trip to Egypt?
Absolutely. Cairo combines the pyramids, world-class museums and historic Islamic and Coptic districts, making it an ideal introduction to Egypt.
Explore Cairo with Sharara Tours
From the Giza Pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum to Islamic and Coptic Cairo, we organise private tours with a professional English-speaking Egyptologist guide. Tell us your dates and we will plan your Cairo trip.
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