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8 Best Things to Do in Cairo Egypt This Year

February 26, 2025

8 Best Things to Do in Cairo Egypt This Year

Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is one of the most fascinating cities in the world. It is a place where ancient history and modern life blend together seamlessly.

In this article, we’ll take you through the best things to do in Cairo Egypt and tips that will help you plan an unforgettable trip.

Why Visit Cairo?

Cairo is often called “the City of a Thousand Minarets” because of its many beautiful mosques. It is also home to some of the most famous historical sites in the world, including the Great Pyramid of Giza and the Egyptian Museum.

But Cairo is not just about history. It is also a vibrant city with delicious food, exciting nightlife, and friendly people. Whether you are interested in ancient monuments, shopping, or just experiencing a different culture, Cairo has something for you.

Best time to visit: The best months to visit Cairo are from October to April, when the weather is cooler.
Moving around: You can use taxis, Uber, or the Cairo Metro to travel around the city.
Safety tips: Cairo is generally safe, but it’s always good to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid crowded areas at night.
Local etiquette: Egyptians are friendly and welcoming. It is respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques.

Things to Do in Cairo Egypt

1. Visit the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx

One of the main reasons people travel to Cairo is to see the Pyramids of Giza. These pyramids were built more than 4,500 years ago and are one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The largest of them, the Great Pyramid of Khufu, stands at an incredible height of 146 meters.

Next to the pyramids, you will also find the Great Sphinx, a massive statue with the body of a lion and the head of a human. It is believed to represent a pharaoh and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Egypt.

What you can do:

Take a guided tour to learn about how the pyramids were built.
Ride a camel across the desert for a traditional experience.
Visit in the evening to watch the Sound and Light Show, where lights and music bring the history of the pyramids to life.

2. Explore the Egyptian Museum

If you want to learn more about ancient Egypt, the Egyptian Museum is the perfect place to visit. Located in Tahrir Square, the museum has more than 120,000 artifacts, including statues, jewelry, and even real mummies.

One of the most famous exhibits in the museum is the golden mask of King Tutankhamun, which was discovered in his tomb in 1922. The museum also has rooms filled with ancient treasures that show how the pharaohs lived thousands of years ago.

What you can do:

See the Royal Mummy Room, where the mummies of famous pharaohs like Ramses II are kept.
Explore the jewelry and treasures from King Tutankhamun’s tomb.
Learn about ancient Egyptian life through statues, tools, and everyday objects.

3. Walk through Islamic Cairo

Islamic Cairo is a part of the city filled with ancient mosques, traditional markets, and beautiful old buildings. This area is home to some of the most stunning Islamic architecture in the world.

One of the best places to visit here is the Salah El-Din Citadel, a fortress that was built in the 12th century to protect the city. Inside the Citadel, you will find the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, which is one of the most beautiful mosques in Egypt. From the top of the Citadel, you can also enjoy a breathtaking view of Cairo.

Another important street in Islamic Cairo is Al-Muizz Street, where you can see historical buildings and visit local shops selling spices, lanterns, and traditional crafts.

What you can do:

Visit the Salah El-Din Citadel and take pictures of the city from above.
Explore Al-Muizz Street and buy handmade souvenirs.
Stop at Khan El-Khalili, a famous market where you can shop for jewelry, perfumes, and Egyptian textiles.

4. Explore Coptic Cairo

Coptic Cairo is an area where you can learn about Egypt’s Christian history. It is home to many ancient churches, monasteries, and one of the oldest synagogues in Egypt.

One of the most famous sites here is the Hanging Church, which was built above a Roman fortress. The church is known for its beautiful wooden ceiling and ancient icons.

Nearby, you can visit the Coptic Museum, which has artifacts that show the history of Christianity in Egypt. Another interesting place is the Ben Ezra Synagogue, which is believed to be where baby Moses was found in the Nile River.

What you can do:

Visit the Hanging Church and admire its architecture.
See ancient Christian art and manuscripts at the Coptic Museum.
Learn about Jewish history in Egypt at the Ben Ezra Synagogue.

5. Try Egyptian street food

Cairo is known for its delicious and affordable street food. Some of the best local dishes to try include:

Koshary – A mix of rice, pasta, lentils, and tomato sauce, topped with crispy onions. It is one of Egypt’s most popular dishes.
Ful medames – Mashed fava beans served with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. It is a common breakfast dish in Egypt.
Ta’ameya (Egyptian falafel) – Deep-fried patties made from fava beans and herbs, served in pita bread with vegetables.

You can find these dishes at small street stalls or local restaurants like Koshary Abou Tarek, one of the best places to eat koshary in Cairo.

6. Shop at Khan El-Khalili bazaar

If you love shopping, Khan El-Khalili is a market you should not miss. It is one of the oldest bazaars in the Middle East and is filled with colorful shops selling handmade crafts, perfumes, carpets, and souvenirs.

Bargaining is part of the shopping experience here, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices!

What you can do:

Buy traditional Egyptian souvenirs like papyrus paintings and handmade jewelry.
Drink mint tea at El Fishawy Café, a famous coffee shop in the market.
Take pictures of the beautiful narrow streets and colorful lanterns.

7. Visit Saqqara and Dahshur

If you have time, take a short trip outside of Cairo to Saqqara and Dahshur. These places are home to some of Egypt’s oldest pyramids.

The most famous pyramid in Saqqara is the Step Pyramid of Djoser, which is the world’s first pyramid. In Dahshur, you can see the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, which were early attempts to build smooth-sided pyramids.

8. Take a Nile River cruise

The Nile River is the lifeline of Egypt, and a Nile cruise is a relaxing way to enjoy the city. You can take a short dinner cruise in Cairo or a longer trip to Luxor and Aswan. Many cruises include live entertainment such as belly dancing and traditional Egyptian music.

What you can do:

Enjoy a sunset dinner cruise with Egyptian food.
Watch live performances of belly dancing and folk music.
Take a longer cruise to visit ancient temples along the Nile.

Conclusion

Cairo is a city that promises adventure, discovery, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re drawn to its ancient monuments, its markets, or its delectable cuisine, Cairo is sure to leave you with a deeper appreciation for Egypt’s rich cultural heritage.

Reading this article will equipped you to explore all the best things to do in Cairo Egypt. Plan your trip during the cooler months, prepare for a mix of modern conveniences and ancient traditions, and get ready to embark on a journey that bridges millennia of history with the vibrant pulse of contemporary life.

Don’t forget to share your own experiences and tips in the comments below.