If you’re lucky enough to have a stopover in Cairo or just have time for a quick visit to Cairo during a longer Egyptian adventure, you might wonder how to make the most of your time in this historic city. With its bustling streets, vibrant nightlife, and abundant monuments and museums, Cairo has something to offer everyone.
To help you make the most of your time in Cairo, we’ve put together a list of the best things to do and see in this exciting city. From exploring ancient monuments to bargaining for souvenirs at its lively markets, we’re sure you’ll find something to enjoy in Cairo.
Where to Stay
Cairo is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Egypt. There are a variety of hotels and other accommodation options available to suit all budgets.
For those on a tight budget, there are several hostels and budget hotels located around the city, which offer basic amenities and facilities. Mid-range options include many 3 and 4-star hotels, while luxury travellers can choose from a selection of 5-star hotels. Our favourite is the Marriott Mena House which offers rooms overlooking the Pyramids and The Sphinx.
Whatever your budget, there is sure to be a perfect place for you to stay during your 24 hours in Cairo.
What to See
Cairo is the capital of Egypt and one of the largest cities in Africa. It is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, due to its rich history and culture. There are a plethora of things to see and do in Cairo, from visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza to exploring the Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
If you’re planning a trip to Cairo, be sure to add these essential sights to your itinerary, if you plan your quick visit to Cairo out in advance and avoid busy/peak times, you can fit all into your time in the city. Although it is important to note you will only have time to scratch the surface of each of these wonderful attractions.
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The Great Pyramid of Giza
The Great Pyramid of Giza is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. It is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in Egypt.
If you’re planning on visiting the Great Pyramid, there are a few things you should know. First, the Great Pyramid is located in the Giza necropolis, which is about 20 kilometres (12 miles) southwest of Cairo. To get there, you can take a bus, taxi, or private car. There are also a few tour companies that offer day trips from Cairo.
Once you’re at the site, you’ll need to purchase a ticket to enter the Great Pyramid. Tickets can be bought at the entrance or in advance from various tour companies. Keep in mind that the Great Pyramid is usually very crowded, so it’s best to visit early in the day.
The Sphinx
The Sphinx of Egypt is one of the most iconic and well-recognized monuments in the world. This massive stone statue has stood the test of time, and it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Egypt. If you’re planning a trip to Cairo, be sure to add a visit to the Sphinx to your itinerary.
When you visit the Sphinx, you’ll be able to get up close to this ancient monument. You can even go inside the Sphinx’s chamber if you’re feeling adventurous. But no matter what you do, a visit to the Sphinx is sure to be a memorable experience.
The Egyptian Museum
The Egyptian Museum Cairo is one of the oldest and largest museums in the world. It contains the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts, including the famous mummy of King Tutankhamun. Visitors to the museum can expect to see a wide variety of exhibits, ranging from ancient tools and pottery to jewellery and statues.
The museum also has a library and a bookstore, which are perfect for visitors who want to learn more about ancient Egyptian history and culture.
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The Citadel
The Citadel of Cairo is a medieval Islamic fortification located in the area known as Old Cairo. It was originally built in the 12th century by Saladin, the first sultan of Egypt, and was used as a residence for the sultan and his family. In later years, the Citadel served as a military fortress and prison.
Today, the Citadel is a major tourist attraction and is one of the most popular sights in Cairo. If you’re planning a visit to the Citadel, there are a few things you should know. First, the Citadel is open daily from 8 am to 4 pm.
Admission is (approximately) US$10 for adults and US$5 for children. Second, the Citadel is located in a crowded area of Cairo, so be prepared for large crowds and lots of noise. Third, the Citadel is a large complex, so allow plenty of time to explore.
Khan el-Khalili
Khan el-Khalili is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cairo. This historic market district is home to a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. If you’re planning a visit to Khan el-Khalili, haggling is expected in the market stalls, so don’t be afraid to bargain for a good price. And finally, be sure to try some of the local food – the grilled meats and spices are not to be missed.
How to Get Around
Cairo is a bustling city with a lot to see and do. Getting around can be a bit daunting at first, but there are a number of different transport options available to help you get around.
Public transport in Cairo is relatively cheap and efficient, with a number of buses and metro lines running throughout the city. Taxis are also widely available, although it is important to negotiate the fare before getting in. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try haggling for a ride on a felucca, a traditional Egyptian sailing boat.
With a little bit of planning, getting around Cairo is easy and enjoyable. So don’t be afraid to get out there and explore all that this great city has to offer.
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What to Eat and Drink
There are a variety of food and drink options available. With so many options, it can be difficult to know what to choose., especially if you are only planning a quick visit to Cairo.
For breakfast, a common option is ful medames, which is a dish of stewed fava beans. Another popular breakfast choice is koshary, which is a dish of rice, macaroni, and lentils.
For lunch or dinner, many people opt for grilled meats, such as kebabs or shawarma. If you’re looking for something lighter, there are also a number of salads and vegetarian options available.
When it comes to drinks, Cairo has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a refreshing soda, try Mora Dana. This popular drink is made with hibiscus flowers and is a local favourite. If you’re in the mood for something stronger, Tomba is a type of Egyptian beer that is worth trying. And of course, no visit to Cairo would be complete without trying a cup of freshly-brewed Egyptian tea.
Where to Shop
If you’re looking for the best shopping in Cairo, you’ll find it in the Old City. This area is home to many of the city’s most famous markets, including the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, as mentioned above. Here you’ll find a wide variety of goods, from spices and souvenirs to clothing and jewellery. Don’t forget to bargain with the vendors for the best prices.
If you’re looking for more modern shopping, head to Cairo Festival City. This massive mall features over 300 stores, plus a cinema, food court, and more. You’ll find all the major international brands here, as well as some local Egyptian businesses.
No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in Cairo. With its wide variety of shops, markets, and malls, the city has something for everyone.
We hope this information helps you when planning a quick visit to Cairo.
