About Cairo
Quick Overview
Capital: True
Population: 21000000
Languages: Arabic (Egyptian dialect), English
Currency: {'code': 'EGP', 'name': 'Egyptian Pound', 'symbol': 'E£', 'usd_rate': 49.0}
Explore Cairo by Topic
Best Places to Visit in Cairo
Discover the top 10 must-see destinations in Cairo, from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures.
Recommended Itineraries for Cairo
Plan your perfect Cairo trip with our expertly crafted itineraries for every travel style and duration.
5-Day Cairo Explorer
- Day 1: Arrive in Cairo, explore city center
- Day 2: Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3: Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4: Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5: Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Cairo
- Days 1-2: Cairo city highlights
- Days 3-4: Regional exploration
- Days 5-6: Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7: Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Cairo
- Days 1-3: Cairo comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6: Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9: Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12: Southern attractions
- Days 13-14: Return to Cairo, departure
Where to Stay in Cairo
From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, Cairo offers accommodations for every traveler.
Budget Options ($50-100)
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-Range ($100-200)
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury ($300+)
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza
Iconic five-star hotel on the Nile in Garden City, consistently rated one of the best hotels in Cairo. Features two towers with stunning Nile views, world-class dining, a luxurious spa, and impeccable service.
The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo
Situated on Tahrir Square with direct views of the original Egyptian Museum and the Nile, the Ritz-Carlton occupies a prime Downtown Cairo location. The hotel offers refined rooms, an award-winning spa, and rooftop dining with panoramic views.
Marriott Mena House
A legendary 19th-century hunting lodge converted into a hotel, with rooms and gardens overlooking the Pyramids of Giza just minutes away. A historic property that has hosted Winston Churchill, Agatha Christie, and numerous world leaders.
Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah
A striking circular tower hotel at the north end of Zamalek Island with 360-degree Nile views. One of Cairo's best five-star values, combining French Accor luxury with a prime island location and excellent dining.
Where to Eat in Cairo
Discover the culinary delights of Cairo, from local street food to fine dining experiences.
Koshary Abou Tarek
The most famous koshary restaurant in Cairo and arguably in all of Egypt, Abu Tarek has been serving the beloved Egyptian staple — layers of pasta, rice, lentils, chickpeas, fried onions, and tangy tomato sauce — since 1950. A four-storey institution beloved by locals and tourists alike.
Felfela
A Downtown Cairo institution since the 1960s, Felfela serves home-style Egyptian cooking in a colourful, kitschy atmosphere complete with hanging cages and aquariums. Beloved by locals, politicians, and celebrities for its authentic mezze, grilled meats, and Egyptian specialties.
Naguib Mahfouz Café
Named after Egypt's Nobel laureate and located deep in the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, this elegantly decorated café-restaurant offers a refined setting for traditional Egyptian food and shisha in an area where the writer himself used to walk. The decorative mashrabiya screens and antique lanterns create a magical atmosphere.
Zitouni
The flagship Egyptian restaurant of the Four Seasons Nile Plaza, Zitouni is widely considered one of the finest Egyptian dining experiences in Cairo. The menu celebrates Egyptian culinary heritage with refined presentations, using the freshest local ingredients. Spectacular Nile views complete the experience.
Sequoia
Sequoia is one of Cairo's most glamorous restaurants, set on a spectacular open-air wooden deck extending over the Nile at the northern tip of Zamalek. Perfect for a long leisurely meal, sunset drinks, or special celebrations. The diverse menu spans Lebanese, Mediterranean, and international dishes.
Abou El Sid
Abou El Sid recreates the atmosphere of a 1940s Egyptian home complete with antique furniture, sepia photographs, and mashrabiya screens. The menu is a celebration of Egyptian home cooking with grandmotherly dishes often overlooked by modern restaurants. One of Zamalek's most beloved restaurants.
Getting Around Cairo
Budget Breakdown for Cairo
Plan your spending with our comprehensive cost guide. Currency: USD.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15-40 | $50-120 | $150+ |
| Food (per day) | $10-25 | $30-60 | $80+ |
| Transportation | $5-15 | $20-50 | $75+ |
| Activities | $5-15 | $20-50 | $75+ |
| Daily Total | $50-100 | $100-200 | $300+ |
Best Time to Visit Cairo
Best Season: Year-round
Avoid: None
Essential Travel Tips for Cairo
- Research visa requirements before your trip
- Learn a few basic phrases in the local language
- Carry cash as cards may not be accepted everywhere
- Respect local customs and dress codes
- Purchase travel insurance before departure
Safety Information
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Cairo?
The best time to visit Cairo is Year-round. None may have less favorable conditions.
Do I need a visa for Cairo?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Check with your nearest embassy or consulate for Cairo for current requirements before travel.
How many days do I need in Cairo?
For a comprehensive Cairo experience, we recommend 7-10 days. However, you can have a great trip in 5 days focusing on highlights.
Is Cairo expensive to visit?
Budget travelers can expect $50-100 per day, mid-range $100-200, and luxury $300+.