Things to Do in Cairo

About Cairo

Where the whispers of pharaohs echo through bustling medieval streets and the golden light of the desert sun illuminates a city suspended between worlds, Cairo pulses with an energy that has captivated travelers for millennia. Here, the ancient and eternal dance together in perfect chaos—where vendors hawk their wares in the shadow of the Great Pyramid, where the call to prayer mingles with the honking of taxis, and where every narrow alleyway holds secrets older than memory. The Mother of the World, as locals lovingly call her, wraps visitors in her warm embrace of hospitality, inviting them to lose themselves in the labyrinthine Khan el-Khalili bazaar, to stand humbled before the Sphinx's enigmatic gaze, and to witness the Nile's eternal flow that has nourished this desert oasis since time immemorial. In Cairo, every sunset paints the minarets gold, every meal is a celebration, and every moment reminds you that you're walking through the crossroads of Africa, Asia, and the Mediterranean—a living museum where the past lives breathlessly alongside the present.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem for reliable service and fair pricing. The Cairo Metro is efficient but crowded—avoid rush hours (7-9 AM, 4-7 PM). Negotiate taxi fares before starting your journey, and always carry small bills for tips and micro-buses.

Money: Egyptian Pounds (EGP) are essential—many vendors don't accept cards. Exchange money at banks or authorized dealers for better rates than airports. Carry small denominations (5, 10, 20 EGP notes) for tips, as tipping is customary for most services.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques—cover shoulders, arms, and legs. Remove shoes before entering prayer areas. During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking publicly during daylight hours. Learn basic Arabic greetings; locals appreciate the effort immensely.

Food Safety: Stick to busy restaurants with high turnover for freshest food. Avoid raw vegetables and fruits you can't peel yourself. Drink bottled water and use it for brushing teeth. Street food from popular vendors is generally safe—follow the crowds of locals.

When to Visit

Cairo's desert climate creates distinct seasons that dramatically affect both comfort and costs. October through April offers the ideal window, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F), minimal rainfall (under 5mm monthly), and crystal-clear skies perfect for pyramid exploration. December through February sees the coolest weather (10-20°C/50-68°F) but brings peak season crowds and accommodation prices 40-60% higher than off-season rates. March and April offer the sweet spot—pleasant 20-28°C (68-82°F) temperatures with moderate pricing. The scorching summer months (May-September) bring intense heat reaching 35-40°C (95-104°F), making daytime sightseeing challenging, though hotel rates drop 30-50%. Ramadan dates vary yearly but significantly impact dining and cultural experiences. Key festivals include the Cairo International Film Festival (November), Sham el-Nessim spring celebration (post-Easter Monday), and Coptic Christmas (January 7th). Budget travelers should consider late spring (April-May) or early fall (September-October) for moderate weather and pricing. Luxury travelers preferring cooler comfort should book December-February despite premium costs. Summer visitors can take advantage of dramatic savings but should plan early morning and evening activities, with midday refuge in air-conditioned museums and hotels.