Things to do in Cairo
Discover the best attractions and experiences Cairo has to offer
Historic Monuments
Cairo's ancient heart beats through monumental wonders that span millennia, from pyramids to fortress walls.
The Great Pyramid of Giza
Iconic pyramid at the Giza Plateau, the largest of the three and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
The Sphinx
Massive limestone statue with a lion's body and a pharaoh's head guarding the Giza plateau.
The Egyptian Museum
World-class collection of ancient artifacts, including Tutankhamun's treasures.
Cairo Citadel and Mohamed Ali Mosque
Historic fortress above the city offering panoramic views and the grand mosque designed by Muhammad Ali.
Museums
Cairo's museums span ancient civilizations, Islamic art, and royal interiors, all within a compact cityscape.
The Egyptian Museum
Home to a vast collection of pharaonic artifacts and antiquities.
Museum of Islamic Art Cairo
Displays an extensive collection of Islamic art from across centuries and regions.
Coptic Museum
Comprehensive display of Coptic artifacts, manuscripts, and liturgical objects.
Manial Palace Museum
A lavish 19th-century palace turned museum showcasing art and decorative pieces.
Religious Monuments
From ancient mosques to historic churches, Cairo's sacred architecture reflects its diverse heritage.
Al-Azhar Mosque
Historic center of learning and one of Cairo's oldest mosques.
Ibn Tulun Mosque
One of Cairo's oldest mosques with a distinctive square minaret and serene courtyards.
Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary Coptic Orthodox Church)
Ancient church famed for its wooden screen and iconic religious art.
Muhammad Ali Mosque
Ottoman-era grand mosque atop the Citadel with striking domes and interiors.
National & Theme Parks
A green counterpoint to Cairo's bustle, offering views, trails, and relaxed outdoor spaces.
Al-Azhar Park
Renowned urban park with terraces, gardens, and sweeping city views.
Orman Garden
Historic botanical garden with shaded paths and lush greenery.
Giza Zoo
Old city zoo set in a green park area, great for families.
Wadi Degla Nature Reserve
Rocky trails and birdlife just outside central Cairo, ideal for easy hikes.
Neighborhoods
Dive into Cairo's distinct districts to feel the city’s rhythm, flavors, and architecture.
Islamic Cairo (Old Cairo)
Medieval mosques, markets, and narrow lanes clustered around historic mosques.
Zamalek
Upscale island district along the Nile with cafés, galleries, and a relaxed vibe.
Downtown Cairo
Historic core with grand architecture, shops, and a lively street scene.
Maadi
leafy suburban district along the Nile known for its cafés and riverside walks.
Free Things to Do
Experience Cairo without spending a penny while soaking in local life and scenery.
Nile Corniche sunset stroll
Walk along the riverfront as ferries drift by and the city glows.
Explore Islamic Cairo's historic lanes
Wander Al-Muizz Street and surrounding alleys to feel centuries of history.
Coptic Cairo exterior sights tour
Admire exterior facades and squares around old churches without entering.
Khan El Khalili bazaar surroundings
Experience the ambience of cobblestone streets and lantern-lit corners.
Gastronomy
Cairo’s flavors unfold in markets, street stalls, and home-style eateries across the city.
Koshari
The national street-food dish: a hearty mix of pasta, rice, lentils, and tomato sauce.
Ta’ameya (Egyptian falafel)
Crispy green-pea falafel served with tahini and fresh toppings.
Mulukhiyah
Green leaf soup commonly served with rice and meat or chicken.
Basbousa and baklava pastries
Sweet semolina and honey treats found in local pastry shops.
Nightlife
As darkness falls, Cairo offers riverfront views, rooftop vibes, and live music.
Zamalek rooftop bars
Casual to chic venues with skyline views and city sounds.
Nile river cruises with music
Evening cruises along the Nile featuring live entertainment.
Downtown Cairo clubs and live venues
Vibrant spots around Talaat Harb for late-night sets.
Cairo Opera House performances
Seasonal concerts, ballets, and plays in the city’s main performing arts venue.
Entertainment
Cairo stages vibrant multimedia shows, music, and cultural experiences after dark.
Sound and light show at the Pyramids
Evening multimedia storytelling set against the pyramids' silhouette.
Khan El Khalili cultural evenings
Historic bazaar area with occasional live performances and markets.
Cairo Opera House performances
Orchestral, theatre, and dance shows in a premier venue.
Rawabet Art Space events
Intimate performances and exhibitions at a grassroots cultural hub.
Sports
Active options to stretch your legs, ride, or take to the water in Cairo.
Camel rides near the Pyramids
Traditional camel treks around the Giza plateau for a desert feel.
Horseback riding near the Pyramids
Guided rides with views of ancient monuments and desert scenery.
Cycling along the Nile Corniche
Bike paths and riverside views suitable for a relaxed ride.
Rowing or kayaking on the Nile
Water-based outings along Cairo's famous river.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the main sights for a rarer glimpse of Cairo's life and spaces.
City of the Dead (al-Maqar al-Mayyit) neighborhood exploration
A look into a living community within a historic cemetery landscape.
Al-Muizz Street photography stroll
Capture medieval architecture and atmospheric street scenes away from crowds.
Traditional Egyptian tea at a local ahwa
Sip strong tea in a classic Cairo teahouse and observe daily life.