Why Visit Cairo?

Cairo doesn’t charm in the traditional sense - it overwhelms, impresses and then slowly wins you over. As the cultural and political heart of Egypt, the city is home to over 20 million people, thousands of years of history, and a rhythm that can only be understood by diving in.

It’s where you’ll find pharaoh-era relics beside Islamic minarets, Coptic churches down the road from street-art-covered alleys, and vibrant souks filled with incense, gold, and hand-painted glassware. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning traveller, Cairo always has something new to reveal.

When to Visit

The best times to explore Cairo are in the cooler months between October and April, when temperatures are pleasant and perfect for long days out. Winter brings crisp mornings and sunny afternoons, ideal for exploring the Pyramids or walking through Old Cairo. Summer (June to August) is quieter and more affordable, but the heat can be intense.

Key Tip: Let your AI trip planner suggest optimal times to visit based on events, flight deals, and weather forecasts personalised to your travel style.

Getting In and Around

Airports & Entry

Cairo International Airport (CAI) is well-connected globally. Visas can often be arranged online in advance, and airport pickups are highly recommended over waiting for local taxis.

Local Transport

• Uber and Careem are widely available and reliable.
• Metro: Cairo’s metro system is efficient and cheap, covering much of the city’s core.
• Taxis: Always agree on a price beforehand or use metered taxis when possible.

Pro tip: Your AI assistant can translate addresses into Arabic for drivers and even pre-book rides for key transfers.

Where to Stay

Zamalek

An island on the Nile known for leafy streets, art galleries and a mix of embassies and boutique stays. Great for a quieter base close to the city.

Downtown Cairo

For those who love being in the centre of the buzz. Historic buildings, coffeehouses and a raw, energetic charm.

Giza

Perfect if you want a front-row view of the pyramids and don’t mind being a bit further from downtown nightlife.

Must-See Sights

• Pyramids of Giza & Sphinx
  You can’t visit Cairo without witnessing one of the last remaining wonders of the ancient world. Go early, and consider a camel or horseback ride around the plateau.
• The Egyptian Museum
  Home to treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb and thousands of ancient artefacts. Soon to be upstaged by the Grand Egyptian Museum, but still essential.
• Khan El Khalili Market
  Cairo’s most famous bazaar is a maze of textiles, perfumes, spices and hidden cafés. Bargain gently and get lost on purpose.
• Coptic Cairo
  Explore the Hanging Church, ancient synagogues, and underground chapels that date back to Christianity’s earliest days.
• Al-Azhar Mosque & Islamic Cairo
  Walk through a living museum of Islamic architecture, with domes, minarets and centuries of history layered into each street.

What to Eat

Cairo’s food is hearty, affordable and filled with flavour.

Must-Try Dishes:

• Koshari: A mix of rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas and fried onions topped with tomato sauce and chilli vinegar.
• Ful Medames: Mashed fava beans with olive oil, lemon and spices, often eaten for breakfast.
• Ta’ameya: Egypt’s answer to falafel, made with fava beans instead of chickpeas.
• Molokhia: A green soup served with rice and chicken or rabbit.

Where to Eat:
From street carts and local joints to high-end Nile-side restaurants, Cairo’s food scene is wildly varied. Your AI assistant can suggest places by price range, dish type, or vibe - whether you want a rooftop meal or a midnight snack near your hotel.

Culture, Customs and Travel Tips

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or local neighbourhoods.
• Fridays are the holy day; many shops and services open late or close early.
• Tipping (baksheesh) is customary - keep small notes handy.
• Water: Drink bottled water and avoid ice unless you’re confident of its source.

Language tip: Basic Arabic phrases go a long way, but most tourism workers speak English. Let your AI travel assistant help with real-time translations or voice-based interactions if needed.

Day Trips from Cairo

• Saqqara & Dahshur: Older and often quieter than Giza, these pyramid fields are where Egypt’s architectural mastery began.
• Alexandria: Just a 2.5-hour train ride away, this coastal city blends Egyptian soul with Mediterranean flair.
• Fayoum Oasis: A mix of desert, ancient ruins and small villages - less polished, more poetic.

FAQs

Is Cairo safe to visit?
Yes, but like any large city, it requires awareness. Stay in well-reviewed areas, avoid wandering late at night alone, and use trusted transport options.

How many days do I need in Cairo?
Three to five days gives you time to experience the key sights while allowing for day trips and slow moments in between.

Can I use cards or should I carry cash?
Cash is king in many places, but major hotels and restaurants accept cards. ATMs are widely available.

Conclusion

Cairo is a city that rewards the curious. Its energy can be intense, but beneath it lies unmatched history, beauty and warmth. From pyramids to prayer calls, souks to skyline sunsets, Cairo isn’t just a place you visit - it’s a place you feel. With an AI travel assistant helping you unlock each layer at your own pace, every step becomes smoother, smarter and more connected. Cairo is ready. Are you?