Cairo Hotels

Cairo is an ancient city located in the heart of Egypt. Cairo, the magnificent city where civilizations meet and where the past and present embrace, is the capital of Egypt. The ancient Nile River passing through Cairo has been a blessing for thousands of years. In this city, where you will feel the traces of history in every corner, you will see not only the mysterious pyramids and sphinxes from ancient times but also the unique traces of Islamic architecture. In Cairo, one of the cultural centers of the Middle East and Africa, you will not only be surrounded by culture and history, but you will also have a wonderful holiday that caters to your needs and desires. Being a popular destination for tourists, Cairo will captivate not only history and art enthusiasts but also lovers of natural beauty. You will lose yourself while spending time in this magnificent city, which is like an open-air museum.

Step into an area where history unfolds before your eyes like the pages of an epic. Gaze at the awe-inspiring view of the Pyramids of Giza, and admire the Sphinx, the keeper of secrets and guardian of mysteries buried in the sands of time.

Things To Know Before Going To Cairo

•  Prioritize safety and show respect for local customs by dressing modestly and being aware of your surroundings.
• Understand that bargaining is common in Cairo; feel free to negotiate prices for a more satisfying experience.
• Avoid unfamiliar areas after dark; plan daytime activities or arrange reliable transportation.
•  Tipping is customary in Cairo as a gesture of appreciation for good service.

Cairo Tips From Locals

•  Consider booking an official tour with a reputable company in Egypt to avoid scams; check TourRadar for available options.
•  While alcohol isn't illegal, it's not widely popular. Don't expect bar crawls; instead, enjoy cultural experiences.
• On Fridays, explore the old city early in the morning for a serene experience. Climb minarets and towers for stunning views amidst empty streets.
•  Opt for Uber over taxis for affordability and convenience. No need to negotiate fares.
•  Learn a few phrases in an obscure language like Hungarian or Finnish to deter persistent vendors. Only respond in that language to discourage further engagement.

Where is Cairo?

Cairo is located in northern Egypt, located on the eastern bank of the Nile River. Cairo is also the capital city of Egypt and the largest city in both Egypt and the Arab world. Cairo is located in the northeastern part of Africa, near the northeastern corner of the African continent. It serves as a major hub for transportation, commerce, culture, and tourism in the region.

Where To Stay In Cairo?

Cairo offers a wide range of accommodations for visitors depending on their holiday preferences. Here are some of the most popular areas to stay in Cairo: 

Best Hotels in Cairo

Cairo offers a variety of accommodation options for every budget. Here is a table we recommend for visitors based on different preferences:

All available hotels in Cairo are here!

Places To Visit In Cairo

Cairo has a rich history and attractions, some top places to visit in Cairo include: 

• The Great Pyramids of Giza: Explore the iconic pyramids and the Sphinx, which have stood for over 4,500 years as marvels of ancient engineering and symbolism.
• Egyptian Museum: Explore pharaonic treasures, such as Tutankhamun's golden mask, in the world's largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts.
• Salah El-Din Citadel: Enjoy panoramic views of Cairo from this medieval fortress, housing attractions such as the Muhammad Ali Mosque and Al-Gawhara Palace.
• Khan El Khalili: Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of one of the oldest bazaars in the Middle East, offering souvenirs, spices, and textiles.
• Coptic Cairo: Discover ancient churches and monasteries, including the Hanging Church and the Coptic Museum, in Cairo's Christian quarter.
• Nile River Cruises: Experience Cairo's skyline and landmarks from the tranquil waters of the Nile, whether on a dinner cruise or a traditional felucca ride.

Is Cairo Safe?

In Cairo, the overall danger level is medium now. Egypt's government prioritizes security in Cairo by deploying special police forces. However, there is still a risk of terrorist attacks and violent crime. Solo female travelers, especially, should be warned about traveling alone in Cairo. Besides, travelers should be careful about scams. Local sellers may try to scam you. Also, you ought to be conscientious about pickpocketing when you visit Cairo.

Is Cairo Expensive To Visit?

Cairo isa budget-friendly destination, especially when compared to Western cities. The cost of visiting Cairo can vary depending on factors such as travel style, accommodation preferences, dining choices, and preferred activities. However, The average daily budget ranges from 30 to 90 dollars.

Currency & Exchange in Cairo

The official currency used in Cairo is the Egyptian Pound (EGP), abbreviated as "LE" (short for Livre Égyptienne). 1 dollar equals 15.7 EGP in Cairo.

Cairo Language

In Cairo, the main spoken language is Egyptian Arabic, which is a dialect specific to Egypt. However, due to its status as a major economic and cultural hub in Cairo, other languages such as English and French are also spoken.

How Many Days To Visit Cairo?

For first-time travelers, planning 2-4 days is recommended to enjoy amazing monuments and visit a few distinctive places. However,if you would like to explore more of the city or a more relaxed trip, staying for a week can also be ideal for you.

What To Do in Cairo?

•  Explore the iconic pyramids and Sphinx, offering panoramic views from the Giza Plateau.
•  Immerse yourself in this historic market for unique souvenirs, local cuisine, and Nile felucca rides.
•  Visit this historic fortress housing attractions like the Mosque of Mohammed Ali and enjoy stunning views from Gawhara Terrace.
•  Discover the rich history of landmarks like Ibn Tulun Mosque, Al-Azhar Mosque, and vibrant Al-Muizz li-Din Allah al-Fatima Street.
• Dive into Egypt's ancient history with King Tut's treasures and a vast artifact collection.
•  Explore British soldier John Gayer-Anderson's collections in a historic setting next to Ibn Tulun Mosque.
•  Relax and enjoy panoramic Cairo views from this beautiful green space near Salah El Din Citadel.
•  Gain a unique perspective of historic Cairo with panoramic views from Bab Zuweila's minaret.

When Is The Best Time To Stay In Cairo?

The best time to visit Cairo is March to April and October to November. During these shorshoulder seasons, comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and low hotel rates are common throughout most days of the week.

There are two main seasons in Cairo:

• Summer (June to August): The weather is typically dry, with clear skies and little to no rainfall. Daytime temperatures often soar above 40°C (104°F), occasionally reaching even higher temperatures. Despite the extreme heat, summer is still considered a tourist season due to school holidays and vacation times.
• Winter (December to February): This period is considered an excellent time to visit Cairo to explore outdoor attractions, enjoy cruises on the Nile, and experience cultural events and festivals in the city. Daytime weather temperatures usually range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), while nights can be cooler. Occasionally, rainfalls can be seen during winter.

What To Pack For Your Visit To Cairo?

When packing for a trip to Cairo, it is best to be prepared with lightweight clothes and sunscreen for the hot weather. Also, it is advisable to pack modest attire for the trip to Cairo. Even though Cairo is more liberal than other Middle Eastern countries, it is important to be respectful, especially in religious sites.

Cairo Food

Cairo cuisine includes many delicious dishes that reflect Egypt's rich and diverse gastronomic heritage. Egypt's influence from various cultures throughout history has also enriched Cairo's cuisine. There are many options for vegetarians in this kitchen.

• Kushari: This iconic Egyptian dish consists of a blend of rice, pasta, and lentils, topped with spicy tomato sauce, fried onions, and chickpeas. It is a food plate in Cairo.
• Ful Medames: A traditional Egyptian breakfast dish made from cooked fava beans mixed with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and spices. It is usually eaten with bread and enjoyed throughout the day.
• Ta'ameya (Egyptian falafel): Similar to the more widely known falafel, but with an Egyptian twist. Ta'ameya is a dish made with roasted fava beans, herbs, and spices, then fried to a crisp. It is often served with tahini sauce or eaten in a sandwich.
• Mahşi: It is a dish consisting of stuffed vegetables such as garlic leaves, bell peppers, zucchinis, and eggplants. The filling is usually cooked in a tomato sauce made with rice, herbs, and sometimes ground meat.
• Mulukhiyah: A traditional Egyptian soup made from finely chopped jute leaves and often cooked with garlic and coriander. It is usually served with rice or bread.
• Shawarma: Originally not Egyptian, is very popular in Cairo. Thinly sliced layers of seasoned meat (usually beef, chicken, or lamb) are roasted on a vertical rotisserie and then wrapped in pita bread with tahini, vegetables, and pickles.
• Baladi Bread: This traditional Egyptian bread is common in Cairo. A pita bread made from whole wheat flour has a slightly chewy texture and a delicious nutty flavor. It is often served with meals or used for dips and sauces. Umm Ali: A delightful Egyptian dessert similar to bread pudding. It consists of layers of dough, milk, nuts, and raisins, all combined to create a rich and creamy dessert.

Cairo Nightlife

Cairo offers a vibrant and diverse nightlife with a variety of options for different tastes. You can witness traditional Egyptian dances like belly dancing at famous clubs or you can chill at a bar with your friends. If you want to dive into traditional Egyptian life, Shahrazad Club can be the perfect place for you. There are also some popular spots for nightlife including Cairo Jazz Club, Crimson Bar and Grill, Golden Pharaoh Dinner Cruise, The Cairo Cellar and Zigzag.