Cairo-5-day-itinerary
5-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Cairo
Day 1: Ancient Wonders
- Morning: Start at the iconic Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and construction of these majestic structures.
- Lunch: Head to Koshari Abou Tarek, a popular restaurant serving traditional Egyptian cuisine, including koshari (a vegetarian dish made with pasta, lentils, and tomato sauce).
- Afternoon: Visit the Egyptian Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, and other treasures.
- Evening: Enjoy a stunning view of the pyramids at sunset from the Nile River on a felucca (traditional wooden sailboat) ride.
Day 2: Islamic Cairo
- Morning: Explore Islamic Cairo, a historic neighborhood filled with mosques, madrasas, and bazaars. Visit Al-Azhar Mosque, one of the oldest and most important Islamic institutions in the world.
- Lunch: Try some delicious street food at Tahrir Square, including falafel, shawarma, and fresh juices.
- Afternoon: Wander through the colorful Khan el-Khalili market, a bustling bazaar filled with spices, perfumes, and souvenirs.
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional Egyptian dinner at Abou El Sid, a cozy restaurant serving up flavorful dishes like mahshi (stuffed grape leaves) and shish taouk (grilled chicken skewers).
Day 3: Coptic Cairo
- Morning: Visit the Coptic Museum, which showcases the history of Christianity in Egypt, featuring artifacts, icons, and manuscripts.
- Lunch: Head to Felfela, a popular restaurant serving Egyptian comfort food, including falafel, shawarma, and feteer (a savory pancake).
- Afternoon: Explore the ancient Hanging Church, one of the oldest churches in Egypt, built on top of a Roman fortress.
- Evening: Take a stroll along the Nile Corniche, a scenic waterfront promenade offering stunning views of the city.
Day 4: Modern Cairo
- Morning: Visit the Museum of Modern Egyptian Art, which features an impressive collection of contemporary Egyptian art.
- Lunch: Enjoy a modern take on traditional Egyptian cuisine at Zamalek’s L’Aubergine, a trendy restaurant with a focus on local ingredients.
- Afternoon: Explore the upscale neighborhood of Zamalek, known for its beautiful gardens, embassies, and fashionable boutiques.
- Evening: Catch a show or concert at the Opera House, a stunning example of modern Egyptian architecture.
Day 5: Cairo’s Outskirts
- Morning: Take a day trip to Saqqara, a vast ancient cemetery featuring the famous Step Pyramid, the oldest stone structure in the world.
- Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the scenic desert landscapes of Saqqara.
- Afternoon: Visit Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt, featuring ruins of temples and statues of pharaohs.
- Evening: Return to Cairo and enjoy a farewell dinner at Kazouz, a popular restaurant serving up flavorful Middle Eastern cuisine.
Where to Stay
- Budget: Hostel 42, a modern hostel with dorms and private rooms, located in the heart of Downtown Cairo.
- Mid-range: Hotel Longchamps, a charming hotel with comfortable rooms and a beautiful courtyard, situated in Zamalek.
- Luxury: The St. Regis Cairo, a luxurious hotel with elegant rooms, an outdoor pool, and stunning Nile views.
Transportation
- Taxis: Hail a yellow cab on the street or book through a ride-hailing app like Uber or Careem.
- Metro: Cairo’s efficient metro system is a convenient way to navigate the city.
- Walking: Explore Islamic Cairo, Coptic Cairo, and Zamalek on foot to discover hidden gems.
Tips
- Respect local customs: Dress modestly, remove your shoes when entering mosques or churches, and avoid public displays of affection.
- Bargain: Expect to haggle at markets and bazaars - it’s all part of the fun!
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid eating from street vendors to stay healthy.
Other Things of Interest
- Nile River dinner cruise: Enjoy a romantic evening on the Nile while taking in Cairo’s stunning skyline.
- Cairo Tower: For panoramic views of the city, head to this 360-meter-tall tower.
- Pharaonic Village: Explore this outdoor museum featuring replicas of ancient Egyptian temples and monuments.
Remember to stay safe, respect local customs, and enjoy the vibrant energy of Cairo!