Cairo
Your complete travel companion for exploring Cairo
Why We Love Cairo
When planning our trip to Cairo, we expected beautiful sights. What we didn't expect was how deeply the culture would move us. Every neighborhood has its own character, every street its own story. This is a destination that keeps revealing new layers the longer you stay.
Explore Cairo on the Map
Get familiar with the area before your trip. Zoom in to explore neighborhoods, find landmarks, and plan your itinerary.
Click on the map to explore. Use street view to virtually walk around before your trip!
Insider Travel Tips
These are the things we wish we knew before our first visit—straight from our experience and conversations with locals:
Beat the Crowds at the Pyramids
Arrive at the Giza Plateau at opening (8 AM) or book the first slot. You'll have the pyramids and Sphinx almost to yourself before tour buses arrive.
Money Saving Secret
Eat like a local: koshari, ful, and taameya from street stalls cost a fraction of hotel meals. Lunch specials in downtown Cairo are excellent value.
Learn Key Arabic Phrases
A few words go far: "Shukran" (thank you), "Sabah el-kheer" (good morning), "La shukran" (no thanks). Egyptians appreciate the effort and bargaining becomes easier.
Best Time to Visit
October–April is peak but comfortable. March–April and September–October are shoulder season: fewer tourists, good weather, and better hotel rates. Avoid June–August if you dislike extreme heat.
What to Expect in Cairo
From our travels and feedback from fellow travelers, here's what you can realistically expect in Egypt:
Cultural Richness
Layers upon layers of history and tradition. Ancient sites, Islamic Cairo, and Nile life offer something new at every turn.
Value for Money
Excellent value outside tourist-only spots. Street food, local transport, and mid-range hotels offer strong value; pay in local currency for best rates.
Safety & Comfort
Generally safe with normal precautions. Tourist areas are well policed. Watch for hustling and agree on prices before services.
Photography Opportunities
Camera heaven: temples, bazaars, the Nile, and desert. Golden hour at the pyramids or in Luxor is unforgettable.
Realistic Budget Planning
Based on our experience and current pricing, here's what daily costs actually look like in Cairo:
Typical Cost Breakdown (Mid-Range Traveler)
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
Ideal conditions for sightseeing. Comfortable temperatures and most popular with international visitors. Book ahead.
Shoulder Season
Excellent balance of weather and value. Fewer crowds than peak winter; avoid May and September if you're heat-sensitive.
Off Season
Very hot (40°C+). Deepest discounts and fewer tourists; best for indoor museums and early-morning sites only.