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Best Things to Do
Top 50 Best Things to Do in Cairo [2025]
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The Egyptian Museum in Cairo
4.7
/5
1236 reviews
10
476m from downtown
Phone +20225796948
Address: El-Tahrir Square, Ismailia, Qasr El Nil, Cairo Governorate 4272083, Egypt
Recommended sightseeing time: 3–6 hours
Achieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
Highlights:
See Tutankhamun's Gold Mask in Person
Tutankhamun's 440-pound gold mask
Saved by 521 users479 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
The fare from the airport to here is only a few dollars, and you can just take the bus to the terminal. If you buy tickets on Ctrip, since it is a supplier, they will charge a service fee, so it is normal that it is more expensive than buying tickets on site. This is quick and worry-free.
If you buy tickets on site, you can only use a credit card. Remember to bring a credit card that supports Visa or MasterCard. They do not accept cash. There are corresponding discounts for student tickets. Remember to bring proof.
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Khan el-Khalili
4.4
/5
189 reviews
9.5
2.6 km from downtown
Phone +20233848466
Address: El-Gamaleya, El Gamaliya, Cairo Governorate 4331302, Egypt
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–2 hours
Achieved a 2-year streak on the annual lists
Highlights:
Ancient Arabian buildings & walls surround market
Historic open-air market & architecture
Saved by 461 usersRecently viewed by 1,000+ people
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Khalili Market is the most legendary Arab traditional market in Cairo, and has been an important trading center on the Silk Road since the 14th century. The maze of narrow lanes is lined with gold and silver shops, spice stalls, handicraft workshops, copper lamps, papyrus and other specialty products. The Fisharvi Café in the core area (founded in 1773) still retains the tradition of gathering Arab literary artists, while the stained glass and mosque minarets under the market dome form a unique Islamic picture. Despite the obvious commercialization and the need to be vigilant against high-price traps, the noisy bargaining noise, the air of mint tea and spices still make it a must-visit place to experience Egyptian culture.
💟The Khalili Market in the old city of Cairo is one of the most representative traditional markets in Cairo. It is also one of the oldest and most prosperous markets in the Middle East. Its history can be traced back to the Mamluk period in the 14th century. It is a must-visit souvenir shopping destination for tourists.
Khalili at night is more comfortable than during the day, at least it is not so noisy. I guess the vendors are tired after shouting all day, and no one really comes forward to sell, which is much more worry-free.
💟There are a wide variety of handicrafts here, such as brass lamps, gold and silver jewelry, gem necklaces, glass lamps, spices, papyrus paintings, shell inlaid wooden boxes, perfumes, etc. Regardless of whether they are from Yiwu, they are still very Egyptian. Especially the souvenirs from the Pharaoh period, such as Pharaoh statues, amulets, scarabs, Ankh crosses, etc., are almost real.
💟Textiles are also best-selling items, such as scarves, bed sheets, etc. The Arabic style patterns are quite beautiful. Remember to look for the "100% Egyptian Cotton" label. Some tourists also buy traditional embroidered robes Galabeya, which are essential for taking photos.
💟There are many shops here, and you can find a lot of treasures by walking through the streets and alleys. Some small shops on the second floor have much higher prices. However, it is still recommended to compare with domestic platforms, some are really much cheaper in China.
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Cairo Citadel
4.6
/5
149 reviews
9.1
Based on 1,349 reviews
2.9 km from downtown
Phone +20225121735
Address: 27H6+G27, Privet Entrance Bel Kalaa, Al Abageyah, El Khalifa, Cairo Governorate 4252360, Egypt
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–2 hours
Achieved a 2-year streak on the annual lists
Highlights:
Historic Yusof Well & Pavilion
The Millennial Twin Castles built by General Saladin
Saved by 207 users37% positive reviews
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The Military Museum in Saladin Castle🏰 allows you to learn about the military culture from ancient Egypt to the present day Egypt🇪🇬. If you buy a ticket to Saladin Castle🎫, you can enter the Military Museum inside the castle for free (note: there is a hidden small museum in the Military Museum where staff sell tickets, and you need to pay to visit). The entire castle building exudes a strong Sultan Ottoman atmosphere, which is definitely worth visiting here!
In the long river of history, Saladin Castle stands quietly there as a witness, its existence is not only the accumulation of buildings, but also the precipitation of history and the continuation of culture. Whether it is the first ray of sunshine in the morning or the last sunset in the evening, it seems to be putting on a mysterious veil for the castle, attracting people to explore the story behind it.
No.
4
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Nile
4.7
/5
689 reviews
8.4
Based on 3,322 reviews
615m from downtown
Address: River Nile, Cairo
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–2 hours
Achieved a 2-year streak on the annual lists
Highlights:
Floods nourish fertile river valleys
Sail Nile on a felucca
Saved by 225 users144 positive reviews
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At that time, on the way from Luxor to Hurghada, I began to miss the Nile River infinitely. Every time I saw the river, I couldn't help but marvel in my heart. It was just a natural scenery, but it had an unreal beauty, flat and vast. I always lived in southern China and always thought that rivers came from valleys, magnificent or winding, with mountains on both sides, but the Nile River was still flat on both sides. I think there would be no Egypt without the Nile River. In such a hot and dry place that is not suitable for living, it should be this river that can pass through thousands of years without changing and keep people.
Now, I have been away from Egypt for more than ten days. The most frequent flash in my memory is still the Nile River. Its beauty seems to allow anything to happen. I suddenly understand Agatha very much. If you face such a miracle every day, it is not surprising that you can write any story.
Finally, I actually want to say that the Old Falls Hotel is worth staying (if the budget allows, but the afternoon tea is very bad, so be careful.
The Nile River, the mother river of Egypt! In the evening, take a boat trip on the Nile River. The bustling scenery on both sides and the dilapidated apartments on both sides of the airport road make people doubt life! The difference is huge, but whether rich or poor, they will choose to be buried on the sides of the Nile River after death. Of course, the Feng Shui location is different! If you look at the Nile River, you can hear her low singing, singing the thousand-year glory!
No.
5
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The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
4.7
/5
6 reviews
8.1
Based on 230 reviews
4.2 km from downtown
Phone +20227412273
Address: Ein as Seirah, Old Cairo, Cairo Governorate 4245001, Egypt
Highlights:
An overview of the history of Egyptian civilization
Explore Ancient Egyptian life with VR technology
Verified user reviews
The museum is laid out in a complete historical timeline, focusing on the entire history of Egyptian civilization, covering prehistory, Pharaoh, Greek and Roman, Coptic, Islamic and modern Egyptian culture, presenting the characteristics of Egypt's multicultural integration. The museum square is large and spacious, and the architectural design cleverly combines the symbols of ancient Egyptian civilization with modern architectural language, respecting tradition and full of future. If you want to know more, you can read my travel notes on my homepage.
Nice place to visit.. a lot of artifacts from golden age of pharoah...
No.
6
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Hanging Church
4.9
/5
152 reviews
8.1
Based on 841 reviews
4.4 km from downtown
Phone +20223636305
Address: مار جرجس، محطة مترو الأنفاق(مارجرجس, Ibrahim Ali, Kom Ghorab, Old Cairo, Cairo Governorate 4244001, Egypt
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–2 hours
Highlights:
Display of 8th century Coptic Christian artifacts
White tower shines under blue sky
Saved by 104 users39% positive reviews
Verified user reviews
The hanging church building itself is like a work of art, standing on a cliff, giving a mysterious sense of solemnity. The exquisite interior decoration complements the magnificent scenery outside, making people feel like they are in a quiet and sacred space. In addition, the natural scenery around the church is beautiful and a very memorable experience. Highly recommended for friends who like to explore beautiful buildings and seek peace.
The most popular church in the entire Coptic area is the Hanging Church, also known as St. Virgin Mary's Coptic Orthodox Church, which is the oldest and most famous Christian church in Egypt. It was built from the 3rd to the 4th century, and the existing buildings were mainly built from the 7th to the 9th century. It was once the residence of the Coptic Pope, an important religious site of the Coptic Orthodox Church, and a symbol of Egyptian Christian history.
💟The church is called "hanging" because it was built above the gate of the ancient Roman Babylon Fortress and supported by towering stone pillars. From the outside, it seems to be suspended in the air.
The church contains a large number of precious Coptic-style (big eyes, flattened) icons. You may wish to pay attention to the icons of the Virgin Mary and the Son Jesus, which are very different from the Western style seen in Europe. There are also ancient Coptic murals on the walls depicting biblical stories and the deeds of saints, which are very distinctive Coptic cultural treasures.
📌TIPS📌
1. Dress appropriately when visiting (avoid shorts and sleeveless tops).
2. Photography is allowed inside the church, but some areas are prohibited from entering.
3. Opening hours: 9:00-16:00
No.
7
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Coptic Cairo
4.7
/5
12 reviews
7.7
4.4 km from downtown
Address: Kom Ghorab, Old Cairo, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
Recommended sightseeing time: 2–3 hours
Highlights:
Cairo's 360° view from Citadel
Explore ancient Islamic heritage & 14th century
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Located in the northeast of Cairo, it has a history of thousands of years. It has many scenic spots and historical sites such as the ancient castle, mosques, and the Khalili Traditional Crafts Market. It was listed in the World Heritage List in 1979.
There are more than 1,000 mosques in Cairo, and the towering minarets of the mosques are straight into the clouds, so Cairo is also known as the "City of a Thousand Minarets".
Located in the old city, the Khalili Market consists of thousands of shops distributed in dozens of streets and alleys, and many of the shops can be traced back to the 14th century. The narrow roads are lined with various jewelry, copper plates, stone carvings, leather goods and other traditional Egyptian handicrafts. Most tourists come here to buy tourist souvenirs. Shopping here is a special feeling, as if walking into the real version of "One Thousand and One Nights".
In Cairo, mosques and minarets are ubiquitous buildings. In Arabic, minarets are called "minars," which refer to the place where the muezzin stands to call people to prayer. Since the 7th century, with the widespread spread of Islam in West Asia and North Africa, the art of mosque architecture has continued to develop, and minarets have evolved into various styles, becoming an indispensable part of mosque architecture and a highlight of Cairo.
No.
8
Islamic Cairo
4.7
/5
40 reviews
7.7
Based on 813 reviews
3.7 km from downtown
Address: El-Darb El-Ahmar, Al-Darb Al-Ahmar, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5–1 day
Highlights:
Authentic Egyptian market experience
Copper & papyrus crafts market
41% positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Exploring the old Islamic city is like walking into a story of a thousand and one nights. Every alley here is full of mystery and magic, as if telling an old story. 📜✨ Shuttle through the maze of streets, every corner may meet the traces of history, and every slate records the traces of the years. 👣🕰️ Those exquisite crafts, aromatic spices, and melodious prayers are showing the unique charm of Islamic culture to the world. 🎨🎵 If you come to the old Islamic town, you may as well slow down and feel every peace and beauty here. 😌💕
This land is not rich in amazing culture as people imagine, nor is there a famous attraction like the pyramids (maybe there was, but now it is gone). The whole city is full of dust, homeless people who love to fight and cause trouble, and endless dirtiness, chaos and poor conditions. Probably the best thing you can experience here is to take a good shower after a day in Cairo, and hope that you are not infected with any diseases. In the local area, many people will use tricks to cheat money on the streets, which makes tourists have a worse impression of the city. In addition, some people will shout behind you to provoke you. In this case, even if you give me money, I will never look back.
No.
9
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The Cave Church
4.6
/5
5 reviews
7.6
Based on 376 reviews
4.3 km from downtown
Phone +20225123666
Address: 27JG+3PW، البيدق, Ghayt Al Adah, Abdeen, Cairo Governorate 4421240, Egypt
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–2 hours
Highlights:
A classic example of Kievan Rus' religious culture
Journey into the mysterious underground tunnel
Verified user reviews
After passing through the garbage city and arriving at this ancient church, I marveled at human wisdom and awe of faith. You can take a taxi online and ask the driver to wait. It is not easy to take a taxi back. The ceiling of the church has no colorful glass and gorgeous decorations, but it is extremely sacred and quiet.
The church is much more magnificent than I originally thought. Before entering the church, people have to pass through a short tunnel, after which visitors can see many seats arranged in parallel from the outer cave to the inner side. In short, the sight of the church is fascinating and it is really worth a visit. However, the location of the church is not easy to reach. The church is in Nasir City, and although I got there, I still couldn't find the specific location of the church. A driver named Duke asked two or three people there so that he could drive me to a nearby area and let me walk alone. People who come to Cairo for the first time may ignore such a sight.
No.
10
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Cairo Tower
4.5
/5
113 reviews
6.9
Based on 1,258 reviews
1.1 km from downtown
Phone +20227365112
Address: Kasr Al Nile, Zamalek, Cairo Governorate 4270024, Egypt
Recommended sightseeing time: 1–2 hours
Highlights:
Panoramic view of Nile & pyramids
Egyptian history & culture nightly
34% positive reviews
Verified user reviews
The Cairo Tower, as an iconic building in Egypt, does have a certain historical and cultural value. However, it did not impress me in terms of the experience. The facilities inside the tower are slightly old and the maintenance does not seem to be perfect. After climbing the tower, the view is wide, but due to the development of the city, the surrounding landscape is not very attractive. For history lovers, there may be some attractions here, but for thrill-seeking travelers, it may seem a bit prosaic.
Cairo Tower (sometimes called "Island Tower") is a tower located in Cairo, Egypt, built between 1956 and 1961, designed by engineer Naoum Shabib It, using an Egyptian lotus design. It is located on Zamalek Island in the Nile River in the center of Cairo.
Its height reaches 187 meters, which is about 43 meters higher than the Great Pyramid of Giza. At the top of Cairo Tower, there is a tourist restaurant on a rotating platform, which allows restaurant customers to see Cairo's landmarks from all angles.
Considered one of Cairo's most famous landmarks, the tower has 16 floors and stands on a base of Aswan granite used by the ancient Egyptians when they built temples and tombs. In just 45 seconds, when you stand on the top, you can see a complete panoramic view of Cairo, the Pyramids, the TV Building, the Sphinx, the Nile River, the Saladin Citadel, Al-Azhar, and the 14th floor restaurant.
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