Travel guide · Egypt
Cairo: what to see and when to go
Cairo is the largest city in the Arab world, a loud, dusty and fascinating capital on the Nile, with the pyramids of Giza on its edge. Its Islamic old town, museums and river make it the natural start of any trip to Egypt.
What to see and do in Cairo
Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
The last surviving wonder of the ancient world, best at opening time.
Grand Egyptian Museum
The huge new museum next to the pyramids, home to Tutankhamun's treasures.
Islamic Cairo and Khan el-Khalili
Medieval mosques, minarets and the great bazaar.
Coptic Cairo
The Hanging Church and some of the city's oldest churches and synagogue.
Saqqara and Dahshur
The Step Pyramid of Djoser and the Bent Pyramid, far quieter than Giza.
Best time to go
The most pleasant months: Oct – Apr.
Getting there
| From | Flight time | Return flight |
|---|---|---|
| London | 5 hr | ≈ €300 · See flights |
| New York | 12 hr, 15 min | ≈ €580 · See flights |
| Los Angeles | 16 hr, 15 min | ≈ €680 · See flights |
| Dubai | 3 hr, 45 min | ≈ €220 · See flights |
| Singapore | 11 hr, 15 min | ≈ €560 · See flights |
| Sydney | 19 hr | ≈ €740 · See flights |
3 nights from London: ≈ €440 per person, flight and stay included.
Per person. Estimates from distance and local prices; real fares depend on your dates.
Essentials
- Country
- Egypt
- Currency
- Egyptian Pound
- Good for
- culture · city · food
- How long to stay
- 3–4 days
- Where to stay
- Zamalek or Downtown for the city; a hotel near Giza to wake up facing the pyramids.Find a place to stay in Cairo
Plan your trip
Flights, a place to stay and what else you need for Cairo, one tap each.
- FlightsFrom London · about €300 (opens in a new tab)
- StayHotels and apartments in Cairo (opens in a new tab)
- Things to doTours, tickets and experiences (opens in a new tab)
- Travel insuranceMedical, luggage and cancellation (opens in a new tab)
- Internet on arrivalData eSIM, no roaming bills (opens in a new tab)
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Frequently asked questions
What's the weather like in Cairo and when should you go?
The most pleasant months: Oct – Apr. Average highs range from 20° in January to 39° in July.
How many days do you need in Cairo?
3 to 4 days is enough to see the essentials without rushing.
What does a few days in Cairo cost?
Accommodation runs at around €50 per person per night. 3 nights from London: ≈ €440 per person, flight and stay included. The flight from London takes about 5 hr.
Where should you stay in Cairo?
Zamalek or Downtown for the city; a hotel near Giza to wake up facing the pyramids.
