First-Time Traveler to Cairo: 7 Incredible Things to Do in Cairo

As a first-time traveler, you'll find yourself captivated by the city's rich cultural heritage, vibrant street life, and mouth-watering cuisine. From exploring ancient pyramids to savoring local delicacies, Cairo offers a myriad of experiences that will leave you enchanted. Here’s a guide to 18 incredible things you can do in Cairo.

Note: You can book all these experiences with iEgypt Travels for the best rates and a top-notch experience! Request a quote

1. Historical Visits

Pyramids of Giza

No visit to Cairo is complete without marveling at the Pyramids of Giza. The last of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, these monumental structures stand as a testament to Egypt's architectural prowess.

Saqqara Pyramid

Explore the Step Pyramid of Djoser in Saqqara, the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt. This archaeological site offers a fascinating glimpse into the early development of pyramid construction.

Dahshour and Memphis

Visit Dahshour to see the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, and continue to Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt, to witness remnants of Egypt's storied past.

Egyptian Museum

Home to a vast collection of ancient artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun, the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

The Grand Egyptian Museum

Set to be the largest archaeological museum in the world, the Grand Egyptian Museum near the Giza Pyramids will house an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts once it opens.

The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization

Located in Fustat, this museum showcases the breadth of Egyptian civilization from prehistoric times to the present day.

The Citadel and Mohamed Ali Mosque

Overlooking Cairo, the Citadel of Saladin is a historic Islamic fortification with stunning views of the city. Don't miss the magnificent Mosque of Muhammad Ali within its walls.

Religious Complex and Churches

Visit the Coptic Cairo district to explore ancient churches like the Hanging Church and the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus, where the Holy Family is believed to have stayed.

Mosques

Discover the architectural beauty of Cairo's mosques, such as the Mosque of Ibn Tulun, Al-Azhar Mosque, and the Sultan Hassan Mosque, each with its own unique history.

2. Local Food to Try

1. Koshari, the traditional main dish!
2. This popular Egyptian street food combines rice, pasta, lentils, and chickpeas, topped with a tangy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions.
3. Molokheya and Grilled Food
4. Savor the traditional green soup called molokheya, often served with rice and grilled meats, for a truly authentic Egyptian meal.
5. Shisha in Local Coffee Shops
   1. Experience the local culture by enjoying shisha (hookah) in one of Cairo's many traditional coffee shops.
6. Ice Cream at El Abd
7. Treat yourself to delicious, locally-made ice cream at El Abd, a favorite among Cairenes.
8. Turkish Coffee Specialty at Abdelmabood
9. Try the rich and aromatic Turkish coffee at Abdelmabood, a well-known coffeehouse in Cairo.
10. Street Pizza and Crepe
11. Indulge in Cairo's street food scene with freshly made pizza and crepes from local vendors.
12. Street Ice Cream
13. Cool down with some refreshing street ice cream, available from various carts around the city.
14. Street Cotton Candy
15. Enjoy a nostalgic treat of colorful cotton candy from street vendors, a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

3. Cafe Hopping

Explore the vibrant cafe culture in Sheikh Zayed and New Cairo. Here are 10 cafes to check out:

1. Qahwa
2. Paul
3. Beano’s
4. Ovio
5. Cake Cafe
6. Left Bank
7. Mandarine Koueider
8. Caribou Coffee
9. Nino’s
10. Vero Moda Cafe

4. Nightlife

1. Cairo's nightlife offers something for everyone. Here are 7 famous bars to visit:
2. Cairo Jazz Club
3. Sachi
4. The Tap
5. The Garden
6. The Smokery
7. Riverside
8. The Lemon Tree & Co

5. Fine Dining

1. For a memorable dining experience, consider these 7 fine dining establishments:
2. Steak House
3. Lemon Tree & Co
4. Kazoku
5. Pier 88
6. Sabaya
7. Osmanly
8. 8 Restaurant (at the Four Seasons Hotel)

6. Activities

1. Cairo offers a variety of activities to keep you entertained:
2. ATV by the Pyramids
3. Experience the thrill of riding an ATV around the Giza Pyramids, combining adventure with breathtaking views.
4. Kayak in the River Nile
5. Take a serene kayak trip on the River Nile, enjoying the cityscape from a unique perspective.
6. Zip Line at Cave Church
7. Try the exhilarating zip line at the Cave Church in Mokattam, offering an exciting way to explore the area.
8. Go Karting Experience
9. Challenge your friends to a go-kart race at one of Cairo's many karting tracks.
10. Arcade in Malls
11. Enjoy a fun-filled day at the arcade in one of Cairo's large shopping malls, perfect for families and groups.

7. Places to Go from Cairo for One Day

1. Alexandria: a trip to Alexandria offers a blend of Mediterranean charm and rich history, including the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa and the Alexandria Library.
2. Ain al Sokhna: relax at the Red Sea beaches of Ain al Sokhna, just a short drive from Cairo.
3. Port Said: visit the coastal city of Port Said to see the Suez Canal and enjoy the maritime atmosphere.
4. Fayoum Oasis: discover the natural beauty of Fayoum Oasis, with its serene lakes, waterfalls, and ancient ruins.
5. Wadi Degla Camping: for a nature escape, go camping in Wadi Degla, a protected area known for its unique geological formations and desert landscape.
6. Cairo is a city of endless discovery, where ancient history meets modern life. Whether you're exploring its historical sites, indulging in local cuisine, or enjoying its vibrant nightlife, there's something in Cairo for every traveler. Enjoy your journey and make unforgettable memories in this extraordinary city!
   
   
   
   FAQs for First-Time Travelers to Cairo:

1. Is Cairo safe for tourists?

Cairo is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated areas at night, and follow local advice. Stick to well-known tourist areas and use reputable tour operators.

2. What is the best time to visit Cairo?

The best time to visit Cairo is during the cooler months from October to April. The weather is more pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summer months (June to August) can be extremely hot.

3. What should I wear in Cairo?

Egypt is a conservative country, so it's respectful to dress modestly. For men, lightweight trousers and shirts are suitable. Women should opt for long skirts or trousers and tops that cover the shoulders. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for sightseeing.

4. How do I get around Cairo?

Cairo has various transportation options, including taxis, ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem, and the metro system. Taxis are plentiful, but it’s advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey. The metro is affordable and efficient for getting around the city.

5. What currency is used in Cairo, and where can I exchange money?

The currency used in Cairo is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). You can exchange money at banks, exchange bureaus, and some hotels. ATMs are widely available and accept international cards for cash withdrawals.

6. Do I need a visa to visit Cairo?

Most travelers need a visa to enter Egypt. Tourist visas can be obtained on arrival at Cairo International Airport for many nationalities or in advance from an Egyptian consulate or through an online e-visa application.

7. What are some must-try local foods in Cairo?

Cairo offers a delicious array of local dishes. Must-tries include koshari (a mix of rice, pasta, lentils, and chickpeas), molokheya (a green leafy soup), falafel, shawarma, and traditional Egyptian desserts like basbousa and konafa.

8. What language is spoken in Cairo, and will I have trouble communicating?

Arabic is the official language of Egypt, and Egyptian Arabic is the dialect spoken in Cairo. However, English is widely understood in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can enhance your travel experience.

 
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