CAIRO & GIZA
Cairo and Giza are the vibrant heart of Egypt, a megalopolis where the wonders of antiquity stand alongside the hustle of modern North Africa. It is a city of layers, from the pharaonic desert to the bustling medieval streets.
This singular region is a journey through time itself. It offers iconic sights, from the Great Pyramids to the towering minarets of Islamic Cairo and the serene flow of the mighty Nile River.
Most Popular Attractions
Ancient & Pharaonic Sites:
The Giza Necropolis (Pyramids of Giza): Home to the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure, the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World.
The Great Sphinx of Giza: The colossal limestone statue with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, guarding the pyramids.
Saqqara Necropolis: The vast ancient burial ground, famous for the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt.
Dahshur Pyramids: Less-crowded royal necropolis featuring the experimental Bent Pyramid and the true, smooth-sided Red Pyramid.
Memphis (Mit Rahinah): The ancient capital of Egypt, now an open-air museum featuring the massive Colossus of Ramses II statue.
Islamic Cairo & Citadel:
Saladin Citadel of Cairo: A medieval Islamic fortification on Mokattam Hill, offering panoramic views of the city.
Mosque of Muhammad Ali (Alabaster Mosque): The most visible mosque in Cairo, built in the Ottoman style within the Citadel complex.
Khan el-Khalili Bazaar: A historic, bustling market and souq in the heart of Islamic Cairo, famed for spices, crafts, and gold.
Al-Muizz Street: A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest streets in Cairo, lined with medieval Islamic architecture.
Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan: A massive and stunning example of Mamluk architecture, located near the Citadel.
Al-Azhar Mosque: One of Cairo’s oldest mosques and the seat of the second-oldest continually run university in the world.
Bab Zuweila: A remaining medieval gate to the old city, which you can climb for unique views of Islamic Cairo.
Mosque of Ibn Tulun: The oldest mosque in the city surviving in its original form, known for its iconic spiral minaret.
Old & Coptic Cairo:
Coptic Cairo (Masr al-Qadima): The oldest part of the city, a historic Christian stronghold built around the Roman Babylon Fortress.
The Hanging Church (St. Virgin Mary’s Church): One of the oldest Christian churches in Egypt, suspended above a Roman gatehouse.
Ben Ezra Synagogue: A historic synagogue in Coptic Cairo, traditionally believed to be the site where baby Moses was found.
Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus (Abu Serga): Believed to be built upon the crypt where the Holy Family rested.
Museums & Modern Landmarks:
The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM): The world’s largest archaeological museum, set to house the full Tutankhamun collection.
The Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square: The historic museum housing a vast collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the Mask of Tutankhamun.
The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC): Known for its Royal Mummies Hall, which narrates the story of Egyptian civilization.
Cairo Tower (Burj Al-Qahira): A modern landmark on Gezira Island, offering a panoramic view of the entire city and the Nile.
Manial Palace Museum: A beautiful early 20th-century palace built by Prince Muhammad Ali, showcasing Islamic art and architecture.
Activities & Experiences
Marvel at the Pyramids and Sphinx: Visit the Giza Necropolis to see the Great Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, the last standing wonder of the ancient world. Take a classic photo with the enigmatic Great Sphinx.
Explore the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM): Discover the world’s largest archaeological museum dedicated to a single civilization, housing over 100,000 artifacts, including the complete treasure collection of Tutankhamun.
Wander the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar: Get lost in this historic, bustling souk dating back to the 14th century. Haggle for spices, lamps, jewelry, and enjoy a traditional Egyptian coffee at the famous El Fishawy Café.
Tour the Citadel of Saladin: Explore the medieval fortress and its commanding structure, home to the stunning Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha (Alabaster Mosque), which offers panoramic views over Cairo.
Cruise the Nile on a Felucca: Enjoy a peaceful, traditional sail on the Nile River, especially enchanting at sunset, for a unique perspective of the city skyline.
Step Back in Time in Islamic Cairo: Walk down Al-Muizz Street, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an open-air museum of medieval architecture, passing mosques, schools (madrasas), and palaces.
Discover Coptic Cairo: Explore the historic Babylon Fortress area, home to ancient churches like the Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary’s Church) and the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus, where the Holy Family is believed to have taken refuge.
Delve into Saqqara & Dahshur: Take a day trip to the less-crowded ancient necropolis of Saqqara to see the Step Pyramid of Djoser (the oldest stone structure in the world), and the Bent and Red Pyramids at Dahshur.
Go on a Street Food Crawl: Experience the local culinary scene by trying authentic Egyptian staples like koshari, ta’ameya (Egyptian falafel), and ful medames (fava beans) from popular local eateries.
Witness the Pyramids Sound & Light Show: Experience the monuments dramatically illuminated at night in a multi-media show that narrates the history of the Pharaohs and the Sphinx.
Visit the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC): See the Royal Mummies Hall, which displays the mummies of 22 pharaohs and queens moved from the old museum in a grand procession in 2021.
Climb the Cairo Tower: Ascend the 614-foot tower in the Zamalek neighborhood for a 360-degree view of the sprawling city, a great spot to orient yourself.
Local Tips & Transport
Rideshare is Essential: Forget negotiating with traditional street taxis; Uber and the local app Careem are the most reliable, secure, and cost-effective ways to travel around Cairo and Giza. Always use the apps to set a fixed price and track your journey.
Traffic is Extreme: Cairo’s traffic is legendary—it can be chaotic and severe, especially during the afternoon and evening rush hours (approx. 4 PM – 7 PM). Plan major journeys for the early morning to avoid being stuck for hours. Distances that look short on a map can take an hour or more.
Metro System: Cairo has a limited but efficient metro system, which is a great way to avoid traffic jams. Line 2 (Red Line) can take you close to the Giza Pyramids (get off at Giza Station and take a short taxi/Uber from there). Note that the first carriage is often reserved for women only.
Walking with Care: Cairo is not very pedestrian-friendly. When crossing busy streets, you often need to be decisive and walk slowly but confidently across the lanes of traffic. Cars are expected to weave around you. Look at how locals do it, but always be alert.
The Tipping Culture (Baksheesh): Tipping is a deeply ingrained part of Egyptian culture, often referred to as Baksheesh. It’s expected for almost every service: restaurant staff, hotel porters, guides, and even bathroom attendants. Keep a good supply of small Egyptian Pound notes (LE 5, 10, 20) for this purpose.
Dress Modestly: When visiting religious sites (mosques, churches), or walking in non-tourist areas, modest attire is strongly recommended out of respect. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and often have a scarf handy for entering mosques. Men should also avoid shorts in religious settings.
Dining Hours are Flexible: Egyptians often eat a late lunch (around 2 PM to 5 PM) and a late dinner (starting after 9 PM). Many top local restaurants will only start filling up much later than in Western countries.
Haggling is Expected: In the markets, especially the Khan el-Khalili, haggling is a must. Start by offering 50% of the initial price and be prepared to meet somewhere in the middle. Be polite, keep a sense of humor, and be ready to walk away if you don’t like the price.
Avoid Unsolicited Guides: At major sites like the Pyramids or outside museums, you will likely be approached by people offering to be your guide or selling souvenirs. If you have a booked guide, politely but firmly decline and keep walking. Never take a photo of an animal (camel/horse) without confirming you don’t have to pay first.
Hidden Gems:
- Cave Church (St. Simon the Tanner): Located in the Mokattam Hills, this massive, stunning church carved directly into the rock is one of Cairo’s most incredible and unique religious sites.
- Ibn Tulun Mosque: The oldest mosque in Cairo that has survived in its original form, featuring a unique external spiral minaret you can climb for an incredible view of the surrounding Islamic Cairo district.
- Gayer-Anderson Museum: A beautifully preserved 17th-century house that offers an intimate look at local life and architecture, filled with antiques collected by a British army doctor.
Top Restaurants
El Prince [$10-$20] – A legendary, bustling local favorite in the Imbaba neighborhood, famous for its grilled meats, liver, and some of the best molokheya (jute leaf soup) in the city.
Koshary Abou Tarek [$5-$10] – A multi-story Downtown Cairo icon that serves only the national dish, Koshary (rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and a zesty tomato-vinegar sauce), popular with both locals and foodies.
Fasahet Somaya [$5-$10] – A cozy, tiny Downtown spot run by the legendary chef Somaya, offering daily changing menus of authentic, home-cooked Egyptian meals like tagines and stuffed vegetables.
Sobhy Kaber [$15-$30] – Located in the Rod El Farag neighborhood, this vast, lively restaurant is famous for its high-quality grilled meats, kebabs, and authentic Egyptian dishes.
Andrea Mariouteya [$20-$40] – Family-owned since 1958, this spot (now in New Giza with a beautiful hilltop view) is a classic for rotisserie chicken and freshly baked baladi bread from a traditional wood oven.
El Gahsh [$5-$10] – A classic, highly-recommended spot in Sayeda Zeinab famous for serving what many consider to be the best foul (fava bean stew) in Cairo, perfect for an authentic street food breakfast.
Al Dahan [$15-$30] – A very well-known and respected restaurant, especially in the Al-Hussein area, specializing in excellent grilled meats (kebab and kofta) with a strong local following.
Kazaz [$15-$25] – A nice and beautiful traditional restaurant, especially popular among locals who want authentic Egyptian food reminiscent of homemade cooking.
Tablia Balady [$10-$20] – Named after the low, round table used for family dinners, this spot offers a rustic, community-focused feel and traditional Egyptian meals.
Koshary El Magnoon [$5-$10] – A highly-regarded and authentic koshary spot with multiple branches, known for igniting a “food-induced frenzy” among its consumers.
Koshary El Zaeem [$5-$10] – A popular chain known for its richly flavored and well-spiced koshary, often featuring a very hot chili sauce option for the adventurous.
Koshary El Tahrir [$5-$10] – Another iconic koshary-only restaurant with branches across Cairo, often cited by Egyptians as the best for its perfected version of the national dish.
Saieed Hanafy [$5-$10] – A classic koshary chain that began as a simple cart in 1952, now famous for its quick, quality meals and often serving half a lemon with every plate.
Koshary Hind [$5-$10] – A spot with good food and generous portions that provides a slightly less bustling street-food experience compared to the major downtown competitors.
Koshary El Embrator [$5-$10] – A classic, simple koshary chain with multiple branches, providing a fulfilling and cheap meal for locals, especially in areas like Maadi.
Kebabgy [$30-$50] – While located in the Sofitel Hotel, this restaurant is known for its high-quality Egyptian grill dishes and its beautiful setting on the very edge of the Nile.
Neama [$5-$15] – A popular, simple Downtown spot known as one of the OGs for a killer meat shawerma (served in a bun, Egyptian style) and sogo2 (Alexandrian-style beef liver sandwich).
Abou Haidar Shawerma [$5-$15] – The original, classic spot in Heliopolis for shawerma, also famous for its other delicious sandwiches and its macarona bechamel (baked pasta).
Al Khal Egyptian Restaurant [$25-$45] – This restaurant aims to showcase the best of Egyptian cuisine by selecting excellent dishes from across the country’s governorates for its menu.
Qadoura Fish Restaurant [$30-$50] – A popular local seafood restaurant, especially known for its fresh fish and excellent preparation, a strong choice for Cairenes craving a sea-side experience.
Koshary Goha [$5-$10] – Known for its soul-fortifying koshary with a rich sauce, this spot has a strong following in the 6th of October and Giza area.
El Halwagy [$15-$25] – A well-regarded spot specializing in traditional Egyptian feteer (flaky layered pastry), which can be ordered with a variety of sweet or savory fillings.
Zaki El-Sammak [$15-$25] – A no-frills, casual seafood eatery in the Boulaq area known for its delicious rice and grilled or battered fish and shrimp platters at fair prices.
Abou Shakra [$20-$40] – A classic name for Egyptian grills, famous for its high-quality kebabs, kofta, and whole charcoal-grilled chicken.
Gad [$5-$15] – A ubiquitous local fast-food chain in Cairo offering staples like foul, ta’ameya (Egyptian falafel), and shawerma, a reliable, non-touristy choice for a quick, cheap meal.
Zööba [$10-$20] – A popular chain that offers a creative, gourmet take on traditional Egyptian street food, with a focus on fresh ingredients and modern presentation of dishes like koshary and ta’ameya.
Cairo Kitchen [$15-$25] – Known for its clean, high-quality Egyptian food, offering a great menu of authentic local dishes, from tagines to stuffed vegetables, with a modern, funky-traditional design.
Abou El Sid [$30-$50] – A renowned restaurant in Zamalek and other locations that provides an elegant ambiance with traditional Egyptian décor, serving authentic dishes like stuffed pigeon and molokheya with a refined touch.
Khufu’s Restaurant [$40-$70] – Located on the Giza plateau, this restaurant serves refined Egyptian cuisine with authentic dishes and beautiful presentations, featuring breathtaking views of the Pyramids.
TabkhaSpace [$15-$30] – A contemporary spot that offers a modern culinary take on classic Egyptian home cooking, focusing on fresh flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
What The Crust [$15-$25] – A small, family-owned restaurant focused on a modern take on pizza, known for its creative approach to the classic crust.
Reif Kushiyaki (Zamalek branch) [$30-$60] – While primarily Japanese, this trendy spot, if present in Zamalek, offers a high-quality, modern, and non-traditional international culinary experience popular with locals.
Pier 88 [$50-$100] – A very chic, high-end restaurant on an anchored boat on the Nile (in Zamalek or Giza area), serving gourmet Italian and seafood, popular with the local elite for dining and nightlife.
Al Awda (Palestinian) [$15-$30] – Located in Nasr City (a less touristy area), this unassuming Palestinian restaurant is highly praised by locals for its authentic Levantine cuisine and excellent hummus.
Sachi Park St. (Mediterranean/Asian) [$60-$100] – An award-winning, chic establishment (with a location in Giza’s Park St.) offering refined Mediterranean and Asian favorites, known for flawless service and artistic presentation.
Izakaya (Nikkei) [$50-$90] – A cozy eatery in a leafy Giza setting that serves Nikkei cuisine (a unique fusion of Japanese and Peruvian), popular for its breezy outdoor tables and specialty cocktails.
Osmanly (Ottoman/Turkish) [$40-$70] – Tucked inside the Kempinski Nile Hotel, this vibrant restaurant serves refined nouveau Ottoman and classic Turkish cuisine in an elegant setting.
The Moghul Room (Indian) [$40-$70] – Inside the historic Marriott Mena House in Giza, this opulent restaurant serves flavorful Indian cuisine with glittering views of the Pyramids.
Kazoku (Japanese) [$60-$100] – A contemporary Japanese restaurant (in New Cairo, but worthy for its quality) offering beautiful sushi, sashimi, and deep-dive Japanese dishes in a chic, modern setting.
L’Aubergine [$20-$40] – A long-standing favorite in Zamalek known for its comfortable, relaxed ambiance and its menu of fresh, high-quality, and reliable Mediterranean and international fare.
Birdcage (Thai) [$40-$70] – Located in the Semiramis InterContinental, this fine-dining Thai restaurant is consistently rated as one of the best in Cairo for authentic flavors and upscale service.
Makani (Chinese) [$25-$45] – Highly-regarded among locals for authentic Chinese cuisine, a good non-touristy alternative to typical hotel offerings.
Indira (Indian) [$30-$50] – Another excellent and authentic Indian restaurant, known for its flavorful curries and high-quality food, a favorite with the expat and local community.
Giannini’s (Italian) [$40-$70] – Located in the Four Seasons Hotel, this is one of Cairo’s top high-end Italian restaurants, known for its classic dishes and elegant atmosphere.
La Trattoria [$30-$50] – A charming and authentic Italian spot in Zamalek, popular for its cozy setting and classic, well-executed Italian dishes.
Tabla Luna (Latin American) [$30-$60] – A unique Zamalek spot that offers a fusion of Latin American cuisines, known for its creative dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
The Smokery (International/Grill) [$50-$80] – Known for its upscale setting and excellent steaks and grill items, with locations in Zamalek and Giza, often frequented by Cairo’s social set.
Beit Ward (Lebanese) [$20-$40] – A popular choice for high-quality Lebanese cuisine, famous for its extensive mezze selection and pleasant ambiance.
Felfela [$10-$20] – Though somewhat touristy, it’s included as a worthy classic: established in 1959, it’s known for its iconic, fun decor and excellent, simple local vegan fare like ta’ameya and foul.
Zitouni [$50-$80] – An elegant restaurant inside the Four Seasons at Nile Plaza, serving authentic Egyptian food with a buffet of mezze, popular for its stunning Nile view.
Sequoia [$60-$90] – This iconic restaurant on a beautifully decorated barge in Zamalek offers a breathtaking view of the Nile and a high-end Mediterranean menu; essential for a quintessential Cairo experience.
9 Pyramids Lounge [$30-$50] – While primarily a viewing spot, this lounge offers a menu of Egyptian and international bites with an unparalleled, up-close view of the Pyramids.
Koshary Hekaya [$5-$10] – A popular, locally-favored koshary spot known for its rich and flavorful culinary take on the classic dish.
El Borg [$30-$50] – A local go-to for fresh seafood, particularly in the Mohandessin area, known for allowing patrons to choose their fresh catch.
Cafelluca [$20-$40] – Offers a unique dining experience on a traditional felucca boat on the Nile, with a menu of international and local dishes.
Naguib Mahfouz Café [$20-$40] – Located in the heart of Khan El Khalili, it’s a tourist favorite but remains worthy for its traditional Egyptian décor, charming atmosphere, and Egyptian food.
Koshary Afandina [$5-$10] – A local chain with multiple branches in New Cairo, known for serving a quality plate of koshary.
Abu Galal [$15-$30] – A traditional grill house in the Dokki area, highly regarded by locals for its authentic kofta and kebab.
The Greek [$30-$60] – A popular restaurant specializing in Mediterranean and Greek cuisine, known for its fresh flavors and stylish decor.
Bab El-Sharq [$30-$50] – Located in the Four Seasons Nile Plaza, this outdoor restaurant offers a pleasant dining experience with a menu of Egyptian and Middle Eastern specialties.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Crimson Bar & Grill: Perched on a quiet side street in Zamalek, this chic rooftop bar offers ritzy, creative cocktails and gorgeous, expansive views of the Nile through its tall glass windows and open terrace.
Stage One Lounge & Bar: Located on the Nile Corniche at the Hilton Conrad Hotel in Cairo, this bar provides stunning rooftop views of the Nile River and the city skyline. It offers impressive cocktails and hosts live DJ nights and oriental-themed events.
OPIA Lounge & Bar: Situated on the 36th floor of the Ramses Hilton on the Nile Corniche in Cairo, this contemporary lounge offers some of the best panoramic views of the Nile and city lights, serving inventive cocktails and local, homemade infusions.
Pub 28: A comfortable, rustic neighborhood bar in Zamalek, known for its British pub ambiance. A favorite since 1974, it offers a cozy spot for classic cocktails, beer, and conversation.
The Cairo Cellar: Nestled in the basement of the President Hotel in Zamalek, this vintage-styled bar has the feel of a subterranean cave, offering a great selection of local and international drinks in an intimate, classic setting.
1897 The Bar & Cigar Lounge: Tucked away in the upscale suburb of New Cairo, this plush and elegant bar evokes the atmosphere of an old-world European cigar room, perfect for sophisticated drinks.
Vintage Bar & Lounge: Located within the Renaissance Cairo Mirage City Hotel in Heliopolis, this spacious bar has an extensive collection of spirits and offers a relaxed ambiance for enjoying cocktails, wine, and craft beers.
The Tap East / The Tap West: These popular sibling venues offer a fun spot with cold beers and cocktails. The Tap East is located in New Cairo, and The Tap West is in Sheikh Zayed/Giza. Both feature live music, DJs, and game nights.
The Roof Top (Kempinski Nile Hotel): Situated in Garden City, Cairo, this picture-perfect rooftop features a pool and panoramic views of the Nile and the Downtown skyline, making it a sophisticated setting for exotic shisha and cocktails.
Ritz Bar: A classic cocktail bar located within The Nile Ritz-Carlton in Downtown Cairo, open late for a traditional, sophisticated drinking experience.
NOX: A chic rooftop lounge at The Nile Ritz-Carlton in Downtown Cairo, offering signature cocktails, global small plates, and resident DJ performances with a stunning view.
Speakeasy: A haute-hideaway nestled in the heart of Korba, Heliopolis, with a retro-modern interior, serving gourmet creations and world-class cocktails in a sumptuous, after-dark setting.
Amici Bar: A trendy and stylish cocktail bar with an international flair, featuring expert mixologists. It has locations in Zamalek and Heliopolis, offering a great atmosphere and sometimes karaoke nights.
El Horreya Cafe: A legendary, unpretentious pub in Downtown Cairo, famous for its high ceilings and vintage fans. It’s a classic example of a local “baladi” bar, popular with an eclectic mix of locals and expats, serving local beer.
Happy City Hotel rooftop: An unpretentious local bar in the heart of Downtown Cairo offering sweeping views over the city’s apartment buildings. It’s known for its cool breeze and relaxed, unhurried vibe on summer nights.
Cairo Jazz Club (CJC): Despite its name, this is a champion of the city’s independent music scene and a prime spot for nightlife in Agouza, Giza. It hosts a diverse range of live music—from rock and hip hop to jazz—and is known for its energetic atmosphere and lively crowd.
CJC 610: The sister club to the original CJC, located on the 26th of July Corridor (sometimes listed as Sheikh Zayed or 6th of October area). This venue is an extension of the live music hub concept, hosting various DJ nights and musical events.
Shahrazad Cairo: Located in the trendy part of Downtown Cairo, this is one of the top nightclubs known for traditional Egyptian entertainment. It features stunning interiors, refined Arabic music, and essential belly dance and Tanoura performances.
3am Club Cairo: A fantastic, spacious club in New Cairo City that ignites a passion for music, with great service and the best DJs for a late-night party experience.
ECHO Prive: A club blending futuristic and magnificent styles in Cairo, offering a unique party atmosphere with hazy light and shadows and sophisticated music.
Zigzag: A downtown club on Sharia Qasr El Nil in Downtown Cairo, which is a go-to spot for fans of R&B, hip-hop, electronica, and grime. It hosts bands on weekdays and DJ nights on weekends, with a strict couples/mixed groups entry policy.
Hera Club Cairo: A spacious disco club offering exceptional entertainment and a large dance floor perfect for enjoying late-night DJ music in Cairo.
The Garden: Located on Abdulaziz Al Saud street, sometimes listed near Al Manial/Giza, this spot offers an informal and chilled-out nightlife experience with an outdoor patio and an indoor bar with a suave music selection and DJs.
Golden Pharaoh Dinner Cruise: A luxury dinner cruise near the waterfront in the Giza District offering a unique nightlife experience on the Nile. Guests enjoy a buffet, music, and traditional folkloric dance performances like Tanoura and belly dancing.
Buddha Bar: An enchanting and tranquil venue in Cairo that offers a refined club experience where the hustle of daily life fades away, known for its exotic ambiance and music.
Venom Khaliji Club: Features a lively and vibrant dance floor in a modern, stylish, and immersive environment for those who enjoy the unique energy of a Khaliji (Gulf) style club in Cairo.
Club Areana – Music Club: Located in the Nile City Mall, this club is known for its professional service and creative music, providing a one-of-a-kind clubbing experience in New Cairo City.