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Cairo
Cairo, Egypt
4.5(6 reviews)
Safety: 3/5
1
Overview
Set on the Nile River, Cairo, the capital of Egypt is one of the oldest and most lively cities in the world. It's home to the pyramids, one of the seven wonders of the world. Cairo is a blend of ancient civilization and modern urban life. It's the center of Egypt's culture and politics through it's bustling markets, historic mosques, museums and lively streets.
“Cairo is a bustling metropolis with a fast-paced lifestyle. The city never sleeps, and the streets are always busy with traffic, people, and various activities."
Climate
arid
Timezone
Africa/Cairo
Currency
EGP
Language
ar
Gallery
Location
1
Cairo
Cairo, Egypt
30.0444, 31.2357
Activities & Experiences
Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx Tour
PopularVisit the only remaining ancient wonder of the world! Marvel at the powerful presence of the three pyramids and the great sphinx, enjoy a camel ride and explore the inside of the pyramids!
wellnesseasy
4.7
Shopping At Khan El-Khalili
PopularWander through the vibrant market of Khan el-khalili, a UNESCO world heritage site. Shop for unique souvenirs, spices, perfumes and enjoy the lively atmosphere at a traditional coffee shop!
shoppingeasy
4.4
Upcoming Events
Local Places
Abou El Sid
Local FavoritePopular
restaurant
Loved by locals for traditional Egyptian home-style food — molokhia, mahshi, koshari, grilled meats.
4.6
157 26th of July Corridor, Zamalek, Cairo
Souk El-Gomaa (Friday Market)
Local Favorite
market
A massive flea-market locals love. Includes vintage finds, antiques, fabrics, accessories, music, crafts, and old Egyptian collectibles you won’t see in malls.
4.3
Around Fustat (exact location varies weekly)
Felfela (Downtown Cairo)
Local Favorite
restaurant
Old-school Egyptian restaurant famous among Cairo residents for classic Egyptian dishes and mezze. Locals swear by the authentic taste and nostalgia.
3.6
35 Sharia Talaat Harb, Downtown, Cairo
El Fishawy Café
Popular
cafe
One of Cairo’s oldest café houses (est. 1797). Locals still come here for tea, coffee, shisha and people-watching inside the old bazaar alleys.
3.9
Khan el-Khalili, Islamic Cairo
Travel Tips
Important Tips
Visa and customs
If you're a citizen from Bahrain, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Lebanon, Macau, Oman, Saudi Arabia, UAE you may enter without a visa or with simplified procedures. VOA is available for nationals of over 100 countries, including the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan and EU citizens. Drones, counterfeit goods and narcotics are strictly prohibited.
visaHealthcare access
Public healthcare is generally substandard while private facilities in Cairo often match international standards and it's highly cost-effective. Nevertheless, It is essential that you have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation as private healthcare costs can add up.
healthGetting around Cairo
Use the Metro as it's the most efficient, clean and safe transport option. Public buses and microbuses are extremely cheap but can be very crowded, lack air conditioning and difficult to navigate. It's best if you use apps like Uber and Careem than taxis for guaranteed, upfront pricing and higher safety. It's not recommended to walk as pedestrian safety is a major concern due to traffic and poor pavement conditions, though specific areas like Zamalek, Downtown, and El-Korba are pedestrian-friendly.
transportCurrency & Payments
Use ATMs for the best rates and avoid airport exchanges and make sure to carry cash for tips and small purchases. Visa and Mastercard are accepted in hotels, large restaurants, and supermarkets. You can also use paying apps like fawry and Instapay.
moneyEgyptian Etiquette
Dressing modestly is key for both men and women, especially at religious sites. Always use your right hand for eating, shaking hands, or giving/receiving items and avoid public displays of affection. Taking pictures for personal use is permitted, but make sure you ask permission before taking photos of people.
generalSafety and comfort
Safety in Cairo is moderate to safe, with tourist area being heavily monitored. Nevertheless you should watch out for common scams like free gifts, unsolicited help, overcharging and camel/horse ride scams. Make sure you're firm when saying no, ignore strangers and pre-negotiate on prices before accepting a service.
safetylanguage and communication
The main language in Cairo is Egyptian Arabic which is used for daily communication. While Modern Standard Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken as well. You can use basic useful phrases like Salaam ‘alei-kum (Hello/Peace be upon you) and Shukran (Thank you). For shopping, use Bikam da? (How much is this?).
communicationGeneral Tips
Must-try dishes
Dishes you must try in Cairo include Koshary, The national dish, combining rice, macaroni, lentils, and chickpeas topped with a tangy tomato sauce, garlic vinegar, and crispy onions. Breakfast dishes like Ta'ameya (falafel) and foul medames are a must try as well. You can also go for Molokhia which is a savory green soup made from jute leaves, often served with chicken, rice, or bread or Hawashi, a spiced minced meat baked inside traditional bread.
generalSecrets from Locals
Locals recommend "Kebda Eskandarani" stalls often found in Abdeen and downtown for spicy liver sandwiches and beef liver wraps, a Cairo classic you’ll rarely find on tourist menus. Moreover, backstreet bakeries in Heliopolis (around Korba & Al Astoura) are loved by locals for fresh Egyptian pastries, kahk, and fresh-baked goods.
generalDining tips
Street food in Cairo is safe if you prioritize busy, high-turnover vendors. Choose items that are fried, grilled, or boiled immediately before serving and drink only bottled water. If you ever get diarrhea, consider buying local remedies like Antinal from a pharmacy.
healthCosts & Budget
Based on your travel style, your daily spending could range from $30–$50 USD if you're on a tight budget. Mid-range budgets could cost $70-$150 USD and luxury budgets could cost more than $250 USD. These figures cover your accommodation, food, transport, and activities. A 15% service charge is often added to restaurant bills, and you'll be expected to give small tips for services.
moneyAccommodation
InterContinental Cairo Semiramis
Popular
4.8
moderate
Pros(2)
- •Excellent Nile Corniche location
- •Highly rated service
Cons(2)
- •Traffic around Corniche
- •On-site food can be pricey
Cairo Marriott Hotel
Popular
4.5
moderate
Pros(2)
- •Prime location in Zamalek
- •Multiple dining options
Cons(2)
- •Can be pricey compared to budget hotels
- •Busy location
Reviews & Ratings
4.5
Based on 6 reviews
Essential Information
Visa Requirements
Emergency Contacts
fire
180
police
126
medical
123
tourist police
122
Health & Vaccinations
Required Vaccinations
no mandatory vaccinations required
Recommended
Routine Vaccines, Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Rabies, Hepatitis B, Tetanus, Polio.