Egypt
Cairo travel guide
Plan a trip to Cairo: what to eat, where to stay, the best day trips and ready-made day-by-day plans.
What to eat in Cairo
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KoshariA hearty mix of rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas and tomato sauce, served in street stalls and cheap cafés all day.
Ful MedamesSlow‑cooked fava beans, often eaten for breakfast in local eateries and homes.
Ta'ameyaEgyptian falafel made from fava beans, popular at breakfast stalls and markets.
ShawarmaThinly sliced marinated meat wrapped in pita, sold from street carts and fast‑food spots.
Where to stay in Cairo
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budget travelers
Close to major sights and cheap hotels; lively streets and easy metro access.
mid‑range couples
Leafy island with boutique hotels, cafés and cultural venues, a short ferry ride from downtown.
families
Residential area with mid‑range hotels, malls and easy metro links to the pyramids.
pyramid visitors
Hotels with pyramid views, short walk to the sites, quieter evenings.
Day trips from Cairo
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Saqqara
22 km
Ancient burial ground with step pyramids, a quieter alternative to Giza.
Dahshur
33 km
Red pyramids of Sneferu, showing early pyramid evolution.
Al‑Fayoum Oasis
17 km
Lake‑side oasis with ancient ruins and relaxed countryside vibe.
Ain Sokhna Beach
116 km
Red‑sea resort town, good for swimming and fresh seafood.
Best time to visit
Best time to go: November – April
Midday highs, based on last year's weather. Green months have comfortable temperatures and few rainy days.
Turn this into a day-by-day plan with Triptime AI, or start from a ready-made one.
Plan 3 days in Cairo
Layover in Cairo
What to pack in October
Ready-made plans for Cairo
Questions about Cairo
When is the best time to eat street food in Cairo?
Street food stalls are busiest from late morning until midnight; evenings after 8 pm are especially lively.
Do I need to tip in restaurants?
A tip of 5‑10 % is customary; many cafés leave a small tray for tips.
Is it safe to stay near the pyramids?
Yes, most hotels are secure and cater to tourists, but keep valuables locked and avoid isolated streets at night.
How do I get from the airport to my hotel?
Take the Airport Shuttle bus or a licensed taxi; the metro does not yet serve the airport directly.
