Few cities in the world can rival Cairo’s blend of ancient wonder and vibrant modern life. With over 20 million residents, Egypt’s capital is a chaotic, captivating place where history and humanity collide on every corner.
Whether you are stopping over on your way to Luxor or the Red Sea, or spending several days to explore its many layers, this three-day itinerary captures the very best of what Cairo has to offer.
Day 1: The Pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum
Morning:
Start your Cairo journey with a private car or van pick-up from your hotel. Your first stop: the Great Pyramid of Giza, the only surviving wonder of the ancient world. Marvel at its scale, then continue on to the enigmatic Sphinx and the Valley Temple – both part of the same ancient funerary complex Visitors can purchase tickets at the entrance gates upon arrival or book skip-the-line tickets in advance here to not have to wait in line.
Lunch:
Enjoy lunch overlooking the pyramids at one of the new dining spots available within the Pyramids complex. Alternatively, choose the Marriott Mena House, a historic hotel with unbeatable views, or one of the many casual rooftop spots nearby offering a panoramic pyramid backdrop.
Early Afternoon:
Head to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) for an early look at what will soon be the world’s largest archaeological museum. Though not officially open until July 2025, partial previews are currently available and worth experiencing. You can purchase skip-the-line tickets and book a guided tour in Arabic or English with experts by clicking here.
Housing more than 100,000 artifacts – including the complete collection of Tutankhamun – GEM is Egypt’s bold new statement of cultural pride.
Evening:
Return to your hotel for a rest, or if you have the energy, enjoy a dinner cruise on the Nile. Options include the classic Nile Maxim or the more upscale Blue Nile Boat, both of which offer live music and views of Cairo by night. You can also check out Crimson Bar & Grill, a rooftop bar and grill that offers views of the Nile and Cairo’s skyline.
Tip: It is always best to book a tour in Cairo. You can find guided group and private tours for the Pyramids of Giza by clicking here. Tours are also available for the Grand Egyptian Museum and other museums across Cairo by clicking here. A tour will ensure a smooth, relaxed and enjoyable experience – making sure you don’t have to worry about logistics and can simply admire and take in the beauty of Egypt’s sites and antiquities.
Day 2: Ancient Civilizations and Sacred Sites
Morning:
Begin your day with a visit to Saqqara, home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone pyramid in the world and a crucial piece of Egypt’s architectural evolution. Want to skip waiting in line for a ticket and get straight to enjoying these marvelous wonders? You can do so by booking a skip-the-line entry ticket to the Saqqara complex here.
Tip: Getting to Saqqara can be challenging as it is located at quite a distance from Cairo/Giza. Book a private or group tour here, which includes pick up and drop off from and to your hotel or other accommodation.
Late Morning:
Continue to Coptic Cairo, where you’ll visit the Church of St Sergius and Bacchus, believed to be one of the locations where the Holy Family sought refuge during their flight to Egypt. Nearby is the Ben Ezra Synagogue, a beautiful 9th-century building with deep historical significance.
Tip: Islamic, Coptic and Jewish Cairo have plenty to offer. Book a tour by clicking here to best immerse yourself and to learn in depth about this story.
Lunch:
Enjoy lunch in the area – there are several small cafes and restaurants around Coptic Cairo offering authentic Egyptian fare.
Afternoon:
Explore Islamic Cairo with a stop at two monumental mosques: the Mosque-Madrasa of Sultan Hassan, a Mamluk masterpiece, and the neighboring Mosque of Al-Rifai, where members of Egypt’s royal family are buried. These mosques reflect the height of Cairo’s medieval architecture.
Evening:
Return to your hotel for some rest. For dinner, consider venturing into Zamalek, Maadi, or New Cairo—each neighborhood offers a different taste of Cairo’s contemporary food scene. Try Zooba for a modern twist on Egyptian street food, or Kazouza for a nostalgic diner-style experience.
Day 3: Pharaohs, Citadels, and Bazaars
Credit: Mohamed Khairat / Egyptian Streets
Morning:
Begin at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) in Fustat, home to Egypt’s celebrated Royal Mummies Hall, where you can come face to face with legendary pharaohs such as Ramses II and Hatshepsut. A skip-the-line ticket can be purchased for quick access here.
Late Morning:
Continue to the Citadel of Saladin, one of Cairo’s most iconic landmarks. Inside, visit the Mosque of Mohammed Ali, a grand Ottoman structure that dominates the skyline and offers sweeping views of the city. Don’t wait in line and book a skip-the-line ticket for Citadel here.
Lunch and Afternoon:
Conclude your Cairo adventure with lunch and a stroll through Khan El-Khalili, the city’s most famous bazaar. This centuries-old market is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs, sip mint tea at the historic El-Fishawy Café, or simply get lost in its winding alleys.
Final Tips
If your stay is shorter than three days, consider condensing by focusing on the Pyramids, Saqqara, GEM, and either Coptic Cairo or the Citadel.
Cairo traffic can be intense – build in extra time between stops, especially during rush hours. It is highly recommended you book a tour – including a tour guide and a driver – to see the best of what Egypt has to offer comfortably and with sufficient time.
Always carry some cash, and be mindful of dress codes when visiting religious sites (men must not wear shorts to religious sites and women may be required to wear a scarf).
With its wealth of history, energy, and resilience, Cairo is more than a city. These three days offer just a glimpse of its treasures, but enough to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Comments (0)