A mesmerizing fusion of ancient wonders, bustling markets, and modern energy, Cairo is a city that pulses with history and life. Home to the last surviving wonder of the ancient world, the Egyptian capital offers a journey through time—from the towering Pyramids of Giza to the medieval streets of Islamic Cairo and the lively cafés along the Nile. 

Must-sees:

• Pyramids of Giza & the Sphinx: No trip to Cairo is complete without standing in awe before these iconic monuments, over 4,500 years old and still shrouded in mystery.
• Egyptian Museum: Home to the legendary treasures of Tutankhamun, this vast collection of ancient artifacts provides a fascinating look into Egypt’s pharaonic past.
• Coptic Cairo: Discover a different side of the city in this serene quarter, home to the Hanging Church, the Coptic Museum, and the Ben Ezra Synagogue.

Culinary culture:

Egyptian cuisine is rich, flavorful, and deeply rooted in tradition. Try koshari, a beloved street food made of lentils, pasta, and spiced tomato sauce, or ful medames, a slow-cooked fava bean dish often enjoyed for breakfast. Freshly baked baladi bread pairs perfectly with dips like tahini and baba ghanoush. For a sweet treat, indulge in basbousa, a syrup-soaked semolina cake.Tea culture is strong in Cairo—enjoy a glass of karkadeh (hibiscus tea) or a classic mint tea in a traditional café. 

Dive deeper:

For a different perspective of Cairo, take a felucca ride on the Nile at sunset, drifting past the city’s skyline. Explore the City of the Dead, a vast necropolis with a fascinating blend of history and daily life. For a modern contrast, visit Zamalek, an upscale island district filled with art galleries, trendy cafés, and lush gardens. Finally, if you have time, venture to Saqqara, home to the Step Pyramid, the oldest pyramid ever built.

Good to know:

Cairo is a city best explored with patience and curiosity. Traffic is intense, but Uber and taxis are the easiest way to get around. The local currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP), and while many tourist spots accept cards, cash is preferred in markets and smaller shops.

Cairo is lively year-round, but visiting in the cooler months makes exploring more comfortable. The shoulder season (March-May and September-November) offers warm and sunny days, with June-August hot and dry. Seek the sparkling waters of your hotel pool, icy cocktails, or the refreshing air-conditioning of your room between sunbathing and exploring.