Discover a tale of two cities with these things to do in Cairo

Thanks to Egypt’s strategic location in Northern Africa, Cairo is a city that can be enjoyed when most of the rest of the world is shrouded in grey clouds. If Cairo sightseeing is on your to-do list, the best time to visit the city is between October and April when the daytime is sunny but an agreeable temperature and the nights are cool enough to sleep soundly. Take advantage of this temperate part of the year to explore the chaotic city or venture further afield to see the best things to do in Egypt.

A must on the list of things to do in Cairo is exploring the last surviving wonder of the ancient world: the Pyramids of Giza. Witness to centuries of expansion and change, these pyramids lie on the outskirts of Cairo, punctuating the golden sands of the vast Sahara as they've done for over 4,500 years. When it comes to places to visit in Cairo, nothing comes close to experiencing the ingenuity of the ancient Egyptians that still whispers from the weathered limestone. 

But, with so much to take in, where to start? The Great Pyramid of Khufu, the tallest and most iconic of the trio, is your best bet. Wander through the ancient passageways, admiring how they narrow the closer you ascend towards the King's Chamber. Once outside, you can admire the eternal beauty of the Sphinx which stands watch over these impressive monuments. This is a must-see in Cairo.

If you still feel hungry for history, a trip to the Egyptian Museum is one of the top places to go in Cairo. Its halls are a treasure trove of ancient antiquities that allow you to visually explore Egyptian civilization in all its facets. Look out for the golden death mask of Tutankhamun, which sparkles with the mystery of a boy king who ruled for a fleeting moment but left an indelible mark on history. You will need a few hours to truly explore the mummies, statues and sarcophagi - the perfect way to shelter from the midday sun.

Once you have explored the city’s rich past, it is time to get acquainted with modern Cairo. There is no better place to do so than the mediaeval streets of the Islamic district where the Khan El Khalili market is conveniently located. Follow the scent of incense, spices and freshly brewed mint tea and weave along the winding streets admiring the local wares for sale. Pick up some souvenirs to remember your trip with traders keen to dazzle you with handmade jewellery, brass lanterns, and richly woven textiles.

Just around the corner from the bazaar, the imposing Al-Azhar Mosque commands your attention with its intricate architecture. This iconic place of worship has been a beacon of Islamic scholarship for over a millennium. Step inside its paradisiacal courtyard and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Experience the spirituality of the place, regardless of your religion and soak up the sense of calm. 

When it comes to things to do in Cairo, a visit to the Citadel is one of them. This ancient fortress was the seat of the Egyptian government for over 700 years and today is now a historical site complete with mosques and museums. Built in the 12th century by the legendary ruler Salah al-Din (Saladin) to defend the city against Crusaders, it was one of the most impressive forts in the world. 

The citadel, one of the top things to do in Cairo, has been restored over the years as its use changed, finally opening to the public in the 80s, after decades of military use. Walk through the storied halls of the Citadel and discover the city’s fascinating past. Visit the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, whose towering minarets and gleaming alabaster domes dominate Cairo's skyline. Yet, don’t leave without taking in the spectacular views across the city. 

Looking for a memorable way to end your day sightseeing? As dusk settles over the city, make your way to the banks of the Nile where a felucca awaits you. This traditional wooden sailing boat has been carrying people up and down the river for centuries. Admire the sun setting over the Cairo skyline as the frenetic pace of city living slips away with every gentle lapping of the water against the boat. Be sure to take photos as the sunset over Cairo is truly stunning. When it comes to couples activities in Cairo, this is one of the most romantic things to do in Cairo. 

Modern-day Cairo is a vibrant metropolis that coexists seamlessly alongside ancient history. One of the Cairo places to visit to see this juxtaposition is Zamalek - an island in the Nile connected to the city by numerous bridges. This area has long been known as Paris by the Nile and the chic cafés, art galleries and restaurants offer a distinctly European vibe to this African city. Tuck into delicious local gastronomy which offers a contemporary fusion of Egyptian cuisine. Here you can feel the tantalising energy of the city’s artists, poets and musicians collectively pushing the creative boundaries to new heights. 

Once a telecommunications tower, now one of the top things to do in Cairo, Cairo Tower is a must-visit. Located in Zamalek, this 187-metre tall lattice-patterned tower offers 360º views of Cairo’s cityscape. An iconic landmark of Cairo’s 1960s post-colonial era, the architecture is inspired by the lotus flower, a symbol of ancient Egyptian culture. Plus, if you get hungry at the top, you can dine in the restaurant overlooking the breathtaking views, especially at sunset. A must-do in Cairo!