A city where ancient pyramids chill out next to buzzing streets, where the call to prayer meets car horns in perfect harmony, and where every corner tells a story thousands of years old—Cairo is chaotic, colourful and completely captivating.

Destination Highlights

• 🏛️ Home to the Pyramids of Giza – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World

• 🛍️ Haggle like a pro in the legendary Khan El-Khalili Bazaar

• 🛶 Sunset felucca cruises along the Nile – yes please!

• 🍽️ Food that’s as rich in flavour as the history is in drama

👣 Why should I visit Cairo in 2026?

• Cairo is a cultural gold mine, home to one of the most revolutionary art scenes in the world, and monstrous ancient monuments that will leave you in a genuine state of awe. Not to mention all the museums where you can actually lay your eyes on a real life mummy! Just make sure you don't turn your back for too long.👻

• When it comes to shopping and dining, Cairo has the best of both worlds. Whisking up a hot blend of lavish modern luxuries accompanied with that timeless old school swagger, meaning you can spend your mornings scouting for spices in a 14th-century bazaar and your nights at a stylish rooftop restaurant overlooking the Nile.

• The neighbourhoods here are truly a sight to behold, with diversity, art work and tonnes of history pouring out of every corner. You can be walking down a dusty urban side street at one moment and then stumble upon a magical garden oasis the next, you never know what you're going to get!

🏨 What are the top hotels in Cairo?

Choosing where to park the party for your Cairo holidays is key, and luckily, this city knows how to do luxury. From historic palaces that make you act like a member of the royal family to snazzy new spots with that 1st class feel, Cairo’s hotel scene is unmatched.

• Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis - This modern heavy hitter gives off the vibe that it was built as a shrine to swankiness. From the moment you step into the marble lobby, the 5 star facilities shine all the way through.

• Pyramisa Suites Hotel Cairo - A 5 star slice of royalty that is planted on the banks of the Nile in the Dokki district, with dreamy views of the river from your window whilst being in the thick of the big city buzz.

• Hyatt Regency Cairo West - Located just far enough from the city chaos to feel properly boujee, but close enough to the Pyramids that you can basically give Khufu a wave from your balcony, this 5 star stunner is iconic.

• Barcelo Cairo Pyramids - Boasting a rooftop pool along with jaw-dropper views of the ancient monuments from the hotel restaurant that are total Insta goals, it’s a proper high-quality 4 star option for your Egyptian stay.

• Steigenberger El Tahrir - Perfectly planted right next to the Egyptian Museum, this 4 star spot is world-class for urban explorers who are after a trendy, modern base in the centre of Cairo.  

🧠 "Did-ya-know?"

From the world's biggest food courts to the only "survivor" of the ancient world, here’s the lowdown on the stuff that makes Cairo a no-brainer for trivia fans.

• One of the 7 Wonders - Cairo’s Giza Plateau is home to the Great Pyramid of Khufu, which is the only one of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing - talk about a juicy flex!

• The World’s Biggest Food Court - If you’re a foodie, head to Oasis in Heliopolis; it holds the world record for the largest food court with over 25 restaurants and space for 4,000 diners.

• The "Victorious" City - The name 'Cairo' (Al-Qahira) literally translates to "The Victorious" or "The Conqueror," which is exactly how you’ll feel after successfully bargaining for a rug in the bazaar.

• Garbage City’s Secret - Tucked away in the Manshiyat Nasser district is the "Cave Church," a mahoosive amphitheatre carved into the mountain that seats 20,000 people and is totally out of this world.

Things to do for everyone on your Cairo Holidays:

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Things to do for families in Cairo

• Giza Pyramids & Sphinx - Snap a cute family photo on a camel while the Sphinx gives you some big-time ancient side-eye.

• The Grand Egyptian Museum - A total showstopper packed with mummies and Tutankhamun’s treasures that’ll impress even the grumpiest of teens.

• KidZania Cairo - Let the little rascals play grown-ups in this mini-city, from fighting fires to flying jumbo planes.

• Magic Planet & Aqua Park - Head here for a splash and a giggle to escape the heavy afternoon heat.

• Egyptian Sweets - Get ready for a sugar high with some seriously sweet local treats - parents, you’ve officially been warned!

💞 Things to do for couples in Cairo

• Al-Azhar Park - A charmingly green oasis with fountains and panoramic views over Old Cairo that set the scene for some serious romance and horizon-gazing.

• The Citadel & Mosque - Explore the breath-taking Mosque of Muhammad Ali for architecture that is absolutely drop-dead gorge and worth every second of the trip.

• Zamalek Island Nights - Head to this arty, leafy neighbourhood for romantic rooftop dining, cool cocktail bars, and a punchy side of live music.

• Nile Felucca Sails - Watch the city light up as the sun sinks low on a traditional wooden boat; it’s total swoon goals.

• Coptic Quarter Strolls - Wander through the winding, historic streets together for a cultural hit that feels surprisingly intimate and peaceful.

• Candlelit Pyramid Views - Enjoy a fairytale dinner overlooking the Giza plateau for a "pinch-me" moment that is pure, unadulterated luxury.

🥳 Things to do for groups in Cairo

• Giza Pyramid Squad Goals - Snap some iconic squad selfies and climb aboard a camel for an unforgettable "we’re literally here" moment.

• Khan el-Khalili Haggle-Off - Split up in the bazaar to find the weirdest souvenir - bonus points if you bag a "magic" lamp.

• Quad Bike Desert Safari - Race your mates across the sands on high-powered ATVs for a stonking adrenaline hit with mega cool pyramid backdrops.

• Nile Dinner Cruises - Spend your evening with live music, a bit of a boogie, and the tastiest food while the city lights help to create an unforgettable buzzy vibe.

• Interactive Cooking Classes - Book a private session with an Egyptian family to learn the secrets of high-class koshary and shared feasts.

• Zamalek Rooftop Hops - Toast to your beaut Egypt escapade at a stylish rooftop bar with fresh mango juice or something a bit stronger.

🍽️ Things to do for foodies in Cairo

• Koshari Quest at Abou Tarek - Devour Egypt’s national dish; a mahoosive carb-loaded bowl of lentils, pasta, and rice topped with crispy onions.

• Street Food Safari - Keep it real with sizzling ta’ameya, juicy shawarma, and buttery feteer from a local vendor for a proper authentic feast.

• Old-School Cafe Culture - Order a traditional mint tea at El Fishawy and get your people-watching goggles on in a spot that’s been going since 1773.

• Boujee Nile-Side Dining - Treat yourself to a 10/10 meal at Sequoia or Zooba for a modern twist on Egyptian classics with a view.

• The Ultimate Sugar High - Get stuck into some ridiculously moreish om ali or syrupy basbousa for a dessert that is 100% pure delish.

• Bakery Runs - Follow the scent of freshly baked baladi bread through the streets for a simple hearty snack made that same morning, total warm-dough goals.

🚗 How to get around on your Cairo holidays

Finding your way is part of the adventure, and once you’ve mastered the chaos, it’s actually a breeze to navigate.

• Cairo Metro - The fastest and cheapest way to dodge the traffic, featuring air-conditioned trains and English signs so you don't have to rely on your strong Arabic skills.

• Women-Only Carriages - This is a class feature on the metro for female travellers who want a more comfy and relaxed vibe during busy rush hours.

• Ride-Hailing Apps - Use Uber or Careem for a transparent, easy breezy journey in which the price is given upfront so you don't have to get your haggle on.

• White Taxis - These are the modern, air-conditioned cabs; just ensure the meter is running or agree a price first for a smooth ride.

• Guided Pyramid Tours - Skip the logistics and jump on a tour for a stress-free journey through the sands to see the ancient wonders.

• Walking Downtown - While you’ll need to dodge traffic like a pro, walking is a stun way to explore the leafy streets of Zamalek or Downtown.

Ramadan 2026

Please be aware that the Islamic holy month of Ramadan will take place between 17/02/2026 and 18/03/2026. During this time, many cafes and restaurants will close during the day, restrictions on alcohol sales may be in place, and hotel dining for non-Muslim guests may take place in private rooms. Playing music, dancing, and eating in public areas may also be restricted during this time.