Welcome to Cairo - a city that never sleeps, where ancient history meets vibrant chaos. If you're planning a visit, get ready for a wild, magical ride. It could be overwhelming as there's so much to and not to do. In this blog, I'll share my best tips on how to navigate the city, where to stay, and what not to miss.
Cairo is very big cities which means there're many neighborhoods, each with its own vibe. Here are my favorites, depending on your travel style and budget:
Best for: History lovers, city energy, and being in the heart of everything.Downtown is chaotic, fascinating, and full of old charm. Think colonial buildings, vintage cafés, and the famous Tahrir Square. You'll be close to the Egyptian Museum and within reach of many local spots. It's not the quietest area, but it's packed with personality and history.
Good to know: Great for budget-friendly boutique hotels and for those who love walking and exploring.
Best for: First-time visitors, café culture, and artsy vibes.Zamalek is an island on the Nile known for its greenery, embassies, art galleries, and beautiful villas. It's walkable, relaxed, and filled with restaurants, cozy cafés, and concept stores. This is where I usually recommend guests to stay if they want comfort and a central, peaceful base.
Giza:
Best for: Short stays focused on the pyramids.Staying near the Pyramids of Giza is ideal if you want to wake up with a view of one of the Seven Wonders of the World. There are several guesthouses and luxury hotels (like the historic Marriott Mena House), and you'll be just minutes from the entrance.
Perfect for: A one- or two-night stay when visiting the pyramids, especially if you want to avoid early morning traffic from central Cairo.
Maadi:
Best for: Longer stays, families, and a more local feel.Maadi is a leafy suburb in the south of Cairo, known for its quiet streets, expat community, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a great choice if you're staying for a week or more, working remotely, or traveling with kids. You'll find cute brunch spots, yoga studios, and plenty of space to breathe - a rare thing in Cairo!
My take: If you're someone who likes slow mornings, fresh juice, and tree-lined walks - Maadi is your vibe.
Heliopolis & New Cairo:
Best for: Business travelers, airport proximity, and modern comfort.These areas
are further from the city center but close to the airport and full of
upscale malls, large hotels, and gated communities. Not the most
‘oldskool' Cairo feel, but great if you want sleek, quiet comfort or
are coming for an event or conference and experience modern day Egypt.
Not ideal for:
First-timers wanting to explore historic Cairo on foot - you'll need a car or Uber to get anywhere.
Cairo is huge, hectic, and full of surprises - but with the right tips, you'll move around like a local.
Uber & Careem
The easiest and safest way to get around. Both apps are affordable, reliable, and save you the hassle of negotiating taxi fares. It's very easy to go around with an uber, just always make sure you don't have a thigh planning as sometimes you will need a bit for the uber to come to you. If you order an Uber, make sure you order it from a quieter street and easy reachable. This will make it easier for him to get to you and for you to get in. You may also see some local taxi's driver. These are white/black colored. You could take one, but Uber is the better and safer option. If you take a local cab, make sure you agree upon the price before getting in. You can check Uber to compare the price.
Private Guide or Driver
Want a stress-free experience and deeper insights? Book a custom tour
or private driver through Travel with Dina - I'll make sure you see
the best of Cairo, comfortably and at your own pace.
This city is full of contrasts - ancient and modern, hectic and heartwarming. Here are my top picks for museum and cultural attractions.
The Pyramids of Gizeh & the Sphinx
An absolute bucket-list experience. You can't visit Cairo without visiting the Pyramids of Gizeh and the Sphinx. Check out my other blog to read on how to have the best experience doing this.
Top three museum worth visting:
Cairo is home to some of the most important museums in the world, especially when it comes to ancient history. But with new openings and ongoing transitions, it can be a little confusing to know which museum to visit, and when. Here's a quick guide to the three major museums in Cairo, what you can expect, and why each is worth a visit in its own way:
1. The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) - Partially Open
This is Egypt's highly anticipated new mega-museum located right next to the pyramids in Giza. While the official full opening is still pending, parts of the museum - like the spectacular entrance hall and select exhibits - are already open to visitors with limited access tickets. ✨ Why go? You'll see the colossal statue of Ramses II, walk through stunning modern architecture, and get a feel for the future of Egyptian museum experiences. Good to know: The full Tutankhamun collection isn't yet on display, and ticket availability can vary. If you're curious and already in Giza, it's still worth a peek.
2. The Egyptian Museum in Tahrir - The Classic One
Located in the heart of Downtown Cairo, this museum was the main home of Egypt's ancient treasures for over a century. Since the GEM is taking over, many of the most famous artifacts have been moved (or are in the process of being moved), but there's still plenty to see. ✨ Why go? The museum itself is iconic, dusty in a charming way, and packed with history. If you love old-school museums and want to soak in atmosphere, this is your spot. Good to know: It's less curated than newer museums, but still a beautiful experience, especially for history buffs.
3. The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) - Fully Open + Royal Mummies!
This museum in Old Cairo is fully open and modern, with one major highlight: the Royal Mummies Hall. Here, you'll come face to face with the real mummies of legendary pharaohs like Ramses II and Hatshepsut - a surreal and humbling experience. ✨ Why go? It's modern, spacious, well-lit, and tells the broader story of Egyptian civilization from ancient times to today. Don't miss: The mummy section is absolutely a must-visit. You'll feel like you're stepping into a sacred tomb - but with air conditioning. All museums close around 5 PM and have a last entrée at 4 PM. Make sure to enter on time.
Beyond the pyramids and museums, Cairo is full of hidden beauty, spiritual history, and jaw-dropping architecture. If you have time to explore deeper, don't miss these three key areas:
1. The Citadel & The Mosque of Muhammad Ali
High above the city, overlooking Cairo's skyline, sits the Citadel of Saladin - a medieval fortress with centuries of history. Inside the complex, you'll find the magnificent Mosque of Muhammad Ali, often called the “Alabaster Mosque” for its shimmering white stone and Ottoman-style domes.
✨ Why visit?
2. Islamic Cairo - Minarets, Khan el Khalili Market and Hidden Gems
Islamic Cairo is a UNESCO World Heritage area filled with winding alleys, old mosques, ancient city gates, and lively souks. It's one of the most atmospheric places to get lost in the past.
✨ Must-visits in Islamic Cairo:
Pro tip: Go in the late afternoon or early evening, explore the mosques and alleys, then finish with a mint tea at El Fishawy Café, the oldest café in Cairo. The Uber will find it very difficult to pick you up from this chaotic area. Make sure you walk out the area for a bit before ordering an Uber. The same counts for the way to. You could also get out of the Uber earlier and just walk for a bit. This most probably will be faster than sitting in the Uber.
In this peaceful part of Old Cairo, you'll discover some of the earliest Christian sites in the world. Coptic Cairo is a spiritual treasure, home to ancient churches, underground chapels, and the Coptic Museum.
✨ Don't miss:
Good to know: This area is compact and walkable, and a peaceful contrast to the busy city.
After a full day of pyramids, museums, or exploring Cairo's old streets, there's nothing better than unwinding with a drink and a view. Luckily, Cairo has some gorgeous rooftop spots where you can enjoy the city skyline. These are my favorite rooftops to recommend:
Crimson Zamalek
Vibe: Chic, upscale, perfect for sunset cocktails.
Crimson is the go-to rooftop in Cairo for stylish nights out. This bar and restaurant offers panoramic views over the Nile and the city skyline. Book ahead if you want a good table - it's popular with locals and travelers alike.
Rooftop Zamalek
Vibe: Relaxed, cozy, and great for groups.
A low-key but still with an amazing view, Rooftop Zamalek is one of those hidden gems where you can enjoy shisha, drinks in a chilled-out atmosphere. The setting is casual but has a great view of the Nile and surrounding buildings - a lovely spot for an easy evening. Its affordable and a younger local crowd comes here. The food is not the best, so I suggest just going for a drink.
Estro in Maadi
Vibe: Elegant, romantic, and ideal for dinner with a view.
Tucked away in quiet Maadi, this rooftop terrace overlooks the tree-filled suburb and city skyline in the distance. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a slower evening with friends. Maadi's calm vibe makes it feel like a little escape from the Cairo chaos. Make sure you book ahead.
Last but not least, one of the best ways to experience Cairo is through its food. From street eats to modern takes on Egyptian classics, this city has it all. Whether you're on the go between sightseeing or sitting down for a cozy meal, here are a few of my go-to spots that combine local flavor with a great vibe:
Tabali - Modern Egyptian Comfort Food
📍 Location: Zamalek (and other branches)
Vibe: Casual, fresh, and great for brunch or dinner
Tabali is a perfect introduction to everyday Egyptian dishes - but with a twist. Think feteer, koshari, ta'ameya (Egyptian falafel), and mezze-style plates, all served in a clean, stylish setting. It's popular with locals who want something authentic but also a little elevated.
Zooba - Egyptian Street Food
Vibe: Cool, colorful and great for a quick (late night) snack or dinner
Zooba is a Cairo-born brand that has gone international - and it all started here. Their Zamalek branch is small and vibrant, with graffiti-style art and a super fun energy. You'll find street food staples like koshari, foul, and ta'ameya, but with a gourmet feel.
Abou Tarek - The Most Famous Koshari in Egypt
Vibe: No-frills, fast-paced, very local
If you want to eat like a real Cairene, Abou Tarek is a must. This multi-story restaurant serves only one dish - koshari, Egypt's national comfort food. It's a hearty, carb-loaded mix of pasta, lentils, rice, chickpeas, and crispy onions, topped with spicy tomato sauce and a splash of garlic vinegar. Order like a local: ask for a “koshari medium,” and add extra crispy onions. It's fast, cheap, and unforgettable.
No trip is the same - and that's exactly how I like to plan it. Whether you're into food, history, hidden gems, local culture, or just want a relaxed day with a beautiful view, I'm happy to help you shape your days in Cairo around what you love.
From restaurant reservations to planning the perfect route past the pyramids, museums, markets, or rooftops - I'll make sure your time in Cairo feels smooth, special, and totally your style.
Just send me a message, and I'll gladly help you plan your ideal Cairo experience.