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Cairo is most commonly associated with its ancient past, but contained within it is also an exciting and stimulating city with plenty of nightlife, sightseeing, restaurants, and places to explore.  Located along the Nile, Cairo is the ideal location if you’re looking to experience some history and to immerse yourself in a culture that you may not be as knowledgeable about.  Although Cairo is now a modern city, it still is much more conservative than the US, so it may be helpful to do some research on acceptable and unacceptable behavior and dress before heading over. This guide is organized so Saturday is spent mostly outside of the main part of the city and Sunday is focused more on exploring the city itself.

Saturday Morning – Great Pyramids and the Sphinx

Start your trip off big with a trip to Giza to see one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Pyramid of Khufu.  Standing 449 feet tall, this structure is sure to amaze you, especially when you consider that all 2 million bricks were laid by hand. Spend the morning exploring the inner chambers and wonders of the pyramid.  Also, make sure to check out the other two pyramids, the many tombs, and the well-known Sphinx.  A perk to coming so early is that you’ll miss some of the larger crowds that come through later in the day.  

Saturday Lunch – Andrea

For lunch head over to Andrea in Giza, a restaurant known for its wonderful, authentic Egyptian cuisine.  Located in the middle of a lush garden, dining here will help you escape all of the tourists at the Pyramids and feel as though you’ve walked into a small oasis. On top of the calming atmosphere the food is delicious, satisfying, exactly what your stomach needs after a long morning of exploration.  Beware of walking into one of the many imitation Andrea’s around the city, which have popped up hoping to latch onto the success of the original. Order: Any Chicken   

Saturday Afternoon – Saqqara and Memphis

Can’t get enough of the pyramids and the ancient history? Then head on over to the Saqqara pyramids. These pyramids are claimed by some to be an even greater than the Pyramids of Giza and are a much calmer atmosphere to experience them in.  You can see the famous step pyramid of Djoser here as well.  

Only ten minutes away from Saqqara is Memphis, the capital of Egypt during the Middle Kingdom. The city was founded in 3,100 BC, which gives you an idea how much history is held within what’s left of the city. They have an outdoor exhibit with many of the artifacts that were found in archaeological digs in the area that’s fun and interesting to explore.  

Saturday Evening – La Bodega

End your day with dinner and drinks at La Bodega, a hidden gem within the city. It literally is hidden from street view in a hotel building so make sure to get detailed instructions on where to find it online before you wander the streets looking for it.  La Bodega is known to be where Cairo’s hippest crowd comes to, and is the place to go for a wonderful meal in an elegant atmosphere.  Also, with the strength of the dollar in Cairo, you’ll get a very nice upscale meal for a very reasonable price compared to the States. Make sure you try their homemade focaccia!  

Sunday Morning – Egyptian Museum or Al Azhar Park

If you’re craving to learn more about Egypt’s past then check out the Egyptian Museum, which has an extensive collection of ancient artifacts and pieces.  See items from the tomb of Tutankhamen, ancient Egyptian jewelry, mummies and more! With over 136,000 items on display this museum will keep engaged and in awe for hours.  

If you’re looking for a break from all of the sightseeing and history, then visit an oasis in the middle of the city at the Al Azhar Park.  Come to the park to relax and enjoy the beautiful gardens, landscaping, and panoramic views of Cairo.  It’s loved by locals and tourists alike and is a must-see beauty before you leave. 

Sunday Lunch – Midan Tahrir

Get lunch to go and enjoy it at the Midan Tahrir, the public square in the center of Cairo. It’s a great place to come observe the locals and get a better feel for the city.  Also known as “Liberation Square” this is the area is popular for political protests, which can get very rowdy and are most likely something that you should avoid if you come across.  The American University of Cairo is right next to the square if that’s an area you’re interested in exploring as well. 

For a place to grab lunch check out Koshary el-Tahrir, which serves the popular Egyptian food koshary - macaroni, lentils, rice, chick peas and fried onions covered in spicy tomato sauce. Koshary el-Tahrir is said to have some of the best koshary in the city so stop by and enjoy some Egyptian “fast food.” 

Sunday Afternoon – Khan El Khalili

Khan El Khalili is a large bazaar that’s still reminiscent of the time when Cairo first emerged as a major center of trade.  Wander the countless stalls for gold, silver, art, and many gifts and pieces. Its a great place to go for some unique souvenirs from your trip. 

While your exploring check out El-Fishawi Café, the oldest café in Cairo.  It used to be a popular location for local artists to meet and now is a great place to go and watch the hustle and bustle of the market.  They’re best known for their teas and sheesha (water pipe) so sit down and enjoy your favorite tea and sheesha in their distinctive atmosphere. 

Sunday Evening - A Night Out 

End your stay with a night out on the town. Here are few suggestions for some places to check out for a fun night in Cairo.

Start out at the Windows of the World, the bar on the 36th floor of the Ramses Hilton. Its a wonderful place to grab dinner and some drinks because it has on of the most beautiful views of Cairo. After dinner you can hang out and enjoy the live music and view of the illuminated city and Nile River. 

The Cairo Jazz Club is also great place to go if you’re looking for a place to enjoy great music and company. They play all varieties of music, not only jazz, and is known to be filled with a hip and cool crowd. Come here if you want to meet and hang out with people from not only Cairo but also from around the world. 

Where to Stay 

Talisman Hotel de Charme

39 Talat Harb Street, Cairo, Egypt

If you're looking to stay at a hotel thats not too touristy and gives you more of a feel of Cairo then this is the hotel for you. It is conveniently located in downtown Cairo and has a staff that will treat you like royalty.  Although in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city, inside the hotel is a quiet and charming oasis. 

Sofitel Cairo El Gezirah

3 El Thawra Council St Zamalek, Cairo 11518, Egypt

If you're looking for more of a luxurious hotel then look into the Sofitel Cairo El Gezirah. Located on the Nile River this hotel has beautiful views of the water and city. It also has excellent restaurants and an exceptional staff. You'll be living in the lap of luxury and still walking distance from many of the best sites and places it go in the city!