Cairo 2 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Exploring Ancient Wonders
Morning:
- Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cleopatra’s Mansion, a popular spot among tourists for its Egyptian-themed decor and delicious dishes.
- Head to the Egyptian Museum to marvel at over 120,000 artifacts, including King Tutankhamun’s treasures.
- From there, take a short walk to the nearby Coptic Cairo to explore some of Egypt’s earliest Christian churches and monasteries.
Afternoon:
- Grab lunch at Koshary El Tahrir for a taste of traditional Egyptian cuisine.
- Visit the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the adjacent Great Sphinx. You can arrange a camel ride or horse carriage tour around the pyramids.
- In the evening, enjoy dinner with a view of the Pyramids at Along Pyramids Restaurant.
Transportation:
- Taxi is the most common mode of transportation in Cairo. Always negotiate the price before starting your journey. You can also use Uber or Careem, which are popular ride-hailing apps in Egypt.
Day 2: Modern Cairo Exploration
Morning:
- Begin your day with a visit to Khan El Khalili Bazaar, one of the oldest bazaars in the Middle East where you can shop for souvenirs, spices, and traditional Egyptian arts and crafts.
- Stop by the beautiful Mosque of Mohammed Ali to appreciate its Ottoman architecture.
- Have lunch at El Fishawy, a historic cafe in Khan El Khalili that has been serving Egyptian coffee and shisha for over 150 years.
Afternoon:
- Visit the modern Cairo Tower for panoramic views of the city.
- Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Zamalek and grab dinner at one of its many restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Some popular options include Ristorante Alto Bala, 3asalan, and Coco’s Beach.
Things to Know:
- Egypt’s official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- Always carry small Egyptian pounds (LE) as change can be hard to come by.
- Tipping is an important part of the culture, so always have some small change ready.
- Be respectful when visiting religious sites; dress modestly and remove your shoes when necessary.
- Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Accommodation:
- For budget travelers, Hostel Al Azhar Park offers affordable rooms in a convenient location.
- If you’re looking for luxury, consider the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza or the Sofitel Winter Palace El Gouna.
Tips:
- Bargain when shopping in markets and bazaars. Prices are usually negotiable.
- Avoid drinking tap water; bottled water is widely available.
- Use ATMs inside banks for a safer withdrawal experience.
- Make sure to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
Enjoy your trip to Cairo!