Top 10 Things to Do in Cairo

Using this list

Ten of Cairo's landmark experiences as a checklist — the pyramids, the museums, Islamic and Coptic Cairo, and the Nile. Cairo is huge and its traffic is legendary, so plan two things a day rather than four.

Giza deserves a full morning, early

The pyramids and the Sphinx are on the city's western edge, roughly an hour from central Cairo depending on traffic. Go at opening: the heat builds quickly and the site has very little shade.

Entry to the interior of the Great Pyramid is a separate ticket, and it's a hot, cramped, steep climb through a narrow passage — worth knowing before you buy if you're claustrophobic.

The museums have changed

The Grand Egyptian Museum near Giza is now the main home for the headline collections, including the full Tutankhamun material. The older Egyptian Museum on Tahrir Square still holds a great deal. Check what's where before planning your day around a specific object.

Expect to be sold things

Persistent selling around the major sites is part of visiting Cairo — camel rides, guides, souvenirs, offers to take your photograph. A polite firm no, repeated, works. Agree any price before accepting anything, including a photograph.

Islamic and Coptic Cairo are the quieter reward

Khan el-Khalili, the Citadel, the old mosques, and the churches of Coptic Cairo are where the city feels least like a monument and most like itself.

Practicalities

Dress modestly, particularly at religious sites. Bring more water than you think.

Timing

Run it plain, or add due dates from your arrival date.