Traveling and visiting various destinations and enjoying local life in Cairo is a journey of its own. Whether you’re out eating delicious Egyptian food in Cario’s various restaurants or visiting and admiring the unique structures and feel of various historical landmarks there. Every part of this city has something to marvel at, and you’re unlikely to be disappointed. For travelers thinking of a trip to Cairo, we’ve made a beginner’s guide to help you discover its top restaurants, transportation modes, and the best places to visit in Cairo.

How to Travel in Cairo: A Fail-Proof Guide for Travelers

Cairo is a hub of various cultures that have been simmering and developing since the beginning of civilization. Which makes it a vast and overwhelming travel location to tackle for first-time travelers. From hidden places to visit to delicious cuisines, it’s understandable to find yourself at a loss of where to begin when you’re in Cairo. To make this easier for travelers, here‘s a comprehensive guide for traveling in Cairo:

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Discover the Top 5 Historical and Best Places to Visit in Cairo

If there’s a place on earth that’s abundant in historical landmarks, it’s definitely Cairo. Here are some of its wonderful landmarks and the best places to visit in Cairo:

1. Egyptian Museum

The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities proudly hosts the largest collection of Egyptian antiquities in the world. This museum is one of the most famous tourist destinations and the best place to get to know about ancient Egyptian history in Cairo. More than 120,000 artifacts of great value are kept there, with most of them being on exhibit. The Egyptian Museum is the largest of its kind in the whole of Africa and is one of the top landmarks of Cairo. The place is famous for attracting travelers from all over the world to see the wonders and fascinating cultural artifacts of ancient Egyptian civilizations.

2. Salah-el Din Citadel

The Salah-el Din Citadel is one of the most famous landmarks of Cairo. This landmark is a treasure trove for those interested in the wonderful and ancient history of the city. Cairo Citadel was built in 1176 AD, on the orders of the Sultan Salah el-Din to protect Cairo from attacks from outsiders. One of the strongest citadels of that time, it was a major architectural feat of the Ayyubids. Now, the site contains other historical landmarks such as the Egyptian Military Museum, Muhammad Ali Mosque, and Al-Nasir Muhammad Mosque.

3. El Khalili Bazaar

Get a taste of the local Cairo culture with bargaining and bickering over prices in the bustling El Khalili Bazaar of Cairo. Built in 1382 AD, it was originally started as a travelers’ inn and now it has evolved over the centuries to become the main commercial hub of Cairo. From traditional crafts to clothing and other various types of goods, the market sells everything one can imagine. The vast experiences you’re bound to have here make it one of the best places to visit in Cairo.

4. Al-Azhar Mosque

One of the earliest mosques ever built in Cairo, Al-Azhar Mosque offers an unparalleled look into the history of Islam in Cairo. The top center of learning in Cairo for religious education, the mosque also houses the renowned Al-Azhar University, another top site for education in all of the country. It is one of the symbols of the city, with its fascinating architecture and educational contribution renowned all over the world.

5. Museum of Islamic Art

For those looking to get a detailed insight into the Islamic history in Egypt, the Museum of Islamic Art is the place to go in Cairo. It is considered one of the most famous and historically important museums in the world, proudly hosting various Islamic artifacts and woodwork, etc. Housing centuries-old artifacts from all over the Islamic world, it’s one of the best places to visit in Cairo for people in love with the city’s history.

Stay at the Top Most Comfortable Lodging Options in Cairo

Being a popular tourist site, Cairo has a lot of accommodation options for travelers, ranging from luxury to budget-friendly hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in the city:

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1. Triumph Luxury Hotel

Triumph Luxury Hotel is one of the best options for hotels in Cairo for people seeking luxurious accommodation in the city. The hotel’s location in the New Cairo District offers a chance for travelers to stay in touch and experience Cairo’s more modern and bustling district. Some of the amenities of the luxury hotel include free WI-fi, its fitness center, an outdoor pool, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and many more.

2. Hilton Cairo Zamalek Residences

A slightly less expensive option but offering almost the same luxury amenities, the Zamalek Residences by Hilton is another good option to choose while looking up hotels in Cairo. Ranked very highly by travelers and locals alike, the Hilton Residences are built on Zamalek Island on the Nile and offer a picturesque view of the surrounding landscape. The hotel offers visitors amenities such as: a fitness center, an outdoor pool, an ATM on its site, a spa and salon, etc. It is located near Zamalek Island and is close to some of the best places to visit in Cairo. 

3. Havana Hotel Cairo

A good option for solo travelers seeking a budget-friendly place to stay in Cairo is the Havana Hotel. This place is known for its commitment to quality accommodation and offering low prices. Situated in the heart of Cairo, the Havana Hotel offers a lot of amenities like Free WI-Fi, complimentary breakfast, an ATM on site and family-friendly rooms all of which make it one of the best places to stay in Cairo. 

Dive into Some of the Most Amazing Places to Eat in Cairo

Egyptian culture, particularly regarding food, is one of the best in the world and something to be thoroughly explored and enjoyed. For a country with such a long history and cultural overlap, you’ve surprised at how much variety it can offer, with some of the best places to visit in Cairo if you’re looking for a bite to eat:

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1. El Sheikh Mohamed Restaurant

Serving one of the best Egyptian foods in the nearby area, El Sheikh Mohamed Restaurant is one of the best places to visit in Cairo to experience its fascinating local food culture. The bustling restaurant is most famous for its liver dish that drives the customers crazy with its delicious and unique flavor palate.

2. Al Khal Egyptian Restaurant

Al Khal Restaurant is renowned for serving some of the finest delicacies of wonderful Egyptian cuisine in Cairo. The restaurant is highly regarded by people of different tastes and serves authentic Egyptian, Arabic and traditional Middle Eastern cuisines. The variety of flavors it offers makes it one of the best places to visit in Cairo for traditional and regional food.

3. Osmanly Restaurant

Osmanly Restaurant is a wonderful choice for people desiring an equally delicious choice to traditional Egyptian cuisine. It serves delightful traditional Turkish cuisine, offering various kinds of delicious kebabs, soups, and desserts. The place isn’t just famous for its food, but the hospitality its customers receive makes it a must-visit place in Cairo. 

Make Use of the Most Convenient Transportation Options in Cairo

Cairo’s bustling and lively environment makes navigating its streets a bit of a challenge. Fortunately, some convenient transportation options make it a lot easier for tourists and locals to navigate their way through. Here are some of the best modes of transportation in Cairo:

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1. Taxi

Hiring a taxi is one of the best modes of transportation to travel in and around the city. Traveling in Cairo in a taxi is a more superior option than a bus, as it cuts down the time one would spend waiting and having a more private experience compared to a bus.

2. Metro

Another good option for traveling in Cairo is the metro. Getting around the city on a metro train is a cheaper option than other transportation options. This is a safe and more streamlined way of traveling, with many of its stops at some of the best places to visit in Cairo.

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Traveling to Cairo: A Fascinating Land Filled with Immense Treasures

The City of the Thousand Minarets, Cairo, is one of the most fascinating places in all of Egypt. From the walls of the Cairo Citadel to the bustling paths of the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, Cairo has been the pride and joy of several empires. The city has also served as the seat of power and the beacon of civilization in the Middle East and is one of the reasons why history lovers flock to it. Whether you’re taking in the delicious scents from alley restaurants in the historic city or seeing various priceless Egyptian artifacts, you’ll never find yourself short on the best places to visit in Cairo.

So are you ready for a history-filled journey to Cairo? Where you’ll experience amazing cultures, have a bite of various wonderful culinary delicacies, and marvel at the achievements of previous civilizations. All with pre-booked accommodations, and guided tours? iLinkTurkey offers a diverse range of guided tour packages for destinations in Egypt. Head over to our packages and book one of our top-rated Egypt packages now.

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There’s always more to see and do when you visit Egypt. And after your scheduled days here are over, there’s always a plan to come back and explore that ‘more’ that you’ve yet to see. If it’s your first time visiting Egypt, you might not have many days to take your time and slow travel. And while it’s hard to truly get the full experience of the country in a week or less, it’s not impossible. If your travel itinerary to Egypt is only 7 days long, you can follow this travel plan that includes the best sights and experiences this ancient country has to offer.

You’ll get to see Egypt’s most iconic and well-preserved sites, including the Great Pyramid of Giza, the remarkable Sphinx, the ancient bazaar, the Saqqara Step Pyramid, the Roman Amphitheater, the legendary City of Memphis, the Unfinished Obelisk, and more. We’ve also included a coastal travel plan that includes sail tours to immerse you in the dramatic and timeless landscapes of the Nile River.

Read more: 5 Reasons Why You Will Fall in Love with Cairo

7 Days in Egypt: The Best Travel Itinerary for Exploring Egypt

Egypt is brimming with ancient sights to explore, landscapes to marvel at, and a culture to study further. From the Egyptian Museum to the Philae Temple and the Roman Amphitheater to the Qaitbay Castle, this Egypt travel itinerary includes Cairo, Giza, Aswan, Luxor, and Alexandria as the main destinations.

One Week Egypt Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Cairo

Cairo is Egypt’s capital and one of the world’s most densely populated cities, with a bustling ambiance and a vibrant hub of the local culture. Spending a day in Cairo will have you learning about Egypt’s colorful culture and traditions, as they date back to ancient times.

How to Spend a Day in Cairo?

Spend an incredible first day in Cairo by exploring the museums, bazaars, and local sites.

Egyptian Museum: This museum is home to an exceptional collection of over 120,000 ancient artifacts dating back over 3,500 years. It’s easy to spend hours immersed in the relics of bygone times.

Salah El-Din Citadel: This citadel dates back to 1176, when it served as the capital until 1860. In the citadel, you can also visit the stunning Mohamed Ali Mosque or Alabaster Mosque.

The National Museum of Egypt: Located in El Fustat, the first capital of Egypt during the early Islamic era. The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) is situated in the heart of the old Cairo city with ancient artifacts dating back to 4,500 years.

El Khalili Bazaar: Get a taste of the local Cairo culture with bargaining and bickering over prices here in El Khalili Bazaar. Built in 970 A.D., the Fatimid dynasty constructed it beside the metropolis of Cairo.

Check out: Cairo, Alexandria, and Aswan Package (6 Days)

Day 2: Giza

Giza is a city in Egypt on the west bank of the Nile, near Cairo. Known for its famous Egyptian buildings, the Giza Plateau is home to three towering pyramids that were constructed as royal mausoleums in the 26th century B.C.

How to Spend a Day in Giza?

Giza Pyramid Complex: The Giza pyramid complex dates to 2400 B.C.. It includes the three great pyramids (Menkaure, Khafre, and Cheops), the Sphinx, and the valley temple. One of the structures located on the plateau is King Khufu’s “Great Pyramid.”

The Magical Sphinx: The Great Sphinx, also known as the Magical Sphinx, is said to be one of the earliest monuments in Egyptian history. It was constructed to protect the complex.

The Valley Temple: The Valley Temple is the famous site where the mummification process was conducted for the kings and queens.

Saqqara Step Pyramid: This was one of the first pyramids ever built in Egypt, around 2700 BC. This structure kicked off everything revolving around the golden age of pyramid construction in Ancient Egypt.

City of Memphis: Memphis was the first recognized capital of Ancient Egypt under the direction of its founder, King Menes. The city served as the center for government, commerce, and the arts under the ruler Ptah.

Check out: Cairo and Aswan Package (4 Days)

Day 3: Alexandria 

Alexandria is Egypt’s port city on the Mediterranean. It had a famous library and a lighthouse that was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World during the Hellenistic era.

How to Spend a Day in Alexandria?

National Museum of Alexandria: Constructed in 1926, the museum occupies the palace of Governor Al-Saad Bassili. It is a white Italianate palace that served as the social hub for Alexandria’s upper-class Egyptians.

The Library of Alexandria: Reconstructed in 1987 as a tribute to the old library, this site serves as a still-standing reminder of the old epicenter of learning and culture.

Site of Kom the Dekka: This is an archaeological site of a Greco-Roman residential complex. This neighborhood’s components include the baths, the cisterns, a few villas, and even a tiny amphitheatre.

Pompey’s Column: This was the location of the Serapeus Temple, a shrine dedicated to the worship of Serapis. Serapis was a Greco-Egyptian god who was designated by Ptolemy I as the official god of Egypt and Greece and the patron of Alexandria. 

Qaitbay Citadel: Built in the fifteenth century, Quality Citadel is a defensive fortress—quite new as compared to all the other monuments in Alexandria. It is situated at the port on the island of Faro.

Check out: Alexandria, Luxor & Cairo Package (7 Days)

Day 4: Luxor

The city of Luxor is located in southern Egypt on the east bank of the Nile River. It stands on the site of ancient Thebes, the capital city of the Pharaohs from the sixteenth to the eleventh century B.C.

How to Spend a Day in Luxor?

Karnak Temple: This temple complex was the most important religious complex in ancient Egypt. It was the biggest temple in the country, having grown larger throughout time as several pharaohs constructed additional structures and minor temples dedicated to other deities.

Luxor Temple: The temple was erected in honor of Amun-Ra, the deity of the sun, the sky, and the beginning of life. Similar to the Karnak temple, the Luxor temple is composed of structures erected in honor of several deities from various eras.

The Valley of the Kings: The Valley of the Kings is a vast valley sandwiched between two mountains that are lined with rock-cut tombs. During the New Kingdom, when Egypt’s capital was Thebes (now Luxor), this used to be the burial ground for the pharaohs.

Temple of Hatshepsut: This temple honors Hatshepsut, the first woman to rule ancient Egypt alone for 21 years, and is split into three levels. The Hatshepsut Mortuary Temple is surrounded by mountains and is a well-enduring stone structure.

The Colossi of Memnon: The Colossi of Memnon are two enormous stone sculptures that depict Pharaoh Amenhotep III sitting and gazing out at the Nile River with his hands resting on his knees.

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Day 5 and 6: Aswan 

Aswan is a city on the Nile River that has served as the strategic and commercial entry point for southern Egypt since the old days. It is home to important archaeological monuments such as the Philae Temple complex, which is located on Agilkia Island close to the famous Aswan Dam.

How to Spend a Day in Aswan?

Philae Temple: Located in the center of the island, the complex is a Ptolemaic temple devoted to the goddess Isis. The Philae Complex is surrounded by smaller structures constructed at varying eras by different pharaohs, making its exact dating impossible to ascertain.

The Temple of Abu Simbel: During the time of Ramses II (1279–1213 BC), two ancient Egyptian temples were cut out of the rock on the west bank of the Nile to form the complex known as the Temple of Abu Simbel. Abu Simbel is well-known for its enormous sculptures of Ramses II and Nefertari.

The Unfinished Obelisk: This obelisk was constructed in the 18th dynasty under Hatshepsut’s rule, but it was eventually abandoned before it could be completed. It is regarded as the oldest obelisk from prehistoric Egypt. The obelisk now stands as an outdoor museum.

The Aswan Museum: The Aswan Museum is located southeast of Elephantine Island and was opened to the public in 1912. This museum displays antiquities salvaged from the flooding of the Nile with the construction of the Aswan Low Dam. It features displays depicting the city’s everyday life and cultural and religious growth throughout the ages.

The Monastery of San Simeon: The monastery dates back to the end of the 6th or early 7th century, housing a thousand monks in the tenth century. 

Necropolis of Qubbet Al Hawa: Qubbet Al Hawa is a 130-meter-high rock mountain located in front of the contemporary city. There are eighty rows of aristocrats’ graves on this mountain that date from the Greco-Roman, Old Kingdom, Middle Kingdom, and New Kingdom periods.

Nubian Village: The Nubian Village is home to the native Nubian people, who are renowned for their architecture, history, rituals, traditions, and even their style of life, which combines beautiful, colorful settings with unique clothing.

The Nubian Museum: The Nubian Museum was created by architect Muhammad Al-Hakim and opened to the public in 1998. It is a structure housing a 5,000-piece collection depicting Nubia’s history and culture, with a few monuments that were preserved from the Nile’s flooding during the completion of the High Dam.

Check out: Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan Package (6 Days)

Day 7: Nile Cruise

For your last day in Egypt, spend it in the most unforgettable way with a Nile cruise tour. You’ll take a trip down the Nile River to Luxor on your last day, making stops along the route to visit the temples at Edfu and Luxor. Here you can spend time relaxing in the sun, snorkeling, or having some delicious Middle Eastern cuisine.

You can catch the flight back to Cairo the next day to end your seven days in Egypt.

Read more: Tracing History: Exploring the Historical Wonders of Jordan

Capturing the True Essence of Egypt With Guided Tours

It’s simply impossible to capture the entire essence of Egypt’s travel experience in just a couple of days. This is why travelers keep visiting the country again and again to capture the experiences they might have missed out on their previous trips. However, if you follow a well-planned travel itinerary, you can spend your scheduled days exploring the country’s most iconic destinations without wasting your time asking around for places to visit. 

Do you want to explore Egypt’s rich heritage and beauty on a budget? All with pre-booked accommodations, guided tours, and the opportunity to skip the lines?

iLinkTurkey offers a diverse range of guided tour packages for destinations in Egypt. Head over to our packages and book one of our featured Egypt packages now.

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