Cairo-4-day-itinerary

4-Day Cairo Itinerary: Pyramids, History & Egyptian Delights

This itinerary balances iconic landmarks with local experiences, offering a taste of Cairo’s vibrant culture.

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza
  • Mid-Range: Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir, Marriott Mena House
  • Budget: Guardian Guest House, Cairo Hostel

Transportation:

  • Metro: Cheap and efficient for navigating central Cairo.
  • Taxis: Abundant but negotiate fares beforehand. Uber and Careem are reliable ride-hailing apps.
  • Private Driver: Recommended for day trips outside Cairo.

Day 1: Pyramids & Ancient Wonders

  • Morning: Explore the Giza Plateau, marvel at the Great Sphinx, and enter the pyramids of Khufu (Cheops), Khafre (Chephren), and Menkaure. Hire a camel or horse for a unique perspective.

    • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Egyptian cuisine at Felfela near Tahrir Square.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, home to Tutankhamun’s treasures and countless artifacts.

  • Evening: Stroll through Khan el-Khalili bazaar, haggle for souvenirs, and savor a delicious dinner at Abou El Sid restaurant.

Day 2: Coptic Cairo & Islamic Heritage

  • Morning: Discover Coptic Cairo, visiting the Hanging Church, the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus (where Mary, Joseph and Jesus are said to have sheltered), and the Coptic Museum.

  • Lunch: Try koshari, Egypt’s national dish, at Gad Restaurant in downtown Cairo.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Citadel of Salah al-Din, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views. Visit the Mosque of Muhammad Ali (the Alabaster Mosque) within the citadel.

  • Evening: Enjoy a felucca ride on the Nile River as the sun sets, followed by dinner at Sequoia restaurant with stunning river views.

Day 3: Day Trip to Saqqara & Memphis

  • Morning: Hire a private driver for a day trip to Saqqara, an ancient burial ground featuring the Step Pyramid of Djoser. Explore the surrounding tombs and pyramids.

  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the historical ruins.

  • Afternoon: Visit Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt, and marvel at the colossal statue of Ramses II.

  • Evening: Return to Cairo and savor a traditional Egyptian meal at Sobhy Kaber for authentic flavors.

Day 4: Modern Cairo & Departure

  • Morning: Explore the modern side of Cairo by visiting the Cairo Tower for panoramic city views. Stroll through Zamalek, an upscale district with cafes and art galleries.

    • Lunch: Indulge in a delicious seafood meal at Andrea Mariouteya.

  • Afternoon: Shop for souvenirs at Citystars Mall or enjoy some relaxation time in Al-Azhar Park.

  • Evening: Depart from Cairo International Airport (CAI).

Things to Know:

  • Visa Requirements: Check visa requirements based on your nationality. You can often obtain a visa on arrival.
  • Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP). ATMs are widely available.
  • Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas.
  • Dress Code: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Cover shoulders and knees.

Tips:

  • Bargain for prices at markets and with taxi drivers.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of bottled water.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against pickpocketing.
  • Learn a few basic Arabic phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.

Enjoy your incredible adventure in Cairo!