Cairo Egypt 4 Day Itinerary

Cairo Adventure: A 4-Day Itinerary

This itinerary focuses on the historical and cultural treasures of Cairo, offering a blend of ancient wonders, bustling markets, and delicious Egyptian cuisine.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Hostel in Downtown Cairo (e.g., Guardian Guest House) or Zamalek (e.g., Lubna Hostel).
  • Mid-Range: Hotel in Tahrir Square area (e.g., Steigenberger Pyramids Cairo) or Garden City (e.g., Kempinski Nile Hotel).

Transportation:

  • Metro: Efficient and affordable for navigating central Cairo.
  • Taxi: Abundant, but negotiate the fare beforehand.
  • Uber/Careem: Reliable ride-hailing apps.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP). ATMs are readily available.
  • Language: Arabic. English is spoken in tourist areas.
  • Bargaining: Expected in souks and markets. Be polite but firm.
  • Dress Code: Modest clothing is recommended, especially for women visiting religious sites.

Day 1: Pyramids & Sphinx

  • Morning: Explore the Giza Plateau with its iconic pyramids (Khufu, Khafre, Menkaure) and the enigmatic Sphinx. Hire a guide for deeper insight into history.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square to marvel at treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb and other ancient artifacts.

Where to Eat:

  • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Egyptian cuisine (koshari, ful medames) at Abou Tarek or Koshary Abou Tarek near the Egyptian Museum.
  • Dinner: Savor fine dining with Nile views at Sequoia in Zamalek.

Day 2: Islamic Cairo & Khan el-Khalili

  • Morning: Wander through historic Islamic Cairo, visiting the Mosque of Muhammad Ali (Alabaster Mosque), the Citadel of Saladin, and the Sultan Hassan Mosque.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of Khan el-Khalili bazaar, a labyrinthine market filled with spices, perfumes, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

Where to Eat:

  • Lunch: Try street food delights like falafel sandwiches or shawarma in Khan el-Khalili.
  • Dinner: Indulge in traditional Egyptian dishes at Felfela in Zamalek, known for its authentic flavors.

Day 3: Coptic Cairo & Old Cairo

  • Morning: Explore Coptic Cairo, the historical center of Christianity in Egypt, visiting the Hanging Church, the Coptic Museum, and the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus.
  • Afternoon: Relax and enjoy a felucca (traditional sailboat) ride on the Nile River at sunset.

Where to Eat:

  • Lunch: Sample Egyptian delicacies at the Naguib Mahfouz Cafe in Zamalek, named after the Nobel Prize-winning author.
  • Dinner: Experience fine dining with a view at Zitouni restaurant in the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo.

Day 4: Saqqara & Memphis

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Saqqara, home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser (the oldest known pyramid) and other ancient tombs.
  • Afternoon: Explore the ruins of Memphis, the first capital of ancient Egypt, with its colossal statues of Ramses II.

Where to Eat:

  • Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near Saqqara or Memphis.

Tips:

  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases for smoother interactions.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially in the hot desert climate.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and protect yourself from petty theft.
  • Embrace the culture and interact with locals – Egyptians are known for their hospitality.

Additional Activities:

  • Visit the Cairo Tower for panoramic views of the city.
  • Attend a performance at the Cairo Opera House.
  • Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Egyptian dishes.
  • Explore the vibrant nightlife scene in areas like Zamalek and Heliopolis.