8 Best Things to Do in Cairo in 2025

1. 🏛️ Visit the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)

The long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum is finally open and it’s the crown jewel of Cairo's cultural scene. Located near the Pyramids of Giza, it’s the world’s largest archaeological museum.

• Over 100,000 artifacts on display

• Full Tutankhamun collection shown together for the first time

• Panoramic pyramid views from the museum’s glass hall

Check it out: grandegyptianmuseum.org

2. 🛍️ Wander Through Khan El Khalili Bazaar

Step into Cairo's historic soul by exploring Khan El Khalili, a market that’s been around since the 14th century. It’s a whirlwind of colors, scents, and traditional crafts.

1. Have mint tea at El Fishawy Café — operating for over 200 years

1. Shop for handmade silver, spices, and antique lamps

1. Catch a live oud performance in the alleys

Pro tip: Haggling is expected — and fun!

3. 🌅 Take a Sunset Felucca Ride on the Nile

Unplug from Cairo’s noise and hop on a felucca, a traditional wooden sailboat, for a magical Nile River ride.

• Best around sunset (5:00–6:30 PM)

• Bring a blanket, snacks, and your favorite playlist

• Ideal for couples, small groups, or solo relaxation

You’ll see Cairo from a whole new angle.

4. 🏜️ Take a Day Trip to the Pyramids of Giza

It might be the most obvious attraction, but there’s nothing like standing in front of the Great Pyramid of Khufu — one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

• Enter the Great Pyramid (if you're not claustrophobic)

• See the enigmatic Sphinx up close

• Ride camels or horses around the site for fun photo ops

Travel tip: Go early morning or golden hour for amazing lighting.

5. 🍽️ Eat Like a Local in Zamalek

Zamalek is Cairo’s leafy, artsy island in the Nile — and a food lover’s paradise.

• Eat koshary at Abou Tarek

• Chill at rooftop cafés with Nile views

• Try modern Egyptian dining at Zooba or Crimson

This neighborhood blends local flavor with modern style.

6. ⛰️ Climb Mokattam Hills for a Skyline View

For breathtaking panoramic views of Cairo, head up to Mokattam Hills. It’s where locals go to escape the buzz and enjoy the breeze.

• Visit the massive Cave Church of St. Simon

• Explore the raw, real culture in Garbage City

• Watch the sun set over Islamic Cairo’s skyline

It’s a view — and a story — you won’t forget.

7. 🕌 Discover Islamic Cairo’s Architecture

Nicknamed the "City of a Thousand Minarets", Cairo is rich in Islamic art, history, and sacred architecture.

• Tour the Citadel of Saladin and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali

• Walk down Al-Muizz Street at night — it glows with history

• Visit Al-Azhar Mosque, still a functioning university

This area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for good reason.

8. 🎭 Explore Cairo’s Modern Side at The Greek Campus

Located in Downtown Cairo, The Greek Campus is the city’s cultural and startup hub — perfect for creatives and travelers wanting a taste of modern Egypt.

• Catch live music, art shows, and local film screenings

• Co-working cafés and tech talks for digital nomads

• Street food markets with experimental Egyptian flavors

🎨 This is the future of Cairo, and it’s thriving.