3 Days in Cairo Itinerary 🇪🇬: Complete Guide to Top Things to Do & Local Tips

Cairo, the vibrant capital of Egypt, is a city where ancient history meets modern life on every street corner. In just 3 days, you can explore magnificent pyramids, wander through colorful bazaars, and discover treasures in the Egyptian Museum. From the mighty Nile River to the bustling streets of Islamic Cairo, this city offers an unforgettable mix of experiences that will stay with you forever.

🏠 Where to Stay in Cairo

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: The St. Regis Cairo
• ✨ 5-Star: The Nile Ritz-Carlton Cairo
• 🏨 4-Star: Oasis Pyramids Hotel
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Comfort Inn Giza Al Haram
• 💸 Cheap: Garden City Plaza
• 🏢 Apartament: Elegance Tower
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Abo Elhole Hotel
• 🏩 For Couples: May Pyramids View

In this guide, I’ll share my tested 3-day itinerary that covers all the must-see attractions while avoiding tourist traps and long queues. You’ll learn when to visit each site, how much to pay, and where to find the best local food. Whether you’re a history lover or just seeking adventure, this plan will help you make the most of your time in this fascinating city.

💁 Best Guided Tours in Cairo

• Tour to Pyramids and The Egyptian Museum from €150 (⭐4.9/5)
• Guided Half-Day Trip to Giza Pyramids with Camel Riding from €100 (⭐4.8/5)
• Pyramids and Sphinx Tour from €95 (⭐4.9/5)
• Cairo Half-Day Tour to Giza Pyramids and Sphinx from €35 (⭐4.9/5)
• Luxury Felucca on the Nile with Lunch from €45 (⭐5/5)

Perfect 3 Days in Cairo Itinerary: Quick Overview

• Day 1 🏛️ Downtown & Nile: Start at the Egyptian Museum to see King Tut’s treasures and mummies, explore historic Tahrir Square, enjoy local koshary for lunch, then end your day with a magical sunset felucca ride or dinner cruise on the Nile.
• Day 2 🔆 Ancient Wonders: Begin early at the Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx, explore Saqqara’s Step Pyramid and Memphis ruins in the afternoon, finish with the spectacular Sound & Light Show at the pyramids. Dinner with pyramid views at Abou Shakra.
• Day 3 🕌 Religious Cairo & Views: Discover Coptic Cairo’s Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue in the morning, explore the Citadel and Alabaster Mosque, shop at Khan el-Khalili bazaar, end with sunset at Cairo Tower’s revolving restaurant.

Day 1: Exploring Downtown Cairo

We recommend the following tours for this day:

• Cairo Private Day Tour to Egyptian Museum Citadel and Khan Khalili Bazaar: This private tour covers three of Cairo’s most important cultural sites in one day – the Egyptian Museum, Citadel, and Khan Khalili Bazaar. A personal guide ensures you get the most out of each location while handling all transportation and logistics between sites.
• Downtown Cairo Half-Day Tour with Egyptian Dinner: This guided evening tour combines cultural exploration with authentic local dining in the heart of downtown Cairo. A knowledgeable guide leads you through bustling streets and markets before ending at a traditional restaurant where you’ll enjoy a genuine Egyptian dinner.
• ViP Private Effective Nile River Dinner Cruise in Cairo: This private dinner cruise offers an intimate evening experience on the Nile with a full buffet dinner and entertainment program. Your personal guide ensures VIP treatment throughout the evening while you enjoy panoramic views of Cairo’s illuminated skyline.

Morning: Egyptian Museum

Ancient Wonders: I always recommend starting your Cairo adventure at the Egyptian Museum right when it opens at 9 AM. The morning light streaming through the windows creates a magical atmosphere as you explore one of the world’s most remarkable collections of ancient artifacts.

Golden Glory: The highlight of my visits is always the Tutankhamun collection on the second floor. The young pharaoh’s golden mask literally took my breath away – it’s even more spectacular in person than in photos. The room contains over 1,500 pieces from his tomb, including his three golden coffins and precious jewelry.

Royal Treasures:

• The Royal Mummy Hall showcases preserved pharaohs including Ramses II
• The Predynastic Collection reveals Egypt’s earliest artifacts
• The stunning jewelry collection spans 5,000 years of craftsmanship

Secret Tips: The museum is moving its collection to the new Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza. I recommend checking which exhibits are still available at the current location before your visit.

Clock Wise: While the museum houses over 120,000 artifacts, I’ve found that 2-3 hours is enough time to see the major highlights. Start with the Tutankhamun collection when your energy is highest, then work your way down to the ground floor.

Afternoon: Tahrir Square & Local Lunch

Square Power: Stepping into Tahrir Square, the beating heart of modern Cairo, I felt the energy that sparked Egypt’s 2011 revolution. This vast open space has witnessed countless historical moments, from independence celebrations to peaceful protests.

Local Pulse: Walking through the square today, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a mix of historic architecture and modern city life. The Arab League building stands proudly alongside the salmon-colored government buildings, while street vendors sell everything from fresh juice to Egyptian flags.

Food Quest: After exploring the square, I discovered Koshary Abou Tarek, just a 5-minute walk away. Their koshary is legendary – a perfect mix of rice, pasta, lentils, and spicy tomato sauce. The restaurant spans multiple floors, and I love watching the skilled servers balance multiple bowls up and down the stairs.

Flavor Hunt: My favorite lunch spots near Tahrir Square:

• Felfela: Authentic Egyptian cuisine in a vintage setting
• Kazaz: Best spot for traditional taameya and ful
• Gad: Quick, cheap, and delicious Egyptian street food

Culture Code: Most restaurants in this area are local establishments where prices are fixed – no bargaining needed. However, if you’re buying from street vendors, some friendly negotiation is expected.

Smart Move: Many restaurants near Tahrir Square don’t accept cards, so carry cash. ATMs are available around the square, but I prefer getting cash from bank branches for better security.

Evening: Nile River Cruise

Sunset Magic: After exploring around Cairo’s ancient sites, I discovered the perfect way to end a day – watching the city transform during golden hour from the Nile’s gentle waters. From here, you get some of the best views, including distant glimpses of the pyramids and the 14th century mosque of Muhammad Ali piercing the skyline.

Felucca Vibes: My favorite option is the traditional felucca sail, departing from the Nile Corniche near Downtown Cairo. These graceful sailboats offer the most authentic experience, with departure times at 5 PM, 7 PM, or sunset. The gentle sway of the boat and the cool evening breeze create an absolutely magical atmosphere.

Dinner Delights: For a more structured evening, the dinner cruises offer a complete entertainment package. They run three daily sessions, with the 7 PM slot offering the perfect blend of sunset and illuminated city views. After the cruise, private transfers ensure you get back to your hotel safely.

Entertainment Plus: Dinner cruises include live music, belly dancing, and a Tanoura show. The buffet spreads feature both Egyptian and international cuisine, though I always gravitate toward the local dishes.

Day 2: Ancient Wonders in Giza and Beyond

We recommend the following tours for this day:

• Tour to Giza Pyramids and The Egyptian Museum: This guided tour combines visits to the most iconic ancient sites in one day – the Pyramids complex and the Egyptian Museum. A professional Egyptologist guide provides detailed commentary while handling all logistics, making it an efficient way to experience these must-see attractions.
• Half-Day Saqqara Pyramids and Memphis Tour from Cairo: This half-day tour takes you to explore the oldest pyramid complex at Saqqara and the ruins of the ancient capital Memphis. An expert guide provides historical context while you discover the Step Pyramid of Djoser and view colossal statues including the massive fallen colossus of Ramesses II.
• VIP All inclusive Best of the best Giza Pyramids,Sakkara,Memphis: This comprehensive private tour covers the major archaeological sites of ancient Egypt in one day with an expert Egyptologist guide. The all-inclusive experience features comfortable transportation between sites, entrance fees, and a camel ride for memorable photo opportunities at the pyramids.
• Giza Pyramids Sound & Light Show At Night: Experience an enchanting evening show that brings ancient history to life through dramatic lighting and narration projected onto the pyramids and Sphinx. The tour includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the multimedia spectacle without worrying about transportation.

Morning: Pyramids of Giza & Sphinx

Desert Dawn: Arriving at the Giza plateau just as it opens at 7 AM during summer months gives you the most serene experience. I love watching the first rays of sunlight hitting the limestone blocks, creating an almost golden glow across the ancient structures.

Power Path: Take day 2 of your journey to explore the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the largest and most impressive of the three. The ancient capital of Egypt houses two other main pyramids, but this massive structure will leave you speechless – I certainly was when I got the best views of Cairo’s most famous monument.

Hidden Gems: While stopping in Cairo, spend at least 3-4 hours exploring around the complex. The interior of the Great Pyramid is fascinating but not for everyone – you’ll need to pay extra for entry. The narrow corridors can feel claustrophobic, and the air gets quite stifling. If you’re unsure, start with the smaller Menkaure Pyramid first.

Hustle Defense: Never show your ticket to anyone after the visitor center. Those people standing on the walkway to the first pyramid are not official staff. I learned to politely but firmly ignore anyone who approaches offering “special access” or “free gifts.”

Ancient Guardian: Visit the Sphinx later in the morning when the tour buses have moved on. The Valley Temple beside it offers fascinating insights into ancient Egyptian burial practices.

Money Magic: If you want a camel ride photo, head to the designated viewpoint at the top of the hill. The official government rate is 10 USD for a one-hour ride – don’t pay more.

Scam Shield: Don’t fall for these common scams:

• Fake guides claiming mandatory tours
• “Free” gifts that turn into demands for money
• Overpriced camel rides with hidden fees

Afternoon: Saqqara & Memphis

Desert Wonders: Just 27km southwest of where Cairo was founded, Saqqara offers some of the best views of ancient Egypt you need to see. The Step Pyramid of Djoser, predating the famous pyramids of Giza, took my breath away. Standing 62 meters tall, this spellbinding architectural marvel was where pyramid building first began, long before Cairo and the pyramids we know today.

Time Travel: The Step Pyramid complex spans 15 hectares, featuring intricate tunnels and chambers that stretch nearly 6km beneath the surface. I spent a fascinating hour exploring the ceremonial courtyards where ancient pharaohs once performed ritual runs during their Sed festivals.

Royal Ground: Moving to Memphis, where Cairo is home to Egypt’s ancient roots, I discovered an open-air museum that’s not free to enter but worth every penny. This site, predating even days in Alexandria, showcases colossal statues including an impressive alabaster sphinx and a massive statue of Ramesses II.

Smart Route: My suggested exploration order:

• Start at Saqqara’s Step Pyramid complex
• Visit the Imhotep Museum
• Explore Memphis ruins and museum
• End at the Colossus of Ramesses II

Budget Tip: Book a guided tour that combines both sites – it’s more economical than arranging separate transportation and guides. I paid 900 EGP (~$29) for a half-day tour including both locations.

Evening: Light & Sound Show at Giza

Night Magic: As darkness falls over the Giza plateau, offering some of the best views of Cairo, the ancient pyramids transform into a spellbinding canvas of light and shadow. The sound and light show brings 5,000 years of history to life, making it a perfect finale after a full day visiting the pyramids.

Show Magic: The one-hour performance starts with the Sphinx narrating Egypt’s story, long before the famous church of Muhammad Ali or the hanging church existed. I sat mesmerized as the pyramids lit up in different colors, creating views of the pyramids that travelers from London to Cairo specifically come to experience.

Seat Smart: After trying different spots, I found the best views are from the middle section, rows 5-10. The VIP section offers cushioned seats and a slightly elevated view, worth the extra cost on chilly nights.

Price Points:

Day 3: Coptic & Islamic Cairo

We recommend the following tours for this day:

• Cairo Luxury Tours to Egyptian Museum,Coptic Cairo & Bazaar: This luxury tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Cairo’s most significant cultural sites with private transportation and an expert guide. You’ll visit three distinct areas – the Egyptian Museum’s ancient artifacts, the historic churches and synagogues of Coptic Cairo, and the medieval Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
• Cairo private guided tours visit Islamic and Coptic Cairo: This private guided tour explores the religious heritage of Cairo with visits to both Christian churches and Islamic mosques, including lunch at a local restaurant. Your personal guide provides detailed historical context while leading you through ancient places of worship, ensuring an intimate experience of Cairo’s diverse spiritual landmarks.
• Sunset & Night Open Air Nile Cruise in Cairo & Giza: This open-air cruise offers a unique perspective of the city’s skyline as day turns to night, with unobstructed views from the deck. The experience includes dinner and entertainment while sailing past illuminated landmarks along the river.
• Cairo Private Felucca OnThe Nile River With Pickup and Soft Drink: This private felucca experience offers a peaceful sailing journey on the Nile with complimentary refreshments and hotel pickup included. Your personal captain navigates the traditional sailboat while you enjoy uninterrupted views of the city skyline during the most scenic hours of the day.

Morning: Coptic Cairo

Dawn Discovery: Known as Coptic Cairo, this spellbinding district welcomes early visitors at 9 AM sharp. First things first, I watched the sun cast long shadows across ancient stones that were originally a landfill in Roman times, while men draping scarves hurried to morning services around Cairo’s oldest Christian quarter.

Sacred Steps: The Hanging Church, one of the oldest churches in Egypt, stands proudly above an ancient Roman fortress, making it a must-see destination. Inside, 110 magnificent icons and the Noah’s Ark-inspired ceiling tell stories of ancient Christianity in Cairo.

Jewish Heritage: Spend the time at the Ben Ezra Synagogue, where local tradition marks the spot where baby Moses was found. This 9th-century structure represents how long should you spend exploring Cairo’s diverse religious heritage – at least half a day to truly appreciate its significance.

Art Adventure: The Coptic Museum became my sanctuary from Cairo’s heat, where I lost track of time exploring room after room of treasures. My favorite discovery was a collection of intricate textiles that made me rethink everything I knew about ancient Egyptian craftsmanship.

Afternoon: Islamic Cairo & Khan El Khalili Bazaar

Fortress First: Perched atop a limestone hill, the Citadel of Saladin took my breath away with its imposing medieval walls and stunning city views. I started my afternoon exploration here, where the gleaming domes of the Alabaster Mosque pierce Cairo’s skyline.

Mosque Magic: Inside the Muhammad Ali (Alabaster) Mosque, I found myself mesmerized by the intricate Ottoman architecture and alabaster-covered walls. The vast courtyard houses a beautiful copper clock tower, a gift from King Louis Philippe of France, though it’s never worked.

Sacred Steps: A short walk brought me to the Sultan Hassan Mosque, one of Cairo’s largest Islamic monuments. Its soaring 68-meter minaret and stunning marble decoration left me speechless. The massive bronze doors still swing smoothly after centuries of use.

Market Maze: Diving into Khan El Khalili’s labyrinth of narrow alleys, I discovered why this 14th-century bazaar remains Cairo’s beating heart. The scent of spices and shisha tobacco mingles with the calls of merchants.

Bargain Basics: My first purchase taught me the golden rule of haggling – start at 30% of the initial price. I’ve found smiling and patience go further than aggressive bargaining.

Evening: Cairo Tower

Sky Magic: Standing 187 meters above Gezira Island, Cairo Tower transformed my evening into something extraordinary. The lotus-inspired latticework design glows with changing colors against the night sky, creating a mesmerizing beacon visible across the city.

View Quest: The 360-degree observation deck offered me breathtaking panoramas of Cairo’s sprawling landscape. Through the provided telescopes, I spotted the pyramids to the west, while the medieval quarter stretched out to the east.

Time Smart: After multiple visits, I’ve found the sweet spot is arriving an hour before sunset. The golden hour bathes the city in warm light, and staying through dusk lets you witness Cairo transform into a sea of twinkling lights.

Dining Heights: The revolving restaurant one floor below the observation deck completely changed my perspective of Cairo during dinner. One full rotation takes 70 minutes, giving you plenty of time to spot landmarks while enjoying Egyptian and international cuisine.

Smart Access: I always take an Uber to the Opera metro station and enjoy a short walk to the tower. The location on Gezira Island makes it easily accessible from most parts of central Cairo.

Practical Information

Where to Stay in Cairo

Downtown Buzz: Living like a local in Downtown Cairo has become my favorite way to experience the city’s pulse. The area around Tahrir Square puts you steps away from the Egyptian Museum and countless local eateries. The energy here is electric, especially during evening walks when locals flood the streets for shopping and socializing.

Island Life: Zamalek, perched on Gezira Island, surprised me with its European flair and leafy streets. I love starting my mornings at sidewalk cafes, watching the city wake up across the Nile. The neighborhood’s central location makes it perfect for exploring, while its upscale restaurants and bars create the perfect evening atmosphere.

Pyramid Dreams: My first morning waking up to pyramid views in Giza left me speechless. While it’s further from central Cairo, staying here lets you beat the crowds to the pyramids and catch both sunrise and sunset over these ancient wonders.

Transportation Tips

Metro Magic: After countless trips across the city, I’ve found the metro to be my go-to option for beating the city’s intense traffic. During my ultimate 3 days in Cairo, the three main lines connected me to most major attractions, and I can’t get enough of watching city life unfold in these underground arteries.

Smart Routes: The red line (Line 2) became my best friend for travel, connecting old Cairo’s Sadat Station to the great pyramids of Giza. With limited vacation days, I discovered a clever hack – take the metro to Giza station ($0.30), then hop on a microbus for the final stretch to the pyramids.

Ride Smart: After trying all options, I’ve settled on Uber for evening journeys. No haggling needed, and the GPS tracking adds an extra layer of security. Plus, the fare is set before you start the journey.

Safety Sense: During my countless Cairo crossings, I’ve developed three golden rules:

• Use official metro stations and marked taxi stands
• Keep small bills for taxi fares
• Share your ride location when using Uber at night

Driver Deal: For day tours south of Cairo like Saqqara, I found hiring a private driver worth the splurge (around $65/day). Egypt is home to countless hidden treasures, and these drivers know the perfect spots and timing for photos.

❓ FAQ

Is 3 days enough time to spend in Cairo?

For your trip to Egypt, 3 days in Cairo is the perfect introduction to the city. While Cairo is intense and spellbinding, three full days allow you to explore the essential sites: the pyramids and ancient Egypt attractions, old Cairo including Coptic Cairo, and the Cairo Citadel. You’ll need at least 3 days in Cairo to experience both Cairo and Giza without rushing through the main attractions.

What’s the best time to visit Cairo?

The best time to visit Cairo is between October and April when the day is warm but not scorching. During these months, you can comfortably spend time exploring outdoor sites like the pyramids and taking a stroll in one of the historic districts. Summer months can be extremely hot, making it challenging to fully enjoy your time in Egypt, especially when visiting outdoor attractions.

What should I wear in Egypt during my Cairo travel?

Cairo has a strict dress code, particularly when visiting religious sites. Men should avoid shorts, with long pants and shirts covering shoulders being appropriate. Women should wear loose-fitting clothes covering shoulders and knees, and carry scarves for mosque visits. This dress code applies whether you stay in Giza or central Cairo, and is especially important when visiting the Mosque of Muhammad Ali and churches.

How do I get from Cairo International Airport to my hotel?

The easiest way is to book a tour operator’s transfer service or take an Uber to the main entrance of your hotel. The drive from Cairo airport takes 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. Whether you’re staying around Cairo’s downtown or planning to stay in Giza near the pyramids, pre-arranging transportation is recommended as Cairo is intense for newcomers who don’t know the city.

Should I book a tour or explore independently?

While Cairo can be navigated independently, booking a day tour or group tour can enhance your experience, especially when visiting the pyramids and ancient sites. Tours provide historical context, handle transportation, and help avoid common tourist pitfalls. However, areas like Coptic Cairo and the Citadel can be easily explored on your own using Uber or the metro.