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Cairo holidays: Uncover Egypt's ancient wonders
Whether you're a culture lover or just craving a unique getaway, Egypt's vibrant capital has something for everyone. Start with the Pyramids of Giza, as no trip to Cairo is complete without marvelling at these ancient giants. Families will love the Egyptian Museum, packed with mummies and dazzling treasures, while solo travellers can wander through the Khan El Khalili Bazaar. Take a Nile cruise at sunset, explore the stunning Mosque of Muhammad Ali or dive into Cairo's street food scene.
Whether you're travelling solo or with family, Cairo promises an adventure-packed holiday. So, grab money-saving deals and offers on hotels and flights to Cairo.
Cairo at a glance
Flight duration (from London): 4 hours 50 minutes
Main airport: Cairo International Airport (CAI)
Population: 23 million
Language: Arabic
Currency: The Egyptian Pound
Time zone: Eastern Europe Standard Time (GMT+2)
Getting to Cairo from the UK
Getting to Cairo from the UK is easier than ever, with only a 5-hour flight standing between you and the Pyramids of Giza! British Airways and EgyptAir offer direct flights from London to Cairo International Airport (CAI), so you'll be strolling through ancient temples in no time.
Are you looking for a budget-friendly option? Low-cost airlines like Turkish Airlines or Pegasus offer one-stop flights via Istanbul, which are often at great prices. Once you land, grab an Uber or taxi and head straight to your hotel in the city centre, located 14 miles from the airport.
The best time to travel to Cairo
Whether you love cool breezes, sizzling heat or festive vibes, every season in Cairo has something special to offer. The peak season in Cairo is in winter, from December to February. The daytime temperatures are around 20°C, which is ideal for wandering through Khan el-Khalili Market or cruising the Nile without the heat. However, you can expect higher prices and crowds in popular tourist sites.
Cairo starts to heat up in spring, but the temperatures are still pleasant. You can visit from March to May to explore the museums and take day trips to Saqqara. Cairo is hot in summer, with temperatures up to 40°C. If you can’t handle the heat, visit indoor attractions like the Grand Egyptian Museum. At night, you can go on a Nile dinner cruise for a romantic getaway. In autumn, the weather starts cooling down, and the crowds start thinning out. You can explore Islamic Cairo and hike Wadi Degla.
Things to do in Cairo
Explore the Pyramids of Giza
Start by exploring the Great Pyramid of Khufu, and if you're up for it, venture inside for a peek at the ancient passageways. Then, snap a selfie with the mysterious Sphinx. For the ultimate desert experience, hop on a camel ride and trek across the golden sands.
Rent a quad bike and zoom through the dunes for an adrenaline rush. As the sun sets, don't miss the sound and light show, where the pyramids are illuminated with colourful lights and dramatic storytelling.
Discover the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
Step into the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, Cairo's most vibrant and chaotic shopping market. This historic market is a maze of narrow alleys filled with the scent of spices. Start by haggling like a pro for handcrafted jewellery, colourful scarves and intricate brass lamps. Next, sip on sweet mint tea at El Fishawi Cafe, where poets and travellers have gathered for centuries. If you want a magical experience, watch artisans handcraft silverware and perfumes or find a hidden rooftop cafe for epic views of the bazaar.
Take a felucca ride on the Nile
There's no better way to experience Cairo's magic than with a sunset felucca ride on the Nile. Hop aboard a traditional wooden sailboat, sit back and let the gentle breeze guide you along the Nile. Bring some snacks and drinks, or go full-on romantic with a picnic on deck. Are you feeling musical? Some of the felucca captains love playing Egyptian tunes, so you might even end up dancing at sunset.
Visit the Egyptian Museum
Step into the Egyptian Museum, where ancient history comes to life. This place is home to over 120,000 artefacts and a treasure trove of mummies, golden masks and legendary pharaohs. Start by meeting King Tut with his solid gold death mask. Then, wander through halls filled with colossal statues and ancient papyrus scrolls. If you are feeling adventurous, head to the Royal Mummy Room and come face-to-face with real-life pharaohs like Ramses II.
FAQs about Cairo holidays
Q: What is the best month to go to Cairo?
A: The best month to visit Cairo is November. With daytime temperatures of around 25°C, it's perfect for exploring without the extreme desert heat. November also means fewer crowds just before high season, so you'll have more space to haggle in the bazaar or relax at a local cafe.
Q: Is Cairo cheap or expensive?
A: Cairo is surprisingly affordable for most travellers. Accommodation, food and transport are much cheaper than many other holiday destinations. You can enjoy local cuisine for just a few pounds and taxis are budget-friendly. Entrance fees to attractions vary, but even famous sites, like the Pyramids of Giza, won't break the bank.
Q: Is it safe in Cairo for a tourist?
A: Cairo is generally safe for tourists, but like any big city, it's best to stay aware. Stick to well-travelled areas like the Pyramids, Khan el-Khalili and the city centre. You can also use Uber instead of hailing taxis to avoid potential scams. Beware of pickpockets in crowded places and ‘friendly guides’ offering unsolicited help.
Q: How many days in Cairo is enough?
A: Three days in Cairo is perfect for experiencing the city's best sights. Spend the first day exploring the Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx and Saqqara, followed by a Nile sunset cruise. The second day is for the Egyptian Museum, Khan el-Khalili bazaar and Islamic Cairo. On the last day, visit Coptic Cairo and enjoy a local food tour. If you are short on time, two days can still cover the highlights.
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