Cairo is a vibrant and bustling city rich in history and culture. With so much to see and do, planning a short trip to this magnificent city can be overwhelming. However, with the proper planning and itinerary, you can make the most of your 3 days in Cairo and experience the city’s best. This blog post will provide all the information you need to enjoy your 3-day short trip in Cairo. From exploring the ancient Pyramids of Giza to trying out the delicious local cuisine, we will cover everything you need to know to make your trip to Cairo unforgettable.
Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, our tips and recommendations will help you navigate the city and maximize your short stay. We will highlight the best places to visit, the top attractions to see, and the most delicious foods to try during your trip to Cairo. In this post, we will explain why visiting Cairo is a great option and provide a detailed itinerary to help you enjoy your 3 days in this magnificent city. So, let’s get started and explore the wonders of Cairo together!
The Most Created Egypt Itinerary 3 Days with Egypt Planners
Day 1: Arrival in Cairo
1. Pyramids of Giza
If you’re visiting Cairo, the Pyramids of Giza are an absolute must-see! These ancient royal tombs are on the Giza Plateau, a fascinating place where history comes alive. And let’s not forget the majestic Great Sphinx, an iconic symbol of Egypt with its lion’s body and human head.
Here at Giza, you’ll find three stunning pyramids – Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure. While you’re exploring, keep an eye out for the upcoming Grand Egyptian Museum. It’s set to be the world’s largest museum dedicated to a single civilization, showcasing incredible Egyptian antiquities.
Planning Your Trip
Getting There: Uber and Careem are easy ways to reach the Giza Plateau.
Tickets: Purchase tickets at the entrance or book online in advance.
Hours: The plateau is open from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. Last ticket sales are at 4:00 pm.
Costs: General Entry for Foreign
Giza Pyramids – EGP 540
Entry Great Pyramid – EGP 900
Entry 2nd and 3rd pyramid – EGP 220
2. Egyptian Museum
Want to feel like a time traveler? The Egyptian Museum is your ticket! It houses the most incredible collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts on the planet. To really soak it all in, plan on spending 2-4 hours exploring all the treasures. And whatever you do, don’t miss the Tutankhamun Gallery – it’s mind-blowing!
Hours: The museum welcomes visitors from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Last ticket sales are at 4:15 pm.
Tickets: You can buy tickets right at the museum entrance. Tickets for foreigners cost EGP 450.
3. Treasure Hunting and Coffee Breaks at Khan El Khalili Market
Get ready for a vibrant adventure! Khan El Khalili Souq, the world’s oldest open-air market, is a treasure trove of antiques, jewelry, spices, delicious food, and so much more. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs.
Here’s a pro tip: Be prepared to bargain! The first price you hear is just the starting point. Also, if a vendor invites you to the back of their shop, politely decline – sometimes that’s just a sales tactic. When you need a break, relax at one of the many coffeehouses scattered throughout the market and sip on some delicious Arabic or Turkish coffee.
Day 2: Cairo Day Tour [ Coptic and Islamic Attractions ]
Get ready to dive into the rich history of Egypt’s Christian community with a captivating tour of Coptic Cairo.
1. St. George’s Church: A Step Back in Time
Start your day at the beautiful St. George’s Church, a Greek Orthodox gem nestled within the Babylon Fortress. This remarkable church dates back to the 10th century! Best of all, entrance is free, and it’s open from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.
2. The Hanging Church: An Architectural Wonder
Marvel at the unique architecture of the Hanging Church, built atop the ancient Roman Fortress of Babylon. This iconic structure, one of Egypt’s oldest churches, dates back to the 3rd century. Look through the glass floor or a small window and see how the church earned its intriguing name!
3. The Coptic Museum: Unveiling Christian History
Immerse yourself in Egypt’s early Christian era at the Coptic Museum. It houses one of the finest collections of Coptic art in the country. The museum is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (last ticket at 4:00 pm), with a foreigner ticket price of EGP 230.
4. St. Sergius & St. Bacchus Church: A Sacred Haven
Step into the tranquil St. Sergius & St. Bacchus Church, built on the very spot where legend says the Holy Family sought refuge during King Herod’s persecution. It’s open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm with free entrance. Don’t miss the map detailing the Holy Family’s journey.
5. Synagogue Ben Ezra: A Place of Legends
Discover the Ben Ezra Synagogue, said to be built near the place where baby Moses was found. Explore this historic site from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and enjoy the free entrance.
6. Amr Ibn Al-A’as Mosque: A Monument of Faith
Venture outside of Coptic Cairo to the magnificent Amr Ibn Al-A’as Mosque. As the first mosque built in Egypt and Africa, it holds a special place in Islamic history. It welcomes visitors 24/7 with free admission.
Remember: It’s always best to check opening hours before you go, as these can sometimes change.
Day 3: Treasures of Egyptian History and Culture – End of Trip in Egypt
1. The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization: Mummies and Beyond
Uncover the fascinating story of Egyptian civilization and witness history come alive! This amazing museum is home to Egypt’s most famous Royal Mummies. Explore the specially designed Royal Mummies Gallery and see 22 remarkably preserved pharaohs.
2. Mosque of Ibn Tulun: Architectural Splendor
Step off the beaten path and admire the Mosque of Ibn Tulun, one of Egypt’s oldest and the country’s largest mosque in terms of land area. Immerse yourself in its unique design, where natural light floods a beautiful open courtyard. This lesser-visited gem offers a peaceful and authentic experience.
3. Salah Al Din Al Ayoubi Castle: Iconic Fortress, Panoramic Views
Journey to the Cairo Citadel, a powerful medieval Islamic fortification built by the legendary Salah Al-Din Al-Ayoubi. Stand in awe of this iconic landmark perched on a hilltop overlooking the city. Explore the magnificent Mosque of Muhammad Ali, the Mosque of Al Nasser Mohammed Ibn Kalawoun, and uncover military history at the National Military Museum.
Afternoon:
Transfer to Cairo International Airport. Make sure to leave your hotel with enough time to navigate through Cairo’s traffic and complete all airport procedures.
Departure from Cairo.
Other Things to Do in Cairo if You Have Extra Time
If you have extra time in Cairo, you can do many different things to explore this vibrant and historic city. Here are some suggestions:
- Visit Al-Azhar Park: This park is a beautiful green space in the heart of Cairo. It offers stunning city views and is a great place to relax and unwind.
- Explore the City of the Dead: The City of the Dead is an ancient cemetery still inhabited today. You can explore the maze-like streets and see how the local people live among the tombs.
- Visit the Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan: This historical mosque is one of Cairo’s largest and most impressive. It was built in the 14th century and featured beautiful Islamic architecture.
- Take a cooking class: Egyptian cuisine is delicious, and taking a cooking class is a great way to learn how to make traditional dishes like koshari, foul medames, and stuffed grape leaves.
- Visit the Cairo Tower: The Cairo Tower is a tall tower that offers panoramic views of the city. You can take an elevator to the top and enjoy the view while having a coffee or a snack.
- Take a felucca ride on the Nile: A felucca is a traditional wooden sailboat used for transportation on the Nile River. You can ride and enjoy the city’s scenic views from the water.
- Visit the Wadi El Natrun Monasteries: The Wadi El Natrun Monasteries are located about two hours outside of Cairo and are home to some of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world. They offer a fascinating glimpse into the history of Christianity in Egypt.
- Explore the Zamalek neighborhood: Zamalek is a trendy neighborhood in Cairo with art galleries, cafes, and boutique shops. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon wandering around and soaking up the local culture.
- Take a street art tour: Cairo is home to a thriving street art scene, and taking a tour is a great way to see some of the city’s most exciting murals and graffiti.
Where to stay in Cairo for 3 days?
Cairo is a large city with many different neighborhoods and accommodation options. The best place to stay depends on your preferences and what you want to do during your visit. Here are some suggestions based on different factors:
- Budget: If you’re on a budget, there are many affordable hotels and hostels in the downtown area of Cairo, specifically in the Talaat Harb or Bab el-Louq neighborhoods. Some popular options include the Golden Hotel Cairo and the Meramees Hostel.
- Sightseeing: If you want to be close to the major tourist attractions in Cairo, such as the Giza Pyramids and the Egyptian Museum, then staying in the Giza or Zamalek neighborhoods is a good idea. Some popular hotels in these areas include the Marriott Mena House in Giza and the Cairo Marriott Hotel & Omar Khayyam Casino in Zamalek.
- Culture and History: For a more immersive cultural experience, stay in the Old Cairo area, specifically in the Al-Muizz Street area, where you can experience the traditional markets and historical sites. Some popular hotels in this area include the Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir and the Cairo Khan Hotel.
- Nightlife: If you’re interested in the nightlife scene, staying in the upscale Zamalek or Garden City neighborhoods is a good idea. Some popular hotels in these areas include the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza and the Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah.
- Convenience: If you want to be close to public transportation, staying in the Heliopolis area is a good idea as it is close to the Cairo International Airport and the city’s central train station. Some popular hotels in this area include the Fairmont Heliopolis and Towers and the Le Méridien Cairo Airport.
Overall, staying in a hotel or hostel in a safe and central area with easy access to public transportation and amenities is recommended.
Transportation options in Cairo for 3 days
Cairo is a bustling city with many transportation options available for getting around. Here are some of the transportation options you can consider during your 3-day stay:
- Metro: The Cairo Metro is the city’s subway system, with three lines that cover most of the town. It’s a fast and affordable way to get around, with a flat fare of 5 to 10 Egyptian pounds (less than USD 0.25) per ride. The metro operates from 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM.
- Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Cairo, and they can be hailed on the street or booked through ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem. Taxis are relatively affordable, but it’s essential to negotiate the fare before getting in the car, as meters are only sometimes used.
- Microbuses: Microbuses are small vans that operate on fixed routes throughout the city. They are a cheap and convenient option for getting around but can be crowded and uncomfortable.
- Buses: Cairo has a public bus network covering most city areas. They are cheap but can be slow and unreliable due to traffic.
- Walking: Many of Cairo’s main tourist attractions are located in the same area, making it easy to explore them on foot. Walking is also a good option for getting around the narrow streets of Old Cairo.
The Cairo Metro is an excellent option for getting around quickly and affordably, while taxis and ride-hailing apps are convenient for longer distances or when traveling at night. Microbuses, buses, and trams can be used for shorter distances and exploring local neighborhoods.
Tips for Making the Most of Your 3 Days in Cairo
Here are some tips for making the most of your 3 days in Cairo:
- Plan your itinerary: Cairo is a big city with lots to see and do, so it’s essential to plan your itinerary to make the most of your time. Please list the top attractions you want to visit and plan the best route to see them all.
- Start early: Cairo can get very crowded, especially during peak tourist season, so it’s a good idea to start your days earlier to avoid crowds. Many attractions open early in the morning, so try to arrive as soon as they open.
- Be prepared for the weather: Cairo can get hot and dry, especially during summer. Be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Try the local food: Cairo is known for its delicious cuisine, so be sure to try some local dishes during your stay. Street food is an excellent option for trying various foods at affordable prices.
- Respect local customs: Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, so it’s essential to dress modestly and respect local customs. When visiting mosques, be sure to remove your shoes and dress appropriately.
- Shop in local markets: Cairo is home to many bustling markets where you can find everything from spices and textiles to souvenirs and handicrafts. Be sure to bargain with the vendors to get the best prices.
- Enjoy the nightlife: Cairo has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many cafes, bars, and clubs open late into the night. Try to experience some of the city’s nightlife during your stay.
Overall, Cairo is an exciting and vibrant city with lots to see and do. By following these tips, you can make the most of your 3 days in the city and have an unforgettable experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cairo is a city that is full of surprises. Whether exploring the Pyramids, immersing yourself in the local culture, or simply enjoying the delicious cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to discover. With some planning and insider tips, you can make the most of your three days in this incredible city. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Cairo today!
