Cairo, Egypt: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2026

The best areas to stay are Downtown Cairo for historic charm, Giza for pyramid views, and Zamalek for a quieter, upscale experience.

Cairo requires 3 to 4 days to explore the Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, and Islamic Cairo. A 5 to 6-day stay allows for day trips to Saqqara and Alexandria.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Cairo. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

The best time to visit Cairo is during the cooler months from October to April. During this period, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the outdoor attractions such as the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and walking through the historic streets of Islamic Cairo. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during these months:

Autumn (October to November)

Autumn offers a reprieve from the hot summer, with temperatures gradually cooling down, making it more comfortable to visit outdoor sites and enjoy the city. The average temperatures range from 20°C to 29°C (68°F to 84°F). This time of year is less crowded than the peak winter season, providing a more relaxed atmosphere for sightseeing.

Winter (December to February)

Winter is the peak tourist season in Cairo due to the very mild weather, with temperatures rarely falling below 10°C (50°F) at night, and daytime highs around 20°C (68°F). The pleasant weather is perfect for spending extended time outdoors. However, it’s also the busiest time, so expect more tourists and higher prices for accommodations. Additionally, December and January can see occasional rain, though it’s generally light and infrequent.

Early Spring (March to April)

Early spring is another excellent time to visit. The temperatures are similar to autumn, making it comfortable for touring around. However, by late April, the temperature begins to rise, leading into the hotter months. Like autumn, early spring sees fewer tourists compared to winter, offering a quieter experience.

Tips for Visiting

• Avoid Summer: Cairo’s summers (May to September) are hot and dry, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F), which can make outdoor activities uncomfortable.
• Cultural Events: Winter and early spring are also good times to experience local cultural events and festivals.
• Ramadan: If you plan to visit during Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, note that many restaurants and shops may have altered hours, and the pace of life slows down considerably during the day.

Choosing to visit Cairo in the cooler months not only ensures a more comfortable exploration of this historic city but also enriches the travel experience by avoiding the extreme heat typical of the Egyptian summer.

Getting to Cairo, the bustling capital city of Egypt, is straightforward due to its status as a major cultural, economic, and educational hub in the Middle East. Here are the primary ways to reach Cairo:

By Air

Cairo International Airport (CAI) is the main gateway for international travelers coming to Cairo. It is the busiest airport in Egypt and one of the busiest in Africa. The airport hosts flights from all over the world, including major cities in North America, Europe, Asia, and other parts of Africa. From the airport, you can take a taxi, a bus, or arrange a private transfer to get to the city center.

By Train

For travelers already in Egypt, trains are a convenient and affordable option to reach Cairo. The Egyptian National Railways operates numerous trains daily from various parts of the country, including major cities like Alexandria, Luxor, and Aswan. The trains vary in comfort and speed, offering options from regular to first-class services. Ramses Station, the main railway station in Cairo, is centrally located and connects easily to other parts of the city via taxis and buses.

By Road

Driving to Cairo is another option if you are in or near Egypt. The city is well-connected by a network of roads and highways. Long-distance buses also operate between Cairo and most major cities and towns throughout Egypt. Companies like GoBus and SuperJet offer regular services that are comfortable and air-conditioned. The bus terminals in Cairo are well-connected to the local transport network, making it easy to reach your final destination in the city.

By Nile Cruise

Some visitors opt to travel to Cairo as part of a Nile cruise package, which typically starts in cities like Luxor or Aswan. These cruises offer a leisurely and scenic way to see the historic sites along the Nile before ending in Cairo. While this is a less common way to arrive in Cairo, it's an option that combines transportation with tourism.

Local Transportation

Once in Cairo, you have several options for getting around:

• Metro: Cairo’s metro system is one of the oldest in the Middle East and Africa. It’s an efficient and affordable way to get around the city, avoiding traffic jams.
• Taxis: Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street. It’s advisable to agree on the fare before starting your journey or ensure the meter is used.
• Ride-Sharing Apps: Services like Uber and Careem are available in Cairo and can be a more convenient and safer option than traditional taxis.
• Buses and Microbuses: These are available but can be crowded and less comfortable than other options.

Whether arriving by air, train, road, or even by river, Cairo is highly accessible. Once there, the city offers a range of transportation options suited to different preferences and budgets.