This eclectic metropolis of contrasts is brimming with history
The Egyptian capital of Cairo is a hub of monuments spanning multiple eras, mixed architectural influences, flavorful local eats, beautiful crafts and a rich cultural scene, all entwined into a singular street life. Flanking the Nile River and crowned by the iconic Pyramids and Sphinx, Cairo is nicknamed “the city of a thousand minarets” for its wealth of stunning Islamic architecture. The Egyptian Museum in the heart of downtown showcases thousands of Egyptian antiquities, while the city’s medieval Khan El-Khalili bazaar is buzzing with life.
Explore Cairo
- Downtown
- Zamalek
- El-Tagamoa
- El-Haram (Pyramids area)
Downtown
Overview
Considered the heart of Cairo, the downtown neighborhood is well known for Tahrir Square and 19th-century European-influenced architecture — both of which are made more mysterious by the small passages that dot the walls. Here you’ll find hotels, street food, arthouse cinema and lots of seasonal festivals.
Known For
Festivals, Arthouse Cinema, Culture, Hotels, Architecture, Street Food
Zamalek
Overview
The island of Zamalek is the affluent counterpart to the downtown neighborhood. Amid beautiful old buildings and ancient trees, you’ll find unique stores, most of Cairo’s best art galleries, excellent restaurants, bars and rooftop views.
Known For
Cafés, Dining, Nightlife, Culture, Shopping, Art Galleries, Views
Stay in The Center of it All
Immerse yourself in your destination at these centrally located hotels.
Spend Three Days in Cairo: a City Expertly Blending Old and New
Experience the City’s Variety
Experience the vastness of the Wadi Degla desert before shifting gears to the buzzy downtown neighborhood. Savor local dishes and tasty snacks along the way, then end on a high note at one of Cairo’s nightclubs.
Surround Yourself in Culture & History
Start off with a zip-lining rush followed by a visit to a citadel with breathtaking views. Dive deeper into history among old churches, followed by a visit to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. Shop for colorful pottery souvenirs before wrapping up the day with drinks and live music.
Immerse Yourself in Art
Get a taste of local art while exploring Zamalek, capped by a rooftop lunch with views of the Nile River. Spend the evening wandering through Khan El-Khalili’s alleyways and emerging onto the historic El-Moez Street before closing the night at the Cairo Jazz Club.