There’s plenty to do for a weekend in Cairo and while the pyramids feature heavily, there’s more to this city than just their Ancient Wonders (although clearly they can’t be left out).
The Pyramids
No trip to Egypt is complete without seeing the Pyramids of Giza. This famous trifecta sits just on the outskirts of the city centre and demand your attention as soon as they’re visible from the skyline. Whether you want to go inside and explore the full gamut of theories, wander around the perimeter for the ultimate Egypt photo or just sit and gaze at them over a meal, something to do with the pyramids will be on your ‘to do’ list this weekend.
Pyramid Sound & Light Show
For a ‘lite’ pyramid option the Sound and Light Show gives a good historic commentary in one of the world’s most incredible settings. With the pyramids as a backdrop, the Sphinx lights up and projections are cast on ancient slabs to give a short commentary of the long history of the pyramids and pharaohs.
See more here.
Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
The Grand Egyptian Museum is currently in soft opening with the official opening being set for 6 July 2025. While some of the galleries are still being finalised, GEM’s first wave of reviews seems to conclude that it’s “a masterpiece that perfectly blends ancient wonders with modern design” – Marc Abboud (Google Local Guide review).
With the iconic giant statue of Pharaoh Ramses II greeting you in the entrance, it’s touted as the new ‘must see’ of the city.
See the GEM website.
The Egyptian Museum in Cairo (EMC)
The ‘old’ Egyptian Museum is the oldest archaeological museum in the Middle East. Having opened in 1902, it has housed over 170,000 artifacts with the largest collection of pharaonic antiquities in the world. With the move to GEM, it’s unclear how much has been moved and how many of the masterpieces remain here but with so many to choose from there’s sure to be something that piques everyone’s fancy.
See the EMC website.
Cairo Citadel
Once you’re done with the ancient, move onto the medieval era with a visit to the Citadel of Cairo (Wala at Salah ad-Din). This Islamic fortification served as Egypt’s seat of government and ruler’s residence from the 13th to the 19th Century. This preserved historic site includes mosques and museums with sweeping views from its perch on the Mokattam hills.
See the Cairo Citadel website.
Cairo Tower
Cairo Tower offers great views of the modern heart of this ancient city. It has always reminded me a bit of a lotus flower but perhaps that’s too fond a connection for this 187m concrete observation deck. Nevertheless, the views are sweeping and the Nile looks very pretty at night.
See more here.
Nile Cruise
A cruise on the ageless Nile River is a must. While night cruises that include dinner are popular, there’s less to see downriver at night time. Perhaps opt for a lunch cruise that allows you to fully take in the river and its sights. Having said that, the night lights of Cairo do mask some of the river bank’s less attractive sights.
Khan El Khalil Bazaar
This Bazaar is a thriving example of just how chaotic a Bazaar can be. The sights, sounds, smells and souvenirs are a must see. Brace yourself.
See more here.
Museums
There’s no shortage of museums in this city. If there’s still time after all of the above and pausing to take in some local food, seek out some of the smaller museums. Specialty offerings like the National Papyrus Museum give insights that are a bit out of the ordinary.
Baron Empain Palace
Having driven past a couple of times, this palace is on my list. The architecture is intriguing and I’m keen to discover the story behind this Hindu Palace (Le Palais Hindou). Built by Belgian businessman, Baron Empain, in Heliopolis, in 1905, it has been recently restored.
Good To Know
Uber is a cost effective way to get around the city. Select one of the ‘comfort’ rides for a superior car (especially if you want to ensure that the a/c is working). This option is particularly workable if you have a few words of Arabic in your vocabulary.
Otherwise, hotel concierges will have contacts for private drivers and English speaking tour guides. Quality and price vary greatly but expect to pay between USD100 – 200pp, for a full day tour. The upper limits ought to include entry tickets, lunch, drinks and snacks. Check inclusions before agreeing on a price.
Contact Mahmoud (WhatsApp +20 122 177 2992) for more information.
Would I Return?
Yes.