This is the familiar choice of persuasive words, researched and practiced over years to perfection, that you will encounter a lot in Egypt.

This is known in Egypt as Baksheesh. It’s used to describe a small amount of money that’s been given either as a tip, bribe, or donation.

If you travel to Egypt, or many countries in the Middle East and North Africa, you will undoubtedly be introduced to baksheesh from the first day.

It is part of the Egyptian culture and plays are major role in the tourism industry.

But it can also feel overwhelming, and for some travelers, a little confrontational, so if you’re not familiar with this type of practice, then you’re going to want to keep reading to familiarize yourself with it before you go.

What’s the meaning of Baksheesh in Egypt?

In Egypt, Baksheesh means one of three things:

1. Begging – Someone out of nowhere just asks you for money, pleading “give me baksheesh”
2. Tipping – Attempting to do something legit in an effort to get a gratuity
3. Permission for Favors – The last form of baksheesh throughout Egypt is a tweak of tipping, favors are granted and under the table tips are given

Most people will encounter the latter two forms of Egyptian baksheesh.

When people use the term baksheesh, they are usually using it to talk about tipping in Egypt and to offer a sum of money in exchange for services.

Examples of Baksheesh

In order to understand what baksheesh looks like, here is an example of what happened to me.

I was walking to the museum in Luxor one evening, knowing exactly where I was going, and walking at a brisk pace to get there.

A 13 year old boy nudged my side and said “Hey, where you going?”

I didn’t respond, yet he continued walking with me and said “Hey, you turn left here.”

I continued walking, starting to ignore the boy more and more when he recited his next verse, “Hey, give me 1 pound, I showed you where to go (at this point I hadn’t even said a word, except “hey, how are you?”).”

I almost choked on my tongue and then just grinned as I walked the 50 meters to the museum where I was already going.

It can feel aggressive, and if you’re not expecting it or know how to deal with it, can make you feel uneasy.

But it’s all part of the culture and is common practice amongst beggars in cities, as well as people working in tourism after a quick and easy buck.

The art of baksheesh in touristy areas of Egypt starts at an early age and is fine tuned throughout years of working with tourists who apparently have had unlimited supplies of cash for centuries.

Ways In Which You Encounter Baksheesh

In order to know how to deal with baksheesh, you need to know the ways in which a person may use it.

Here are some ways in which people try to get baksheesh from travelers:

• They will try to relate in a personal way to their victim and try to establish a connection or link
• They may offer a service or piece of advice (can be useful or useless)
• Without asking permission, they may provoke someone to use their service (such as a taxi or following for directions)
• They may use all rules and regulations to their advantage and discard rules that will hinder (flaky or real)
• Initially they may give roundabout clues as to their motive of making a little money but typically they will appear friendly at first and then once you engage, their motives become more apparent
• They may come right out without hesitation and demand a couple of pounds or even come right out and say “give me baksheesh”
• They will make their target feel a bit guilty for not giving a tip
• If the victim still isn’t playing ball, they may start to get a little more aggressive (not so much in a threatening way, but in a conviction of the culprits wrongdoing). They usually are not out to attack you, but they will follow you for a long time.

• They may also go up to a tourist, take off their hat or Arab style headdress and re-wrap it, then ask for a tip
• They may wear Egyptian traditional dress and ask tourists to take a photo with them, then ask for money
• They may try to show you a hidden site, that’s really just around the corner
• They may also stand outside of a random bathroom (maybe not yours) and get a tip before anyone enters even if the bathroom is free and they don’t work there

Ways to Handle Baksheesh When Traveling in Egypt

Traveling through Egypt you will certainly be faced with multiple circumstances of baksheesh on a daily occurrence.

As mentioned above, there are many ways in which you will encounter baksheesh and it can feel overwhelming when it comes at your time and time again.

To make you more at ease, here are some tips to dealing with it.

1. Think of it as normal

If you really need the service offered (bathroom, attraction, etc.) use your own discretion to determine what price it is worth and just think of it as the normal cost.

2. Just walk on

If the baksheesh is a complete bogus claim, refuse to make eye contact with the tout and walk on.

Attempt to breeze past without speaking, playing stupid.

If the solicitor gets more aggressive, don’t sweat it, they won’t hurt you or even chase you. Just walk away at full speed.

3. Get a tour guide

Guides are great at keeping baksheesh at bay since they speak to local language. You do need to tip your guide, but at least you only tip one person.

4. Get a private driver

You can avoid confrontations on public transport by having someone drive you around all day and drop you off outside attractions you want to see.

5. Carry small bills

It’s always a good idea to carry a supply of small bills in the Egyptian pounds. This makes it easier to give appropriate tips without giving too much.

6. Be mindful of the situation you’re in

Baksheesh is often given in exchange for a service or favor received, so if someone has given you a favor and you’ve accepted it, then you’re more obligated to give a tip.

Consider the context and circumstances before deciding whether or how much to tip.

For example, tipping a tour guide or a porter who has provided exceptional service is generally expected.

7. Be discreet

If you do give baksheesh, it’s best to be discreet and avoid flaunting money.

Roll a bill up in your hands and shake hands with them as a way of giving them the money.

This helps maintain a respectful atmosphere and prevents any potential misunderstandings or uncomfortable situations.

Sometimes if someone sees you give a baksheesh, others will flock over to you.

8. Negotiate prices upfront

In some countries, baksheesh can be seen as an opportunity for negotiation.

If you’re unsure about the appropriate amount to tip, negotiate and agree on the price or tip beforehand to avoid any confusion later.

9. Respect local customs

Remember that baksheesh is a cultural practice, and it’s important to respect and adhere to local customs.

While there are some who take advantage, there are others who deserve their baksheesh (good tour guides and private drivers, for example).

Don’t go in with the mindset of not tipping in Egypt, but understand it’s a way to show appreciation for the local culture and contribute positively to the community.

10. Don’t feel obligated

While tipping is customary in many places, it’s not mandatory in all situations. Use your judgment and assess whether the service or assistance received warrants a tip.

You should never feel obligated to tip if the service was subpar or if it goes against your principles.

Final Thoughts

The art of baksheesh is ingrained into the minds of the people and ways of life in the tourism industry in Egypt.

If you are prepared or equipped with a little forewarning, baksheesh can be an amusing part of the Egyptian style and may even prove to be a bit of fun.

Though it sometimes drives people crazy, think of it with an open mind, and try not to get frustrated!

Note: Egyptians are some of the nicest and most hospitable people that I have encountered in the entire world. The art of baksheesh mostly pertains to people that work in the tourism industry day in and day out, searching for a little extra income.

Tours of Egypt

If you did not want to travel to Egypt as an independent traveler, G Adventures offer guided tours. We partner with G Adventures for their commitment to the supporting the environment and conserving local cultures.

• 14 Days Highlights of Egypt
• Egypt: Boats and Bazaars – 8 day tour

We also partner with Globus Family of Brands, which are also committed to cultural and environmental conservation. Here are some of their Egyptian Tours at different price points.

• Avalon Waterways: 10 Day Taste of Egypt along the Nile River
• Globus: 9 Days Egypt with Nile Cruise
• Globus: 6 Day Cairo and Alexandria

More Egypt & North Africa Travel Tips

Need more inspiration for your travels to Egypt and North Africa? Here are some other helpful guides…

• 23 Beautiful Reasons to Visit Morocco
• Things to do in Marrakesh, Morocco
• Things to Do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands
• 8 things to do in the Canary Islands
• What to Do in Ethiopia
• 5 Experiences Egypt Has To Offer Different Travel Tastes
• What to do in Cairo, Egypt

Ever been to Egypt? What did you think of the baksheesh strategies? Let us know in the comments.

When I hear people talk about Egypt, they talk about how big it is, how chaotic and busy it is, and that solo travellers never get a moment’s peace.

But I’m here to ease your mind and tell you that not all of Egypt is like this. There are countless reasons TO visit Egypt and make it a stop on your next vacation.

Not only is there so many things to do in Egypt, but it has plenty to offer every type of traveller; from history buffs to beach lovers, to hiking enthusiasts and adventurous explorers.

If you think Egypt has nothing but pyramids in Giza and other old monuments in Luxor and Aswan, then it’s time to change this perspective.

Here are all the top reasons to go to Egypt and make it your vacation destination!

Reasons to Visit Egypt

Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, a nature lover or explorer, here are the main reasons to visit Egypt in North Africa for your next vacation.

1. Egypt has Amazing Beaches

Who said that all of Egypt is considered to be a close-minded country where you can’t possibly even wear shorts?

I would like to invite you to Hurghada , Sharm el Sheikh and other places in Sinai (like Dahab, Taba and Nuweiba)

If you’ve ever been to any of those beach getaways in Egypt you would know that, not only it is allowed to wear your favorite bikini to the beach (yes in Egypt!), but they also have amazing waters for you swim in wearing them.

You’ll find amazing aquatic life, coral reefs and colorful fish; many amazing diving and snorkeling spots, and more centers offering day trips to those amazing diving and scuba diving spots, for next to nothing!

2. Egypt Offers Relaxation

Are you looking for that relaxed getaway where you can lay back all day and do nothing without being hassled and just enjoy the moment?

Not all of Egypt is as loud and crowded as Cairo.

I would like to introduce you to the relaxed (and more hippie towns) of Egypt: Siwa and Dahab. With both of them totally opposite to each other, you will find the place that meets your taste!

Siwa, the oasis that is literally in the middle of nowhere, lies alone in the middle of the desert at the borders of the Great Sand Sea, and at least 500 Km from any civilized city.

At Siwa you can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the culture of the Amazigh people, the nomadic tribes that have always lived the Great Sahara.

Dahab, on the other end of Egypt, is a small relaxed hippie town on the shores of the Red Sea. Relax, enjoy the beautiful view, go for a swim and more!

Dahab also has the advantage of being so close to many other destinations in Sinai.

The best that comes to mind is the day trip you can take to St. Katherine city, where the St. Katherine monastery lies in the middle of the Sinai Mountains and is also where Moses talked to god on top of Mount Sinai.

While many people visit Sharm el Sheikh on the Mediterranean Sea, this has become over populated with tourists, so if you want somewhere quieter then consider the places I’ve suggested above.

3. There’s Plenty of Adventure in Egypt

Adrenaline. I hear you. This is my personal favorite. And Egypt is not short on that side either!

Sand drifting in the Great Sand Sea

Many adventurous things come to my mind, but the top would be the desert safaris from Siwa, or from the other oases in the middle of the Western Desert of Egypt.

Lots of sand, lots of high dunes – just being in a car with a good desert driver gives you LOADS of adrenaline!

Water Adventures/Sports in Sharm el Sheikh – Banana Boat

Water adventure? How about diving?

There are AMAZING diving places all along the Red Sea on the Eastern side of Egypt. With Dahab and Sharm el Sheikh being on top of the list of diving spots, there are many undiscovered places along that shore!

Other adventures would include hiking in the mountainous National Park of St Katherine in Sinai, Mountain Climbing in Sinai, as well as sand surfing in the Western Desert.

Wind surfing and water surfing are also growing day by day in Egypt!

4. For the Historical Experiences in Egypt

You knew it’s coming, it just can’t be ignored!

Egypt for the historians’ Mecca! With temples, monuments and buildings standing for 5,000 years, you can’t beat that.

I am not by any chance a professional Egyptologist, but it doesn’t take that to enjoy the fact that you’re seeing the Pyramids for example. It doesn’t take a professional to appreciate King Tut’s golden tomb.

Then there’s also the Grand Egyptian Museum which contains many ancient artifacts and relics from the time of the pharaohs, and is where you’ll find the gigantic, 82-ton statue of Ramses II which was built over 3,200 years ago remains.

You can also visit the temples created by Ancient Egyptian Pharaohs, such as Abu Simbel Temples, and see their tombs and sarcophagi.

If you’re thinking of coming to Egypt for history, this is one of the biggest attractions for tourism and you don’t be disappointed. It’s a history buffs paradise!

5. To See The Amazing and Diverse Egyptian Culture

Travel around Egypt for a while and you’ll notice the differences between Egyptians.

While it might seem like most Egyptians have so much in common, if you take it to the extremes from Alexandria to Nubia, you’ll notice a huge difference in the cultures and traditions of these places!

The people of Egypt are very kind and hospitable, especially outside the touristic places; you’ll see people genuinely happy to help you and trying their best to make sure you’re having a good day! This can also specially be witnessed in the less civilized cities or towns, like Siwa for example!

6. Egyptian Cuisine is Divine!

Egyptian food is warming, hearty and filling. Not to mention healthy, compared to Western standards.

You’ll find most Egyptian dishes are prepared with fresh vegetables and more savory spices, as opposed to spices that pack a lot of heat.

The most famous dish is Koshari (also spelled Kushari), the national dish of Egypt. It can be found almost everywhere in the country. It’s made from rice, macaroni, chickpeas and lentils, before being topped with caramelized onions, tomato sauce, and garlic vinegar.

Ta’meya is another popular dish, which is like an Egyptian falafel. It’s made with fried fava bean with tahini.

Of course, Egypt is known for its lamb and veal Kebabs, which are usually served with salad. Vegetarians can also enjoy stuffed vegetables such as peppers or zucchinis.

You’ll find that most dishes tend to use chicken meat, but they also eat rabbit, duck and pigeon (hamam mahshi).

Each region of Egypt has its own unique cuisines and flavor, so be sure to sample these culinary delights on your trip.

7. It has a lot of Religious Importance for Many Religions

Another top reason to visit Egypt is to learn about and experience the countries religious importance.

Religion in Egypt is an integral part of the culture and has been a cornerstone of its society for centuries. The predominant faiths are coptic Christianity and Islam, which both have roots here in Egypt.

Most famously, Egypt was the home of Moses, who wanted to free his people from slavery and move to the promised land (now Israel).

It is said that Mount Sinai, which is one of the world’s most important pilgrimage sites, was where God spoke to Abraham and gave Moses the Ten Commandments.

When visiting Egypt, you can see the remains of the countries ancient religions in its many temples, including the Luxor Temple which dates back to 1400 and the Karnak Temple, which is said to be the place where the Egyptian god Amun-Ra spoke to the people.

With coptic christians making up around 10% of the population, churches can be found alongside mosques throughout Egypt and play an integral role in many ceremonies like Easter celebrations.

8. It has bucket list experiences

Of course, there are so many tourist attractions in Egypt from visiting the Great Pyramids of Giza to bathing in the Dead Sea, and these are all bucket list experiences that you will only do once in your life.

But you can see these attractions in different ways to make the experience more memorable.

You can enjoy hot air balloon rides over Valley of the Kings, or take a Nile Cruise down the world’s longest river, The Nile River, or camel riding in the desert.

You don’t have to be a history buff to know that the Egyptian civilization is one of the oldest and most historically fascinating in the entire world, and experiencing it and learning about it in the country itself, is one of the top reasons to visit Egypt.

Before You Go

So there you have it, those are the main reasons to visit Egypt and as you can see, there’s a lot of pros to visiting this exciting and historically fascinating country.

Before you go, make sure you understand that Egypt is a busy place, and Cairo especially can make travellers feel overwhelmed.

Keep an eye on your belongings, don’t interact with people who are too pushy, and you shall have a great time.

I hope this guide helped you understand what’s in store for you in Egypt and gave you some insight into why you should visit!

Tours of Egypt

If you don’t want to travel to Egypt as an independent traveler, G Adventures offer small-group guided tours for ages 18+. We partner with G Adventures because of their commitment to the supporting the environment and conserving local cultures.

• 14 Days Highlights of Egypt Tour
• 8 Day Egypt: Boats and Bazaars Tour

And if you want to travel Egypt independently, don’t miss out on these highly-rated tours of Egypt!

More Egypt and North Africa Tips

Are you planning to visit other places in Egypt or Northern Africa? Then you may find the following guides helpful…

• Beautiful Reasons to Visit Morocco
• Things to do in Marrakesh, Morocco
• Things to Do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands
• Things to do in the Canary Islands
• Ethiopia Travel Advice
• How to Become a Master of Baksheesh in Egypt
• What to do in Cairo, Egypt

But when it comes to deciding on what to do in Cairo, it can get overwhelming. The sheer number of Cairo attractions can make deciding which ones to visit a difficult task.

To help you out, we interviewed Giulia Cimarosti, who has previously lived in Cairo and is a regular visitor, who has shared with us all the top things to do in Cairo for a first time visit.

Giulia not only shares with us her insider tips on what to do in Cairo, Egypt, but she also shares the best places to eat, stay, drink, and explore. Let’s see what she says…

Is Cairo Worth Visiting?

Cairo has always been included in package tours for basically any trip to Egypt, but what’s usually shown is not the city itself. Only the Pyramids, the Great Egyptian Museum, and a few more touristic spots are all the visitors get to see.

Too many times I hear people saying they’ve been to Egypt but all they did was go to a beach resort and spend not more than a week there.

It might be beautiful but it’s definitely not an authentic Egyptian experience!

In my opinion, one can’t say he’s been to Egypt without spending some time in Cairo, this really takes people into the hectic Egyptian life, together with its many contrasts and real culture, food, habits.

In Cairo you can find one thing and its opposite; luxury and poverty, culture and illiteracy, beauty and ugliness, the friendliest people on Earth and the most dishonest ones, and so on.

Two days never look the same when you live in Cairo. If you have to go from A to B you’ll definitely have to face challenges and find a different solution every day and this is what makes it so exciting!

No one can say that Cairo is not an adventure, and for the adventurous traveller, for that reason I would say it’s definitely worth visiting.

What to do in Cairo

To answer this question, I must ask myself “where would I take you if you visited me in Cairo?” – and the answer is undoubtedly these top attractions in Cairo.

1. Visit Al Azhar Park for Sunset

On the same day you arrive, I would take you out for dinner at Al Azhar Park just before sunset, to show you the city from above and the sun going down on the Pyramids.

Located on the Mokattam Hills, it is one of the largest parks in Cairo and offers a wide range of activities and attractions such Bab El-Wazir Cemetery and City Of The Dead cemetery.

It also has some nice fountains, pools, and play areas for children. Its vast green lawns are perfect for picnics or taking leisurely strolls.

This park is a rather fancy and clean, which I believe is the perfect place for a soft introduction to the city.

2. Visit the Cairo Citadel of Saladin

Another “easy” thing to do in Cairo is visit the Citadel, a place with no cars where you can wander and take beautiful photos of Cairo from above.

Located on a hill in the heart of Cairo, it offers stunning views of the city and beyond. The Citadel itself is a testament to its rich history, with remnants from various empires, including Mamluk and Ottoman periods.

Inside the Citadel, you can explore several exciting landmarks such as mosques, palaces, and charnel houses.

When visiting the Citadel, you should take time to explore the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, which is considered to be among the most beautiful architectural masterpieces in Egypt.

Adorning its walls are intricately carved designs made from marble and alabaster stone that demonstrate traditional Islamic artistry.

Another area worth exploring is Salah El-Din’s Street where you can find many souvenir shops selling traditional items such as leather bags and hats that make for excellent gifts or memories of your trip!

3. Take a Felucca Ride on the Nile

It might sound touristy but it’s very typical, so I would invite you on a felucca ride on the Nile at sunset, to relax and enjoy the views and the rare silence.

Taking a felucca ride allows you to feel the gentle breeze and calming waters of the river, and the views along the banks are breathtaking, with lush vegetation, ancient monuments and stunning Islamic architecture.

You can observe local life as you cruise along, watch fisherman casting their nets and sailing boats trading goods.

At night the Nile transforms into a magical place; you can see stars glittering above you and hear the distant sound of drums from locals celebrating at river-side cafes. As your felucca sails further away from the city, it’s just you and nature’s wonders surrounding you.

If you’re unfamiliar with feluccas, they are shallow boats powered by wind or sail, making them perfect for navigating through narrow channels while avoiding sandbanks in this great river that is filled with history. Being on a felucca adds to the overall atmosphere of being in such an amazing city like Cairo.

4. Visit the Famous Pyramids of Giza

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx is of course a must. The Great Pyramids of Giza are one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and have become a symbol of Egypt’s ancient culture and heritage.

Located on the west bank of the Nile River, this UNESCO World Heritage Site are some of the most impressive monuments ever built by man.

The oldest pyramid on the Giza plateau, known as the Pyramid of Khufu, is thought to have been commissioned by the 4th-Dynasty Pharaoh Khufu in the 26th century, and is estimated to contain more than 2.3 million stones. It is also the largest pyramid in Egypt and stands at an impressive 139 meters tall.

The other two pyramids, known as the Pyramid of Khafre and Pyramid of Menkaure, were constructed between 2558 BCE and 2510 BCE.

Inside each pyramid there exists a grand burial chamber lined with polished granite flooring, hieroglyphs that tell stories about ancient life, and narrow shafts that lead to additional tunnels or secret chambers.

Visiting the Great Pyramids is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many people so don’t miss this number one attraction in Cairo!

5. Wander Around Downtown Cairo

Some neighborhoods are as big as cities so it’s not easy to simply wander the neighborhoods. I heard that the neighborhood of Maadi alone has something like 2 million people!

But if you want to walk around and simply take in the neighborhoods, my favorite one is Downtown (Wust el Balad). I instantly fell in love with the area the first time I saw it from the window of a bus, on a “Cairo by night” tour.

This is where the Egyptian Museum and Tahrir Square are located, just to name the most famous things.

The next time I went back to this area I was on my own and I must say I was intimidated by its chaos and people staring at me. But now I wouldn’t live anywhere else!

Something very interesting to visit in Cairo is the so-called “Coptic Cairo”, or “Old Cairo”, an area where you can visit churches, Christian graveyards, and the famous Hanging Church.

It’s such an unexpected atmosphere, it almost feels like being in another city.

6. Eat Delicious Egyptian Food

In Cairo, there is definitely a lot of choice when it comes to food! For very cheap meals, try the Felfela takeaway for falafel and foul – you can eat a “taameya” (falafel sandwich) for about 1.50 EGP: 0,25 USD.

If you like koshary (a typical mix of rice, pasta, lentils, meat, and spices) don’t miss Abou Tarek, just behind Tahrir Square. It’s super cheap and you can’t get anything more typical than that!

For a fancy dinner with a beautiful view, don’t miss the Restaurant at Al Azhar Park.

I also have to mention my favorite Italian restaurant in Cairo: it’s called “La Bodega” and even if it’s pricey in local terms (about $30 per meal) the food is delicious and with a very good service.

Last but not least, Cairenes love fast foods!

So don’t feel guilty if you want to hit Pizza Hut, McDonald’s or the more local Hardee’s – it’s normal habit in Cairo, and if you feel lazy there’s a website called Otlob.com where you can order nearly any kind of food – from Chinese to McDonald’s, to Yemenite – 24/7.

The typical Egyptian breakfast is called “foul”. It’s made with a bean paste and vegetables, served in a typical flat bread bun.

You should also make sure to try:

• Taameya: the falafel sandwich named above, usually sold in the same places where they sell foul.
• Koshary is maybe the most typical thing. Very cheap and it fills you up for hours! It’s a mix of rice, noodles, pasta, lentils and chickpeas.
• Shawerma: also called “kebab” by someone, but this is the Egyptian version! It’s made with either lamb or chicken meat, peppers and a lot of spices. So tasty!
• Something very typical that I didn’t dare trying is the stuffed pigeon.
• Sahlab is a tepid milk cream that is served with fruits, chocolate, coconut or whatever you ask for. It’s freshly made to order.
• Also, don’t miss the “mahshy” – vegetables stuffed with meat, rice and more vegetables.

Fruit juices are sold at kiosks on the streets and are as cheap as refreshing. In Egypt I ate the tastier fruit ever, and no I have never been sick.

7. Watch a Sufi Dance in Bayt el Harawi

If you want to breathe the atmosphere of Islamic Cairo, don’t miss Bayt el Harawi at night, where you can watch free shows such as sufi dance and tannoura (whirling dervish), concerts with typical Middle Eastern instruments, etc.

For other things to do in Cairo at night, there are some nice clubs such as Buddha Bar, Stiletto, Purple and countless new clubs that keep opening. Most of them are located on docked boats on the Nile, so the location alone makes the outing worth it.

Also, sitting for hours in an “ahwa”, the Egyptian name for a cafe (basically chairs on the streets) chatting, smoking shisha and playing board games is something very typical.

8. Hunt for Treasures in Khan el Khalili Bazaar

When it comes to shopping, there is no better place than Cairo. With bustling souk markets and bazaars, you’ll find everything from textiles, spices, lamps, ceramics, silverware and more.

For souvenirs, I would definitely go to the famous Khan el Khalili market. It’s beautiful and even if the main roads became way too touristy you can always explore the backstreets to find the best deals.

If you want to go shopping and you like branded clothing etc, you can’t miss the City Stars mall, a 7-storied building with shops, movie theaters, restaurants and a souq reproduction.

For cheap clothing I always choose Downtown with its colorful and huge windows. Last time I bought 2 pairs of jeans and spent something like €12.

Another thing I like about these shops is that literally everything they have is shown in the windows so you can have a look from the outside and enter the shop only if you are interested and when you already chose what you want.

9. Experience Ramadan in Cairo

Visiting Cairo during Ramadan may not be for everyone but there are certain advantages when visiting during the Holy Month.

As most of you may know, this is the Holy Month when people fast until sunset, there are special praying sessions and everyone has to act well, donate to charity, spend time with their families and in general live without committing sins.

After sunset though, the city looks completely different.

The streets are lightened with colorful lights, people gather to eat together, the music is in the air. It’s definitely very interesting to witness the Ramadan, but remember that it’s not polite to eat and drink in public during the day of Holy Month – respect the people who are fasting.

What’s great about Ramadan is that restaurants are quiet in the day time, people tend to not visit tourist attractions because they want to stay indoors and conserve their energy, and people are overall more friendly because of the nature of gift-giving and reflection that comes with Ramadan.

However, it can also be difficult to find accommodation, especially during the first night and the last three nights of Eid.

Also, most clubs (and companies in general) stay closed during the Holy Month so if your aim is partying well that’s not the best time of the year!

On the other hand Ramadan is a great time to enjoy the city without too much traffic as many people take vacations and travel outside of Cairo.

There are many religious feasts throughout the year, but one that I think is worth mentioning is the Eid el Adha – this is the feast when people slaughter cows and sheep in the streets.

And if you don’t like the sight of blood then you can definitely avoid it, or take advantage to have a short trip outside of Cairo.

Other than religious festivities, the major national holidays are the Sinai Liberation Day (April 25th), Labour Day (May 1st), Revolution Day (July 23rd, with reference to the 1953 Revolution), Armed Forces Day (October 6th), and of course the National January 25th Revolution Day!

10. Take a Day Trip to Quieter Pyramids

I love Cairo because in a 2 hours range you can go from the sea to the desert! I will list 3 beautiful side trips that you can have in one full day:

The pyramids of Saqqara, Dahshur and Memphis: did you know that there are many more pyramids in Egypt other than the Giza ones?

Before the Pyramids of Giza, there were some smaller pyramids built to try and get the design right.

Dahshur has 3 pyramids and is much less touristy than Giza.

You can enter the “Red Pyramid” and you won’t find any crowd or tout around it. Memphis, also known as the bent pyramid, was the ancient capital of Egypt, and Saqqara is where the famous “Step Pyramid of Djoser” is located, together with its temple and many beautifully decorated tombs.

11. Take a Trip to the Beaches

If you want to go to the sea, Ein El Sokhna is the closest beach resort to Cairo. You can get there in about 2 hours, driving east. There is no coral reef or anything, and the place is not too crowded as Sharm El Sheikh, so it’s very quiet and simple.

Another option is driving north to the so-called “North Coast”, on the Mediterranean Sea. There are some beautiful beach resorts up there, such as Marsa Matrouh for example.

12. Take a Trip to El Fayoum

Last but not least, at just about 2 hours driving south of Cairo you can get to the oasis of El Fayoum with its lovely towns, lake and pottery factories.

Just outside of the oasis there is the beautiful desert of Wadi al Hitan (the valley of the whales) and Wadi al Rayan, where you can ride beautiful dunes, camp and see the fossils of sea plants and fish that used to live there when the desert was once an ocean… how fascinating!

13. Visit Mokattam Mountain

There’s a “drive through” version of nearly anything in Cairo: you can stop by a kiosk and get your drinks, food, ice-cream or even shisha directly on your car.

This is something very typical and fun! Ask your Egyptian friends to take you to some of these places and you’ll definitely have a good laugh together with yummy meals.

For some more beautiful views over Cairo you can enjoy sitting on the edge of the flat Mokattam Mountain, overlooking the city.

They also serve drinks and shisha up there, but the cafes tend to be a bit too pricey if compared to other places in Downtown.

14. Visit “Garbage City”

An experience that I recommend to everyone is visiting the so-called “Garbage City”, an area where people literally live in the garbage, spending their lives separating the trash and selling the different materials to make a living out of it.

It goes without saying, Garbage City is a very poor area. It’s a Christian neighborhood and after you cross it all (a strong experience itself) you are “rewarded” by the magnificent view of the Cave Churches.

I know there are people that would never dare going to Garbage City, but I also believe that in order to fully understand where we are, we can’t only see the beautiful sides of the places we visit.

15. Visit the Grand Egyptian Museum

Learn about Ancient Egypt and the Egyptians at the Grand Egyptian Museum, which is expected to open in 2023, but the exact date has not been confirmed yet.

The Grand Egyptian Museum will house artifacts from ancient Egypt, spanning over 5000 years of history.

It will contain artifacts from the world-famous Tutankhamun pharaohs’ tombs, including sculptures, treasures, jewelry, and hieroglyphics.

The museum is expected to be one of the most complete and largest museums on Ancient Egyptian history in the world, and will be the perfect place to gain insight into Ancient Egyptian culture while learning more about its history.

16. See the Royal Mummies at The Egyptian Museum

Another museum in Cairo not to miss is the Egyptian Museum, not to be confused with the Grand Egyptian Museum – confusing, I know!

The Egyptian Museum is an incredibly enriching and educational experience. This museum contains artifacts from ancient Egypt, including the royal mummies, statues and reliefs depicting ancient Egyptian gods, and many other items from Ancient Egypt.

Not only is the collection vast, it provides a captivating insight into historical events, culture and traditions.

Learn about the religions, customs, beliefs and lifestyles of this influential civilization.

17. Wander Over to Gezira Island

Gezira Island is located in the Nile River and sits in the very center of Cairo, home to the Zamalek district. It’s home to many iconic landmarks in Cairo, such as the Cairo Tower and Cairo Opera House.

Visitors can marvel at the grandeur of The Pyramids of Giza from the top of Cairo Tower and explore the beautiful gardens and art galleries.

18. Visit the Ben Ezra Synagogue

For Christians visiting Cairo, or those interested in Christian history, will enjoy visiting the Ben Ezra Synagogue, which is said to be built on the spot where moses washed up in a basket among the reeds.

The Ben Ezra Synagogue was first built in the 9th century AD and has been beautifully maintained over the centuries.

It still stands as a testament to Jewish culture and heritage, with its stunning architecture and interior design.

Not only is it an extraordinary historical site, but it’s also a pilgrimage site for Jews for generations.

19. Visit the Coptic Museum

Another important religious site in Cairo is the Coptic Museum, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts and artworks from ancient Egypt and other countries, offering a unique insight into the culture, history, and coptic christian religion of the region.

It has over 1,600 items on display including stone, wood and metal works, icons, frescoes, textiles and ceramics from all over the region.

The museum also features some displays dedicated to Christian art and architecture as it relates to the Coptic Church.

While here, visitors can view stunning pieces such as ornate wall paintings, intricate mosaic floors and spectacular stained glass windows.

Getting Around Cairo

Public transportation in Cairo includes taxis, metro, buses and microbuses.

I wouldn’t recommend moving around by bus and microbus to a newcomer – it’s not easy to figure out their destination because it’s either written in Arabic or there’s nothing written on the bus itself: someone peeking from the bus door just screams the destination to the people in the street so if you don’t speak the language is quite hard.

After some time you can figure out the routes of buses and microbuses also by asking to locals so that you can finally try this adventure and explore the city in the cheapest possible way.

The metro is easy to use, there are separate cars for men and women (that is: women can ride men’s cars – at their own risk – but men can’t access the women’s ones) and it’s clean enough.

Unfortunately, the metro doesn’t reach all areas of Cairo yet, but it’s very cheap (1 EGP per ride = 12 Euro cents) and it makes you avoid traffic, so sometimes you can use a combination of metro and taxi to move quicker.

The easiest way to move around Cairo is definitely by taxi, but there are 3 kinds of taxis and you have to know the differences.

Black taxi are the oldest ones, usually without air conditioned and always without a meter. If you go for a black taxi you have to agree on a price before getting on the car, or your trip will end with a taxi driver asking for an outrageous amount of money, especially if you look like a tourist or it’s obvious that you don’t know where you’re going.

Another option is to ask nothing, act like you know exactly what you’re doing and when the ride is over give the money to the driver and walk away. Of course in this case, you have to know roughly how much the ride is worth.

An easier option is the white taxi. These are newer and nicer, and the main difference is that they have a meter so you won’t have to haggle for the price. Just be careful, sometimes the taxi drivers modify their meters to get more money or turn off the meter to ask you the money they want. Try to avoid these!

The third kind of taxi is the yellow one. This is the one you call and make a reservation for, so you never really need it unless for instance you have a flight at a certain time and want a reliable service to pick you up, be on time and take you to the airport. They also have fixed rates.

Best time of year to visit Cairo

I would say anytime but summer (May to September).

Winter can get pretty cold in Cairo too, so if your accommodation doesn’t have a heating, which is very likely if it’s a budget hotel or hostel, it can get tough.

On winter I would recommend going south and visiting Luxor, Abu Simbel, Marsa Alam and the other locations in Upper Egypt, where the temperatures keep very warm throughout the year.

Another thing you might want to consider is Ramadan – since most clubs, shops, and companies are closed during this month, it is definitely interesting but there won’t be much to do.

Where to stay in Cairo Egypt

I usually stay in apartments, as it’s overall cheaper than any budget accommodation. Word of mouth is definitely the best way to find the right sublet for you.

There are also some very cheap hostels in downtown but of course, you can’t expect much luxury.

There are very modern, luxury and beautiful hotels. Consider staying at the Four Seasons, Sofitel or the Kempinski – you won’t be disappointed.

If alcohol is important for you, check if it’s served in the hotel you choose before confirming your reservation.

Final Thoughts on What to Do in Cairo

I love Cairo because it’s impossible to get bored when you’re there. It’s a safe and incredibly lively city.

People here are friendly and helpful, and I met some of my best friends during my stay in Cairo.

I love Cairo because it’s an affordable place to live in.

It’s a city where you can find anything you want, and if you are stressed by its hectic life you can reach the peace of the desert or the sea in just a couple of hours.

I love Cairo because even in the worst traffic you sometimes spot the pyramids on the horizon, or you find yourself crossing one of the countless bridges on the Nile, and you are therefore constantly reminded of the magnificent history of this place, and you can’t help feeling a profound awe, reverence, and respect towards it.

We hope this guide helped you plan what to do in Cairo and gave you inspiration for some attractions to add to your itinerary.

Tours of Cairo

Before you go, make sure to check out some tours of Cairo and plan in advance. This will help you maximise your time and avoid spending time in long queues.

Tours of Egypt

If you don’t want to travel to Egypt as an independent traveler, G Adventures offer guided tours. We partner with G Adventures for their commitment to the supporting the environment and conserving local cultures.

• 14 Days Highlights of Egypt
• Egypt: Boats and Bazaars – 8 day tour

More North Africa Travel Tips

Planning to visit other parts of Northern Africa? Then you may find these other guides helpful.

Do you have any tips on what to do in Cairo? Please share in the comments below.