Planning notes for Cairo

Cairo is the capital city of Egypt, situated along the banks of the Nile River. As of 2026, the city encompasses several historical layers including Ancient Egyptian, Coptic, and Islamic heritage sites. Historical Heritage Cairo’s history dates back to settlements like the Roman Babylon Fortress and the 7th-century city of Fustat. The current city was founded in 969 CE by the Fatimid Caliphate. It later served as the seat of power for the Ayyubid and Mamluk dynasties. Nearby.

Must-try foods nearby

• Koshary
  Egypt's national comfort food, a unique high-carb mix of pasta, rice, brown lentils, and chickpeas.
• Ful Medames
  A staple breakfast dish of slow-cooked fava beans seasoned with olive oil, cumin, and lemon juice. It is typically scooped up with warm baladi bread.
• Ta'ameya
  The Egyptian version of falafel, made with crushed fava beans instead of chickpeas, which gives it a lighter, fluffier green interior.
• Molokhia
  A viscous, nutrient-rich green soup made from finely minced jute leaves, cooked with a 'tasha' (a sizzling aromatic sauté of garlic and coriander).
• Hawawshi
  Spiced minced meat (beef or lamb) stuffed inside a whole loaf of Egyptian baladi bread and baked until the bread is crispy and the meat is juicy.

When to go: The best time to visit Cairo is from October to April, when the weather is pleasantly cool and ideal for exploring outdoor monuments like the Giza Pyramids. During these months, daytime temperatures range from 18°C to 26°C (65°F–80°F).

Local tips

• Download ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem to ensure upfront pricing and avoid fare negotiations with street taxis.
• Always carry small denominations of Egyptian Pounds for 'baksheesh' and use your right hand for eating or exchanging money.
• Cross busy streets by walking at a steady pace alongside locals and avoid making sudden movements or stops.
• Check your restaurant bill for a service charge, but remember to add an additional 5-10% tip directly for the server.

What travelers are noticing

• The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) full public opening, featuring the first complete display of the Tutankhamun collection.
• The New Administrative Capital (NAC) transition into a functioning hub, including the fully operational Iconic Tower, Africa's tallest building.
• The regeneration of Downtown Cairo (Wust al-Balad), with renovated heritage buildings like Kodak Passage becoming viral cultural and pedestrian spots.