First time in Cairo — what locals actually recommend
If it's your first weekend in Cairo, this is the locals' shortlist — the sights worth the queue, the food you can't skip, and the neighbourhood walks that show you the place.
Top spots in Cairo
Grand Egyptian Museum
CultureGiza
World's largest archaeological museum — full Tutankhamun collection in one place.
Khan el-Khalili
CultureIslamic Cairo
14th-century bazaar of copper, perfume and silver — finish with mint tea at El Fishawi.
Coptic Cairo
CultureOld Cairo
Hanging Church, Ben Ezra Synagogue and Roman walls in one quiet quarter.
Pyramids of Giza & Sphinx
CultureGiza
The last surviving Wonder — go at sunrise on a horse from the back gate.
Felucca on the Nile
OutdoorsZamalek
Hour-long sail in a wooden lateen-rigged boat — best at golden hour.
Where to eat
Abou El Sid
$$Egyptian · Zamalek
Velvet banquettes, molokhia, koshary and stuffed pigeon — the classic Cairo dinner.
Felfela
$Street Egyptian · Downtown
Since 1959 — taameya, foul and koshary in a kitschy garden setting.
Sequoia
$$$Mediterranean · Zamalek
Sprawling Nile-side garden with shisha and grills — locals' favourite weekend spot.
Zööba
$Modern Egyptian · Multiple
Street-food classics done bright and clean — koshary cones, hawawshi sandwiches.
139 Pavilion
$$$$Pan-Asian · Garden City
Nile views, sushi and ceviche — date-night staple.
Frequently asked
- Standouts right now: Pyramids of Giza & Sphinx, Grand Egyptian Museum, Khan el-Khalili. The shortlist is curated by people who live in Cairo and refreshed regularly so it reflects what's actually open and worth your time.