Cairo

Arriving at Cairo

When arriving at Cairo International Airport, Taxis, ride-hailing apps, and private transfers are readily available to take you into the city, with the drive to central Cairo usually taking around 45 minutes depending on traffic.

Flights to Cairo can vary in length depending on which airline and connection you choose.

What to expect in Cairo

Where ancient history and vibrant modern life exist side by side, you can expect a lively atmosphere filled with iconic landmarks, from the world-famous Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx to the vast collections of pharaonic treasures at the Egyptian Museum.

Wandering through the narrow lanes of Islamic Cairo reveals centuries-old mosques, madrasas, and bustling souks, while the Khan el-Khalili bazaar offers a colourful shopping experience full of spices, jewellery, and handicrafts.

For a more relaxed pace, enjoy a traditional felucca boat ride or a dinner cruise along the Nile at sunset, or take in panoramic city views from the Cairo Citadel.

Culture in Cairo

Daily life is lively and social, with bustling markets, lively cafés, and strong family and community ties at the heart of the city. Food plays a central role, don't miss trying classic Egyptian dishes such as koshari (a hearty mix of rice, pasta, lentils, and tomato sauce), ful medames (stewed fava beans), and ta’ameya (Egyptian falafel made with fava beans instead of chickpeas).

Street food stalls serve delicious shawarma and fresh bread, while traditional sweets like baklava and basbousa are perfect for dessert.

To drink, enjoy a glass of refreshing sugarcane juice, hibiscus tea (karkadeh), or the ever-popular Egyptian mint tea in one of Cairo’s traditional coffeehouses, often accompanied by shisha.