Great Pyramid of Khufu

Start your 3 days in cairo adventure at the last surviving Wonder of the Ancient World. Arrive early to secure limited interior access tickets (only 300 issued daily). The narrow Grand Gallery leads to the King's Chamber – a profound 15-minute experience that connects you directly with ancient Egyptian engineering mastery.

Great Sphinx of Giza

This 4,500-year-old limestone monument guards the Giza complex with mysterious authority. Position yourself at the viewing platform for photos that capture both the Sphinx and pyramids in a single frame. The morning light creates perfect shadows that highlight the monument's weathered features.

Pyramid Complex Exploration

Walk the perimeter of all three pyramids – Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure. Each offers unique perspectives and photo opportunities. The smaller Queens' Pyramids often provide more intimate experiences with fewer crowds, perfect for contemplative moments.

Saqqara Necropolis

A 45-minute drive from Giza brings you to Egypt's oldest pyramid complex. The Step Pyramid of Djoser (2630 BCE) represents humanity's first attempt at monumental stone architecture. Recent restoration work has reopened several tombs with original wall paintings that retain their vivid colours after 4,000 years.

Citadel of Saladin

Begin at this 12th-century fortress that offers panoramic Cairo views. The Mosque of Muhammad Ali, with its Ottoman-inspired architecture, dominates the complex. UK visitors often compare its grandeur to London's great mosques, though this predates them by centuries. The alabaster-lined interior creates ethereal lighting that transforms throughout the day.

Sultan Hassan Mosque

This 14th-century architectural masterpiece represents Mamluk design at its peak. The soaring ceilings and intricate geometric patterns create an almost cathedral-like atmosphere that resonates with European visitors. The central courtyard provides perfect acoustics for the call to prayer – a profoundly moving experience regardless of religious background.

Ibn Tulun Mosque

Cairo's oldest intact mosque (879 CE) features unique spiral minaret inspired by Samarra's Great Mosque in Iraq. The expansive courtyard and simple brick architecture offer tranquil respite from Cairo's intensity. This UNESCO-protected site provides excellent photography opportunities with dramatic shadows and geometric compositions.

Khan el-Khalili Bazaar

Navigate this 14th-century marketplace that's remained virtually unchanged for 600 years. UK travellers find the negotiation culture initially challenging but ultimately rewarding. Focus on authentic items: hand-woven textiles, traditional perfumes, antique brass items, and hand-painted ceramics. Avoid mass-produced "pharaonic" souvenirs sold to tour groups.

Egyptian Museum (Tahrir Square)

Home to the world's most extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts, including Tutankhamun's complete burial treasure. UK visitors should allocate minimum 4 hours to see key exhibits properly. The Royal Mummy Room houses 11 pharaohs including Ramesses II and Hatshepsut – a profound encounter with actual ancient rulers.

Coptic Cairo District

Explore Christianity's earliest presence in Africa at this historic quarter. The Hanging Church (suspended above Roman fortress ruins) features stunning wooden screens and ancient Coptic manuscripts. The Ben Ezra Synagogue, where Moses supposedly was found, represents Cairo's diverse religious heritage that many UK visitors find surprisingly rich.

Zamalek District Exploration

Cairo's most sophisticated neighbourhood offers tree-lined streets, art galleries, and upscale cafes that rival European cities. The Gezira Art Center showcases contemporary Egyptian artists, while the Opera House complex hosts world-class performances. UK expats living in Cairo often choose Zamalek for its walkable streets and international dining options.

Nile Corniche Walk

End your cairo itinerary 3 days with a sunset stroll along the Nile riverbank. The Corniche offers spectacular views of traditional felucca boats against modern Cairo's skyline. Street vendors sell fresh sugarcane juice and roasted nuts – simple pleasures that create lasting memories of authentic Egyptian hospitality.

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🕌 Islamic Cairo Walking Tour

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Currency and Payments

Carry Egyptian pounds in small denominations (5, 10, 20 EGP notes) for tips, street food, and small purchases. Most tourist sites accept UK credit cards, but local vendors prefer cash. ATMs are widely available but may charge foreign transaction fees.

Dress Code Considerations

Modest clothing shows respect for local culture and prevents unwanted attention. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts protect against sun and sand while maintaining cultural sensitivity.

Transportation Strategy

Use ride-sharing apps (Uber, Careem) for reliable, meter-free transport. Traditional taxis require negotiation skills most UK visitors lack. The Cairo Metro is clean and efficient for longer distances but avoid rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM).

Food Safety Guidelines

Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. Street food from busy vendors with high turnover is generally safe. Restaurants frequented by locals often serve more authentic, fresher food than tourist-focused establishments.

Photography Etiquette

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women. Many sites charge photography fees - pay them to avoid confiscation. Inside museums and tombs, flash photography damages ancient artefacts and is strictly forbidden.

Tipping Culture (Baksheesh)

Tipping is expected for most services. Standard rates: restaurant servers (10-15%), hotel staff (20-50 EGP), tour guides (200-300 EGP per day), taxi drivers (round up fare). Small bills make tipping easier and more appropriate.

Heat and Sun Protection

Start early (7-8 AM) to avoid midday heat. Carry SPF 50+ sunscreen and reapply frequently. Wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses are essential. Take breaks in air-conditioned spaces during afternoon hours (12-3 PM).

Communication Basics

Learn basic Arabic phrases: "Shukran" (thank you), "La shukran" (no thank you), "Kam da?" (how much?). Most educated Cairenes speak English, but effort to use Arabic creates goodwill and often better prices.

Internet and Connectivity

Purchase local SIM card at airport for affordable data (50GB for £15-20). Most hotels and cafes offer free WiFi. Download offline maps before exploring - GPS works even without internet connectivity for navigation.

Emergency Preparedness

Save UK Embassy Cairo contact (+20 2 2791 6000) in your phone. Keep photocopies of passport and visa separate from originals. Register with UK government's travel service for emergency notifications and assistance.

Shopping Negotiation

Start at 30-40% of asking price and work upward slowly. Be prepared to walk away - vendors often call back with better prices. Compare prices at multiple shops before committing to expensive purchases like carpets or jewellery.

Cultural Sensitivity

Avoid public displays of affection, especially during religious periods. During Ramadan, eating/drinking in public during daylight hours shows disrespect. Friday prayers (11 AM - 2 PM) affect mosque visits and some business hours.

Health Precautions

Carry hand sanitiser and use frequently. Pack basic medications (paracetamol, anti-diarrheal, rehydration salts). UK travel insurance should cover Egyptian medical facilities. Private hospitals offer higher standards than public ones.

Time Management

Allow extra time for all activities - Cairo's traffic is unpredictable. Build 30-minute buffers between scheduled activities. Rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) can double travel times across the city.

Money Security

Use hotel safes for excess cash and documents. Carry money in multiple locations (wallet, money belt, separate pocket). Avoid displaying large amounts of cash in public markets and tourist areas.

Many UK visitors assume pyramid entry is included in general admission tickets. Interior access requires separate tickets with limited daily quotas (300 for Great Pyramid). Book online at least 48 hours in advance or arrive by 7 AM for day-of-sale tickets.

Scheduling mosque visits during Friday prayers (11 AM - 2 PM) results in locked doors and wasted time. Many Islamic sites close completely during this period. Plan mosque visits for early morning or late afternoon on Fridays, or choose other days for Islamic Cairo exploration.

Paying asking prices in Khan el-Khalili wastes hundreds of pounds and encourages aggressive selling tactics. Initial quotes are typically 300-500% above fair value. Start negotiations at 30% of asking price and be prepared to walk away to secure reasonable deals.

Visiting Giza or Saqqara during peak heat hours (11 AM - 3 PM) leads to dehydration, exhaustion, and poor photo lighting. Desert temperatures can exceed 45°C with no shade. Schedule pyramid visits for early morning (7-10 AM) or late afternoon (4-7 PM) for comfortable exploration.

Assuming Cairo taxi meters work properly or reflect fair prices causes frustration and overcharging. Most meters are "broken" or manipulated. Use ride-sharing apps (Uber, Careem) for transparent, fair pricing, or negotiate taxi fares before starting your journey.

Taking photos without permission, especially of people or inside religious sites, creates conflicts and potential equipment confiscation. Always ask before photographing locals, pay required photography fees at tourist sites, and respect no-photo zones in museums and tombs.

Drinking tap water or accepting ice in beverages often causes serious digestive issues that can ruin entire days of your cairo trip plan. Stick to sealed bottled water, avoid ice cubes, and brush teeth with bottled water to prevent uncomfortable stomach problems.

Wearing revealing clothing prevents entry to religious sites and attracts unwanted attention throughout Cairo. Pack modest clothing that covers shoulders, cleavage, and knees. Lightweight, loose-fitting garments provide comfort while showing cultural respect and reducing harassment.

Using 200 or 500 EGP notes for small purchases creates change-making difficulties and potential scams. Vendors often claim no change available, forcing you to accept unfair prices. Exchange large bills at banks or hotels before shopping, keeping small denominations for daily transactions.

Is 3 days enough for Cairo?

Three days provides sufficient time to see Cairo's major highlights when properly planned. You'll experience the Pyramids of Giza, Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo, and Coptic Quarter comfortably. However, Egypt's rich history could easily fill weeks - consider this itinerary as an excellent introduction that may inspire return visits for deeper exploration.

What's the best time of year to visit Cairo?

October through April offers ideal weather conditions with temperatures between 20-25°C during the day. UK travellers find these months most comfortable for outdoor exploration. Avoid summer months (May-September) when temperatures can exceed 40°C. Winter months (December-February) provide pleasant weather but bring occasional crowds during European holiday periods.

How much should I budget for 3 days in Cairo?

Budget £150-400 per person excluding flights and accommodation. Mid-range travellers typically spend £250-300 including meals, transport, entry tickets, and guided tours. Luxury experiences can exceed £500, while budget-conscious visitors can manage with £120-180 by using public transport and eating at local establishments.

Do I need a tour guide or can I explore independently?

Independent exploration is possible but guided tours add significant value through historical context, skip-the-line access, and local insights. The Pyramids and Egyptian Museum particularly benefit from expert commentary. Consider guided tours for major sites and independent exploration for markets and neighbourhoods to balance education with personal discovery.

What vaccinations do UK travellers need for Egypt?

No special vaccinations are required for UK citizens visiting Cairo. Standard UK vaccinations (MMR, DPT, flu, COVID-19) provide adequate protection. Consider Hepatitis A/B vaccines if planning to eat street food frequently. Consult your GP or travel clinic 4-6 weeks before departure for personalised advice based on your medical history.

Is Cairo safe for UK tourists?

Cairo is generally safe for UK tourists when following standard travel precautions. Tourist police presence at major sites provides additional security. Avoid political demonstrations, follow FCO travel advice, and use common sense regarding personal safety. Petty theft and harassment can occur, particularly around tourist sites, but violent crime against visitors is rare.

What's the best area to stay in Cairo?

Zamalek and Garden City offer the best balance of safety, accessibility, and amenities for UK visitors. Downtown Cairo provides budget options near major attractions but can be noisy. Heliopolis offers modern hotels but requires longer transport times to tourist sites. Choose accommodation near metro lines for convenient city-wide access.

Can I drink alcohol in Cairo?

Alcohol is available at licensed hotels, restaurants, and bars throughout Cairo. Many international hotels serve alcohol in their establishments. Avoid drinking in public spaces or religious areas out of cultural respect. Alcohol prices are higher than UK levels due to import taxes and limited local production.

What should I wear when visiting mosques?

Cover shoulders, arms, and legs completely when entering mosques. Women should cover their hair with a scarf and avoid tight-fitting clothing. Shoes must be removed before entering prayer areas. Many mosques provide coverings for inappropriately dressed visitors, but bringing proper attire shows respect and ensures smooth entry.

How do I get from Cairo Airport to the city centre?

Uber and Careem provide reliable airport transfers for £8-15 to central Cairo. Official airport taxis charge similar rates but require fare negotiation. Airport buses cost £2-3 but take longer with multiple stops. Pre-arranged hotel transfers offer convenience for £20-30 but aren't necessary given reliable ride-sharing availability.

Can I use my UK credit card in Cairo?

Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at hotels, upscale restaurants, and tourist sites. Many smaller vendors and local restaurants only accept cash. Inform your bank about Egypt travel to prevent card blocking. ATMs are widely available but may charge foreign transaction fees - check with your UK bank about international usage policies.

What language is spoken in Cairo?

Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Many educated Cairenes speak excellent English due to international business and tourism. Learning basic Arabic phrases like "shukran" (thank you) and "marhaba" (hello) creates goodwill with locals and often results in better service and prices.

Should I book pyramid tickets in advance?

Yes, especially for Great Pyramid interior access which is limited to 300 visitors daily. Online booking through the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism ensures availability and avoids disappointment. General Giza Plateau tickets can be purchased on arrival, but advance booking eliminates queuing time and provides peace of mind during your cairo itinerary 3 days.

What's the tipping culture in Egypt?

Tipping (baksheesh) is integral to Egyptian service culture. Standard rates: restaurant servers 10-15%, hotel housekeeping 20-50 EGP daily, tour guides 200-300 EGP per day, taxi drivers round up the fare. Small denominations make tipping easier and more appropriate than large bills that require change-making.

How do I avoid tourist scams in Cairo?

Common scams include fake police checkpoints, overcharging for photos with locals at tourist sites, and "helpful" strangers who demand payment after providing unwanted assistance. Always agree on prices before services, ignore unsolicited help, and book tours through reputable operators. Trust your instincts - if something feels wrong, politely decline and move away.

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🏛️ Complete Guide to Egyptian Museum

Maximise your museum visit with insider tips on must-see exhibits, crowd-avoiding strategies, and photography guidelines.

🏨 Where to Stay in Cairo: Neighbourhood Guide

Detailed analysis of Cairo's best districts for UK travellers, from budget hostels to luxury hotels with safety ratings.

🛡️ Cairo Safety Guide for UK Visitors

Essential safety protocols, emergency contacts, and scam prevention strategies specifically tailored for British tourists.

🍽️ Egyptian Food Guide: What to Eat in Cairo

Discover authentic Egyptian cuisine, street food safety tips, and restaurant recommendations for adventurous UK palates.

🚆 Getting Around Cairo: Transport Guide

Master Cairo's transport systems including metro, taxis, ride-sharing, and walking routes between major attractions.

💰 Cairo Budget Guide: UK Traveller Costs

Detailed budget breakdown for different travel styles, money-saving tips, and hidden cost warnings for Cairo visitors.

🇬🇧 UK Government Travel Advice

Official FCO travel guidance, safety updates, and consular services for UK citizens visiting Egypt.

🏛️ Egyptian Ministry of Tourism

Official tourism information, site opening hours, ticket booking, and authentic tour operator listings.

🏛️ UNESCO World Heritage Egypt

Detailed information about Egypt's UNESCO World Heritage Sites including conservation efforts and visitor guidelines.

🏥 NHS Travel Health Advice

Official NHS vaccination requirements, health precautions, and medical advice for UK travellers to Egypt.

🏛️ Egyptian Museum Official Site

Museum opening hours, exhibition information, ticket prices, and special collection highlights for visit planning.

🏢 Cairo Governorate Official

Local government services, city information, public transport updates, and official announcements for visitors.

📰 State Information Service Egypt

Official Egyptian government information, cultural insights, and current developments affecting tourism.

✈️ Egypt E-Visa Official Portal

Official visa application system, requirements, processing times, and entry regulations for UK passport holders.

✈️ EgyptAir Official Website

National carrier flight schedules, direct routes from UK, special offers, and travel requirements for Egypt visitors.

🛫 Cairo Airport Official

Airport services, terminal maps, transport connections, and arrival procedures for international passengers.

🌤️ Egyptian Meteorological Authority

Official weather forecasts, seasonal climate patterns, and travel planning recommendations for Cairo visits.

💱 Central Bank of Egypt

Official exchange rates, banking regulations, ATM locations, and currency information for international visitors.

🏺 Ministry of Tourism & Antiquities

Archaeological site management, restoration projects, new discoveries, and official heritage preservation updates.

🏭 Commercial International Bank

Major Egyptian bank with UK connections, ATM networks, currency services, and international banking support.

🚇 Cairo Metro Official

Public transport maps, metro schedules, ticket prices, and accessibility information for Cairo's urban transport system.

🕌 Egyptian Ministry of Awqaf

Religious sites management, mosque visiting hours, Islamic cultural guidelines, and heritage preservation information.

👮 Egyptian Ministry of Interior

Tourist police services, emergency contacts, safety protocols, and visitor protection information for international tourists.