Best Things to do in Cairo | Must-see attractions 2025

Mosque of Muhammad Ali

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Al Abageyah Qism El-Khalifa

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The Mosque of Mohamed Ali Pasha is a grand 19th-century mosque in Cairo's Citadel, built in Ottoman style between 1830 and 1848, featuring lavish Islamic motifs.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Al-Azhar Park

8:00 AM–11:00 PM

Park

Darassa Hill Al Darassa Hill

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Al-Azhar Park in Cairo, Egypt offers landscaped gardens, fountains, cafes, and an open-air theater with views of the city, a notable cultural hub transformed from a garbage dump.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a ticket.

Mosque of Ibn Tulun

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Sharia Al Saliba

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The Mosque of Ibn Tulun, built between AD 876 and AD 879 in Cairo, Egypt, is one of the largest and oldest mosques, showcasing ancient Islamic architecture.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free.

Mosque of Al-Azhar

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Azhar St. (القاهرة الفاطمية)

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Al-Azhar Mosque, founded in 970 AD, is Cairo's first mosque and a pivotal center of Islamic scholarship and higher education.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some areas may be restricted during restoration; check for updates before visiting.

Cairo Tower

9:00 AM–12:00 AM

Monument

Sharia Hadayek Al Zuhreya

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Cairo Tower, Egypt's tallest structure at 187m, offers panoramic city views from its revolving restaurant and top observation deck.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Adults: LE 200, Children: LE 100. Prices may vary for special events.

Coptic Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

No 4 Fakhry Abd el Nour street Abbassia

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The Coptic Museum in Cairo showcases the world's largest collection of Coptic Christian art and artifacts, highlighting Egypt's early Christian heritage.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Paid. Specific costs vary by category, and discounts may apply.

Al-Hussein Mosque

5:00 AM–10:00 PM

Church

36 Al Mashhad Al Husseini

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El Hussien Mosque in Cairo is a revered Islamic site believed to house the head of Hussein, grandson of Prophet Muhammad, with significant cultural and historical importance.

Duration: Less than 1 hour.

Free. However, non-Muslims are not permitted to enter.

The First Mall

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Mall

35 Giza Street

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The First Mall in Cairo offers luxury shopping and fine dining, hosting over 59 high-end boutiques and restaurants tailored to affluent consumers.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free entry to the mall. Dining and shopping costs vary by establishment.

Museum of Egyptian Modern Arts

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

In the Gezira Exhibition Grounds

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Museum of Egyptian Modern Arts features a vast collection of 20th- and 21st-century Egyptian art in Cairo, across from the Cairo Opera House.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some exhibits may require a paid ticket in the future once restoration is complete.

Opera house Cairo

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Theater

برج الجزيرة مص الاستعلامات، Zamalek

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The Opera House Cairo is a landmark performing arts center in Egypt, featuring multiple theaters, an art gallery, and a music library, home to renowned performances.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Ticket prices vary by event; check the website for specifics.

The International Park

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

طريق العباس العقاد،، Nasr City

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International Park in Cairo, Egypt offers a green oasis in the city, featuring beautiful landscapes, recreational areas, and cultural amenities for visitors of all ages.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free.

Qasr El Nil Bridge

Open 24 hours

Monument

50 Kasr Al Nile

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Qasr el-Nil Bridge is an arch bridge located in Cairo, Egypt, connecting Tahrir Square to Zamalek over the Nile River.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free to access for pedestrians and vehicles.

Central Bank of Egypt

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Public Building

Downtown

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The Central Bank of Egypt, established in 1961, regulates Egypt's monetary policy and oversees banking operations in the country.

Duration: Around 1.5 hours.

Free access to the museum; some events may charge a fee.

Arab League HQ

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Public Building

Tahrir Sq

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The Arab League HQ in Cairo, Egypt, serves as the regional organization’s administrative center, facilitating cooperation among 22 member states since 1945.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require registration or a fee.

Cairo University

8:00 AM–4:00 PM

University

Cairo University St.

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Cairo University, located in Giza, Egypt, is one of the leading public universities in the Arab world, offering a diverse range of academic programs and cultural experiences.

Duration: Around 2 hours.

Free access to the campus; specific events may require a ticket.

Al Azhar University

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

University

6'th District

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Al Azhar University, established in 970 AD, is one of the oldest operating universities in the world, located in Cairo, Egypt, and is renowned for its Islamic studies.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some sections may require prior arrangement for guided access.

Ain Shams University

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

Al Khalifa Al Maamoun St (Ramses St)

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Ain Shams University, established in 1950, is a public university in Cairo, Egypt, offering diverse programs and rich academic heritage.

Duration: At least 2 hours.

Free. Access to specific events may incur costs.

BUE - The British University In Egypt

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

Shorouk (Main centeral street)

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BUE - The British University in Egypt offers a British-style education in Al Shorouk City, Cairo, with modern facilities and degrees validated by UK universities.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free entry for visitors. No specific ticketing required for campus access.

Misr International University

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

University

28 Cairo Ism. Rd.

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Misr International University in Cairo offers diverse educational programs and promotes research in various fields. It aims to equip students for global challenges.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free entry for campus visits; some events may require registration.

Maadi City Center

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

Kattameya Ring Road (El Mirage City)

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Maadi City Center in Cairo offers an extensive shopping experience with over 150 stores, eateries, and entertainment options, making it a prime destination for locals and visitors alike.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

Free entry. Costs apply for certain entertainment and dining options.

The Waterway

10:00 AM–12:00 AM

Mall

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The Waterway, located in Cairo, Egypt, offers a scenic waterfront promenade with restaurants, shops, and a vibrant community atmosphere. Perfect for leisurely strolls or dining.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free. Some restaurants and shops may charge for services.

The Aquarium Grotto Garden

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

Between Om Kalthoum Street and Hassan Sabri Street Zamalek

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The Aquarium Grotto Garden in Cairo is a unique urban oasis featuring aquatic plants, water features and historic architecture, providing a serene escape in the bustling city.

Duration: Around 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events and workshops may incur a fee.

Egyptian Geological Museum

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

Nile Corniche (Zahraa Athar El Nabi)

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The Geological Museum in Maadi, Cairo, features extensive geological collections, providing insights into Earth's history through fossils, minerals, and more.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

10 EGP for adults, 5 EGP for children under 12. Free for students with ID.

Egyptian Antiquities Museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Midan El Tahrir Geographical Society Building

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The Egyptian Museum in Cairo showcases over 120,000 ancient Egyptian artifacts, including treasures of Tutankhamun and the royal mummy room.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Adult: 200 EGP, Child: 100 EGP. Discounts for students and groups.

Meriland Park

8:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

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Meriland Park in Cairo offers expansive green spaces, playgrounds, and recreational activities for families and nature lovers in a tranquil environment.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free entry. Special events may require tickets.

Museum of Islamic Art Cairo

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Shar'a Bur Bab El Khalk Square

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The Islamic Art Museum in Cairo, Egypt, features over 100,000 exhibits showcasing Islamic art history in a grand restored building.

Duration: About 2-3 hours.

150 EGP for adults, free for children under 12 years. Discounts available for students.

Giza Zoo

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

Charles De Gaulle Street

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Giza Zoo, located in Cairo, Egypt, spans 80 acres, showcasing African wildlife, endangered species, and unique architectural features including grottoes and a natural history museum.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

50 EGP for adults, 25 EGP for children. Discounts for students and seniors available.

German University in Cairo GUC

8:00 AM–4:00 PM

University

Talaat Harb Axis (5'th Settlement)

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The German University in Cairo (GUC) is a private, non-profit institution founded in 2002, offering over 70 accredited programs in English on a sprawling 577,000 m² campus.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Enrollment and participation in specific programs may involve tuition fees.

Supreme Constitutional Court of Egypt

9:00 AM–3:00 PM

Public Building

Corniche Maadi

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The Supreme Constitutional Court of Egypt in Cairo, established in 1979, is the highest authority on constitutional interpretation and judicial review in the country.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. No ticket required for general entry.

French University in Egypt

8:00 AM–4:00 PM

University

21 Cairo - Ismailia Desert Rd

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French University in Egypt offers education in Business, Engineering, and Applied Languages, partnering with renowned French institutions. Located in El-Sherouk city, Cairo.

Duration: 1-2 hours for campus tours.

Free entry for visitors; enrollment costs apply for students seeking admission.

British Council Egypt

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Event hall

192 El Nil St

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British Council Egypt in Cairo focuses on cultural exchange and education, offering a variety of programs and resources for language and arts development.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Some workshops and special events may have fees.

The Hanging Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Shar'a Mari Girgis Street

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The Hanging Church in Cairo is a Coptic Christian church built in the 4th century AD, renowned for its suspended architecture and historical significance.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free.

Khufu Ship

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Nazlet El-Semman

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The Khufu Ship Museum in Cairo showcases the ancient solar boat of Pharaoh Khufu, revealing insights into Egyptian burial practices and craftsmanship.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Paid entry. Additional costs may apply for special exhibitions.

Mosque of Ar Rifai

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Midan Salah Ad Din

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Mosque of Ar Rifai in Cairo features impressive architecture, 44 pillars, and houses the tombs of Egyptian royalty and Iran's last Shah.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free entry.

Gayer-Anderson Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

4 Maydan Ibn Tulun Old Cairo

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Gayer-Anderson Museum in Cairo showcases the antiquities collected by John Gayer-Anderson from the 1930s to 1940s, housed in two historical 16th- and 17th-century homes.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require paid tickets.

Ahmed Shawki Museum

9:00 AM–3:00 PM

Museum

6 Ahmed Shawki Street

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Ahmed Shawki Museum in Cairo houses over 713 manuscripts, oil paintings, and antique objects related to the life and work of famed Egyptian poet Ahmed Shawki.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Saint George's Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Nearby Roman Fortress Old (Coptic) Cairo

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Saint George's Church in Coptic Cairo, built in 684 AD, features striking architecture and deep historical roots connected to the popular saint Mar Girgis.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free.

St Simon the Tanner Monastery

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Mokattam Hills

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St Simon the Tanner Monastery is a unique Coptic Christian site in Cairo, Egypt, renowned for its rock-cut architecture and serene surroundings.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require tickets.

St. Mark's Coptic Orthodox Church

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

35 Cleopatra St. (Beside Cleopatra Hospital)

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St. Mark's Coptic Orthodox Church in Cairo is a historic site founded in AD 1217, known for its rich architecture and deep cultural significance in Egyptian Christianity.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free admission.

University Bridge

Open 24 hours

Bridge

CairoEgypt

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University Bridge in Cairo connects Al-Azhar University with the surrounding districts, renowned for its architectural elegance and vibrant student atmosphere.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free.

Sayyed Zeinab Cultural Park

9:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

Qadri Street

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Sayyed Zeinab Cultural Park in Cairo, Egypt is a vibrant green space featuring art, cultural events, and recreational facilities designed to enhance community engagement.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Certain special events may incur a fee.

Sixth of October Bridge

Open 24 hours

Bridge

CairoEgypt

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The Sixth of October Bridge is a key thoroughfare in Cairo, Egypt, connecting the island of Zamalek to various parts of the city, providing essential traffic flow and impressive views.

Duration: Less than 1 hour.

Free for all visitors.

Mostafa Kamel Museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Salah El Din Sq. Qalaa

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Mostafa Kamel Museum in Cairo showcases Egyptian history and antiquities. It offers insights into Egyptian culture and art, making it a valuable destination for enthusiasts.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may have an entry fee.

St Mark Coptic Orthodox Church

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

El Maraashly Street

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St Mark Coptic Orthodox Church in Cairo is the historical seat of the Coptic Orthodox Pope. It features unique architecture and rich cultural significance.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Pharaonic Village

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

3 Sharia Al Bahr Al Azam

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Pharaonic Village in Cairo offers a living museum experience of ancient Egypt, featuring replicas of an ancient village and the tomb of Tutankhamen.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Varies by program. General admission applies.

Wekalet El Ghouri Arts Center

6:00 PM–10:00 PM

Theater

3 Mohamed Abdo St Muhammad 'Abduh Street

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Wekalet El Ghouri Arts Center in Cairo preserves traditional Egyptian art forms through music, dance, and theatrical performances in a historic building.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Church of St. Barbara

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Near the Roman Fortress

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Church of St. Barbara in Cairo is one of Egypt’s largest churches, featuring a striking domed asp and a rich historical significance intertwined with the nation's religious heritage.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations for maintenance are appreciated.

Ben Ezra Synagogue

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

off Sharia Haret Al Kidees Girgis

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Ben Ezra Synagogue in Cairo, Egypt, is the oldest existing synagogue, originally a church from the 8th century, located on the site where baby Moses was found.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Museum of Islamic Ceramics

Museum

1 El Sheikh El Marsafi St

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Museum of Islamic Ceramics in Cairo showcases a rich collection of ceramics from various Islamic countries, housed in the historic Prince Ibrahim Palace.

Duration: More than 1 hour.

Information on ticket prices will be available upon reopening.

Picasso Art Gallery Egypt

12:00 PM–8:00 PM

Museum

30 Hassan Assem St. Zamalek

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Picasso Art Gallery Egypt hosts a diverse range of contemporary art exhibitions by both Egyptian and international artists, located in Cairo, Egypt.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Entry is usually free; special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.