Cairo in 5 days
A day-by-day itinerary · 17 places · Egypt
Updated · Every place checked on Google Maps and grouped by area, one area per day.
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Cairo over five days, exploring iconic sites such as the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Solar Boat Museum. Enjoy local flavors at Felfela Restaurant and Zooba while wandering through Coptic Cairo, Tahrir Square, and the Egyptian Museum for an immersive experience.
Make this trip yours
Your dates, budget and interests, with opening hours for the days you visit.
Day 1
Solar Boat Museum, Great Pyramid of Giza, Sphinx of Giza and Felfela Restaurant
Morning· 1 hr
Solar Boat Museum
Discover the ancient funerary boat discovered next to the pyramids, meticulously restored and displayed. The museum offers insights into ancient Egyptian burial rituals and boat construction techniques.
Giza Plateau · Map
Afternoon· 2 hrs
Great Pyramid of Giza
Stand in awe inside the world’s oldest and largest pyramid, exploring the burial chambers and learning about ancient engineering. The site offers spectacular views of the desert and nearby pyramids, perfect for group photos.
Al Haram · Map
Afternoon· 1 hr
Sphinx of Giza
Marvel at the colossal limestone statue with its mysterious face, located right beside the pyramids. Take a leisurely walk around the site and capture memorable photos with the iconic monument as a backdrop.
Al Haram · MapEvening· 2 hrs
Felfela Restaurant
Enjoy a lively dinner at this renowned Cairo eatery known for its delicious traditional Egyptian dishes in a cozy, vibrant setting. Perfect for friends to unwind and share their first day’s adventures.
Qasr El Nil · Map
Book your tickets online for the Solar Boat Museum to skip the long lines and visit early in the morning for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
Day 2
Coptic Cairo, Tahrir Square, Egyptian Museum and Zooba
Morning· 2 hrs
Coptic Cairo
Wander through the ancient streets of Coptic Cairo, exploring its churches, including the famous Hanging Church, and soaking in the atmosphere of Egypt’s early Christian heritage. Discover hidden chapels and the historic ambiance of this religiously significant neighborhood.
Old Cairo · Map
Afternoon· 1 hr
Tahrir Square
Stroll around this historic and symbolic square, witnessing the vibrant city life and modern Egyptian culture. Take photos of the iconic Egyptian flags and the surrounding architecture that has witnessed key moments in Egypt’s modern history.
Cairo Governorate · Map
Afternoon· 2 hrs
Egyptian Museum
Start your day exploring the world’s most comprehensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including mummies, statues, and royal jewelry. Walk through the grand halls and marvel at the ancient relics that tell stories of Egypt’s rich history.
Qasr El Nil · MapEvening· 1-2 hrs
Zooba
End the day at this trendy local eatery known for its modern twist on traditional Egyptian street food. Enjoy a lively atmosphere with friends while sampling dishes like koshary, taameya, and freshly made falafel, perfect for sharing.
Al Gabalayah · Map
Book tickets for the Egyptian Museum online in advance to skip long lines and consider visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Day 3
Al-Azhar Mosque, Khan El Khalili Bazaar and Naguib Mahfouz Café
Morning· 1-1.5 hrs
Al-Azhar Mosque
Explore this magnificent medieval mosque, renowned for its stunning Islamic architecture and vibrant courtyard. Attend a brief guided tour to learn about its history as one of the oldest universities in the world and its role in Cairo's religious life.
El Gamaliya · Map
Afternoon· 1.5 hrs
Khan El Khalili Bazaar
Stroll through this historic marketplace, marveling at the intricate metalwork, glassware, and traditional jewelry. Engage with vendors in lively negotiations and soak in the bustling, colorful environment that has persisted for centuries.
El Gamaliya · Map
Evening· 2 hrs
Naguib Mahfouz Café
Relax in this literary-themed café, named after Egypt’s Nobel laureate, enjoying traditional Egyptian dishes and lively conversation. The atmosphere is cozy and perfect for unwinding after a day exploring Cairo's historic neighborhoods.
El Fishawy Street · Map
Visit Khan El Khalili early in the morning to avoid the crowds and experience the bazaar's vibrant atmosphere at its most authentic, and consider bargaining for souvenirs to engage with local merchants.
Day 4
Citadel of Saladin, Mohamed Ali Mosque and Koshary Abou Tarek
Morning· 1.5 hrs
Citadel of Saladin
Explore the impressive medieval fortress that offers panoramic views of Cairo. Wander through its ancient walls, taking in the historic architecture and scenic cityscape from the elevated vantage points.
El Khalifa · MapAfternoon· 1 hr
Mohamed Ali Mosque
Visit this iconic Ottoman-style mosque known for its grand domes and minarets. Inside, admire the intricate calligraphy and spacious prayer hall, while outside, enjoy views of the old city from the mosque's courtyard.
Saladin · MapEvening· 1-1.5 hrs
Koshary Abou Tarek
End your day with a lively dinner at this renowned local eatery famous for its hearty koshary, a traditional Egyptian street food blend of pasta, rice, lentils, and tomato sauce. The bustling atmosphere and authentic flavors make for a perfect group outing.
Downtown Cairo · Map
Book your tickets online in advance for the Citadel to avoid long lines, and consider visiting early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Day 5
Pharaonic Village, Al-Azhar Park and Sequoia
Morning· 2 hrs
Pharaonic Village
Explore an outdoor open-air museum that showcases replicas of ancient Egyptian temples, tombs, and artifacts. Engage in guided tours that bring Egypt's pharaonic history vividly to life through actors and detailed displays.
Al Giza · Map
Afternoon· 1.5 hrs
Al-Azhar Park
Stroll through lush gardens with scenic views of Cairo’s skyline and historic mosques. Enjoy the outdoor walk along landscaped pathways, and take in the blend of natural beauty and ancient cityscape.
Al-Darb Al-Ahmar · MapEvening· 2 hrs
Sequoia
Relax at this elegant riverside restaurant known for its Mediterranean cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. Savor flavorful dishes while enjoying stunning views of the Nile at night, perfect for a lively group dinner.
Zamalek · Map
Book tickets online in advance for the Pharaonic Village to skip long queues and ensure smooth entry.
Make this trip yours
Your dates, budget and interests, with opening hours for the days you visit.
Questions
- What should I see on my first day in Cairo?
- This plan starts with Solar Boat Museum, Great Pyramid of Giza and Sphinx of Giza, close together so you spend the day exploring instead of travelling.
- Is 5 days enough for Cairo?
- 5 days covers 17 places in this plan, one area of Cairo per day. For more, see the 3-day plan.
- Where should I eat in Cairo?
- Each evening ends near that day's sights: Felfela Restaurant, Zooba, Naguib Mahfouz Café, Koshary Abou Tarek and Sequoia.
- Can I change this itinerary?
- Yes. Plan Cairo with TripPlano and set your own dates, budget and interests. You get opening hours for the days you visit, travel times between stops and a map, free for trips up to 3 days.