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For over 700 years Cairo has been the largest city in Africa, and it continues to grow at a rapid pace.
The urban sprawl, dusty streets and chaotic driving do not endear the city to everyone, but those who persevere are rewarded by a diverse and dramatic history, and many unsung attractions.
Exploring Cairo
The one stop that really must be included in any visit to Egypt is the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, a vast treasure trove handed down through the ages that includes the legendary treasures of Tutankhamun.
Scratch beneath the surface and Cairo reveals its wondrous secrets, beautiful mosques, imposing citadels, labyrinthine bazaars, ancient Coptic churches and unexpected garden oases.
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Suggested itineraries featuring Cairo
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Cairo, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Cairo
- Giza 13 kilometers away
- Saqqara 22 kilometers away
- Dahshur 33 kilometers away
- Alexandria 180 kilometers away
- El Alamein & the Mediterranean Coast 237 kilometers away
- Hurghada 401 kilometers away
- The Red Sea 475 kilometers away
Photos of Cairo
Our expert guides to exploring Cairo
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Cairo, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Cairo at its best.
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What to do in Egypt: our highlights guide What to do in Egypt: our highlights guide
What to do in Egypt: our highlights guide
Home to some of the world's most historical monuments and best dive sites, Egypt's size makes it possible for the first-time visitor to see many of its highlights in a relatively short trip.
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Past Civilizations of Ancient Egypt Past Civilizations of Ancient Egypt
Past Civilizations of Ancient Egypt
Discover the culture and history of Ancient Egypt on a tailor-made vacation. Our knowledgeable specialists can create a unique itinerary for you that suits your interests, including a few places that you might not have known about.
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Nile cruises: the route to ancient Egypt Nile cruises: the route to ancient Egypt
Nile cruises: the route to ancient Egypt
A Nile cruise is the classic way of exploring Egypt. Drift down the Nile in a comfortable cruise boat, making stops to visit Ancient Egyptian temples and tombs. Egypt specialist Steve outlines how you can make the most of your cruise.
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Luxury Egypt: live like a pharaoh Luxury Egypt: live like a pharaoh
Luxury Egypt: live like a pharaoh
A room at the foot of the Great Pyramid, an opulent ship on the Nile, and private guides — Egypt specialist Emma outlines the most indulgent ways to enjoy the country’s classic sights.
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Accommodation choices for Cairo
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Cairo. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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Hilton Cairo Heliopolis
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Marriott Mena House
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Ideas for experiencing Cairo
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Cairo, and which use the best local guides.
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Citadel, Mosque and Souqs Citadel, Mosque and Souqs
Citadel, Mosque and Souqs
Situated on a spur of the Muqattam Hills, the citadel dominates Cairo's skyline and was the nerve center of the city and wider Egypt for almost 700 years.
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Churches and synagogues of Old Cairo Churches and synagogues of Old Cairo
Churches and synagogues of Old Cairo
Old Cairo is contained within the boundaries of the Roman fortress of Babylon, where the Copts built their churches for protection.
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Giza, Saqqara & Dahshur Giza, Saqqara & Dahshur
Giza, Saqqara & Dahshur
As the only survivor of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the pyramids at Giza occupy a unique place in world history, and are a perennial favorite with travelers.
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