3 Days in Cairo 2025: Pyramids, Bazaars & Ancient Wonders
Navigate Cairo's incredible blend of ancient pyramids and vibrant modern life. Complete guide to Giza, Islamic Cairo, museums, and authentic Egyptian experiences.
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What's the perfect 3-day itinerary for Cairo?
Day 1 explores the iconic Pyramids and ancient Memphis, Day 2 discovers Islamic Cairo's medieval architecture and bazaars, and Day 3 focuses on world-class museums and Coptic heritage. Budget $35-120 per day including transport and activities.
Related questions:
- • How much does 3 days in Cairo cost?
- • What's the best area to stay in Cairo?
- • Is 3 days enough for Cairo?
Your 3-Day Cairo Adventure
TL;DR: Explore Cairo's highlights in 3 action-packed days covering 26 attractions with a budget of €$105-$360-600 per person.
- 1 Day 1 focuses on world's most famous ancient monuments ($40-100 in activities including transport)
- 2 Day 2 explores medieval Islamic architecture and authentic bazaar culture ($25-70 total cost)
- 3 Day 3 celebrates Egypt's greatest museum treasures and Coptic Christian heritage ($30-80 budget needed)
- 4 Cairo offers the world's densest concentration of historical monuments and artifacts
- 5 Stay in Zamalek for upscale comfort or Islamic Cairo for authentic medieval atmosphere
- 6 Total 3-day budget: $105-360 per person including all major sites and meals
Cairo mesmerizes with a 3-day journey through the crossroads of Africa, Asia, and the Mediterranean, where ancient pyramid wonders meet the vibrant chaos of the Arab world's largest city. From the legendary Pyramids of Giza and enigmatic Sphinx to the treasure-filled Egyptian Museum, from the medieval lanes of Islamic Cairo to the bustling Khan el-Khalili bazaar, Cairo offers the world's most concentrated collection of historical wonders. With daily costs ranging from $35 to $120 per person, this carefully crafted itinerary balances ancient marvels with authentic Egyptian culture, proving why Cairo remains humanity's greatest outdoor museum. The best time to visit is October through April when desert temperatures are manageable for exploration. This itinerary covers approximately 85 kilometers of exploration through ancient sites, Islamic districts, and modern neighborhoods that showcase 5,000 years of continuous civilization.
Your 3-Day Cairo Itinerary
Day 1: Pyramid Wonders & Ancient Capitals
Ancient Marvels
Day 1
Experience humanity's most iconic monuments and explore Egypt's ancient capital cities
Total Cost
USD40-100
Walking Distance
12 km
Activities
4 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 12 km journey!
Day 1 Schedule
Morning (7:00 AM - 1:00 PM)
Duration: 6 hours
Pyramids of Giza Complex
Marvel at the last surviving Wonder of the Ancient World - the Great Pyramid, plus Khafre and Menkaure pyramids in this UNESCO World Heritage site
💡 Tip: Entry EGP 540 ($11) for complex + EGP 900 ($18) for Great Pyramid interior. Morning light best for photos. Avoid camel tours hassle
The Great Sphinx
Stand before the mysterious 4,500-year-old sphinx with its human head and lion body, guardian of the pyramid complex
💡 Tip: Included in Giza complex entry. Best photos from different angles. Sphinx Temple nearby. Morning lighting ideal
Solar Boat Museum
See the reconstructed 4,600-year-old cedar boat found in a pit beside the Great Pyramid, built to carry pharaohs to the afterlife
💡 Tip: Entry EGP 100 ($2). Air-conditioned environment. Incredible preservation. Boat reconstruction story fascinating
Panoramic Viewpoint
Visit the elevated viewpoint for the classic shots of all three pyramids and the sprawling city of Cairo beyond
💡 Tip: Free viewpoint access. Best photography spot. Avoid persistent vendors. Sunset timing excellent for return visit
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
Pyramid Restaurant • Traditional Egyptian
💰 USD8-18 per person
Must try: Koshary, Grilled chicken, Egyptian rice, Fresh juice
Convenient location with pyramid views
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 7:00 PM)
Duration: 5 hours
Memphis Archaeological Site
Explore the ruins of ancient Memphis, Egypt's first capital, featuring the colossal statue of Ramesses II and ancient artifacts
💡 Tip: Entry EGP 80 ($1.60). 25km drive from Giza. Colossal Ramesses statue highlight. Ancient capital significance explained
Saqqara Step Pyramid Complex
Visit the Step Pyramid of Djoser, Egypt's oldest pyramid, and explore the vast necropolis with numerous mastaba tombs
💡 Tip: Entry EGP 150 ($3). World's first pyramid structure. Multiple tomb entries possible. Less crowded than Giza
Return to Cairo
Drive back to central Cairo through suburbs and agricultural areas, witnessing modern Egyptian life
💡 Tip: Traffic can be heavy. Good time to rest and process pyramid experiences. Evening arrival in city center
Evening (7:30 PM onwards)
Duration: 3+ hours
Nile River Walk
Stroll along the Nile Corniche to decompress after the intense historical day and enjoy river views
💡 Tip: Free walking activity. Safe evening area. Many cafes and restaurants. Nile boats and feluccas visible
🍽️ Dinner Recommendation
Abou El Sid • Traditional Egyptian cuisine
💰 USD15-30 per person
Must try: Stuffed pigeon, Molokhia, Om Ali dessert, Egyptian bread
Authentic Egyptian restaurant with traditional decor
🚇 Getting Around
transport: Taxi or tour for Giza-Memphis-Saqqara circuit (8 hours total)
timing: Early start essential to avoid crowds and heat
tickets: Buy pyramid interior tickets early - limited daily numbers
sun: Bring sun protection - desert environment with little shade
🏨 Where to Stay: Central Cairo or Giza hotels convenient for early pyramid departure
Day 2: Islamic Cairo & Medieval Wonders
Medieval Heritage
Day 2
Journey through medieval Islamic architecture and authentic bazaar culture in the world's largest historic Islamic city
Total Cost
USD25-70
Walking Distance
15 km
Activities
4 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 15 km journey!
Day 2 Schedule
Morning (8:00 AM - 1:00 PM)
Duration: 5 hours
Citadel of Saladin
Explore the medieval fortress built by Saladin with panoramic Cairo views and multiple mosques and museums within
💡 Tip: Entry EGP 180 ($3.60). Multiple attractions inside. Panoramic city views spectacular. Mohammad Ali Mosque included
Mohammad Ali Mosque (Alabaster Mosque)
Marvel at the stunning Ottoman-style mosque with alabaster walls and commanding dome, Cairo's most photogenic mosque
💡 Tip: Included in Citadel entry. Remove shoes. Modest dress required. Interior photography allowed. Dome acoustics amazing
Mosque of Ibn Tulun
Visit Cairo's oldest intact mosque with unique spiral minaret and peaceful courtyard, showcasing early Islamic architecture
💡 Tip: Entry EGP 60 ($1.20). Oldest mosque in Cairo. Unique spiral minaret. Peaceful atmosphere. Climb minaret for views
Gayer-Anderson Museum
Explore the beautifully preserved 17th-century house showcasing traditional Islamic domestic architecture and furnishings
💡 Tip: Entry EGP 75 ($1.50). Adjacent to Ibn Tulun Mosque. Beautiful traditional house. Islamic art collection excellent
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
Naguib Mahfouz Restaurant • Traditional Egyptian
💰 USD8-18 per person
Must try: Mixed grill, Egyptian salads, Traditional bread, Mint tea
Historic bazaar setting named after Nobel laureate
Afternoon (2:00 PM - 6:30 PM)
Duration: 4.5 hours
Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
Navigate the medieval labyrinth of Cairo's most famous bazaar with traditional crafts, spices, jewelry, and authentic atmosphere
💡 Tip: Free to explore. Bargaining essential - start at 1/3 asking price. Cash only. Avoid pressure sales. Traditional crafts authentic
Al-Azhar Mosque & University
Visit one of Islam's most important centers of learning, a 1,000-year-old mosque and university that's still active today
💡 Tip: Free entry outside prayer times. Modest dress essential. Remove shoes. Photography allowed in courtyard. Active university
Al-Muizz Street Walking Tour
Walk along the medieval street with the world's largest collection of historic Islamic architecture in a single area
💡 Tip: Free walking tour. UNESCO World Heritage area. Multiple mosques and monuments. Best preserved medieval Islamic street
Evening (7:00 PM onwards)
Duration: 3+ hours
Traditional Coffeehouse Experience
Experience authentic Egyptian cafe culture in a traditional ahwa with shisha, tea, and backgammon
💡 Tip: Cost EGP 50-100 ($1-2) for tea/coffee. Shisha EGP 100-200 ($2-4). Traditional male-dominated space but tourists welcome
🍽️ Dinner Recommendation
Al-Azhar Restaurant • Traditional Egyptian street food
💰 USD5-15 per person
Must try: Ful medames, Koshari, Fresh bread, Sugarcane juice
Local favorite with authentic atmosphere
🚇 Getting Around
walking: Extensive walking on uneven medieval streets
dress: Conservative dress required for mosques
cash: Bring cash - most places don't accept cards
bargaining: Expected and part of cultural experience
🏨 Where to Stay: Islamic Cairo hotels offer authentic atmosphere, or return to modern areas for international comfort
Day 3: Museum Treasures & Coptic Heritage
Culture & Heritage
Day 3
Explore world-class museums and discover Egypt's Christian heritage in historic Coptic Cairo
Total Cost
USD30-80
Walking Distance
10 km
Activities
4 stops
Duration
Full Day
Today's Highlights
🌟 Pro Tip: Start early to beat the crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for today's 10 km journey!
Day 3 Schedule
Morning (8:00 AM - 1:30 PM)
Duration: 5.5 hours
Egyptian Museum (Museum of Egyptian Antiquities)
Explore the world's largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts including Tutankhamun's treasures and royal mummies
💡 Tip: Entry EGP 200 ($4). Tutankhamun gallery EGP 400 ($8) extra. Photography EGP 50 ($1). Audio guide recommended. Allow lots of time
Tahrir Square
Walk through Egypt's most famous square, center of the 2011 revolution and heart of modern Cairo
💡 Tip: Free public square. Historical significance of Arab Spring. Heavy traffic area. Many street vendors
Coptic Museum
Learn about Egypt's Christian heritage through the world's largest collection of Coptic Christian artifacts and art
💡 Tip: Entry EGP 80 ($1.60). Excellent collection. Air-conditioned. Explains Christian Egypt history. Photography allowed
🍽️ Lunch Recommendation
Sequoia Restaurant • Mediterranean-Lebanese
💰 USD15-30 per person
Must try: Lebanese mezze, Grilled seafood, Fresh salads, Nile views
Upscale Nile-side dining with garden setting
Afternoon (2:30 PM - 6:30 PM)
Duration: 4 hours
Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary's Coptic Orthodox Church)
Visit Cairo's most famous Coptic church, built above a Roman fortress gatehouse with beautiful icons and woodwork
💡 Tip: Free entry. Beautiful wood ceiling and pulpit. Active church services. Photography allowed. Remove hat inside
Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus (Abu Serga)
Explore the church built over the cave where the Holy Family allegedly stayed during their flight to Egypt
💡 Tip: Free entry. Important Christian pilgrimage site. Ancient crypt accessible. Holy Family connection significant
Ben Ezra Synagogue
Visit Cairo's oldest synagogue with incredible history including the famous Cairo Geniza manuscript discovery
💡 Tip: Entry EGP 80 ($1.60). Historic synagogue. Cairo Geniza discovery site. Jewish history in Egypt explained
Roman Fortress of Babylon
Explore the remains of the Roman fortress that controlled the Nile, with Coptic churches built within its walls
💡 Tip: Free exploration. Roman fortress ruins. Coptic churches built inside walls. Strategic Nile location explained
Nilometer on Rhoda Island
Visit the ancient device used to measure Nile flood levels, crucial for Egyptian agriculture and taxation
💡 Tip: Entry EGP 40 ($0.80). Ancient Egyptian engineering. Nile flood measurement explained. Island location peaceful
Final Shopping at Zamalek
Browse upscale Zamalek shops for quality Egyptian souvenirs, books, and crafts in comfortable modern setting
💡 Tip: Higher prices but better quality. Fixed prices mostly. Good for books, art, quality crafts. Credit cards accepted
Evening (7:00 PM onwards)
Duration: 3+ hours
Nile Sunset Felucca Ride
End your Cairo experience with a traditional sailboat ride on the Nile at sunset, seeing the city from the water
💡 Tip: Cost EGP 200-400 ($4-8) per boat. Share with others. Sunset timing varies by season. Perfect end to Cairo visit
🍽️ Dinner Recommendation
Zitouni Restaurant • Fine Egyptian cuisine
💰 USD25-50 per person
Must try: Modern Egyptian cuisine, Nile views, International service, Egyptian wine
Luxury hotel dining with Nile views
🚇 Getting Around
transport: Metro useful for crossing city quickly
museum: Allow plenty of time - collections are vast
dress: Conservative dress for Coptic religious sites
photography: Many museums charge photography fees
🏨 Where to Stay: Central Cairo or Zamalek convenient for museums and evening Nile activities
Complete Budget Breakdown
Complete 3-day costs per person in Cairo, excluding accommodation. All prices in USD with Egyptian Pound conversions at 2025 rates.
Budget Traveler
💰$35-55 per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Street food safe and delicious
- • Metro system very efficient and cheap
- • Many mosques free to enter
- • Haggling expected in bazaars
3-Day Total
$105-165
Attractions
$45-75 total
Meals
$36-60 total
Transport
$24-30
Extras
N/A
Mid-Range
💎$70-100 per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • Restaurant meals excellent value
- • Private guides enhance experience
- • Taxi apps work well
- • Mid-range hotels often include breakfast
3-Day Total
$210-300
Attractions
$75-105 total
Meals
$90-150 total
Transport
$45-45
Extras
N/A
Luxury
👑$120-200+ per day
per person per day
Daily Breakdown
Money-Saving Tips:
- • World-class dining at reasonable prices
- • Private guides provide deep historical context
- • Luxury hotels offer transport services
- • Premium shopping in modern districts
3-Day Total
$360-600+
Attractions
$120-180 total
Meals
$180+ total
Transport
$60-120
Extras
N/A
💡 Smart Money-Saving Tips
Many Islamic monuments have free entry
Metro extremely cheap for getting around
Street food costs fraction of restaurant prices
Bazaar bargaining can yield significant savings
Walking tours often very affordable
✨ Worth the Splurge
Interior access to Great Pyramid
Private guide for Egyptian Museum
High-quality dinner cruise on the Nile
Professional photography at pyramids
Note: All prices are estimates for 2025 and exclude accommodation. Actual costs may vary by season and booking timing. Prices shown in EUR.
Essential Planning Tips
Customize Your Itinerary
Customize your 3 days based on interests and priorities
Ancient Egypt Deep Dive
- ✓ Multiple pyramid interior access
- ✓ Extended Egyptian Museum time
- ✓ Additional archaeological sites
- ✓ Egyptology expert guides
Additional cost: $80-150 for premium access and expert guides
Islamic Cairo Focus
- ✓ Extended mosque visits
- ✓ Traditional craft workshops
- ✓ Islamic architecture tours
- ✓ Sufi cultural experiences
Additional cost: $40-80 for specialized Islamic heritage tours
Bazaar & Shopping Experience
- ✓ Extended Khan el-Khalili time
- ✓ Traditional craft workshops
- ✓ Spice market explorations
- ✓ Haggling skill lessons
Additional cost: $30-60 for shopping tours and workshops
Modern Cairo Discovery
- ✓ Zamalek district exploration
- ✓ Contemporary art galleries
- ✓ Modern restaurant scene
- ✓ Nile waterfront activities
Additional cost: $50-100 for modern experiences and dining
Photography Adventure
- ✓ Sunrise pyramid photography
- ✓ Islamic architecture details
- ✓ Street photography tours
- ✓ Professional editing workshops
Additional cost: $70-120 for photography equipment and instruction
When to Visit: Seasonal Guide
winter
December-February • Ideal temperatures, 15-25°C
Highlights:
- • Perfect for walking and exploration
- • Clear desert air
- • Excellent pyramid visits
- • Comfortable outdoor activities
spring
March-May • Warming but comfortable, 20-30°C
Highlights:
- • Still excellent weather
- • Good for all activities
- • Pleasant evening exploration
- • Manageable heat
summer
June-August • Very hot, 35-45°C
Highlights:
- • Air-conditioned museums ideal
- • Early morning pyramid visits
- • Lower tourist numbers
- • Significant hotel discounts
autumn
September-November • Temperatures becoming comfortable, 25-35°C
Highlights:
- • Weather improving
- • Good for sightseeing
- • Fewer crowds than winter
- • Better hotel rates
Frequently Asked Questions About 3 Days in Cairo
1 Is 3 days enough to see Cairo's main attractions?
Three days covers Cairo's essential highlights: Giza Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo, and Khan el-Khalili bazaar. You'll experience the world's most important ancient monuments and authentic Middle Eastern culture. History enthusiasts might want 4-5 days for additional museums, but 3 days covers the unmissable sites well.
2 Is Cairo safe for tourists?
Generally safe in tourist areas with normal precautions. Stick to main tourist districts, use reputable hotels, avoid displays of wealth, and use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps. Tourist police are present at major sites. The Historic Center requires more caution at night - take taxis after dark.
3 How do I avoid crowds at the Pyramids?
Visit very early (7 AM opening) or late afternoon. Purchase tickets online in advance. Consider interior pyramid access which has limited daily entries. Private guides can provide skip-the-line access at some sites. Avoid Fridays and Egyptian holidays when domestic tourism peaks.
4 What should I wear in Islamic Cairo?
Dress conservatively: long pants/skirts, covered shoulders and arms. Women should carry a scarf for mosque visits. Comfortable walking shoes essential for cobblestone streets. Modest dress shows respect and helps you blend in while exploring authentic neighborhoods.
5 How much should I budget for 3 days in Cairo?
Budget $105-360 total for 3 days excluding accommodation. Budget travelers spend $35-55/day, mid-range $70-100/day, luxury $120+ daily. This covers attractions, meals, transport, and shopping. Cairo offers incredible value - you can see world-famous monuments for a fraction of European museum costs.
6 What's the best way to get around Cairo?
Taxis and ride-sharing apps for longer distances, walking for concentrated areas like Islamic Cairo. The metro is efficient but crowded. Avoid buses unless comfortable with local transport. Traffic is intense - allow extra time between sites. Many attractions are walkable once you reach each district.
Is 3 days enough to see Cairo's main attractions?
Is Cairo safe for tourists?
How do I avoid crowds at the Pyramids?
What should I wear in Islamic Cairo?
How much should I budget for 3 days in Cairo?
What's the best way to get around Cairo?
Ready for Your Cairo Adventure?
Continue Planning Your Cairo Trip
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About the Author
Amara Okonkwo
Amara's journey from Lagos to becoming an award-winning travel journalist spans 12 years of solo female travel across Africa and the Middle East. She's passionate about changing perceptions of African travel and empowering women to explore independently. Her cultural insights and safety tips have helped thousands discover Africa's incredible diversity.