3 Days in Cairo: The Perfect 2025 Cairo Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Not sure what to do in Cairo in 3 days? I’ve got you! This 3-Day Cairo itinerary covers all the must-see spots so you can enjoy your first Egypt trip without feeling rushed!
Cairo is one of those places you just have to experience at least once. Of course, the Pyramids of Giza are a must—there’s no way you’re skipping those—but this city has so much more to offer beyond its ancient wonders.
Now, you might be wondering, is three days in Cairo enough? And honestly? Yes! With three days, you can explore the top Cairo attractions, dive into some incredible Egyptian street food, and even squeeze in a day trip to Alexandria if you’re up for it.
I visited Cairo for the first time earlier this year, and let’s just say—I learned a lot along the way. In this guide, I’m sharing the exact 3-day Cairo itinerary I followed, plus all the travel tips I wish I had known before my trip.
From wandering through the brand-new Grand Egyptian Museum to sailing the Nile at sunset and hunting for treasures in Bazaar Khan el-Khalili, this guide will help you figure out exactly how to make the most of 3 days in Cairo!
This blog post is all about planning the perfect 3-day Cairo itinerary!
Table of Contents
About This 3-Day Cairo Itinerary
If you’re planning to spend a full three days in Cairo, this itinerary is for you! That means arriving the night before and leaving the morning after to make the most of your time.
If you’ve only got two days in Cairo, no worries—just focus on Day 1 and Day 2, and skip the day trip on Day 3.
Now, heads up—this 3-day Cairo itinerary is packed! If you prefer a slower pace, feel free to skip a stop or two and enjoy some downtime at your luxury Cairo hotel (trust me, you’ll need it).
And one last thing you really need to know—Cairo is massive. Over 20 million people live here, and the traffic it’s no joke. I’ve grouped all the top things to do in Cairo by location to save you time, but you might still hit some delays.
Bonus Tip: If it’s your first time in Cairo, consider hiring a private driver or booking a guided tour to make things easier. I used Medjet Travel, and they fully customized my itinerary to fit everything I wanted to see—highly recommend!
Best Things to Do with 3 Days in Cairo (With Map!)
Cairo is known for the Pyramids of Giza, but there’s so much more to this city! It’s famous for its breathtaking Islamic architecture, lively souks, incredible Egyptian street food, and, of course, the Nile running right through it.
And the best part? Three days in Cairo gives you just enough time to experience the highlights without feeling rushed.
Top Places to Visit in Cairo
- See the Pyramids of Giza & Sphinx up close
- Visit the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
- Admire the Muhammad Ali Mosque & Citadel
- Wander through Khan El Khalili and Islamic Cairo
- Relax at Al-Azhar Park
- Discover Coptic Cairo and its historic churches
- Take a felucca ride on the Nile (especially at sunset!)
- Get a panoramic view from Cairo Tower
- Take a day trip from Cairo to Alexandria or the White Desert
Map of What to Do in Cairo in 3 Days
If you’re a visual planner or just short on time, I’ve got you! Here’s a map of all the top things to do in Cairo, including the best day trips and overnight gateways.
No worries—I’ll break everything down below so you can easily plan your perfect Cairo itinerary!
3 Days in Cairo Itinerary
Cairo Itinerary Day 1: Giza Pyramids, Grand Egyptian Museum, Sunset Nile Cruise
Your first day in Cairo is all about ancient Egypt! You’ll kick things off at the Pyramids of Giza, visit the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum, and finish with a sunset cruise on the Nile. If you needed a reason to visit Egypt, this day alone will give you plenty!
Morning: Explore the Giza Pyramids & Sphinx
No 3-day Cairo itinerary is complete without seeing the Pyramids of Giza up close—and yes, they’re every bit as jaw-dropping as you’d expect. Actually, scratch that. They’re even bigger!
Get there before 8 AM to beat both the crowds and the heat. This gives you plenty of time to explore the three main pyramids, the Sphinx, and soak in those iconic views before the tour buses arrive.
Things to Do at the Giza Pyramids
- Ride a camel or ATV for some of the best panoramic views. Yes, it’s a little touristy—but also so much fun!
- Step inside a pyramid—because standing in a 4,500-year-old tomb? That’s something you don’t do every day. (Just a heads-up: you can enter, but you can’t climb them!)
- Breakfast with a view? Yes, please! Stop by 9 Pyramids Lounge—because food always tastes better when you’re staring at one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Need more tips? Check out my 2025 guide to visiting the Giza Pyramids for everything you need to know!
Afternoon: Visit the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
After exploring the pyramids, head to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)—just a short drive away. If there’s one museum in Cairo you absolutely can’t miss, this is it.
With over 100,000 artifacts, GEM is officially the largest museum in the world dedicated to a single civilization.
And if you’re a King Tut fan, you’re in for a treat! While the museum has been partially open since October 2024, the official grand opening is set for July 3, 2025, when the entire King Tut collection will be displayed together for the first time ever.
Love history? You might also enjoy:
- The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization – home to Egypt’s royal mummies (yes, actual mummies!)
- The Egyptian Museum in Tahrir – the famous, old-school museum with ancient Egyptian artifacts.
Visiting GEM? Don’t miss my expert tips for the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo—must-sees, hidden gems, and pro advice to make the most of your visit!
Evening: Sunset Felucca Ride on the Nile
After a full-on day of sightseeing, it’s time to slow things down.A sunset felucca ride is one of the most peaceful things to do in Cairo at night, letting you glide along the Nile while enjoying the city skyline.
That said… personally, I’d probably skip this and get an early night instead—saving my energy for a 4-day Nile cruise from Aswan to Luxor, which is a must-do if you have the time!
Want something livelier? Swap the felucca for a Nile dinner cruise with live music, belly dancing, and traditional entertainment—a fun way to wrap up your first night in Cairo!
Cairo Itinerary Day 2: Cairo Citadel, Islamic Cairo, Coptic Cairo & Khan el Khalili Bazaar
Day two is all about history, culture, and shopping! You’ll explore the Cairo Citadel, dive into Islamic and Coptic Cairo, and end the day at Khan el Khalili Bazaar. With just 3 days in Cairo, this mix of ancient landmarks, stunning mosques, and lively markets is a must!
Morning: Cairo Citadel & the Muhammad Ali Mosque
Start your day at the Cairo Citadel, one of Egypt’s most impressive landmarks. Built in the 12th century by Salah al-Din, this massive fortress towers over the city, offering some of the best panoramic views of Cairo—for free!
Inside the Citadel, make sure to visit the Muhammad Ali Mosque, also known as the Alabaster Mosque. With its grand domes, intricate interiors, and stunning courtyard, it’s hands down one of the most beautiful mosques in Cairo—and an amazing spot for photos!
Bonus Tip: On a clear day, you can see the Pyramids of Giza from the Citadel’s courtyard! That’s exactly why I skipped Cairo Tower in this 3-Day Cairo itinerary—you get a similar view, without the entrance fee!
Midday: Explore Islamic Cairo & Al-Muizz Street
After the Citadel, head to Islamic Cairo, home to some of Egypt’s oldest mosques and stunning medieval architecture. Wander down Al-Muizz Street, one of the most historic streets in Cairo, filled with beautifully preserved Fatimid and Mamluk-era buildings.
Top Places to Visit in Islamic Cairo:
- Sultan Hassan Mosque & Al-Rifa’i Mosque – Two massive mosques standing side by side.
- Al-Azhar Mosque – One of the most important Islamic institutions in the world.
- Ibn Tulun Mosque – Cairo’s oldest surviving mosque, famous for its spiral minaret.
- Al-Azhar Park – A beautiful green space with one of the best skyline views in Cairo.
- Al-Hakim Mosque – A hidden gem known for its peaceful courtyard and towering minarets.
Want more? Check out my list of 10 Most Breathtaking Mosques in Egypt You Need to See in 2025!
Afternoon: Discover Coptic Cairo
Next, make your way to Coptic Cairo, a historic district packed with some of Egypt’s most important Christian landmarks. Even if you only have two days in Cairo, this area is a must-visit—it’s believed to be where Jesus and the Holy Family stayed during their time in Egypt!
Popular Coptic Cairo Attractions:
- The Hanging Church – One of Egypt’s oldest churches, built over ancient Roman ruins.
- Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus – Said to be the place where the Holy Family took refuge while fleeing King Herod.
- Ben Ezra Synagogue – A fascinating blend of Christian, Jewish, and Islamic influences.
- The Coptic Museum – Home to an incredible collection of Coptic art and manuscripts.
Want more details? Check out my full Coptic Cairo itinerary for a deep dive into this historic neighborhood!
Evening: Shop at Khan el Khalili Bazaar
Finish the second day of your Cairo itinerary at Khan el Khalili, the city’s most famous bazaar and souk. This lively market is the best place to shop for Egyptian souvenirs, from handmade lanterns and jewelry to spices and traditional textiles.
If you’re hungry, try some classic Cairo street food like falafel or koshari. Or, stop by El Fishawi Café, one of the city’s oldest and most iconic teahouses, for a cup of mint tea in the heart of the bazaar.
Planning to do some shopping in Egypt? Make sure to check out my top haggling tips before you go—otherwise, you’ll likely end up paying way more than you should!
Cairo Itinerary Day 3: Day Trips From Cairo
If you’re wondering what to do in Cairo in 3 days, don’t worry—you’ve got plenty of options for your final day. I decided to take a day trip from Cairo to Alexandria, and honestly, it was the perfect way to experience a completely different side of Egypt.
But if Alexandria isn’t on your Egypt bucket list, no worries! There are plenty of other Cairo day trip options, whether you’re into ancient history, modern city vibes, or unique desert landscapes.
Option 1: Day Trip from Cairo to Alexandria
Just 2.5 to 3 hours from Cairo, Alexandria is an easy and totally worth-it day trip. Known for its Mediterranean charm, Greek and Roman history, and coastal vibes, it’s a refreshing contrast to Cairo’s busy streets.
Top Things to Do in Alexandria:
- Qaitbay Citadel – A fortress built on the ruins of the famous Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- Bibliotheca Alexandrina – A stunning modern library paying tribute to the ancient Library of Alexandria.
- Pompey’s Pillar & the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa – Underground Roman tombs and one massive ancient column.
- Stanley Bridge & the Corniche – Take a scenic walk along the Mediterranean coast.
- Local Seafood – Alexandria is famous for incredible seafood, so don’t miss a meal with ocean views!
This Cairo day trip blends history, seaside views, and great seafood—for all the details, check out my ultimate one-day Alexandria itinerary!
Option 2: Explore More Ancient Pyramids
If ancient Egypt is what brought you here, skip Alexandria and visit Saqqara and Dahshur instead. These less crowded pyramids are older than the ones in Giza—and you can even go inside some of them!
Must-Visit Pyramids Near Cairo:
- Step Pyramid of Djoser (Saqqara) – The oldest pyramid in Egypt, built over 4,700 years ago.
- Red Pyramid & Bent Pyramid (Dahshur) – You can go inside the Red Pyramid, just like in Giza—but with way fewer crowds!
- Pyramid of Unas (Saqqara) – Home to some of the earliest pyramid texts ever discovered.
If you love archaeology and ancient wonders but want to skip the tourist crowds and scams at the Giza Pyramids, this Cairo itinerary option is for you!
Option 3: Stay in Cairo & Explore the Modern Side of the City
Not in the mood for another road trip? There are still plenty of fun things to do in Cairo! For the last of your 3 days in Cairo, stay in the capital and explore its modern side!
Best Areas to Explore in Cairo on Day 3:
- Zamalek – A leafy island on the Nile with cozy cafes, art galleries, and trendy restaurants—perfect for a relaxing day after two busy ones.
- New Cairo – If you’re curious about the modern side of Cairo, this area has luxury malls, high-end restaurants, and stylish cafes.
- The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization – If you skipped it earlier, this Cairo Museum is where you can see Egypt’s royal mummies—yes, actual mummies!
This is the best option if you want a chill last day in Cairo while still experiencing something new.
Bonus: What If You Have 4 Days in Cairo?
Got more than three days in Cairo? Lucky you! With an extra day, consider an overnight trip to one of Egypt’s most unique landscapes—it’s worth it!
Top Overnight Trips from Cairo:
- White & Black Desert – Sleep under the stars in Egypt’s most otherworldly landscape, where white chalk formations make you feel like you’ve landed on another planet.
- Whale Valley (Wadi Al-Hitan) – A UNESCO site where you can see prehistoric whale fossils in the middle of the desert.
- Siwa Oasis – A remote desert paradise famous for its salt lakes, hot springs, and ancient ruins.
No matter your travel style—history, adventure, or something more laid-back—this 3-day Cairo itinerary lets you explore at your own pace. Hope it helps with your planning!
How to Get Around Cairo
If you’re planning a Cairo itinerary, one thing you definitely need to figure out is how to get around. Trust me, this isn’t the kind of city where you can just wing it—having a plan makes all the difference!
Whether you’re spending three days in Cairo or just passing through on a layover, here are the best ways to navigate the city.
Best Ways to Get Around Cairo
- Uber & Careem – Yes, Uber in Cairo is a thing! It’s the easiest and safest option for tourists. Taxis are available too, but always agree on a price first to avoid overpaying.
- Cairo Metro – A cheap, fast, and reliable way to dodge Cairo’s legendary traffic. Plus, there are women-only cars for extra comfort!
- Buses & Microbuses – Super cheap, but tricky to navigate unless you speak Arabic. No fixed stops—you’ll need to signal the driver and hope he’s going your way!
- Walking – Some areas, like Zamalek and parts of Downtown Cairo, are walkable. But crossing the street? Absolute chaos! Follow the locals—they know best.
- Private Tour or Driver – The most hassle-free way to visit multiple places in one day.
- Train – If you’re heading to Aswan or Luxor, the night train is the cheapest option—but be prepared for a long and exhausting ride.
- Domestic Flights – For longer distances, a quick flight from Cairo International Airport is the fastest way to get to Luxor, Aswan, or Sharm El-Sheikh.
I usually love DIY travel, but in Cairo, hiring a guide or private driver makes life so much easier. Just be super clear about what you want to see and how long you want to stay at each stop—otherwise, you might feel rushed (like I did at the Giza Pyramids and Islamic Cairo!).
Bonus Tip: Get a SIM card! Even with a guide, you’ll often have free time to explore, and having Google Maps handy is a lifesaver!
Where to Stay in Cairo
Cairo is massive (as I’ve probably said more than once!), so where you stay can really shape your 3-day Cairo itinerary. Whether you want pyramid views, a central location, or a peaceful escape, here’s what to keep in mind!
Best Areas to Stay in Cairo
- Giza – Perfect if you want to wake up to pyramid views! It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but keep in mind—it’s far from the rest of the city.
- Downtown Cairo – Right in the middle of everything! Ideal for history lovers who want to be close to the Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo, and Khan El Khalili.
- Zamalek – A leafy, artsy island on the Nile with cool cafes, restaurants, and a more relaxed vibe.
- New Cairo – A modern area with luxury hotels, malls, and upscale dining. A great choice if you want comfort and quiet.
I stayed at the Royal Maxim Kempinski Hotel in New Cairo and loved it—super comfortable and far from the city chaos! But if waking up to pyramid views is your dream, Marriott Mena House in Giza is the place to stay.
Want to find the perfect hotel for your trip? Check out my full guide: The Best Hotels in Cairo (You Won’t Regret Booking!)!
Best Time to Visit Cairo
The best time to visit Cairo is from October to April, when the weather is cooler, making sightseeing so much more enjoyable.
Summers in Cairo? Brutal. Temperatures soar past 40°C (104°F), so if you’re planning to walk around for hours, be ready for sweaty, sun-drenched days—and lots of water breaks.
I visited in late December, expecting warm, mild weather… but to my surprise, it actually got pretty cold at times! So, learn from my mistake—bring layers and a jacket, not just linen trousers (trust me, I regretted that choice!).
Bonus tip: Try to avoid visiting Cairo during Ramadan—many restaurants and shops close during the day, making it harder to find food. Also, keep in mind that weekends in Egypt are Friday and Saturday, so expect major attractions to be packed with locals!
FAQs About This 3-Day Cairo Itinerary
Before wrapping up this 2025 Cairo travel guide, let me quickly answer some of the most common questions about planning your first trip to Cairo!
If you’re short on time, 2 days in Cairo is enough to see the Pyramids of Giza, the Grand Egyptian Museum, and Islamic Cairo. But if you prefer a more relaxed pace and want to add a day trip, 3 days in Cairo is the perfect amount of time!
In 3 days in Cairo, you can explore the Pyramids of Giza, visit the Grand Egyptian Museum, wander through Khan El Khalili, see Coptic and Islamic Cairo, and even take a day trip to Alexandria or Saqqara. This itinerary includes all the best things to do in Cairo!
Yes! Jeans are totally fine to wear in Cairo. The city is quite modern, and locals wear jeans too. Just remember that Egypt is conservative, so avoid anything too tight or ripped. If you’re visiting religious sites, pair them with a modest top or a scarf for extra coverage.
Absolutely! Cairo is chaotic, vibrant, and rich in history, making it worth a visit. In 3 days, you can explore the Pyramids of Giza, the Grand Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo, and Khan El Khalili, plus take a day trip. It’s the perfect amount of time to experience the city!
Cairo is cheap compared to Western cities! Street food, taxis, and metro rides cost very little, and even mid-range hotels and restaurants are affordable. That said, staying in expensive luxury hotels or booking private tours can add up. Overall, Cairo is a budget-friendly destination with options for all travelers.
Yes! Cairo is generally safe to walk around, but it’s a busy, chaotic city, so stay aware. Watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas. Women may get some harmless (but sometimes annoying) attention. Stick to well-lit areas at night, and if you need a ride, use Uber instead of taxis!
Final Thoughts: Is 3 Days in Cairo Enough?
Absolutely! A 3-day Cairo itinerary gives you enough time to see the Pyramids, the Grand Egyptian Museum, and Islamic Cairo, plus even squeeze in a day trip. It’s a packed schedule, but you’ll get to experience Cairo’s history, culture, and energy without feeling too rushed.
If you have extra time, I highly recommend adding some non-touristy things to do in Cairo, like wandering through local markets, visiting lesser-known Cairo mosques, or discovering hidden cafés in Zamalek. There’s always more to explore in this incredible city!
How long did you spend in Cairo? Let me know in the comments!
Other Cairo Travel Guides You Can’t Miss:
- Pyramids of Giza: Secrets, Hacks & Must-Know Tips Before You Go!
- The Grand Egyptian Museum: Why Everyone’s Talking About It!
- Khan El Khalili Bazaar: How to Score the Best Deals Like a Local!
- Egypt’s Most Stunning Mosques – Don’t Miss These Architectural Wonders!
- Coptic Cairo: Hidden History, Ancient Churches & Must-See Spots!
- Where to Stay in Cairo: Avoid Tourist Traps & Stay in the Best Areas!
- Cairo to Alexandria: The Ultimate Day Trip
- 13 Unique Things to Do in Cairo That Most Tourists Miss!
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I love your content on Cairo! Very detailed and informative. Egypt is definitely up there on my bucket list. I can’t wait to see it!
Sounds awesome to visit Cairo and see the pyramids, specially if you
have a ride on Nile with the sunset afterwards. Great guide…
We’ve done a nile cruise, from Luxor to Aswan, but haven’t been to Cairo yet. We still want to see the Pyramids, and the Grant Egyptian Museum. Would love to stay at the Marriott Mena House, with a view on the pyramids.