13 Unique Things to Do in Cairo Beyond the Pyramids (2025)
Wondering what to do in Cairo besides the pyramids? I’ve got you! Here are 13 non-touristy things to do in Cairo for first-time visitors.
When I first started planning my Cairo itinerary, the only thing on my list was the Pyramids of Giza. That was it. Because let’s be honest—that’s what most people think of when they hear “Cairo,” right?
But here’s the thing—Cairo is massive. With over 20 million people, I knew there had to be more to see and do. And wow, did I underestimate this city!
From getting completely lost in the maze of Khan el-Khalili (seriously, I don’t think I ever found the exit I was looking for) to visiting the newly open Grand Egyptian Museum, I quickly realized there are so many incredible things to do in Cairo beyond the pyramids.
If you’re wondering what to do in Cairo, I’ve got your back! This guide covers everything—from must-see landmarks in Egypt to hidden gems most tourists miss, plus the best day trips from Cairo. (And yes, my solo trip to Alexandria was amazing—highly recommend it!).
This blog post is all about unique things to do in Cairo.
Table of Contents
13 Non-Touristy Things to Do in Cairo
1. Visit the Giza Pyramids
I know, I know—this list is about non-touristy things to do in Cairo, but let’s be honest—you can’t visit Cairo and skip the pyramids.
As the last standing Wonder of the Ancient World, they’re one of the top reasons people come to Egypt, and yes, they absolutely live up to the hype!
But they’re not in the middle of the desert like you might picture. The pyramids sit right on the edge of Giza, surrounded by vendors, tourists, and some scams. Don’t worry—I’ve got tips to help!
Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza
- Go early to beat the heat and crowds
- Hire a guide for history and help with vendors.
- Go inside a pyramid—it’s a bucket list moment!
- Try a camel or ATV ride if you want that classic desert adventure.
- Grab lunch at 9 Pyramids Lounge for incredible views
Want to know more? Check out my complete guide to visiting the Pyramids of Giza! (Trust me, you’ll want to read it before you go!)
2. Explore the Newly Open Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
If there’s one museum you absolutely need to add to your Cairo bucket list, it’s the Grand Egyptian Museum. This place is huge—with over 100,000 artifacts, it’s the world’s largest archaeological museum and the biggest one dedicated to a single civilization.
When it fully opens on July 3, 2025, you’ll finally get to see the entire King Tut collection together in one place for the first time ever!
Even if museums aren’t usually your thing, the stunning mix of ancient artifacts and modern design—plus the sheer scale—makes this one of the top things to do in Cairo. And since it’s right next to the Giza Pyramids, you can easily visit both in a single day.
Love Egyptian museums? Don’t skip the Egyptian Museum for more ancient treasures or the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, home to 22 royal mummies (yes, actual mummies!).
3. Go Shopping in Khan El Khalili
One of my favorite things to do in Cairo at night is getting lost in the chaos of Khan El Khalili Bazaar. It’s loud, lively, and packed with treasures—perfect for picking up gifts for friends and family (or, let’s be honest, something for yourself!).
Even if you’re not shopping, just wandering through the maze of stalls, soaking in the energy, and chatting with shopkeepers is one of the most fun activities in Cairo.
Need a break? Grab a mint tea at El Fishawi Café, one of the city’s oldest tea houses, and watch the world go by—it’s been around for over 200 years!
Shopping in Egypt? You need to learn how to bargain! Haggling is expected, so keep it lighthearted, flash a smile, and see just how good of a deal you can score!
4. Discover the History of Coptic Cairo
Looking for things to do in Cairo beyond the pyramids? Don’t skip Coptic Cairo! This historic district is home to some of the oldest Cairo landmarks, like the stunning Hanging Church and the Church of St. Sergius, believed to have sheltered the Holy Family.
Before my trip, I had no idea this place even existed, and I was amazed by how much history is packed into such a small area. The best part? It still feels like a hidden gem in Cairo, away from the usual crowds!
Not sure what to do in Cairo when exploring Coptic Cairo? I’ve got you covered—check out my guide on the top 10 things to do in Coptic Cairo for all the must-see attractions!
5. Visit the Muhammad Ali Mosque in Islamic Cairo
Cairo isn’t called the City of a Thousand Minarets for nothing! It’s home to some of the most beautiful mosques in Egypt, but if you only have time for one, make it the Muhammad Ali Mosque at Saladin Citadel.
With its grand domes, intricate interiors, and gleaming alabaster walls, it’s easily one of Cairo’s top attractions and a great place to take photos. But the real highlight? The free panoramic views! On a clear day, you can even spot the Giza Pyramids in the distance.
Other Must-See Mosques in Cairo
- Ibn Tulun Mosque – Huge, peaceful, and home to a unique spiral minaret.
- Sultan Hassan Mosque – Absolutely stunning (also where I broke my foot).
- Al-Rifa’i Mosque – Right across from Sultan Hassan and equally breathtaking.
- Al-Hakim Mosque – Feels more like a fortress than a mosque!
- Al-Azhar Mosque – One of the oldest and most important in Islamic history.
Pro Tip: Muslims pray five times a day, so you may need to wait until prayers finish to explore. But hearing the call to prayer inside a mosque is a must for any Cairo bucket list!
6. Relax at Al-Azhar Park
Need a break from Cairo’s chaos? Al-Azhar Park is the perfect place to slow down! This lush green escape in Islamic Cairo has stunning city views, peaceful walking paths, and plenty of space to relax.
It’s a great spot for a picnic, a meal at a scenic restaurant, or just a quiet stroll away from the crowds.
If you’re searching for things to do in Cairo with kids, this is a fantastic choice! With open spaces to run around and a laid-back vibe, it’s a favorite hangout for locals and a great way to experience Cairo beyond the usual tourist attractions.
7. Join a Cairo Food Tour
If you love trying new food (who doesn’t?), a food tour in Cairo is a must! Egyptian cuisine is so underrated, and the best way to experience it is by eating your way through the city.
Both Viator and Get Your Guide have great options, offering must-try dishes like koshari (Egypt’s ultimate comfort food), shawarma, and crispy falafel. Plus, you’ll know exactly what to order for the rest of your Egypt trip!
Food tours aren’t just about eating—they’re also one of the most fun activities in Cairo, especially if you’re traveling solo in Egypt. Nothing connects people like food!
Bonus Tip: If you have a private guide, skip the tour and ask them for their favorite local spots—you might discover a hidden gem with amazing food!
8. Experience a Nile Cruise
If you ever visit Egypt, sailing down the Nile at sunset is an absolute must. Whether you choose a felucca (a traditional wooden boat) or go all out with a dinner cruise with live music and belly dancing, this is easily one of the best things to do in Cairo at night.
I didn’t do this in Cairo because I went all in on a four-day cruise from Aswan to Luxor—and I can’t recommend it enough! Drifting past ancient temples, waking up to the sunrise over the river… I never wanted it to end.
But if a multi-day cruise doesn’t fit your 3-day Cairo itinerary, no worries! A nighttime Nile cruise is still a great way to experience Cairo’s nightlife and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
9. Visit the City of the Dead
If you’re looking for non-touristy things to do in Cairo, the City of the Dead is one of the most fascinating places to explore.
It’s a massive Islamic cemetery, but it’s also home to thousands of people who live among the tombs, with houses, markets, and little shops scattered throughout.
I only got a quick look while driving from my hotel to downtown, and I wish I had explored it properly! If you’re into seeing a raw, authentic side of Cairo, this is an experience most tourists miss.
Not sure where to stay? Check out my guide to the Top 10 Cairo Hotels for First-Time Visitors!
10. Discover the Art of Papyrus Making
When I first saw a papyrus shop on our Cairo itinerary, I almost skipped it. It sounded like one of those touristy stops designed just to sell you something. And yeah, there’s a bit of that—but honestly? I was fascinated by how papyrus is made!
Did you know the ancient Egyptians had reusable paper you could erase and write on again? I had no idea!
It’s not the most exciting attraction in Cairo, but if you’re looking for unique things to do in Cairo, this is definitely worth a visit. Plus, watching the process up close makes you appreciate just how advanced the ancient Egyptians really were!
11. Explore Cairo Tower in Zamalek
One of the most famous landmarks in Egypt (aside from the pyramids, of course) is Cairo Tower in Zamalek. Standing 187 meters (613 feet) tall, this lotus-shaped tower is the tallest structure in North Africa and offers incredible panoramic views of the city.
On a clear day, you can even spot the Pyramids of Giza in the distance—and if you’re really lucky, all the way to Sinai!
Feeling fancy? Time your visit for sunset and grab a meal at the Revolving Lounge and Restaurant, which slowly rotates 360°—so you can enjoy nonstop breathtaking views while you dine.
12. Explore New Cairo
If my family and I hadn’t been invited to dinner at my dad’s friend’s house, I probably never would have discovered New Cairo—and wow, was I surprised!
This modern district feels nothing like downtown Cairo. Think wide boulevards, massive shopping malls, Cairo’s top luxury hotels, and a much more relaxed, upscale vibe.
The home-cooked dinner? Incredible (seriously, Egyptian hospitality is on another level). But what really amazed me was seeing how upper-middle-class Egyptians live. Their compound was stunning—quiet, spacious, and super safe. I’m so glad I got to experience it!
13. Visit Garbage City and the Cave Church
For one of the most unique things to do in Cairo, head to Garbage City (Manshiyat Nasser). This Christian neighborhood is home to the Zabbaleen, a community that has been recycling Cairo’s waste for generations.
Walking through, you’ll see streets lined with stacks of sorted plastic, metal, and paper—an incredibly efficient system that keeps the city running.
While you’re there, don’t miss the Cave Church (Saint Simon Monastery). Carved into the Mokattam Hills, it’s the largest rock-hewn church in the Middle East and one of the coolest Cairo hidden gems!
Bonus: What to Do in Cairo If You Have Extra Time
Got some extra time in the city? Here are two Cairo landmarks worth adding to your itinerary:
- Tahrir Square – The heart of Egypt’s modern history and a key site of the 2011 and 2013 revolutions. While there’s not much to do, standing in this historic spot—right next to the Egyptian Museum—is one of the must-visit things to see in Cairo.
- Cairo Opera House – A hub for arts and culture, hosting concerts, ballets, and performances. Even if you don’t catch a show, the stunning Egyptian architecture and surrounding area make for a great evening stroll.
If you’re still wondering what to do in Cairo, these two spots are a perfect way to wrap up your visit!
5 Unique Day Trips from Cairo
Yes, there are so many incredible things to do in Cairo, but if you’re spending at least three days in Cairo, don’t miss the chance to explore beyond the capital! Here are the best day trips from Cairo you’ll love.
1. Cairo to Alexandria Day Trip
This was my pick, and honestly? Zero regrets! Alexandria has a totally different vibe from Cairo—laid-back, breezy, and packed with history.
Just a few hours by train or bus, it’s one of the easiest day trips from Cairo. I went solo, felt safe, and loved every moment!
Explore the stunning Bibliotheca Alexandrina, wander through the eerie Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, or visit Qaitbay Citadel, built on the site of the ancient Lighthouse of Alexandria. And whatever you do, don’t skip the seafood—it’s some of the best in Egypt!
Read next: How to Plan the Perfect Day Trip from Cairo to Alexandria
2. Saqqara, Dahshur, and Memphis
Think the Giza Pyramids are the only pyramids in Egypt? Think again! If you want to escape the crowds and dive deeper into Egypt’s ancient history, a day trip to Saqqara, Dahshur, and Memphis is a must!
- Saqqara is home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest pyramid in the world.
- Dahshur has the Bent Pyramid and Red Pyramid, both built by Pharaoh Sneferu. You can actually go inside the Red Pyramid!
- Memphis, Egypt’s ancient capital, features a massive Ramses II statue, even bigger than the one in the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo!
You can easily visit all three in one day, but here’s my advice—hire a private driver or book a tour through Viator or GetYourGuide. Trust me, you do not want to try driving in Cairo!
3. White Desert & Black Desert
Looking for fun outdoor activities in Cairo? Then you have to check out the White Desert and Black Desert—easily one of the most breathtaking day trips from Cairo!
- The Black Desert is a volcanic wonderland, with dark sand and rugged hills that make it feel like you’ve landed on another planet.
- The White Desert is even more surreal—think giant chalk rock formations shaped by the wind into mushrooms, camels, and rabbits.
It’s about 4–5 hours from Cairo, so many travelers turn this into an overnight camping trip with sandboarding, a bonfire, and a stunning desert sunrise. But if you’re up for an adventure, you can squeeze it into a (very long) day trip from Cairo.
4. Whale Valley (Wadi Al-Hitan)
Yes, you read that right—there are whale fossils in the middle of the Egyptian desert!
Wadi Al-Hitan, or Whale Valley, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can see fossils of ancient whales that lived here millions of years ago, back when this whole region was covered by ocean. How crazy is that?
It takes about three hours from Cairo to get there, and you’ll need a 4×4 to navigate the terrain. But if you’re into archaeology, nature, or just super weird and wonderful places, this is a must-do day trip from Cairo!
5. Siwa Oasis
Okay, this one isn’t exactly a day trip (it’s about an 8-hour drive from Cairo), but if you have extra time, Siwa Oasis is so worth adding to your Cairo itinerary. Tucked away in the Western Desert near the Libyan border, Siwa feels like a completely different world.
- Soak in the salt lakes, where the insanely high salt content makes you float effortlessly (just like at the Dead Sea!)
- Visit the Oracle Temple of Amun, where Alexander the Great is said to have received a prophecy.
- Relax in a natural hot spring after a day of exploring the dunes.
Siwa is one of Egypt’s most off-the-beaten-path destinations. If you’re up for an adventure, this is absolutely a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Map of the Best Things to Do in Cairo, Egypt
If you’re a visual person and want to see where all the top Cairo attractions are, here’s a map just for you! I’ve included must-see sights, great places to eat, and even the best day trips from Cairo. Hope it makes planning your trip easier!
Where to Stay in Cairo, Egypt
Like I mentioned earlier, Cairo is massive—over 20 million people live here! Picking the right area to stay in Cairo can save you hours in traffic.
I highly recommend staying in Giza. Sure, there aren’t many things to do in Giza besides the pyramids, but waking up to that insane view? Totally worth it. Plus, you’ll be first in line before the crowds roll in!
If you’d rather stay in the city center, downtown or along the Nile puts you close to major Cairo attractions. Here are some of the best hotels in Cairo:
- Marriott Mena House – Luxury stay with epic pyramid views.
- Houseboat 65 – A cozy, floating stay on the Nile.
- Jacuzzi Studios – Budget-friendly with a private jacuzzi and pyramid views!
- Great Pyramid Duo – Airbnb with unbeatable rooftop views.
- Holy Sheet Cairo – A fun, affordable hostel downtown.
Need more options? Check out my full guide on where to stay in Cairo to find the perfect base for exploring all the things to do in Cairo!
FAQs About Best Things to Do in Cairo
Now that you know exactly what to do in Cairo, let’s go over some of the most common questions travelers have!
Cairo has so much more to offer beyond Giza! Visit the Grand Egyptian Museum, explore Coptic Cairo, or shop for souvenirs at Khan el-Khalili. Wander the historic streets of Islamic Cairo, relax in Al-Azhar Park, or check out the lesser-known Saqqara and Dahshur pyramids.
If you only have one day in Cairo, start early at the Pyramids of Giza, then visit the Grand Egyptian Museum. Have lunch at Khan El Khalili, explore Islamic Cairo, and end your day with a felucca ride on the Nile. For epic views, head to a rooftop bar at night.
For unique things to do in Cairo, visit Whale Valley to see ancient fossils or explore the Cave Church in Mokattam. Take a street food tour, stroll through Al-Muizz Street, or visit the Nilometer. For adventure, explore the White and Black Deserts or visit the Pottery Village.
There are plenty of things to do in Cairo at night! Shop at Khan El Khalili, take a Nile dinner cruise, or enjoy the view from Cairo Tower. Watch the Sound & Light Show at the pyramids, relax at a rooftop café, or wander the streets soaking in Cairo´s nightlife.
Absolutely! Cairo is a city packed with history, culture, and energy. From the Pyramids and the Nile to hidden local spots, there’s so much to explore. It can be chaotic, but that’s part of the charm. If you love adventure and history, Cairo is definitely worth visiting.
Final Thoughts on What to Do in Cairo
And that’s a wrap on all the fun things to do in Cairo, Egypt! From exploring the brand-new Grand Egyptian Museum to admiring the stunning Cairo mosques, I hope this guide helps you plan your trip and figure out exactly what to do in Cairo.
With so much to see, don’t forget to slow down and soak it all in. After a full day of exploring, unwind at your luxury Cairo hotel, sip some mint tea, and take in the city’s vibrant energy.
So, what are you most excited to visit in Cairo? Did I miss any famous Cairo attractions? Let me know in the comments!
Other Cairo Travel Guides You Might Enjoy:
- Where to Stay in Cairo: The Best Areas & Hotels
- Cairo to Alexandria: The Ultimate Day Trip You’ll Never Forget!
- Egypt’s Most Breathtaking Mosques You Have to See!
- Khan El Khalili Bazaar: How to Haggle Like a Pro!
- Pyramids of Giza: Insider Secrets & Must-Know Tips!
- The Grand Egyptian Museum: Why This Will Be Egypt’s Biggest Attraction!
- Coptic Cairo: The Hidden Gem Most Tourists Miss!
- The Perfect 3-Day Cairo Itinerary: Don’t Plan Your Trip Without This!
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I’d love to visit the GEM now that it’s open, and the Whale Valley looks intriguing.
The Whale Valley and Siwa look so cool! I think a lot of Cairo gets overshadowed by the Pyramids, but it looks like you would be missing out on a lot!
Loving this list so much! Cairo is my all-time top bucket list spot
Coptic Cairo, the Black and White Dessert, Alexandria and Memphis all sound so interesting. I know I would love to visit all the things on this list. The Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan and back is indeed well worth your time. We loved it last year.