48 Hours in Cairo: What to Do? Uncover the Secrets of a City Between Pyramids and Modernity!

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You are undoubtedly aware that the start of each week is our opportunity to help you plan a new getaway.

This time, we are flying to Cairo to prepare a weekend filled with archaeology and history.

Follow the guide!

Visit the iconic Pyramids of Giza

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While technically located outside the city limits, the pyramids of Khufu and Khafre are just a short drive or bus ride away. These landmarks are such an integral part of the country’s historical, cultural, and architectural heritage (and indeed the world’s) that visiting them is a must.

Dating back more than 2,500 years before Christ, they are the only remaining of the original seven ancient wonders of the world still standing today. Whether you choose to explore them or simply admire them from the outside, they are unmissable… just like the Sphinx, which also resides on the site.

Climb to the top of Cairo Tower

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For a breathtaking view of the city, there is probably no better place. The tower, which rises to 187 meters, features an observation deck and a revolving restaurant at the top. Entry costs 70 Egyptian pounds for non-Egyptian visitors.

Watch a performance at the opera

At one of the seven theaters of the Cairo Khedivial Opera House, enjoy a different show almost every day of the week.

From music, dance, and opera to modern art exhibitions (the museum houses 13,000 works by contemporary Egyptian artists), the venue’s offerings are highly diverse and will please even the pickiest visitors. Dining on-site is also an option.

Stroll through the City of the Dead

This vast necropolis of 6.5 km is home to countless tombs and mausoleums.

Interestingly, many Egyptians live here—some to be closer to their ancestors, others out of necessity. The site is renowned for its architectural beauty and cultural diversity. Make sure your wanderings include the funerary complex of Sultan Qaitbay.

A call to the stomach

Exploring can certainly build up an appetite.

Luckily, the city is full of great spots to enjoy Konafa, a shredded pastry stuffed and cooked like baklava, Bamiah, Greek okra cooked in tomato sauce, Coussa, zucchini slices cooked in tomato sauce, or stuffed grape leaves, locally known as Dolma. One of the most famous spots is undoubtedly Felfela.

Built in the 1960s in an alley between two buildings, it now occupies the entire length of the alley, welcoming you for Turkish coffee or a meal in a wooded setting adorned with colorful mosaics. Between meals, stop by a juice bar for a hibiscus drink, a stand selling Arabic coffee scented with cardamom, or a street bakery for some dry biscuits.

Finally, visit one of the restaurants specializing in koshari (a rice and lentil recipe considered Egypt’s national dish), such as Abou Tarek or Sayed Hanafy.

Karim Al-Mansour