Top 6 Must-See Sites and 2 Unmissable Day Trips in Cairo, Egypt

Planning a visit to Egypt is nothing short of exhilarating. For most travelers, exploring its ancient wonders is a dream come true. And when you finally decide to go, it's a big deal—one that deserves careful planning to ensure you have the best experience possible. For such a momentous trip, working with a certified and experienced travel advisor is crucial. We'll help you curate a personalized itinerary that captures the essence of Cairo and beyond. Below, we highlight six must-see city sites and two fantastic day trips to add to your Egyptian adventure.

Explore These Must-See City Sites in Cairo:

1. Bab Zuweila

Walk through Old Cairo and stop by Bab Zuweila, one of the last remaining gates in the Old City. Here, you'll find two of Cairo's famous minarets. Make sure to head up to the rooftop for breathtaking panoramic views.

2. The Mosque-Madrasa of Sultan Hassan

Architecture enthusiasts will be in awe of this site. Home to the tallest minaret in Cairo, this massive mosque and madrasa is one of the finest examples of Mamluk architecture. Built in the mid-1300s, it continues to be celebrated for its innovative design.

3. The Egyptian Museum / Grand Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square boasts one of the world's best collections of antiquities. Soon, the Grand Egyptian Museum near the Pyramids of Giza will open, offering a larger and more modern experience. Don't miss the famous Tutankhamun Galleries, regardless of which museum you visit.

4. National Museum of Egyptian Civilizations

If mummies fascinate you, a visit to the NMEC is a must. This museum, dedicated to Egypt's comprehensive human history, houses the Royal Mummies Collection. Expect to see Ramses II and III, Hatshepsut, Amenhotep I, Seti I and II, and more!

5. Coptic Cairo

Close to NMEC, explore the Christian stronghold known as Coptic Cairo. Visit biblical sites like the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus, where local legend says Mary, Joseph, and Jesus sought refuge. Don’t miss the first mosque built in Egypt: Mosque of Amr Ibn al-As, just outside the quarter.

6. The Nilometer on Roda Island

Ancient Egyptians used the Nilometer to measure the clarity and water level of the Nile River to predict famine or flood. This fascinating piece of history on Roda Island often goes overlooked but is a must-see when in Cairo.

Don’t Miss These Amazing Day Trips:

1. The Pyramids of Giza

No trip to Egypt is complete without visiting the Pyramids of Giza, located about 10 miles from Cairo. The Giza Necropolis is home to the iconic Great Sphinx, the Great Pyramid, and other ancient structures that have stood the test of time for 4,500 years.

2. Dahshur & Saqqara

Less than 20 miles from Cairo, discover the "other pyramids" at Dahshur and Saqqara. In Dahshur, ancient Egyptians perfected their pyramid-building skills, while Saqqara is home to the 4,700-year-old Step Pyramid of Djoser, the world’s oldest. Ongoing discoveries here often make headlines, so check the news before you visit.

A trip to Egypt is sure to be a life-changing experience, filled with awe-inspiring sights and unforgettable moments. Let Dreamworthy Destinations help you plan out every detail to ensure your journey is seamless and spectacular.

Ready to explore the wonders of Cairo and beyond? Schedule a complimentary consultation today to begin planning your Egyptian adventure.