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Best Things to do in Cairo (2026)

Some of the best experiences in Cairo happen between the monuments, on foot and in the evening. The historic heart of the city is ideal for walking: start at Bab al-Futuh and follow Al-Muizz Street south past the Qalawun complex and the Madrasa of Barquq, then lose yourself in the lanes of Khan el-Khalili, where bargaining is part of the fun and the bazaar is at its most atmospheric after dark. A combined ticket covers many of the monuments on the street, which are generally open until 17:00.

For views, time a visit to Al-Azhar Park for late afternoon, when the sun sets behind the minarets of the old city, or ride the lift up Cairo Tower on Gezira island for a 360-degree panorama of the Nile and, on clear days, the pyramids. In the evening, the Tannoura show at Wekalet El Ghouri offers live music and whirling dance in a Mamluk courtyard a few minutes from the bazaar; tickets are usually sold at the door, so arrive early. These experiences combine easily: a typical day might begin on Al-Muizz Street, continue through Khan el-Khalili and end with sunset in Al-Azhar Park or an evening at the Tannoura show. Carry small notes, wear comfortable shoes and use ride-hailing apps for journeys home.

5 places · Updated October 23, 2026

Our top 3 things to do in Cairo

  1. Khan el-Khalili Historic bazaar, Islamic CairoCairo's great historic bazaar, a maze of lanes selling lanterns, spices, brass and jewellery around a khan founded in the 1380s.
  2. Al-Muizz Street Historic street walk, Islamic CairoThe main street of Fatimid Cairo, a kilometre-long walk from Bab al-Futuh to Bab Zuweila lined with Mamluk mosques, madrasas, palaces and fountains.
  3. Al-Azhar Park City park and viewpoint, El-Darb El-AhmarA 30-hectare landscaped park on a former rubbish mound above Islamic Cairo, with gardens, cafés and some of the best sunset views of the old city's minarets.

Thing to do

2. Al-Muizz Street

Historic street walkIslamic Cairo

The main street of Fatimid Cairo, a kilometre-long walk from Bab al-Futuh to Bab Zuweila lined with Mamluk mosques, madrasas, palaces and fountains.

View details — Al-Muizz Street

Thing to do

3. Al-Azhar Park

City park and viewpointEl-Darb El-Ahmar

A 30-hectare landscaped park on a former rubbish mound above Islamic Cairo, with gardens, cafés and some of the best sunset views of the old city's minarets.

View details — Al-Azhar Park

Thing to do

4. Cairo Tower

Observation towerGezira

A 187-metre lattice tower on Gezira island, completed in 1961, with an open-air observation deck giving 360-degree views over the Nile and the city.

View details — Cairo Tower