Cairo, Egypt – Getting Around the City That Never Sleeps
Cairo is one of those cities that grabs you by the collar the moment you step off the plane – chaotic, intoxicating, and absolutely impossible to forget. Whether you're gazing up at the Pyramids of Giza or losing yourself in the winding alleys of Islamic Cairo, knowing how to get around is the difference between a frustrating trip and the adventure of a lifetime. Here's everything you need to know before you go.
Overview
Cairo is the largest city in Africa and the Arab world, home to roughly 22 million people spread across a sprawling metropolitan area on the banks of the Nile. It's a city of extraordinary contrasts – ancient monuments sit alongside crumbling Ottoman mansions and gleaming modern towers. Visitors come for the Pyramids and the Egyptian Museum, but they stay for the street food, the souks, and the relentless energy that pulses through every neighbourhood.
Key areas to know include:
- Downtown Cairo (Wust al-Balad) – the colonial-era heart of the city, full of grand architecture, cafés, and budget accommodation
- Islamic Cairo – home to the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, stunning mosques, and centuries of history packed into narrow streets
- Zamalek – an upscale island neighbourhood on the Nile, great for quieter streets, galleries, and international restaurants
- Giza – on the western edge of the city, this is where you'll find the Pyramids and the Sphinx
- Maadi – a leafy expat-friendly suburb popular with longer-stay visitors
Essential Information
- Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP). As of 2024, approximately 30–31 EGP equals $1 USD, though rates fluctuate. Always carry cash as many smaller vendors don't accept cards.
- Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas and hotels.
- Visa: Most nationalities can purchase a tourist visa on arrival or online via Egypt's e-visa portal for $25 USD.
- Safety: Cairo is generally safe for tourists. Petty scams around the Pyramids are common, so politely decline unsolicited "guides" and agree on taxi fares before you get in.
- Best time to visit: October to April, when temperatures are cooler. Summer months can exceed 104°F (40°C).
Practical Tips
Cairo traffic is legendary – and not in a good way. Avoid travelling by car during rush hours (roughly 8–10am and 5–8pm) whenever possible. The city runs on baksheesh, a tipping culture that's deeply embedded in daily life, so keep small notes handy. A tip of 5–10 EGP for small services is standard.
- Metro: Cairo's metro system is cheap (around $0.10–0.15 USD per trip), clean, and reliable. It covers key areas including Tahrir Square, Giza, and Heliopolis. Note that certain carriages are reserved for women only.
- Ride-hailing apps: Uber and Careem both operate in Cairo and are far more reliable than flagging down a street cab. Expect to pay $2–5 USD for most cross-city journeys.
- Tuk-tuks: Common in side streets and older neighbourhoods. Cheap and fun for short hops, but always negotiate the price beforehand.
- Walking: Perfectly fine in areas like Zamalek, Downtown, and Islamic Cairo – but crossing the road requires nerve. Follow locals when navigating busy intersections.
Getting There
Cairo International Airport (CAI) is the main gateway, located about 14 miles (22km) northeast of the city centre. It's well connected to major hubs worldwide, with direct flights from London, New York, Dubai, Paris, and dozens of other cities. EgyptAir is the national carrier, while budget airlines like Wizz Air and Ryanair serve European routes.
From the airport, your best options are a pre-booked transfer (around $15–20 USD), Uber or Careem (approximately $8–12 USD to Downtown), or the metro via a short taxi to the nearest station. Always agree on a fare before getting into an unofficial taxi at arrivals.
Accommodation Options
Cairo has accommodation for every budget, from no-frills hostels to world-class hotels with Nile views.
- Budget ($10–40/night): Look at hostels and guesthouses in Downtown Cairo. The area around Talaat Harb Street has several well-reviewed options with great access to public transport and street food.
- Mid-range ($50–120/night): Zamalek and Garden City offer solid mid-range hotels with more comfort and quieter surroundings. Many include rooftop views and on-site restaurants.
- Luxury ($150+/night): The Four Seasons Nile Plaza in Garden City and the Marriott Mena House in Giza – with its direct view of the Pyramids – are standout choices for those wanting to splurge. The Sofitel El Gezirah on Zamalek island is another favourite for elegant Nile-side living.
Plan your trip to Cairo
Cairo is a city that rewards the curious and the bold. Whether you're navigating the metro with a pocket full of EGP coins or sipping mint tea on a rooftop overlooking m