How to Plan a Trip to Cairo
The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to Egypt needs.
Your 4-step Cairo plan
Step 1 — Book flights to CAI
Cairo International Airport (CAI) is the main gateway to Cairo. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.
See flight deals to CAIStep 2 — Pick a neighborhood
Base yourself in Islamic Cairo (Al-Muizz Street) for the best first-time visit — The world's largest open-air museum of Islamic architecture.
Where to stay in CairoStep 3 — Plan your itinerary
Start with Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of Cairo.
Things to do in CairoStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
Cairo Metro Line 3 (to Attaba / Ramses) is $0.25 and takes 30 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
CAI arrival guideBefore you book — visa check
Egypt visa on arrival available for most nationalities — USD 25 payable at the airport. Online e-Visa available at visa2egypt.gov.eg ($25, faster processing).