Planning a Trip to Cairo? Here Are the 6 Must-See City Spots & 2 Unmissable Day Trips
- Erin Whittington
- Apr 19
- 3 min read

Thinking about exploring Egypt? You’re about to embark on the kind of adventure most people only dream about! From iconic ancient sites to bustling modern streets, Egypt is an experience unlike any other. And for such a monumental journey, you deserve a flawless plan. That’s why savvy travelers turn to a certified travel advisor (like me!)—to ensure they don’t miss a single highlight.
As the vibrant capital, Cairo is where most people land. This bustling metropolis is steeped in history, from its ancient gates and towering minarets to modern museums filled with priceless artifacts. Even if you can only spare a few days, Cairo offers more than enough culture, cuisine, and architecture to fill your itinerary (and your camera roll). Below are six top sites to see in the city, plus two day trips you absolutely can’t skip.
6 Must-See Spots in Cairo
1. Bab Zuweila
Why Visit: Located in Old Cairo, Bab Zuweila is one of the last remaining medieval gates and showcases two of the city’s most famous minarets.
Don’t Miss: Climb to the rooftop for panoramic views that’ll take your breath away.
2. The Mosque-Madrasa of Sultan Hassan
Why Visit: A masterpiece of Mamluk architecture built in the mid-1300s, renowned for its innovative design and Cairo’s tallest minaret.
Perfect For: Architecture enthusiasts eager to see a historic marvel.
3. The Egyptian Museum / Grand Egyptian Museum
Why Visit: The legendary Egyptian Museum near Tahrir Square will soon pass the torch to the new Grand Egyptian Museum near the Pyramids of Giza.
Don’t Miss: Head straight to the Tutankhamun Galleries, then explore any exhibit that catches your eye. These museums are treasure troves of Egyptian antiquities.
4. National Museum of Egyptian Civilizations (NMEC)
Why Visit: If mummies fascinate you, this is a must-see. Home to the Royal Mummies Collection, you can come face-to-face with Ramses II, Hatshepsut, and more.
Insider Tip: This museum covers the full sweep of Egypt’s human history, so budget ample time to explore.
5. Coptic Cairo
Why Visit: This area is steeped in biblical history, featuring the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus (where Mary, Joseph, and Jesus supposedly took refuge).
Extra Stop: Check out the Mosque of Amr Ibn al-As, Egypt’s first mosque, just outside the quarter.
6. The Nilometer on Roda Island
Why Visit: An ancient device used to measure the Nile’s water clarity and levels—critical for predicting famine or flood in olden times.
Often Overlooked: This piece of Egyptian heritage is a hidden gem that offers a unique glimpse into the civilization’s agricultural roots.
2 Day Trips You Can't Miss
1. The Pyramids of Giza
Why Visit: No trip to Egypt is complete without marveling at the Great Sphinx and the Great Pyramid, just 10 miles from Cairo.
Highlight: The Giza Necropolis has captivated the world for over 4,500 years, and it’ll do the same for you.

2. Dahshur & Saqqara
Why Visit: Located about 20 miles south of Cairo, Dahshur and Saqqara showcase Egypt’s “other pyramids,” including the Step Pyramid of Djoser (the world’s oldest pyramid).
What’s New: Keep an ear out for ongoing excavations—you never know what new discoveries might pop up!
Ready to Experience Cairo and Beyond?
Your journey to Egypt can be genuinely life-changing, and it all starts in Cairo—the city of a thousand minarets. From legendary museums to ancient gates, Cairo’s treasures are waiting for you to explore. Combine that with iconic pyramids and lesser-known gems in Dahshur and Saqqara, and you have the makings of an unforgettable Egyptian adventure.
Ready to make your Cairo dreams a reality? Contact me now, and let’s craft a tailor-made itinerary that hits every highlight on your must-see list. Your once-in-a-lifetime journey is just a click away!
#CairoTravel #EgyptAdventure #GizaPyramids #TravelPlanning #HistoricalSites #EgyptianMuseums #BucketListTrip #MiddleEastTravel
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