Start with a hearty Egyptian breakfast — fuul, falafel (ta'ameya), and fresh bread; Zooba serves modern versions if you prefer a quick, high-quality local option. Check opening times (many branches open from 8:00am).
Explore the recently developed Grand Egyptian Museum near Giza to see extensive artefacts, royal collections and the reconstructed Tutankhamun galleries; arrive early to avoid crowds. GEM typically opens at 9:00am — check the museum website for special closures or ticketed timed entries.
Walk the plateau to photograph the three pyramids and the Sphinx; the open expanse and close-up views are essential for first-time visitors. Site hours are roughly 8:00am–5:00pm; interior pyramid access is separate and limited (book in advance if desired).
Try Egypt's most famous comfort food — koshary — at this iconic spot in downtown Cairo; it's quick, cheap and filling, a great energiser after the Giza visit. Open afternoons (approx 11:00am–11:00pm), but allow transit time from Giza.
If you didn't visit at GEM, drop into the Solar Boat Museum close to the pyramids to see Pharaoh Khufu's funerary boat; otherwise enjoy panoramic viewpoints for sunset photos. The museum generally follows site hours — check local listings for closing times.
Dine on the Nile with Mediterranean and Egyptian dishes; Sequoia is popular for views and ambiance — reserve a table for sunset if possible. Kitchen typically open from midday into the evening; check current opening times and reserve ahead for weekends.
Explore the Step Pyramid of Djoser, mastabas and reliefs — Saqqara is the world’s oldest large-scale stone construction and gives great insight into ancient funerary architecture. Site hours generally 8:00am–5:00pm; bring sun protection and water.
Visit the ruins and the enormous seated statue of Ramses II at ancient Memphis, Egypt's first capital — a quick, atmospheric stop that pairs well with Saqqara. Typical opening 8:00am–4:00pm.
Restaurants near the sites are limited and basic — either bring a packed picnic from the hotel or ask your driver to stop at a recommended local café near Saqqara. Plan for a simple lunch and water (check hygiene and opening hours).
See the earlier experimentations in pyramid-building at Dahshur — the Red Pyramid is one of the best-preserved for interior visits (interior access may vary). Sites typically open until late afternoon; confirm last entry times with your guide.
Enjoy home-style Egyptian classics in a comfortable setting — try seasonal stews and mezze; many popular local restaurants are open in the evening (approx 6:00pm–11:00pm).
Visit the NMEC to see the Royal Mummies Hall and a comprehensive layout of Egypt’s long history — the museum usually opens at 9:00am and is a calm, well-curated complement to the GEM.
Stroll across Tahrir Square to experience central Cairo’s urban pulse and architecture; many buildings and cafés nearby are ideal for photos and a short break.
Traditional Egyptian dishes with a long-standing reputation — good for trying mixed grills, mezze and local stews; check opening times (typically lunchtime and evening service).
Visit the Citadel for excellent city views and the Ottoman-style Muhammad Ali Mosque; the Citadel and many monuments open around 9:00am and close mid- to late-afternoon (check seasonal hours).
Enjoy classic Egyptian dishes within the atmospheric lanes of Khan el-Khalili — popular with visitors for both food and location; reserve ahead if possible. Shops and cafés in the market area typically stay open into the evening.
Explore the main Coptic sites to see early Christian architecture, mosaics and the story of the Holy Family's flight into Egypt; check opening hours (usually 9:00am–5:00pm) and local photography rules.
Try local specialities in Old Cairo — several small family-run places offer fresh, affordable meals; opening times can vary, so choose a recommended spot or ask your guide.
Visit one of Cairo’s oldest mosques for striking architecture and quiet courtyards, then step into the adjacent Gayer-Anderson Museum for a 17th–19th century house interior. Both sites typically open mid-morning to late afternoon.
Stop for a cup of tea at the historic El Fishawi café in the heart of Khan el-Khalili — an atmospheric place to people-watch and soak up market life. Café hours are long but vary; it’s often open into the evening.
Choose a relaxed restaurant in Old Cairo or return to Zamalek for Nile views; many riverside venues are open into the evening, but confirm reservations for Friday nights and weekends.
Leave early by private car, train (approx 2.5–3 hours) or organised minibus to maximise sightseeing time in Alexandria; check your transport operator's departure time and traffic forecasts.
Explore the unique Hellenistic-Roman-Egyptian tomb complex carved into rock — the catacombs usually open from around 9:00am to 5:00pm. Bring comfortable shoes for descending steps.
Short visit to this impressive monolithic column and nearby archaeological area — quick but photogenic stop. Site hours typically mirror other Alexandria attractions (daytime).
Trianon is a historic café for pastries and light meals; for seafood lovers, choose a Corniche restaurant for fresh fish and seaside views. Check opening times (cafés often open morning to late evening).
Visit the modern library complex with exhibitions, reading rooms and panoramic sea views; it usually opens from mid-morning to late afternoon—check for special exhibitions or closures.
Walk the Corniche and explore Fort Qaitbay, a 15th-century defensive structure on the Mediterranean site of the lost Pharos Lighthouse; open into late afternoon.
Take a relaxed 1–2 hour felucca ride around Gezira and the Nile islands for a low-key scenic experience; many operators run trips throughout the day, but mornings are usually calmer. Confirm pick-up point and safety measures.
Enjoy riverside dining on Gezira Island at a stylish spot with varied cuisine and good views; book ahead for weekend seats at prime times. Restaurants typically open for lunch through evening.
Spend the afternoon browsing the famous bazaar for spices, textiles, brassware and jewellery — practice friendly bargaining and confirm opening hours (many stalls open until late evening).
Enjoy an evening cruise with buffet dinner and entertainment — book a reputable operator for a 2–3 hour dinner cruise (departures commonly around 8:00pm). Confirm departure time and inclusion of hotel transfers.
Have a relaxed final breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café; check-out time and prepare luggage for transfer to the airport. Hotel breakfast hours vary — confirm with reception.
Take in panoramic views of Cairo from the tower for last-minute photos and a sense of the city layout; the tower usually opens mid-morning and stays open into the evening — check current hours and ticketing.
Pick up any last-minute gifts — Zamalek boutiques and Cairo malls offer quality handicrafts, linens and modern souvenirs; stores typically open from mid-morning.
Enjoy one last Egyptian or Mediterranean meal — choose a nearby trusted restaurant to avoid delays before airport transfer. Confirm opening times for restaurants you plan to use.
Allow at least 2–3 hours for airport arrival before international departures; if you have an early flight, adjust times accordingly and confirm hotel transfer timing. Check-in counters usually open 3 hours prior to departure for international flights.
Final departure from Cairo International Airport. Safe travels — if your flight time differs, adjust the transfer time earlier as required by your airline.