Things To Do In Cairo, Egypt, 5 day travel itinerary, brief history, weather – Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall – Bike Paths, Campsites

March 22, 2024

Unveiling the Magic of Cairo: A 5-Day Itinerary

Cairo, a city steeped in history and brimming with cultural treasures, awaits your exploration. Here’s a captivating itinerary to guide you through its enchanting wonders over 5 days:

Things To Do In Cairo, Egypt, 5 day travel itinerary, brief history, weather – Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall - Bike Paths, Campsites travelanycountry

A Glance at Cairo’s Past

Cairo’s history stretches back millennia. The pharaohs of the Old Kingdom constructed the iconic pyramids at Giza, while the Romans, Ottomans, and French all left their mark on the city. Cairo was a center of Islamic learning during the Middle Ages, and today it’s a vibrant metropolis, where ancient and modern life interweave.

Weather by Season

Cairo boasts a hot desert climate with very little rain throughout the year. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

Winter (December – February): The most pleasant time to visit, with warm days and cool nights. Average highs are in the low 70s°F (around 20°C) and lows in the mid-40s°F (around 7°C).
Spring (March – May): Spring brings hot days and mild nights. Average highs climb into the mid-80s°F (around 30°C) and lows are in the mid-50s°F (around 13°C). Sandstorms can occur during this time.
Summer (June – August): Extremely hot and sunny, with highs often exceeding 100°F (38°C). Nights are warm, with lows in the mid-70s°F (around 24°C).
Fall (September – November): Hot days transition to comfortable temperatures as fall progresses. Average highs are in the upper 80s°F (around 30°C) lows fall into the mid-60s°F (around 15°C).

5 Days in Cairo: Unveiling the Magic

Day 1: The Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx

Your Egyptian adventure begins at the awe-inspiring Giza Pyramids. Witness the majesty of the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the only remaining Seven Wonder of the Ancient World. Explore the pyramids from the inside (tickets sold separately), marvel at the enigmatic Sphinx, and ponder the ingenuity of these ancient wonders.

Day 2: Delving into Islamic Cairo

Step back in time as you explore the labyrinthine alleyways of Islamic Cairo. Visit the Alabaster Mosque, renowned for its ornate carvings, and soak up the spiritual atmosphere of Sultan Hassan Mosque, a masterpiece of Mamluk architecture. Next, explore the Khan al-Khalili, a bustling marketplace overflowing with spices, perfumes, and Egyptian souvenirs.

Day 3: A Journey Through Coptic Cairo

Venture into Coptic Cairo, a historic neighborhood known for its early Christian churches. Explore the Hanging Church, built on top of two Roman forts, and marvel at the intricate stained-glass windows of the St. Sergius Church. The Coptic Museum houses an extensive collection of Christian artifacts.

Day 4: The Egyptian Museum and a Nile Felucca Ride

Immerse yourself in ancient Egypt at the Egyptian Museum, home to an unparalleled collection of pharaonic artifacts, including the golden funerary mask of King Tutankhamun. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing felucca ride on the Nile River, the lifeblood of Egypt. As you sail along the calm waters, admire the beautiful Cairo skyline and experience the tranquility of the river.

Day 5: Exploring Beyond Cairo

If you have an extra day, consider a trip to Memphis, the ancient capital of Lower Egypt, or Saqqara, a vast necropolis featuring the Step Pyramid of Djoser, an architectural marvel from the 3rd dynasty.

Biking Through Cairo

While not the most bike-friendly city, Cairo does have a few dedicated bike paths. These include: