Day 1: The Best of Cairo in 24 Hours
Pyramids of Giza & the Sphinx
Start at dawn at the Pyramids of Giza (E£540 for foreigners), the last surviving Ancient Wonder of the World. Stand before the Great Pyramid of Khufu, built 4,500 years ago with over 2 million stone blocks. Walk between the three main pyramids, then descend to the Sphinx, the enigmatic limestone guardian with its human head and lion body. Enter the Great Pyramid interior (E£800 extra) for claustrophobic but unforgettable tunnels.
Grand Egyptian Museum
Walk or take a short taxi (E£50) to the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), the world's largest archaeological museum, opened near the pyramids. The collection includes Tutankhamun's complete treasure: the golden mask, sarcophagi, and 5,000+ artifacts. The grand staircase with the Ramesses II colossus is breathtaking. Allow 3–4 hours minimum. The museum shop and restaurants overlook the pyramids.
Islamic Cairo & Khan el-Khalili
Head to Islamic Cairo (Uber E£100–150 from Giza). Wander through Khan el-Khalili bazaar, a medieval market operating since the 14th century, packed with copper lanterns, spices, perfume bottles, and papyrus art. Bargain hard. Dinner at El Fishawi, Cairo's oldest café (est. 1773) in the heart of the bazaar: mint tea, shisha, and koshari (Egypt's national dish, E£30–50). The atmosphere is intoxicating.
