Cairo

Cairo International Airport (CAI) is Egypt's main gateway and the base of EgyptAir. It has several terminals, and airlines are split between them, so check your terminal before departure and again for the return leg, since transfers between terminals take time.

There is no direct rail link from the airport, so most visitors use pre-booked transfers, official airport taxis or ride-hailing apps. Journey times into central Cairo or Giza vary widely with traffic, and an hour or more is normal in the afternoon and early evening.

The comfortable season runs from about October to April, with warm days and cool evenings. From June to August it is very hot, and sightseeing at open sites such as the Giza plateau is best done early in the morning. Spring can bring dusty khamsin winds for short periods.

The Cairo Metro is cheap and fast and reaches many central districts, with women-only carriages available on each train. Above ground, ride-hailing apps make fares predictable, while buses and microbuses are mainly used by residents. Walking works well within neighbourhoods such as Downtown, Zamalek and Islamic Cairo.

Key sights include the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, the Grand Egyptian Museum near the plateau, the Egyptian Museum on Tahrir Square, the mosques and madrasas of historic Islamic Cairo, Khan el-Khalili bazaar, Coptic Cairo, and felucca rides on the Nile. Many sites use timed tickets and separate photography fees.

Practical notes: the currency is the Egyptian pound (EGP); carry small notes for tips and taxis even where cards work. Dress modestly at religious sites and bring water, a hat and sun protection for open archaeological areas. Confirm visa rules for your nationality with an official source before travelling.