5 Days in Cairo: Pyramids, Nile Cruises & Local Bazaars
There’s something wildly surreal about seeing the Great Pyramids of Giza rise from the golden desert as the morning haze lifts. It’s the kind of experience that stays with you, the kind that makes your heart race and your camera shutter work overtime. But Cairo offers far more than ancient wonders—this sprawling, chaotic, and endlessly fascinating city is a deep dive into Egyptian culture, history, and everyday life.
As a solo female traveler, I wasn’t sure what to expect at first, but Cairo surprised me in all the right ways. From cruising along the Nile River at sunset to sipping mint tea in bustling bazaars, this 5-day Cairo itinerary is packed with moments that’ll make your trip unforgettable—and totally Instagram-worthy.
Day 1: Touchdown and Sunset by the Nile
Your Cairo adventure starts the moment you land at Cairo International Airport. After checking in at your hotel—preferably in Zamalek or Downtown Cairo for central access—give yourself a few hours to rest and recover. If it’s your first time in the city, prepare for a sensory overload of honking horns, colorful tuk-tuks, and welcoming smiles.
By late afternoon, make your way to Maadi or Garden City for a relaxing Nile dinner cruise. Watching feluccas glide across the water with the call to prayer echoing in the background is pure magic. The air cools just enough to make the evening breeze perfect, and many cruises feature live music or belly dancing for a bit of local flair.
Day 2: The Great Pyramids and the Sphinx
Wake up early—really early—to beat the crowds and head straight to Giza. Seeing the Great Pyramids, up close is more humbling than any photo could ever capture. You can climb partway up the Pyramid of Khafre or step inside the Pyramid of Khufu if you don’t mind tight spaces.
Don’t skip the nearby Great Sphinx, stoic and worn by centuries but still majestic. If you’re up for it, try a camel ride (negotiate the price first!) or enjoy lunch at 9 Pyramids Lounge, where you’ll have panoramic views of the desert. Just bring a scarf or sunglasses—the sun is relentless out here.
Day 3: Cairo’s Museums and Old City
Today is all about history and culture. Start at the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, home to a jaw-dropping collection of ancient artifacts, including the golden mask of Tutankhamun. Allow at least two hours to wander through sarcophagi, mummies, and treasures that span thousands of years.
After lunch, head to Coptic Cairo, where you’ll find the Hanging Church, Ben Ezra Synagogue, and Coptic Museum. It’s a quiet, spiritual pocket of the city that feels worlds away from the traffic outside. Don’t be surprised if you stumble into a conversation with a local offering to explain the area’s rich history—Egyptians are incredibly proud of their heritage.
Day 4: Islamic Cairo and Khan El Khalili Bazaar
Start your day in Islamic Cairo, where towering minarets and intricate stonework tell the story of a once-great empire. The Sultan Hassan Mosque and Al-Rifa’i Mosque are must-visits, especially during the peaceful early morning hours. If you’re lucky, you might catch the call to prayer echoing across the city from a rooftop.
In the afternoon, dive into the chaos of Khan El Khalili Bazaar. This is where Cairo really comes alive—lanterns, spices, scarves, and the smell of fresh bread all swirl together in a beautiful, overwhelming mix. Stop at El Fishawy Café, one of the oldest in Cairo, for mint tea or Turkish coffee as you people-watch and take a well-earned break.
Day 5: Local Life and Relaxation
By now, you’ve earned a slower pace. Start with a leisurely breakfast and then explore the Zamalek district, a leafy island on the Nile known for its galleries, cafés, and local boutiques. It’s also a great spot to pick up handmade souvenirs that aren’t found in the big bazaars.
Before heading to the airport, consider visiting Al-Azhar Park, one of the city’s best green spaces. The views over Islamic Cairo are breathtaking, especially as the sun begins to set. Grab a seat at Citadel View Restaurant, and toast to your unforgettable 5 days in Cairo—with fresh juice, of course.
