If spending a weekend in fascinating Egypt is on your bucket list, pack your bags, and head towards its gorgeous capital Cairo, a breathtaking modern metropolis with an incredible ancient past.
Though filled with a plethora of tourist attractions, especially for history enthusiasts, Cairo can be easily explored in three days. Your Egyptian escape can include unique city attractions, a visit to the famous Giza Pyramids, memorable culinary experiences, as well as a trip to the ancient Ptolemaic city of Alexandria. To make the most out of your weekend in Egypt and stay in the best hotels in Cairo, continue reading this article.
Where to Stay in Cairo
Whether you are an excited solo traveler, you plan a romantic escape, or you want an unforgettable vacation with your family, Cairo promises to welcome you with amazing hotels, suitable for your type of traveling and budget.
Four Seasons First Residence Cairo
If luxury is what you are searching for when visiting contrasting Cairo, look no further than the grand and glamorous Four Seasons First Residence Cairo. With spectacular views over the river, lavish rooms, and, of course, a fantastic location, only three kilometers from The Great Pyramid at Giza, this hotel promises you the opulent trip of your dreams.
To delight your taste buds, you have excellent Thai, Lebanese, and Italian restaurants available, as well as a relaxing tea lounge and a luxury bar. And, for some pampering moments, the hotel welcomes you with a fully-equipped gym, spa, and outdoor pool.
Kempinski Nile Hotel
For romantic couples who want to combine an amorous stay with a memorable encounter with history, Kempinski Nile Hotel is a perfect stay. The sophisticated hotel is waiting for visitors with a perfect location and unparalleled views of the Nile, as well as the splendid comfort of a five-star luxury stay. Located only two kilometers from both the Egyptian Museum and the Cairo Opera House, the Kempinski Nile Hotel welcomes people with a high-end Ottoman restaurant, a stylish Italian eatery that promises refreshing breakfasts, as well as a spectacular rooftop bar and a cozy lounge.
But luxury is not for every traveler. And, if you are visiting Egypt on a budget, the city has plenty of hotels for you, as well. With its simple but comfortable rooms, a great location close to Giza Pyramids, a traditional restaurant, and a perfect rooftop pool, Gawharet Al Ahram Hotel promises a memorable stay at very friendly prices.
Where to Eat
Ancient meets modern in Cairo, and you will only need a short walk to see this. But, the beautiful combination of old and new can also be best explored while having memorable culinary experiences in the fascinating capital, which is, undoubtedly, a regional hub for foodies.
You can begin your Egyptian cuisine affair with a traditional meal at Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza’s Zitouni, a spectacular restaurant where you can indulge in mouthwatering local dishes while enjoying a chic and modern setting. Whether you want to have a delightful breakfast, an amazing brunch, or a romantic dinner, Zitouni is waiting for you with a wide variety of authentic specialties from hot and cold starters to sensational moussaka and tabbouleh dishes.
To get even closer to traditional Arab hospitality and Middle Eastern cuisine, Taboula is a perfect choice. The beautifully decorated Lebanese restaurant welcomes you with a warm and casual vibe, mouthwatering dishes you can pair with a vast global selection of wine, and wonderful classic Arab melodies. To end the perfect meal, don’t say no to a sensational Middle Eastern dessert.
For a romantic evening in Egypt, Cairo Tower’s Revolving Restaurant, which beautifully rotates 360 degrees in 75 minutes, welcomes you with unrivaled views of the city and pyramids, and sensational French dishes. If you want to have an unforgettable meal while visiting Cairo, The Revolving Restaurant is, without a doubt, your best choice.
Your Ultimate Three-Day Escape: Best Things to Do in Egypt
You can begin your first day in Cairo by wandering around the city and exploring its highlights. Stroll the charming streets, and stop at the Egyptian Museum, to enjoy a memorable encounter with Egyptian history.
Later, head towards the charming Old Cairo to admire its wonderful, ancient buildings and churches.
Visit the fascinating Coptic Museum, and take a closer look at the well-known Hanging Church, before heading towards the el-Khalili, the most traditional and famous bazaar in Cairo.
Whether you are interested in tasty foods, souvenirs, or local perfumes and papyrus paintings, the colorful and vibrating Khan el-Khalili souk will offer you the chance to glimpse into the mesmerizing Egyptian culture and its traditions.
Visit the Pyramids
Dedicate your second day to the famous pyramids and, if time permits, explore other fascinating historical sites. The country’s most famous attraction is represented by the Giza Pyramids, the last remaining wonder of the ancient world. Built as massive tombs on the orders of the pharaohs, the Egyptian pyramids are must-see attractions that promise to inspire all types of travelers, from history enthusiasts to curious wanderers.
You can join a tour or take yourself to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you will find the mesmerizing pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, as well as the iconic Sphinx. For a complete encounter with Egypt’s fascinating past, explore its ancient capital, Memphis, a remarkable place that hosts significant ruins and stunning ancient temples.
To make the most of your weekend escape in Egypt, spend your last day exploring the fascinating city of Alexandria, the second-largest city in the country, and the home of many historic attractions. Whether you book a day trip or you prefer driving yourself, Alexandria promises you a memorable experience.
Get closer to the impressive Hellenistic culture, visit the largest Roman burial site in Egypt, known as the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, and explore the Roman Amphitheater. Also, don’t miss seeing the Modern Alexandria Library, built as a tribute to the Great Library of Alexandria, the city’s lost ancient library, and one of the greatest of all classical institutions.
He is an expert travel advisor and enthusiast. He has traveled extensively in the USA, Central America, South America, and Europe. He has visited every Sandals Resort and is one of a select few Diamond Elite members of the Sandals Chairman’s Royal Club.
Dan graduated from Johnson & Wales University with an associate degree in Culinary Arts. Later he graduated from the University of Utah with a bachelor’s degree in International Studies with a focus on people and culture.