Cairo in 2 Days: Everything You Need to Know ( £)
Cairo offers countless attractions, but 48 hours is enough to experience its main highlights with a well-planned itinerary.
In two days, you can visit the city’s most iconic sites, though some spots will be left out.
This guide helps you make the most of a short trip to Egypt’s vibrant capital.
Cairo in 2 Days: everything you need to know
Experience the Wonders of Asia
Relax on the Sunny Beaches of the Caribbean
Explore Europe's Culture and History
Discover the exotic beauty of Asia with ViCadia Tours. From the vibrant cities of Tokyo and Bangkok to the peaceful temples of Bali and Kyoto, our travel experts will take you on a journey of a lifetime. Book your trip now and experience the magic of Asia.
Explore Europe's Culture and History
Relax on the Sunny Beaches of the Caribbean
Explore Europe's Culture and History
Experience the rich culture and history of Europe with ViCadia Tours. From the ancient ruins of Rome and Athens to the breathtaking beauty of Paris and Amsterdam, our travel experts will take you on an unforgettable journey. Book your trip now and discover Europe's hidden treasures.
Relax on the Sunny Beaches of the Caribbean
Relax on the Sunny Beaches of the Caribbean
Relax on the Sunny Beaches of the Caribbean
Escape to the sunny beaches of the Caribbean with ViCadia Tours. From the crystal clear waters of Jamaica to the vibrant culture of Cuba, our travel experts will help you plan the perfect getaway. Book your trip now and relax in paradise.
Experience the Thrill of an African Safari
Adventures Down Under - Australia and New Zealand
Relax on the Sunny Beaches of the Caribbean
Embark on a thrilling safari with ViCadia Tours and witness some of the world's most majestic animals in their natural habitat. From the savannas of Kenya to the deserts of Namibia, our travel experts will help you plan the adventure of a lifetime. Book your trip now and create unforgettable memories.
Discover the Beauty of South America
Adventures Down Under - Australia and New Zealand
Adventures Down Under - Australia and New Zealand
Experience the breathtaking beauty of South America with ViCadia Tours. From the stunning landscapes of Patagonia to the vibrant culture of Brazil, our travel experts will take you on a journey you'll never forget. Book your trip now and discover the wonders of South America.
Adventures Down Under - Australia and New Zealand
Adventures Down Under - Australia and New Zealand
Adventures Down Under - Australia and New Zealand
Discover the beauty and adventure of Australia and New Zealand with ViCadia Tours. From the stunning beaches of Sydney to the rugged landscapes of New Zealand, our travel experts will help you plan the perfect trip. Book now and have the adventure of a lifetime.
- Day 1 Program -
Discover
Pyramids of Giza
Pyramids of Giza
The first 24 hours in Egypt's capital have a clear objective. To know the part related to ancient Egypt. Fundamentally the most touristic and well-known spots and those responsible for attracting millions of tourists.
These are the famous pyramids of Giza, its sphinx, the Egyptian museum, and the sites of Memphis and Saqqara. A paradise for all lovers of ancient Egypt.
Pyramids of Giza
Pyramids of Giza
Pyramids of Giza
The itinerary begins with the iconic Giza Pyramids—Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinos—located about 15 km from central Cairo. Visitors can enter the burial chambers for an extra fee, but due to limited time and long queues, the less crowded Mykerinos pyramid is recommended. Exploring the entire complex takes at least 3 hours, as there is more to see beyond just the pyramids.
The Sphinx
Saqqara and Memphis
Saqqara and Memphis
Although part of the Giza complex, the Sphinx stands out on its own as one of the most iconic sculptures of the ancient world, likely representing Pharaoh Chephren.
It can be reached easily through the Valley Temple of Kefren.
Visitors can admire it up close, noting both its grandeur and the effects of centuries of erosion.
It's missing a nose, now in London, and ongoing restoration efforts highlight its fragile condition.
The Sphinx is the final stop in the complex, but as there’s little shade, visitors should come prepared for the heat.
Saqqara and Memphis
Saqqara and Memphis
Saqqara and Memphis
Memphis and Saqqara, located about 40 minutes from the Giza Pyramids, are key sites for understanding ancient Egyptian civilization. Memphis, the former capital, now features an open-air museum with highlights like a 10-meter statue of Ramesses II.
Saqqara, just 20 minutes away, was built as a spiritual replica of Memphis and includes the world’s oldest known stone building—the Step Pyramid and funerary complex of Pharaoh Zoser, dating back to 2650 BC.
A combined tour of Giza, Memphis, and Saqqara is recommended. Starting early allows time to visit all three sites before noon, enjoy lunch locally, and return to Cairo by afternoon.
- Day 2 Program -
Khan El-Khalili Bazaar
Khan El-Khalili Bazaar
Khan El-Khalili Bazaar
Khan El-Khalili Market, once the heart of trade in Egypt and the Middle East, is now a bustling bazaar ideal for shopping and relaxing with coffee and sweets at the end of a two-day Cairo visit.
Located in the Islamic center of Cairo, its walled setting creates a charming, traditional atmosphere.
With nearly a thousand stalls, the market offers everything from spices and food to crafts, fabrics, jewelry, and perfumes.
Afternoon or evening visits are best, allowing time to browse and enjoy dinner in historic cafes with tea and shisha.
Downtown Cairo
Khan El-Khalili Bazaar
Khan El-Khalili Bazaar
After an intense first day immersed in ancient Egypt, it's time to get to know the center of Cairo. On a much calmer second day with less travel, you'll tour the most important historical sites within the city's borders.
These are the fortress of Saladin, the churches and places of the Coptic-Christian quarter, and the old Egyptian museum.
This day offers a chance to explore Cairo's rich cultural layers, from medieval Islamic architecture to early Christian history and fascinating ancient treasures—all within a more relaxed and walkable area of the city.
Old Egyptian Museum
Khan El-Khalili Bazaar
Old Egyptian Museum
Today’s visit is to the old Egyptian Museum, which holds the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts.
With over 130,000 items from all eras of Egypt’s history, it's a must-see, located in central Cairo.
Exploring the museum fully would take nearly two days, so it’s important to focus on the highlights.
The most famous pieces are those of Pharaoh Tutankhamun, especially his golden funerary mask.
To make the most of a short visit, it’s best to ask a guide for the must-see exhibits.
Saladin Citadel
Coptic Neighborhood
Old Egyptian Museum
The Citadel of Saladin in Cairo was built in the 12th century to defend against European invasions and is now the city’s most visited monument.
This walled complex includes key sites like Gawhara Palace and several major mosques—Sultan Hassan, Ibn Tulun, and Al Rifa'i.
It also features museums, including the Carriage Museum and the Military Museum, the latter being most closely tied to the citadel’s history.
Beyond its architecture and exhibits, the citadel offers stunning panoramic views of Cairo from its hilltop location on Mokattam Hill.
Coptic Neighborhood
Coptic Neighborhood
Coptic Neighborhood
The Coptic Quarter, located south of the Saladin Citadel, is a key religious and historical site in Cairo, believed to be where the Holy Family found refuge during their time in Egypt.
The area is rich in churches and monasteries, including the famous Hanged Church, Saint Barbara Church, and the ancient Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, built over a cave tied to the Holy Family.
In addition to Christian landmarks, the quarter also includes Egypt’s first mosque, Amr Ibn Al-As, and the Ben Ezra Synagogue, reflecting its religious diversity.
The Coptic Museum ties the area together, offering deeper insight into its sacred history, while the narrow streets invite visitors to explore and enjoy its peaceful atmosphere.