The 10 Best Day Trips From Cairo

There isn’t a city in the world where the spectacular 4,000-year-old complex of royal pyramids, temples, and causeways surpasses modern architecture like this one. These magnificent works of art are a must-see when visiting the Egyptian capital. The smallest pyramid, Menakaure, leads to the second-largest pyramid, the Pyramid of Khafre, and finally the Great Pyramid of Giza, which was built on the orders of the pharaoh Khufu. Go down in the afternoon to avoid the smog. Given the sheer size of central Cairo, this iconic destination, the last standing Wonder of the World, does require some travel time, so this is our top tip for the city.

Located 90 kilometres from the capital city, Fayoum is one of Egypt’s many oases and the nearest to Cairo. While visitors flee to Fayoum for many reasons, including ancient monuments, Wadi Al Rayan’s waterfalls, Magic Lake and Lake Qaroun, Fayoum is mostly famous for its beautiful and wide sand dunes. Visitors can partake in sandboarding on these sand dunes while enjoying the surreal view of Magic Lake as they sandboard and land at its feet.

Just about an hour and a half drive away from Cairo, Ain Al Sokhna is one of Egypt’s most relaxing destinations. Its steady smooth sea, soft sandy beach, huge mountains overlooking the water and quaint atmosphere provide tranquillity and serenity. Add on to that view a one of a kind fishing trip in the middle of the Red Sea. There are plenty of boats you can rent when you arrive at the harbour, where a captain takes you in the middle of the sea to enjoy fishing inside. Whether you’re with your family or friends, rest assured that you’ll have an amazing time.

You can reach the feet of the Sphinx, a representation of Ancient Egypt, with a quick drive to the city side of the Giza Plateau on the west bank of the Nile. For thousands of years, the enigmatic building, which has a human head and a lion’s torso, has loomed over Giza, protecting the last surviving Wonder of the Ancient World. For ages, it has served as an inspiration to monarchs, poets, painters, scholars, and travelers. It is still a mysterious aspect of Cairo. On a personalized tour, take in everything!

Considered the shortest day trip from Cairo, the ancient city Memphis lies 20 kilometres south of Giza. Memphis city was the capital of Egypt during the Old Kingdom era and it is where you can find remains of the old city, along with ancient Egyptian monuments. Just nearby is the Saqqara necropolis, which is a huge burial area from ancient Egypt. The area of Saqqara is home to the famous Djoser’s Step Pyramid, also known as the Saqqara pyramid. Another royal necropolis located near Memphis and Saqqara is Dahshur. The area is famous for housing some of Egypt’s oldest pyramids, including the Bent Pyramid of Dahshur, the Red Pyramid of Dahshur, the Black Pyramid of Dahshur and the Pyramid of Sesostris III.

A ride down the majestic Nile is a must for every visit to Cairo. There are plenty of floating eateries, cruise ships, and nightclubs to pick from, but nothing quite matches the peaceful and fulfilling river trip in a felucca. Take a ride on one of these classic sailing boats at sunset to enjoy the wonderful tranquility that only the Nile can provide, just as the call to prayer reverberates over Cairo. It’s a tremendous treat to sail along the same river that Cleopatra did so many years ago. Make sure to set aside a few days to experience the Nile cruises!

Situated on the west bank of the Suez Canal, the city of Ismailia is just a short distance from Cairo. As the city lies by the Suez Canal, Cairo residents pour to Ismailia for its incredibly delicious fish. As you walk by its promenade, many restaurants line up placing piles of fish on display to choose from. Not only is the fish fresh as it is straight from the sea, but it is much cheaper than in the capital. The city of Ismailia is also home to the prominent Ismailia Museum, which has over 4,000 antiques that date back to the Pharaonic and Greco-Roman times.

At around 106 kilometres away from Cairo, Fayed is a small town situated on the banks of Bitter Lake between Ismailia and Suez. It is mostly known as a resort area surrounded by beaches and palm trees. It also features many vacation homes and hotels, where residents and tourists can relax due to its proximity to Cairo. The resort doesn’t have much to do, therefore, water sports are a hit here. Rent a jet ski and enjoy the beach with its impressive views of palm trees standing tall in the sky.

Considered the second-largest city in Egypt, Alexandria is one of the most beautiful and most visited cities in Egypt, after Cairo. A day trip won’t do Alexandria justice, however, it’s a must visit even if it’s for the day. Therefore, focus on the main sights while you’re there, such as Pompey’s Pillar, Montazah Palace, the new Library of Alexandria, the Citadel of Qaitbay and the Pharaonic Anfushi. Finally, enjoy a stroll down its promenade on the famous Mediterranean Sea, where you can find many seafood restaurants that will tantalize your taste buds.

There isn’t a city in the world where the spectacular 4,000-year-old complex of royal pyramids, temples, and causeways surpasses modern architecture like this one. These magnificent works of art are a must-see when visiting the Egyptian capital. The smallest pyramid, Menakaure, leads to the second-largest pyramid, the Pyramid of Khafre, and finally the Great Pyramid of Giza, which was built on the orders of the pharaoh Khufu. Go down in the afternoon to avoid the smog. Given the sheer size of central Cairo, this iconic destination, the last standing Wonder of the World, does require some travel time, so this is our top tip for the city.