How to make the most of your layover in Cairo

Cairo, the “City of a Thousand Minarets”! Even if you’re here on a quick layover, this metropolis is worth a visit. Cairo is known for the awe-inspiring pyramids and the Sphinx standing guard at Giza. The city offers an unforgettable peek into Egypt’s ancient and modern culture.

Besides the pyramids, you’ll find vibrant markets like Khan El Khalili, where you can haggle for spices and souvenirs. You'll also find countless cafes to enjoy a strong cup of Egyptian coffee. Step out of the airport, and you’ll discover an intriguing blend of history, flavors, and friendly faces.

The city is always worth a quick visit. It doesn't matter if you're going solo, with a friend, or with family, the sights, smells, and flavors will get everyone excited! Ahlan wa sahlan! (‘Welcome!’), as locals would say!

Things to keep in mind before leaving the airport

Cairo International Airport (CAI) is the city's main transport hub for passengers and cargo. Chances are you'll be going through this Cairo airport when you visit. Our guide is here to make sure you have everything you need for a smooth transit and time leaving the airport. Read on and learn all the tips and tricks to handle CAI and the city!

Visa requirements in Cairo

Thinking about getting a visa? It's pretty easy for most visitors, like those from the US or EU. All you need to do is buy a 1200 EGP ($25) visa at this Cairo airport, and you're good for 30 days. You can also apply for an eVisa online so you don't have to wait in an extra line.

Minimum layover times in Cairo

1. In-airport short layover:
2. Domestic flights: 1 hr
   If you're staying in Egypt, you won't have to change terminals. You also don't need to go through additional security checks, passport control, or customs declarations. It's still better to plan for any unusually long lines at the entrance gates.
3. International flights: 2 hrs
   Are you running late? The Automated People Mover (yes, seriously!) is their express train that will get you to your terminal in 5 minutes tops, guaranteed. The airport is divided into Terminals 1, 2, and 3, and the APM comes in clutch here. You're probably going to have to switch terminals and go through passport control again, so you should keep that in mind before booking your connecting flight.
4. In-airport long layover: 4 hrs
   You can also spring for the Ahlan service. And what is that?—you might wonder. A rep will meet you at the airport and handle everything for you like booking, luggage, and transportation. Who says flying has to be stressful? The rep is also more than willing to give you a private tour of the airport. You'll find shops for clothes, jewelry, and those handy battery packs, all at very affordable prices. The lounges are free for premium flyers, passengers of some airlines, and MasterCard holders. Others can get in for about 2.000 EGP ($40). They have open buffets with local and international food, TVs, and calm resting areas.
5. Out-of-airport layover: 8 hrs
   If you've got a lot of time before your connecting flight, you can take a taxi, a bus, or even rent a car to the city center. If you choose a bus, just remember they only leave from Terminal 1. You can grab the CTA 356 bus and get to the city center in an hour and a half. If you want a more tailored experience, go for one of the Cairo layover tours. There are a lot of agencies you can choose from, but we recommend Captain Tours or Delta Tours. You can find them at the airport and they'll offer you a tour based on the time you have and what you want to visit.

What to do in Cairo during a layover

Not feeling a ready-made Cairo layover tour? We've got you covered! Check out our list of the best must-see places in Cairo and some top spots for tasty traditional Egyptian food!

The only thing that can make an amazing multi-hour layover in Cairo worse is luggage you don't need. So leave your important documents, baby powder, and spare pants with a Bounce partner and enjoy the sandy sights to the fullest!

Morning layover in Cairo

It's better to start early in Egypt before the sand gets too hot! Here are some must-visit spots in Cairo:

1. The Pyramids of Giza and The Great Sphinx first come to mind when you think of Egypt. They're not exactly in the city center, but they are worth a bus ride. Definitely a highlight for the ancient world lovers!
2. The Grand Egyptian Museum is where you can spot some of the famous Tutankhamun treasures and learn about the history of Egypt.
3. Want some Egyptian cuisine? Zooba has baladi bread, a local flatbread, and feeter, a layered pastry with cheese.
4. Remember to stop by Felfela! They've got delicious ta'ameya, a traditional Egyptian falafel, and ful medames, stewed fava beans.

Afternoon layover in Cairo

Make sure to pack some sunscreen and an umbrella for these next spots. Afternoon temps in Cairo reach 35C during most of the year. Sizzling!

1. The Khan El Khalili Bazaar is world-famous for its spices, jewelry, and souvenirs. Make sure to haggle! The locals like it and they'll lower the price to less than half!
2. If you're looking for some culture, Al-Azhar and Sultan Hassan mosques in the Islamic Cairo area are great places to soak it up.
3. Time for lunch already? Visit Naguib Mahfouz Café where you can try molokhia, a green soup made from jute leaves, or if you’re into it, hamam mahshi, a roasted stuffed pigeon with rice, herbs, and spices. 
4. Sip on some traditional Egyptian mint or hibiscus tea at El Fishawy Café.

Evening layover in Cairo

Why is it still so hot? You can't change the weather, but you can stay hydrated! Remember to bring a lot of water wherever you're going! Check out what you can do in the evenings:

1. Al-Azhar Park is a great place for a cool walk in the shade and some cityscape views.
2. You can also take in a panoramic view of the skyline from Cairo Tower before the sun sets.
3. Abu Tarek has some koshari for you to try. It's a mix of pasta, rice, lentils, and chickpeas topped with spicy tomato sauce and fried onions. A real vitamin hit!
4. Maybe you're in the mood for some shawarma or kofta, a spiced minced meat skewer. You can find them at Kazaz.

Overnight layover in Cairo

Now that it's finally cooling down, have a look at how you can finish up your layover in Cairo in style:

1. The Nile River Dinner Cruise is a perfect way to have a dinner buffet and some entertainment.
2. The Zamalek District has the last-minute shopping and galleries that you're craving.
3. The Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir is about 7.400 EGP ($150) per night and it’s right in the heart of the city.
4. The Marriot Mena House is about 15.000 EGP ($300) per night and gives you a great view of the pyramids.

Tips to make the most out of your time in Cairo

Here are some top tips and info for your stay in Cairo:

• Cairenes speak Arabic and Egyptian, but everyone who interacts with tourists speaks English too.
• Egypt uses the Egyptian Pound (EGP), and 1 USD is about 49 EGP.
• You should be careful with personal belongings, keep your wallet out of sight, and don't go into shady taxis.
• Street food starts at around 20 EGP ($0.65), and mid-range meals are about 200 EGP ($6.50).

Our most valuable tip: keep your belongings safe! There are pickpockets around the city so you can leave anything you don't need with us! Find a Bounce partner close to the airport, and quickly dump anything you don't want to carry around!