15 Essential Insider Tips for Visiting Cairo

I spent my first 30 years in a quaint town in the Nile Delta, just three hours from Cairo.

Later on, I relocated to the capital and married an Englishman. Suddenly, I felt the weighty obligation to be an expert on my new home for my husband. It’s uncommon for Egyptians to admit when they don’t know something, so I took it upon myself to learn by exploring the city.

One evening, while strolling through Old Cairo with a friend, he abruptly halted at an unassuming wooden door. 'This is where Napoleon stayed,' he said, pointing to a small metal star embedded in the door. 'That’s his mark. He picked this location to blend in with the lively surroundings while remaining incognito.' It feels like a dream for every independent traveler.

Setting aside the heavy shadow of colonial history, if Napoleon managed it, so can you. Here’s how.

1. Download these apps to make your travels in Cairo smoother

Using ride-sharing apps like Uber, Careem, and Didi can save you from haggling with taxi drivers over fares (especially at the airport). Alternatively, the metro is efficient and budget-friendly (and clean – here’s to Line 3). You can purchase a multitrip card at any station.

2. Get accustomed to Egyptian time management

In Cairo, time is notoriously fluid. Expect delays or last-minute changes, and be prepared for unexpected events like surprise weddings that may alter your plans. Flexibility is key as your schedule may need to adapt more than anticipated.

3. The true Egyptian prefers to order their fuul by the plate rather than in a sandwich

Join the locals at the fuul (fava bean paste) cart and request plates instead of sandwiches to get more value for your money. When ordering, say “etwassa!” ('be generous') to receive an extra scoop.

4. Like the Pyramids, the finest Turkish coffee is brewed on sand

Every street corner features Parisian-style kiosks serving coffee. Ask if they have a rammala – a device that brews Turkish coffee using hot sand for the perfect flavor. Your cardamom-spiced coffee will be served in a paper cup decorated with a quirky yet motivational quote to kickstart your day.

5. Egyptians always make time for a quick drink

In Cairo, you won’t have to worry about dehydration with the abundance of fresh juice stands everywhere. Sample any of the revitalizing blends available, or go for the traditional choice of an ice-cold sugarcane juice, a popular local favorite. Make sure to request no ice to avoid tap water and specify “no (extra) sugar” based on your taste for sweetness.

6. You can kiss the Sphinx, but save that for your partner

Romantic travelers can show affection towards their partners, but public displays are largely forbidden in Egypt due to the “Public Morality” law. Engaging in such acts may provoke anything from cheers to disapproval, or even intervention from concerned citizens or authorities, potentially leading to arrest (LGBTIQ+ individuals may face stricter repercussions).

While real kisses are frowned upon, virtual ones are warmly welcomed, so don’t forget to capture a photo of yourself kissing the Sphinx.

7. Egypt is not a gay-friendly destination

Being openly part of the LGBTIQ+ community is effectively illegal in Egypt, and the vast majority of Egyptians do not accept it. It’s best to avoid discussing gay rights in one of Cairo's ahwa (street coffee shops), as it could spark a heated debate.

8. Haggling over prices is an essential part of the local culture

Key points to remember when shopping in Cairo:

• Always avoid purchasing from the first shop you visit.

• Inquire about the price of your desired item from the first three sellers. Each interaction will teach you how to distinguish between high and low quality, and give you an idea of the average price.

• If something catches your eye, maintain a calm demeanor and refrain from showing excitement. Instead, ask the seller where they are from; this information will be useful in negotiations later.

• Once you're confident you've found the best price, confirm if it’s final. If the seller is inflexible, mention that you found a better price elsewhere but would prefer to buy from them because they hail from insert their city!

• If the price still doesn’t budge, switch strategies and ask if they can include a small gift at no extra charge. Try saying: “Khalas (alright), I’ll accept this price, but can I also have this mummified cat’s paw/amulet?”

9. Show respect to those around you

Begin conversations by saying “asslamu alayku” (peace upon you). Avoid crossing your legs when sitting in front of others, especially elders; if you do, ensure the soles of your feet are pointed away. Dressing in loose-fitting clothing that covers your skin will help minimize unwanted attention and keep you comfortable.

10. Be cautious of scams near the Pyramids

A trip to Cairo wouldn't be complete without visiting the Pyramids of Giza. The horse and camel guides are aware of this and may try to overcharge you, so it's wise to research average prices first. Choose a guide you feel comfortable with and wait until the ride is over to pay. Alternatively, bring a sun hat and plenty of water to explore the area on foot.

11. Inexpensive street food often comes with hygiene concerns

While some Egyptian street food is cheap, it can come at a cost, such as foodborne illnesses, due to low hygiene standards from unwashed hands and surfaces or improper food storage. Look for well-reviewed spots on Facebook, especially in the popular Traveller Experience or Travel Secrets groups. Stay alert; there are usually alternatives where you can enjoy the same local dishes with better hygiene (and higher prices).

12. When in Cairo, savor the Nile

While tap water isn't highly recommended for drinking, opt for a 9–19L water bottle for your accommodation and refill a smaller bottle for outings. However, don't miss the chance to take a sip from the river, as the saying goes: anyone who drinks from the Nile is destined to return. This sentiment will surely charm any Egyptian, whether you actually drink from the river or not. A stroll across the Qasr el Nil bridge at sunset and a chat with a fisherman even led to my husband being offered a taste of Nile water.

13. Your safety is only partially in your control

Many Egyptians believe their fate lies in God's hands rather than their own. You’ll often find cars without seat belts, and pedestrians share the road with vehicles. Consider carrying a cross-body bag or fanny pack to keep your valuables secure, especially in busy areas like Khan Al Khalili.

14. Pharmacists can address a variety of health issues

One might assume Egyptians are overly cautious given the multitude of pharmacies. Whether that's true or not, locals place great trust in their pharmacists, which can be helpful if you're feeling unwell and unsure about seeing a doctor. Most pharmacists speak decent English and can assess common ailments while offering pain relief and other treatments.

Pharmacies can typically be recognized by the word 'Pharmacy' in English, accompanied by symbols like a cross, a crescent moon, or a cup with a snake wrapped around it, or a combination of these.

15. To truly understand Cairo, a longer stay is essential

A day or two might suffice for a quick visit to Cairo. However, to genuinely immerse yourself in the city's essence, you should live there for several weeks, develop routines, and become part of the community. Some describe Cairo as an open-air museum; for me, it's more like an open-air library filled with untold stories. Follow these top tips and discover more tales as you seek them out.