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Cairo

Located at the junction of Africa and the Middle East, the bustling city of Cairo is one of the world’s most colourful and exciting settlements. Egypt’s capital has a multitude of lively souks and historic mosques to explore, whilst a plethora of restaurants and hotels can be found lining the Nile river. The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities is an essential stop on any Cairo itinerary and contains mummified pharaohs, the mysterious treasures of Tutankhamun and thousands of other priceless exhibits. Meanwhile, nearby Tahrir Square, the focal point of the country’s Arab Spring revolution, offers the chance to witness the site of more recent history. A little outside the city, the Sphinx and the Pyramids at Giza are breathtaking sights which will complete your unforgettable holiday to Egypt.

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What you’ll love most about Cairo

  • Marvel at the iconic Pyramids of Giza, standing as eternal symbols of ancient Egyptian civilization, just outside the bustling city of Cairo
  • Visit the majestic Sphinx, the enigmatic guardian of the pyramids, and delve into the ancient history of Egypt at the Egyptian Museu
  • Wander through the narrow streets of Old Cairo, where you can explore historic mosques, Coptic churches, and vibrant bazaars filled with treasure
  • Immerse yourself in Cairo’s bustling culture by savouring traditional Egyptian cuisine, enjoying lively street performances, and bargaining in local market
  • Embark on a scenic Nile River cruise, offering stunning views of Cairo’s skyline and opportunities to visit nearby ancient sites like Memphis and Saqqar
  • Indulge in modern amenities like luxury hotels, world-class restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, blending seamlessly with Cairo’s ancient charm

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 19℃
  • 21℃
  • 24℃
  • 29℃
  • 33℃
  • 35℃
  • 35℃
  • 35℃
  • 34℃
  • 30℃
  • 25℃
  • 21℃
  • 5
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
  • 1
  • 0
  • 0
  • 0
  • 0
  • 1
  • 1
  • 3

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

January brings cool, crisp days ideal for discovering Cairo’s historic treasures. Daytime temperatures average around 19°C, making it comfortable to explore the Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum, or wander through Coptic Cairo without the glare of intense heat. Evenings can be chilly, so a light jacket comes in handy.

February

February offers similarly mild conditions, with slightly longer daylight hours. It’s a great time to visit Khan El Khalili for leisurely shopping or sip mint tea at a rooftop café overlooking the Citadel. The relative quiet before spring sets in makes for relaxed sightseeing.

March

March ushers in a gentle warmth, and the city begins to bloom. The Nile Corniche becomes a pleasant place for evening strolls, and outdoor spaces like Al-Azhar Park are especially inviting. The weather is just right for day trips to Saqqara or Dahshur.

April

April sees Cairo heating up, with highs reaching the upper 20s. It’s a popular month for travellers, particularly around Easter and Ramadan. While crowds may increase, the festive atmosphere - especially in the evenings - makes up for it. Sunset felucca rides on the Nile are especially magical.

May

May turns up the heat, particularly in the afternoon. Early morning sightseeing is best, followed by long lunches in shaded courtyards or museum visits during the hottest hours. Despite rising temperatures, it’s a rewarding time to visit before the full heat of summer.

June

June marks the beginning of Cairo’s hottest period. With highs above 35°C, indoor attractions like the Grand Egyptian Museum (when open) or art galleries in Zamalek offer a welcome retreat. Locals shift to a slower pace, and the city feels quieter during the day.

July

July is hot and dry, but Cairo remains vibrant. Those who brave the heat can enjoy near-empty tourist sites early in the day. After sunset, the city comes alive - rooftop lounges, late-night cafés, and Nile dinner cruises offer cooling escapes and a lively local rhythm.

August

August stays intensely warm, with daytime temperatures frequently topping 35°C. While it’s not ideal for intensive sightseeing, it’s a good time for immersing in Cairo’s café culture, sampling cool hibiscus juice, or visiting shaded spots like the Manial Palace Gardens.

September

September brings a gradual drop in temperature. It’s easier to explore outdoor attractions once more, and the golden light of late summer makes Cairo’s monuments particularly photogenic. Cultural events and festivals begin returning to the calendar.

October

October is one of the best months to visit. With pleasant days and cooler nights, this is the time to enjoy the full sweep of Cairo - from the ancient wonders of Giza to modern art galleries and open-air dining in Garden City or Zamalek.

November

November continues the comfortable trend. With highs in the mid-20s, this is prime time for leisurely sightseeing, riverfront picnics, or even heading further afield for day trips. The crowds are manageable, and the mood around the city is relaxed and welcoming.

December

December rounds out the year with festive charm and mild weather. Christmas lights appear in some neighbourhoods, and the cool air makes wandering Cairo’s medieval alleyways a delight. It’s also a great month for culture lovers, with music and film festivals taking place across the capital.

Our Ratings

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  • Recommended
  • Highly Recommended
  • Not Recommended

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