A sprawling, colourful, chaotic metropolis that is home to more than 20 million people, Cairo is on most history buffs' bucket lists. It's home to the last remaining Ancient Wonder of the World, countless other areas of historical significance and museums overflowing with antiquities. But Egypt’s capital has so much more to offer than the obvious historic sites, from the Nile, which slices between the city's two sides, to a vibrant dining scene that celebrates Egyptian culture, and one of the region's most expansive souks. This is a city that reveals itself in layers and it is up to visitors to peel them back.
Destinations
The best hotels in Cairo
Amid the colourful, chaotic sprawl of modern Cairo, find refuge in these top-class properties
- Fairmont Nile City Hotel, CairoEgypt, Cairo, Nile City Towers، 2005 B Corniche, Boulaq Num.1، El NilRead full reviewArt Deco styling is mixed in with modern touches
- Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel & Spa, CairoEgypt, Cairo, X4QJ+G34، El Remaya Square 25 Pyramids Cairo, Kafr Nassar, Al Haram, Giza GovernorateRead full reviewOne of the few luxury properties near the Pyramids
- Marriott Mena House, CairoEgypt, Cairo, 6 Pyramids Road CairoRead full reviewOne of the region's top hotels since 1886
- Conrad, CairoEgypt, Cairo, 1191 Nile Corniche, Souq Al ASR, BulaqRead full reviewThe Conrad is designed in contemporary, colourful style
- The Nile Ritz-Carlton, CairoEgypt, Cairo, 1113 Nile Corniche, Ismailia, El NilRead full reviewIdeal for accessing The Egyptian Museum
- Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at The First ResidenceEgypt, Cairo, 35 Giza St, Oula, Giza DistrictRead full reviewThe luxury hotel sits within a large urban green space
- Women Who TravelHow I travel: Azza Fahmy likes to retreat to the Himalayas every yearEgyptian jewellery designer Azza Fahmy shares her favourite trips and old-school travel routines
- DestinationsRekindling a love of travel on a grand tour of EgyptA mother-son duo traces thousands of years of history with help from lots of locals
- DestinationsIn Cairo's artisan shops and markets, everything old is new againCairo is a haven for traditional crafts – but a new generation of makers is adding a modern twist
- InspirationThe world's 11 most incredible places to skydiveFrom manmade islands to ancient wonders of the world, these are the skydiving spots that will give you the best views on the way back down to Earth