Cairo tours

Things to do in Cairo

Cairo is a city that never quite settles down, where the echo of the call to prayer blends with the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This lively city stands as a portal to Egypt's deep historical and cultural heritage. With your local guide, navigate through the dynamic core of Cairo. Private tours in this city allow for a seamless experience at the famed Pyramids of Giza, a chance to wander through the intricate paths of Khan el-Khalili, or a leisurely walk in the historic Islamic quarter. Each moment with your guide unfolds another chapter, whether you're sampling local street delicacies, enjoying a cup of mint tea, or exploring the city's ancient enigmas. Experience Cairo through the perspective of someone who knows its every nuance. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Cairo. Explore Cairo your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Cairo tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Cairo for every interest, including: - History tours: Step into the Egyptian Museum on Tahrir to see royal mummies and gilded treasures, then wander Al-Mu’izz Street’s mosques and medieval gates with a guide who opens tucked-away courtyards. Add Coptic Cairo’s Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue for a different layer of history. - Layover tours: Meet your guide outside Cairo International Airport, head straight to the Giza Plateau for the pyramids, the Sphinx, and a quick stop at Panorama Point, then return in time for your next flight. With a shorter window, focus on Khan el-Khalili for coffee at El Fishawi and a brisk market walk. The metro connects key areas like Tahrir, Mar Girgis for Coptic Cairo, and parts of Heliopolis, and walking works well inside historic neighbourhoods, but distances are long and traffic is heavy. For comfort and timing, you can book chauffeured tours with private transportation or ask your local guide to arrange door-to-door transport. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Cairo inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Take a private walking tour in Cairo and immerse yourself in its diverse neighborhoods with a local guide who can reveal the city's many layers. - Islamic Cairo: Cultural tourists will find a treasure trove of historic mosques, madrasas, and bustling bazaars. The narrow streets are full of life and stories from centuries past. - Zamalek: Families and those seeking a relaxed vibe will enjoy this leafy island neighborhood. Known for its art galleries and cafes, it offers a quieter side of Cairo with a vibrant cultural scene. - Downtown Cairo: This area is perfect for those looking to experience Cairo's modern pulse. It's filled with historic architecture, lively squares, and a mix of traditional and contemporary life. - Coptic Cairo: For those interested in religious history, this neighborhood is home to ancient churches and the Coptic Museum, offering insights into Egypt's Christian past. - Maadi: A great choice for multi-generational groups, this suburb is known for its green spaces and international dining options, providing a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle. Day trip ideas from Cairo Use Cairo as your base, then hop to nearby cities and desert spots for easy day trips that match what you like. - Giza Plateau - Stand at the Pyramids and the Sphinx, see how the blocks fit together up close, and pick camera angles on the desert ridge that suit your tour’s pace and focus. - Saqqara, Dahshur, and Memphis - Trace early pyramid design at the Step Pyramid, then compare the Red and Bent Pyramids with far fewer crowds, great for history lovers who want time to explore details. - Alexandria - Trade the Nile for the Mediterranean with seafront walks, the Citadel of Qaitbay, and layered Greek-Roman sites, ideal if you like coastal cities, museums, and fresh seafood in one day. - Fayoum Oasis and Wadi El Rayan - See small waterfalls, wide desert views, and Tunis Village pottery workshops, a relaxed mix of nature and craft that fits active day trips or a slower, scenic route. - Ain Sokhna - Reach the Red Sea in about 90 minutes for clear water, a beach break, and boat time, a simple reset if your tour has been heavy on temples and museums. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Cairo most travellers miss.