Cairo in 48 Hours: A Visitor's Guide to Egypt's Capital for the Hurried Traveler

It may be strange to think that one might find themselves with only 2 days, or 48 hours, in Egypt's capital city, Cairo. Surprisingly though, the last time I was there, one of the Americans I met in the city was there for a couple of days before proceeding on with her Middle Eastern itinerary. Though Cairo is most likely a destination on its own, here are tips for travelers who have a couple of days, or more, to visit one of the world's oldest and most culturally rich and diverse cities.

Cairo is a short flight from most major European cities, making it an ideal quick stop. In the middle of Berlin's cold winter, I went to Egypt for about a week and soaked up some sun and history. The best time to visit Cairo is during the winter time, from November through March. The rest of the year will be hot and might actually limit activities, especially when it comes to spending time in the pyramids or in the desert. As far as a dress code, both men and women should dress conservatively, with loose flowing long clothing appropriate for women. Also, women should be prepared to cover their hair if entering mosques.b At the time of publication, about 5.75 Egyptian Pounds equal 1 US Dollar, making Egypt an excellent, inexpensive vacation.

A few hotel recommendations: Westerners will most likely want to stay close to the Nile. The eastern bank has the most American hotels, including two Hilton hotels, the Nile Hilton and Ramses Hilton (the former is being converted to a Ritz Carlton, opening in 2011), as well as an Intercontinental Hotel, just to name a few. Staying anywhere else in the city isn't recommended because they are harder to navigate and may require taking more taxis, which can be difficult.

When tour groups are available, it is usually a good idea to go with a larger group of people. Transportation is provided, including pick-up from your hotel, and it is a lower-stress way to go. I almost always explore places on my own, but Cairo is a good example of a city where it actually makes sense, and it's a better experience, to go with a group. Most morning tours require that you sign up the evening before, and for afternoon tours, the morning of the tour should be fine (but talk to your hotel concierge to be sure).

Day 1: The Nile, Egyptian Museum, Citadel/Muhammad Ali Mosque, Khan El Khalily Market

If you stay at a hotel that is on the east bank of the Nile, you'll already have an excellent view of the river, but it's worth a closer look to appreciate how large the Nile actually is and it's contribution to the region.

A short walk from the east bank of the Nile is the Egyptian Museum, which is a great first stop for anyone who is new to the region or country. How long you spend here is up to you; you could easily spend a whole day or two here, but at a minimum, spend 2 or 3 hours to take in some of the antiquities.

In the afternoon, take a trip to the Citadel. A huge complex including the famous Muhammad Ali Mosque, the Citadel sits on top of the highest point in Cairo, which means that it offers a great view of the city and that from nearly anywhere in the city, you can see the Muhammad Ali Mosque (also called the Alabaster Mosque). Cameras are allowed in the mosque, and you might consider bringing a tripod to ensure a crisp (not burry) photo. Behind the mosque is an excellent place to view one of Cairo's "tent cities".

At dusk, the Khan El Khalily market really comes alive. Walk through the souks and then pick a nearby café and enjoy some local fare including a sheesha water pipe and coffee.

Day 2: Pyramids of Giza, Coptic Cairo, Nile by Boat

Begin your second day in Cairo with a group tour to the famous Pyramids at Giza. About a half hour from the middle of the city, the pyramids are not as far from the city as one might think. Tours typically take an entire morning, and due to heat (even in the winter), it is advisable to visit the pyramids in the morning. Depending on the state of the structures themselves, you might have the opportunity to go inside one of the three largest pyramids but those who are claustrophobic might not want to try it because the opening for most of the pyramids is not much larger than the size of a large casket.

In the afternoon, explore the religions of this region by taking a tour of Coptic Cairo. Generally, Coptic is the term that refers to Christians in the region, but most tours will cover the Judeo-Christian roots of the area. If you take yourself on an afternoon tour, the highlight should be the "Hanging Church", also known as Saint Virgin Mary's Coptic Orthodox Church. Built in the 3^rd or 4^th century, the church is significant because it is suspended above a gatehouse of Babylon Fortress and because of it's old age.

Spend a relaxing evening cruising the Nile. Many tour companies offer dinners on larger ships that include belly dancers and a more "touristy" experience. Bring your camera to capture the bright lights of the city from the river.

Day 3 and Beyond: Memphis, Alexandria, Valley of the Kings

Memphis is the ancient capital of Lower Egypt and now a museum. Mostly outside, plan to visit Memphis in the morning.

Alexandria is one of Egypt's seaside cities. A 2-hour or so train ride away from Cairo, Alexandria can be a long day trip, though staying the night is recommended.

The Valley of the Kings area is Egypt's most famous home of mummies. The majority of the pharaohs were buried there (before being exhumed and put in a museum or otherwise preserved) or still are buried there. The Valley of the Kings is a little further away by train from Cairo and certainly warrants more than just a days' visit (plan for at least three or four days). The ideal time to visit this area of the country is September or October because the air temperature is cooler, but the sea temperatures are still warm from the summertime.

Related Suggested Reading:

Berlin in 48 Hours

Paris in 48 Hours

Geneva in 48 Hours

Munich in 48 Hours

Resources:

Muhammad Ali Mosque: http://www.sacred-destinations.com/egypt/cairo-muhammad-ali-mosque.htm

Ritz-Carlton Cairo: http://corporate.ritzcarlton.com/en/Press/Releases/Announce_Cairo.htm

Ramses Hilton:

http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/CAIRHTW-Ramses-Hilton/index.do

Intercontiental Hotel Cairo:

http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/intercontinental/en/gb/locations/overview/CROHC

Egyptian Museum: http://homepage.powerup.com.au/~ancient/museum.htm

Memphis: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Memphis,_Egypt