Planning a short trip to Egypt? Explore the ultimate Cairo 3 days tour itinerary. It covers the Pyramids of Giza. You will also visit the Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo, and Khan El Khalili Bazaar. There is even more to experience. Perfect for first-time visitors!
🗺️ Why Visit Cairo for 3 Days?
Cairo, the heart of Egypt, is a city that blends ancient wonders with modern culture. You can experience its top attractions in 3 days in Cairo whether you’re a history buff. You will enjoy the experience as a cultural explorer or a casual tourist. Visit the Great Pyramids, Sphinx, Egyptian Museum, and bustling bazaars.
📅 Cairo 3 Days Tour Itinerary Overview
Here’s a quick breakdown of your 72-hour adventure in Cairo:
Day | Highlights |
---|---|
Day 1 | Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, Saqqara, Memphis |
Day 2 | Egyptian Museum, Citadel, Old Cairo |
Day 3 | Islamic Cairo, Khan El Khalili, Nile Cruise |
Let’s dive into the details.
🏙️ Day 1: Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, Saqqara & Memphis
🏜️ The Giza Pyramids – Egypt’s Timeless Icons
No Cairo tour is finished without visiting the Pyramids of Giza — the only remaining wonder of the ancient world.

🗺️ What to See at the Giza Plateau:
- Great Pyramid of Khufu – The largest of the three
- Pyramid of Khafre – With part of its original casing still intact
- Pyramid of Menkaure
- The Great Sphinx – Half-lion, half-pharaoh guardian
📸 Optional Activities:
- Camel ride around the pyramids
- Entry inside the Great Pyramid
- Panoramic photo stop
🏺 Saqqara & Memphis – The Oldest Capital of Egypt
After Giza, head to Saqqara, home of the Step Pyramid of Djoser — the first pyramid ever built.
🗿 Don’t Miss:
- Tombs of nobles with colorful wall reliefs
- Serapeum (underground tombs of sacred bulls)
Then visit Memphis, Egypt’s ancient capital, to see:
- Colossal statue of Ramses II
- Alabaster Sphinx

🏛️ Day 2: Egyptian Museum, Citadel & Coptic Cairo
🏺 H1: Egyptian Museum – A Treasure Trove of History
Located in Tahrir Square, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo houses:
- Over 120,000 ancient artifacts
- The golden treasures of Tutankhamun
- Mummies of famous pharaohs
💡 Tip: Ask your guide about the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), opening soon near Giza.

🕌 Saladin Citadel & Mohamed Ali Mosque
Perched on a hilltop, the Citadel of Saladin offers:
- Panoramic views of Cairo
- The beautiful Mohamed Ali Alabaster Mosque
- Military Museum & ancient walls
🧭 Historical Background
Built in the 12th century to defend against Crusaders, the Citadel is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.

⛪ Coptic Cairo – Christianity’s Ancient Footprint
Explore Cairo’s rich Christian heritage:
- Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary)
- Church of St. Sergius (where the Holy Family stayed)
- Ben Ezra Synagogue
🕌 Day 3: Islamic Cairo, Khan El Khalili & Nile Cruise
🏙️ Islamic Cairo Walking Tour
Explore the winding alleys and centuries-old mosques of Islamic Cairo.
🕌 Key Landmarks:
- Sultan Hassan Mosque
- Al-Rifa’i Mosque
- Al-Azhar Mosque
- Bayt Al Suhaymi (traditional Islamic house)

🛍️ Khan El Khalili Bazaar – Shop Like a Local
A historic market dating back to the 14th century, Khan El Khalili is a must-visit for:
- Spices, perfumes, jewelry
- Handmade crafts and souvenirs
- Traditional Egyptian cafes (like El Fishawy)
🚤 Optional Nile River Dinner Cruise
End your Cairo adventure with a relaxing Nile dinner cruise, featuring:
- Open buffet dinner
- Live music
- Belly dancing & Tanoura show
🧳 What to Pack for Your Cairo Tour
✅ Essentials:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunblock and sunglasses
- Light, modest clothing
- Reusable water bottle
- Egyptian Pounds (EGP) for shopping and tipping
📌 Cairo 3 Days Tour Tips
💬 Use a Local Guide
Hiring a professional Egyptologist guide (like those at Emo Tours Egypt) ensures a richer, more informative experience.
🚗 Transport Options
Consider private tours with air-conditioned vehicles — especially in summer months.
🕰️ Best Time to Visit Cairo
- October to April (pleasant weather)
- Avoid summer heat (June to August)
🏁 Final Thoughts on Your 3-Day Cairo Tour
Cairo in 3 days sounds short. Still, with the right itinerary, you can explore the best historical, cultural, and spiritual landmarks in Egypt’s capital. Whether you’re seeing the Pyramids, sailing the Nile, or shopping in Khan El Khalili, Cairo offers a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.
✨ Book Your Cairo 3 Days Tour with Emo Tours Egypt
Emo Tours offers private guided tours, customizable itineraries, and 24/7 support for travelers.
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