Egypt is a lovely country set on the tranquil waters of the great Nile River in northeast Africa. Boasting beautiful landscapes dotted with millennia-old monuments from as far back as the Pharaonic era, Egypt is a country brimming with a rich history and fascinating culture. Neighboring Libya to the west and Sudan to the south, this charming country is also home to delicious cuisines. Its capital Cairo features Ottoman landmarks such as the iconic Muhammad Ali Mosque and the iconic Egyptian Museum, which showcases a trove of ancient Egyptian antiquities. There are also historic hotels and vacation rentals in Cairo for tourists looking for a place to stay. Want to explore more beyond the city’s limits? Scroll down below for a list of the best day trips from Cairo, Egypt.
1. Nile River (from USD 65.0)
The Nile River is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Cairo. The longest river in the world, the Nile has played a vital role in the history and culture of Egypt for thousands of years.
As you cruise along the river, marvel at the stunning river views and the surrounding desert landscape while learning about the history and culture of the region from knowledgeable guides. The river is also home to several important archaeological sites, including the temples of Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings.
You can also catch a glimpse of a diverse array of wildlife, including crocodiles, hippos, and various bird species. Nature lovers can explore the river’s banks and nearby wetlands to observe these animals in their natural habitats.
Nile River 3-Hour Buffet Dinner Cruise with Tanoura Sufi Show
Duration: 3 hours
2. Giza, Saqqara, Dahshur (from USD 60.0)
Situated on the west bank of the Nile, just 3.1 miles (5 kilometers) southwest of the country’s capital, Giza is one of the largest cities in Egypt, competing with Alexandria and Cairo. A beautiful city laden with history, Giza is famed for its fascinating Giza Plateau, which is where you’ll find some of the country’s most iconic monuments.
20.2 miles (32.5 kilometers) from Cairo is Saqqara, a vast burial ground serving as the necropolis for the ancient Egyptian metropolis, Memphis. This area is known for housing the Saqqara Pyramid. Dashur is another royal necropolis located near Memphis and Saqqara. Dashur is known for housing some of Egypt’s oldest pyramids including, the Bent, Red, and Black pyramids of Dashur.
From Cairo: Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, Saqqara & Memphis Tour
Duration: 8.0 hour
3. Memphis (from USD 40.0)
If you’re traveling to Egypt for history and adventure, a visit to the picturesque ruins of Memphis is one that you can’t afford to miss. Nestled on the west bank of the Nile, about 18 miles (29 kilometers) south of modern Cairo, this beautiful ancient city is laden with history and culture, which is evident in its cuisine and even more visible in the architecture of its ruins.
This charming city was the capital of ancient Egypt during the Old Kingdom era. The remains of the city are concentrated in the present-day region of Mit Rahinah, alongside stunning monuments such as the Step Pyramid of Djoser, a template for the later pyramids of Giza and Saqqara.
Tip from tour guide
Welcome to the mystical and historical city of Memphis, Egypt –a place where the sands of time have preserved the remnants of an ancient civilization that once ruled the world.
Today, what is left of Memphis is collected in the Open Air Museum.
In addition, there is an indoor museum housing the magnificent fallen colossal limestone statue of Ramses II.
Cairo: Djoser, Bent Pyramid & Memphis Day Trip
Duration: 6.0 to 7.0 hour
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4. El Ein Sokhna (from USD 45.0)
If sinking your foot in the sand while enjoying a cool breeze is your idea of outdoor bliss, then a day tour from Cairo to El Ein Sokhna is a must. A favorite spot for both locals and visitors alike, this charming coastal town spells out the ideal destination for a quick weekend getaway.
Located along the western shores of the Red Sea’s Gulf of Suez, this lovely town has a very tranquil atmosphere and is approximately about 80 miles (128.7 kilometers) southeast of Cairo. While here, you can go on a stroll by the beach as you watch the sunset or, better yet, relish delicious cuisine as you make new friends.
Red Sea and El Ein Sohkna Beach Full-Day Trip from Cairo
Duration: 8 to 10 hours
Cairo Tour Guide
Sama Nagy
I’m Sama your tour guide for your pleasant stay, I am an active licensed professional tour guide, I have been working at it with great enthusiasm,I welcome you to Egypt and I will support you during the tour, and you are going to enjoy your stay here in Egypt . This is a beautiful city where you can relax-and enjoy Egypt’s powerful history civilization,It is extremely important for all guests... Read more
Tours by Sama
Cairo Tour Guide
Aton
With this private arrival transfer you will save your time, effort and avoid any hassle or trouble dealing and bargaining with cab drivers. No more rip-off or cheats with this punctual, smooth transfer.Save time and avoid hassle by pre-booking your transportation between Cairo Airport and your hotel in Cairo or Giza. you will need to get your luggages, go through the final security check, and t... Read more
Tours by Aton
5. Al Fayoum
Located approximately 62 miles (100 kilometers) to the south of Cairo, Al Fayoum is a picturesque oasis towards the west of the Nile. Famed for its fertility and beautiful habitats, Fayoum is widely known for its priceless ancient monuments, the spectacular Wadi Al Rayan, and the Magic Lake.
Al Fayoum is also known for its impressive dunes. Here, visitors can enjoy sandboarding on the dunes while soaking up the panoramic views of Magic Lake.
6. Alexandria (from USD 50.0)
If you’re looking for a romantic adventure where you can spend quality time exploring a city with your significant other, then a day trip to Alexandria should pique your interests. Considered as one of Egypt’s most beautiful and most visited cities, Alexandria is only a three-hour drive from Cairo.
Explore the gold market where everyone can buy their wedding jewelry. Later, visit the charming Citadel of Qaitbay and marvel at its jaw-dropping architecture as you take in the relaxing breeze.
From Cairo: Alexandria Day Tour
Duration: 11.0 hour
7. Ismailia
Referred to in Egypt as “The City of Beauty and Enchantment,” Ismailia is a lovely city in northeastern Egypt. It is found on the west bank of the Suez Canal and is the capital of Isimalia Governorate.
Situated less than a two-hour drive from Cairo, Ismalia is home to a trove of exciting landmarks, including the prominent Ismailia Museum, which boasts over 4,000 stunning antiques dating from the Pharaonic era.
8. Fayed
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Situated on the banks of Bitter Lake between Ismailia and Suez, Fayed is a charming city located approximately 87 miles (140 kilometers) away from Cairo. It is surrounded by tall swaying palm trees as well as some of the most idyllic beaches near Cairo. Fayed is a serene city with a tranquil and inviting atmosphere.
A beautiful, laid-back metropolis with a unique blend of lush green spaces, turquoise waters, and sugary beaches, Fayed spells out a quintessential destination for those of you who wish to spend some relaxing time far away from the hustle and bustle of a crowded city.
9. Sphinx and the Pyramids (from USD 48.0)
Situated just about 12.4 miles (20 kilometers) from the country’s capital are the Great Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza, some of the top must-visit places near Cairo. These famous and well-preserved landmarks date centuries back to the Pharaonic era.
A visit to this place offers visitors a glimpse into the country’s intriguing history and vibrant culture.
Pyramids, Sphinx, Memphis, and Saqqara Private Tour from Cairo
Duration: 9 hours
Adventurous day trips await from Cairo
Our recommendations for day trips from Cairo showcase that the metropolis is an ideal base for all your adventures in the country. There are plenty of wonderful things about Cairo, and you can experience them by visiting tourist attractions, landmarks and stunning monuments such as the Giza Plateau. Complete your visit by checking out walking and hiking trails, sunsets over rock formations, and some of the world’s prominent landmarks of the nearby cities.
Frequently asked questions about day trips from Cairo, Egypt
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