Cairo visitor guide
Practical essentials for visiting Cairo, Egypt. Every fact links to an official or government source.
Some areas of Egypt are under official travel warnings. Check the latest advice before you go. UK FCDO — warnings ↗
Emergency numbers
Source: UK FCDO — getting help ↗
Getting around
- Cairo Metro (National Authority for Tunnels), buses and taxis; ride-hailing apps are widely used.
Airports
- CAI · Cairo International — 18 km from the centre (straight line) · Website ↗ · Directions ↗
Distances are straight-line from the city centre; road distance is longer.
Weather by month
| Month | Avg high | Avg low | Humidity | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 20°C | 9°C | 59% | 4 mm |
| Feb | 21°C | 10°C | 57% | 7 mm |
| Mar | 25°C | 12°C | 49% | 8 mm |
| Apr | 30°C | 15°C | 43% | 2 mm |
| May | 35°C | 19°C | 39% | 0 mm |
| Jun | 38°C | 22°C | 41% | 0 mm |
| Jul | 39°C | 23°C | 45% | 0 mm |
| Aug | 38°C | 24°C | 47% | 0 mm |
| Sep | 36°C | 22°C | 51% | 0 mm |
| Oct | 32°C | 19°C | 55% | 3 mm |
| Nov | 27°C | 15°C | 58% | 2 mm |
| Dec | 22°C | 11°C | 61% | 5 mm |
comfortable (avg high 32°C or below) · very hot (avg high 38°C or above)
Etiquette & dress
- Dress modestly, especially in rural areas, mosques and souqs.
- Public displays of affection are frowned upon; holding hands is generally fine.
- Alcohol is only legal in licensed restaurants, bars, private homes and some tourist resorts.
- During Ramadan, do not eat, drink or smoke in public in daylight.
Source: UK FCDO — safety and security (laws and cultural differences) ↗
Visas & entry
Entry rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check the official portals before you book.
Currency & tipping
Egyptian pound (EGP). The rate floats against the US dollar.
Source: Central Bank of Egypt ↗
No official tipping guidance; rounding up or about 10% for good service is common but optional.
Plan your time in Cairo
Facts checked Oct 30, 2026. Always confirm with the official source before you travel.