Best Time to Visit Cairo in 2025: A Season-by-Season Guide (From a 7-Time Visitor) - Xplrverse

Introduction: Why Timing Matters for Your Cairo Adventure

The question of when to visit Cairo isn’t as straightforward as you might think. I learned this lesson the hard way during my first visit in August 2018, when I stepped off the plane at Cairo International Airport and was immediately slapped in the face by 104°F (40°C) heat. “It’s a dry heat,” people had told me. Those people were liars.

Seven visits later, I’ve experienced Cairo across all seasons, from the scorching summer months to the surprisingly chilly winter evenings that had me hunting for a jacket I hadn’t packed. Each season transforms this ancient metropolis in unexpected ways, affecting everything from crowd sizes at the Pyramids to prices at the Khan el-Khalili bazaar to how many layers of sand you’ll find in your shoes at day’s end.

Whether you’re planning to marvel at the treasures of the Egyptian Museum, cruise the Nile at sunset, or venture beyond to the ancient wonders outside the city, timing your visit can make the difference between a dream trip and an exhausting ordeal. This guide breaks down Cairo’s seasons to help you decide exactly when to plan your 2025 Egyptian adventure based on your priorities, budget, and heat tolerance.

Cairo’s Climate: What to Expect Year-Round

Before diving into the specifics of each season, it helps to understand Cairo’s overall climate pattern. Located in a desert region but influenced by the Nile River, Cairo experiences hot, dry summers and mild winters with very little rainfall throughout the year.

Season	Temperature Range	Rainfall	Humidity
Winter (Dec-Feb)	50-70°F (10-21°C)	Minimal (occasional rain)	Moderate
Spring (Mar-May)	60-90°F (15-32°C)	Very rare	Low to moderate
Summer (Jun-Aug)	75-105°F (24-40°C)	None	Low
Fall (Sep-Nov)	65-90°F (18-32°C)	Very rare	Low to moderate

One thing that surprised me about Cairo was the significant temperature drop at night, especially in winter months. During my December visit, I found myself shivering in the evening despite comfortable daytime temperatures. The desert climate means that heat dissipates quickly after sunset, so always pack layers regardless of when you visit.

Peak Season: October to April

Cairo’s tourism high season runs from October through April, with particularly intense peaks around Christmas/New Year and Easter holidays. This coincides with the most pleasant weather, making outdoor exploration comfortable rather than an endurance test.

Winter (December-February): Perfect Weather, Peak Crowds

Winter offers Cairo’s most comfortable daytime temperatures, typically ranging from 65-70°F (18-21°C). This makes it ideal for extended outdoor exploration, whether you’re climbing around the pyramids of Giza or wandering through the winding alleys of Islamic Cairo.

On my January 2022 visit, I spent six hours exploring the Egyptian Museum and surrounding Tahrir Square area without once feeling overheated—something utterly impossible during summer months. The clear blue winter skies also make for spectacular photographs, with the golden monuments contrasting beautifully against the azure background.

Winter Pros:

Most comfortable temperatures for sightseeing
Clear skies make for excellent photography
Minimal chance of sandstorms disrupting travel
Perfect timing for combining Cairo with Upper Egypt (Luxor/Aswan)

Winter Cons:

Highest hotel and tour prices of the year (expect to pay 30-40% more)
Major sites like the Pyramids can be extremely crowded
Need to book accommodations and guides 3-4 months in advance
Evenings can be surprisingly cold (down to 50°F/10°C)

Insider Tip: If visiting during winter high season, arrive at major sites like the Pyramids of Giza or Egyptian Museum at opening time (usually 8am) to beat both tour groups and the midday sun. I’ve managed to have the Great Pyramid’s Grand Gallery almost to myself by arriving right at opening and heading straight there before exploring the rest of the complex.

Spring (March-April): The Sweet Spot

After several visits in different seasons, I’ve concluded that late March through April hits the sweet spot for Cairo travel. The weather remains pleasant with temperatures typically between 70-85°F (21-29°C), while the winter high season crowds begin to thin out.

During my April 2023 visit, I paid 1,800 Egyptian pounds (about $60 USD) for a wonderful room at a boutique hotel in Zamalek that would have cost 2,400 EGP (about $80 USD) just two months earlier. The queues at the Pyramids of Giza were manageable, and I could negotiate better rates with taxi drivers and tour guides as they weren’t booked solid.

Spring Considerations:

Be aware of Ramadan dates, which vary each year (in 2025, expected in March) – this brings both unique cultural experiences and some service limitations
The occasional khamsin wind can bring dust storms in spring, sometimes reducing visibility
Easter holidays can create a mini-peak in tourism, so check dates when planning

Spring also brings the blooming of Cairo’s surprisingly abundant jacaranda and flamboyant trees. The purple and red blossoms provide a stunning contrast to the city’s desert palette, especially in neighborhoods like Maadi and Zamalek.

Off-Season: May to September

Summer in Cairo is not for the faint of heart. The months from May through September bring scorching temperatures that regularly exceed 95°F (35°C) and can spike well above 104°F (40°C) in July and August. Yet, there are compelling reasons why you might consider a summer visit if you’re heat-tolerant and budget-conscious.

Summer (May-September): Hot Deals for Heat Warriors

My August 2018 visit taught me that summer in Cairo requires strategy. By 10 am, the temperature was already punishing, climbing steadily until peaking around 3-4 pm. I quickly adapted by rising at dawn to see outdoor sites, retreating to air-conditioned museums or my hotel during midday heat, then venturing out again after sunset when the city came alive with locals escaping their non-air-conditioned apartments.

The heat transforms Cairo into a different city. Cairenes become nocturnal, with families picnicking in parks at midnight and cafés buzzing until the early morning hours. The famous Al-Muizz Street in Islamic Cairo, which I found relatively quiet during winter days, becomes a vibrant promenade of families and young people in summer evenings.

Summer Advantages:

Hotel rates drop by 40-50% compared to winter prices
Significantly fewer tourists at major attractions
No need for advance reservations at popular restaurants
Opportunity to experience Cairo’s vibrant night culture
Perfect timing to combine with a Red Sea beach vacation (where sea breezes moderate the heat)

Summer Challenges:

Brutal daytime heat requires careful planning
Outdoor activities limited to early morning and evening
Pollution can be worse during summer months
Some businesses operate on reduced summer hours

If you’re considering a summer visit, book accommodation with reliable air conditioning and a pool if possible. My favorite summer hack is staying in Zamalek, where the island location in the Nile creates slightly cooler temperatures and better air circulation than the mainland city.

Money-Saving Tip: Summer visitors can negotiate aggressively on everything from hotel rates to souvenirs. During my summer stays, I’ve regularly received unprompted “summer discounts” of 20-30% off rack rates at hotels simply by booking directly and mentioning I’m considering other properties. The same applies to longer taxi rides and guided tours—in summer, you have significant leverage.

Fall (September-October): The Emerging Secret Season

September and early October represent an increasingly popular “secret season” for Cairo visits. Temperatures begin moderating from summer extremes but remain warm (80-90°F/27-32°C), while tourist numbers haven’t yet reached winter peaks.

During my September 2021 visit, I enjoyed the best of both worlds: I could comfortably sightsee until around noon, prices remained at summer discount levels, and I experienced none of the winter queues at major attractions. By October, restaurant terraces along the Nile start filling again as the evening air becomes pleasantly cool rather than merely less hot.

This shoulder season offers particular value for photographers, as the slanting autumn light creates beautiful effects on Cairo’s sandstone monuments, especially in the golden hours around sunrise and sunset.

Special Considerations by Month

Beyond the general seasonal patterns, specific months bring unique considerations that might affect your Cairo experience:

Ramadan: A Unique Cultural Experience

Ramadan shifts about 10 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar. In 2025, it’s expected to fall in March. Contrary to some travelers’ concerns, I’ve found Ramadan to be a fascinating time to visit Cairo. Yes, many restaurants close during daylight hours, and some attractions operate on reduced schedules, but the evenings transform into a festive atmosphere unlike any other time.

During my Ramadan visit in 2019, I joined locals breaking their fast at iftar (sunset meal) at communal tables set up along Al-Azhar Park. The call to prayer echoed across the city as everyone—rich and poor alike—simultaneously bit into dates to break their fast. Later that evening, the streets of Islamic Cairo came alive with special Ramadan lanterns (fanous) and foods only available during this holy month.

If you visit during Ramadan:

Respect fasting observers by not eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours
Expect adjusted operating hours at attractions and businesses
Book dinner reservations in advance, as restaurants become extremely busy right after sunset
Try traditional Ramadan foods like konafa (sweet pastry) and amar el-din (apricot drink)

As a non-Muslim visitor, you’re not expected to fast, but showing cultural awareness goes a long way. Many hotels and international restaurants continue serving food during the day, often in screened areas out of respect for those fasting.

Local Events and Holidays to Consider

Several Egyptian holidays and events can affect your Cairo experience:

Event	2025 Dates (Approximate)	Impact on Travel
Coptic Christmas	January 7	Closure of some sites; special celebrations in Coptic Cairo
Sham El-Nessim (Spring Festival)	April (follows Coptic Easter)	Parks extremely crowded; many Cairenes leave the city
Eid al-Fitr	April 2-3, 2025 (end of Ramadan)	Major holiday; many businesses closed for 3-5 days
Eid al-Adha	June 9-13, 2025	Major holiday; businesses closed, increased domestic tourism
Cairo International Film Festival	November	Increased hotel rates in downtown areas; cultural events

During Egyptian national holidays, domestic tourism increases significantly. Sites like the Pyramids and Khan el-Khalili bazaar become crowded with Egyptian families on vacation. While this can mean more crowds, it also offers a wonderful opportunity to experience attractions alongside locals rather than just other international tourists.

Month-by-Month Breakdown for 2025

January-February 2025: Peak Season Prime

Expected temperature range: 50-70°F (10-21°C)

January and February represent the absolute peak of Cairo’s tourist season. The weather is at its most pleasant, making it ideal for extended outdoor exploration. However, you’ll pay premium prices and face the year’s largest crowds at major attractions.

In 2025, Chinese New Year falls on January 29, which typically brings an influx of Chinese tour groups. If possible, schedule visits to major sites to avoid this period.

March-April 2025: Ramadan and Spring Transition

Expected temperature range: 60-85°F (15-29°C)

March 2025 will feature Ramadan (approximately March 1-31), offering a culturally rich but logistically different experience. By April, temperatures begin warming as spring takes hold, but conditions remain comfortable for sightseeing. Easter falls on April 20, creating a mini-peak in tourism.

April 2025 may also bring occasional khamsin wind events—hot, dusty winds that can reduce visibility and make outdoor activities uncomfortable for 2-3 days at a time.

May 2025: Early Summer Values

Expected temperature range: 65-95°F (18-35°C)

May represents a transition month when temperatures begin climbing but haven’t yet reached the punishing peaks of July-August. Tourist numbers decline significantly, and prices drop accordingly. Morning hours remain comfortable for sightseeing, while afternoon heat becomes increasingly intense.

This month offers excellent value, especially in the first half, before summer heat fully takes hold.

June-August 2025: Summer Heat Challenge

Expected temperature range: 75-105°F (24-40°C)

These months bring Cairo’s most challenging weather, with daytime temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F (38°C). The Eid al-Adha holiday in June may create a brief spike in domestic tourism.

If visiting during these months, adopt a modified schedule: rise early for dawn exploration, retreat indoors during midday heat, then emerge again in evening hours when the city comes alive. Consider adding a Red Sea beach stay to your itinerary for heat relief.

September-October 2025: Emerging Sweet Spot

Expected temperature range: 70-95°F (21-35°C)

By September, temperatures begin moderating while tourist crowds remain relatively thin. October marks a transition toward high season as conditions become increasingly pleasant. This shoulder season offers an excellent balance of comfortable weather and reasonable prices.

In late October, you’ll notice tourist numbers beginning to increase as winter high season approaches, but sites remain uncrowded compared to December-February.

November-December 2025: High Season Begins

Expected temperature range: 55-75°F (13-24°C)

November offers nearly perfect weather with minimal crowds until mid-month, when winter tourism begins its upward climb. By December, Cairo enters full high season mode, with premium pricing and advance bookings becoming increasingly necessary.

The December holiday period (Christmas through New Year’s) represents one of the year’s absolute peaks for tourism, requiring advance planning for accommodations and guided experiences.

Budget Considerations: When to Find the Best Deals

The time of year you visit dramatically impacts your Cairo budget. Here’s what I’ve observed across my visits:

High Season Premium (December-February)

During peak winter months, expect to pay:

Hotels: 30-50% premium over shoulder season rates
Guided tours: Limited negotiating room, often at full price
Restaurant prices: Standard menu prices (less flexibility)

For example, a 4-star hotel room in Zamalek that costs 2,500 EGP ($83) in January might be available for 1,500 EGP ($50) in May. The same principle applies to guided tours and private drivers.

Money-Saving Tip: Even in high season, significant savings are possible by staying in residential neighborhoods like Dokki or Maadi rather than tourist-centric areas like downtown or Giza. These areas offer more authentic experiences while cutting accommodation costs by 25-40%. Both have excellent metro connections (look for properties within a 10-minute walk of metro stations) for easy access to major sites.

Budget Sweet Spots (May and September)

The transitional months of May and September offer the best value-to-comfort ratio. The weather remains manageable (though hot), while prices drop significantly from peak season. These months provide a 30-40% discount on accommodations while still offering reasonable comfort for sightseeing.

Rock-Bottom Rates (July-August)

If pure budget is your priority and you have high heat tolerance, July and August offer the absolute lowest prices of the year. During my August visit, I stayed at a hotel near Tahrir Square for literally half the published winter rate, and the manager offered a further upgrade when I arrived since the property was at low occupancy.

The summer cost advantage extends beyond accommodations:

Tour guides offer significant discounts during their slow season
Entrance tickets remain the same price but without the queues
Restaurants are more willing to offer complimentary extras
Souvenir vendors negotiate more aggressively due to fewer customers

The Currency Factor: Egyptian Pound Fluctuations

One important consideration for 2025 visitors is Egypt’s sometimes volatile currency situation. The Egyptian pound has experienced several devaluations in recent years, most recently in early 2023. These currency adjustments can suddenly make Egypt much more affordable for foreign visitors.

During my 2022 visit, I witnessed a devaluation that effectively gave international visitors a 15% “discount” overnight. Keep an eye on currency news before your trip, as significant movements can affect your budget planning.

Insider Tip: Regardless of when you visit, always carry small Egyptian pound notes (20s, 50s, 100s). Many smaller vendors, taxi drivers, and market sellers cannot make change for the 200+ EGP notes that ATMs typically dispense. I keep an envelope of small bills specifically for daily expenses and tips.

Experiencing Different Cairos: Seasonal Variations

Beyond practical considerations of weather and cost, the time of year you visit Cairo fundamentally changes the experience of the city itself.

Winter Cairo: International Energy

Winter brings a cosmopolitan atmosphere to Cairo, with visitors from around the world filling the city’s heritage hotels, Nile cruises, and archaeological sites. The pleasant weather means outdoor cafés along the Nile Corniche are bustling from morning until late evening.

During winter visits, I’ve found myself in impromptu conversations with travelers from dozens of countries while waiting in line at the Egyptian Museum or having tea at El Fishawy café in Khan el-Khalili. The international mix creates a vibrant energy, particularly in downtown Cairo and around tourist areas.

Summer Cairo: Local Rhythms

Summer transforms Cairo into a predominantly local experience. With international tourism at its lowest, you’ll find yourself among Cairenes rather than fellow travelers. The city adopts a different rhythm—quiet during the scorching daylight hours, then exploding into life after sunset.

During summer evenings, local families fill the Al-Azhar Park, children play along the Nile promenade until midnight, and outdoor cafés in residential neighborhoods like Heliopolis and Maadi buzz with conversation until the early morning hours.

Summer visitors experience a more authentic, less touristic Cairo. You’ll likely be the only non-Egyptian in many restaurants and smaller attractions, leading to curious conversations and sometimes unexpected hospitality. During my August visit, I was invited to join a family’s evening meal simply because they were intrigued by a foreigner braving the summer heat.

Ramadan Cairo: Spiritual and Festive

Experiencing Cairo during Ramadan offers a window into the spiritual and communal aspects of Egyptian culture that remain largely invisible at other times. The city operates on a completely different schedule—quiet and somewhat shuttered during daylight hours, then transforming into a festival atmosphere after sunset.

The breaking of the fast at sunset (iftar) brings a uniquely communal energy as the entire city simultaneously pauses to eat. Streets that were empty moments before suddenly fill with activity. Special Ramadan lanterns (fanous) illuminate streets and balconies, while restaurants serve special Ramadan menus and desserts available only during this month.

Visiting during Ramadan requires adjustment—many sites close earlier, some restaurants only open for iftar, and cultural sensitivities about public eating during fasting hours should be respected. But the cultural immersion and evening festivities offer compensatory rewards for these minor inconveniences.

Cultural Tip: If invited to an iftar meal during Ramadan, always bring a small gift (pastries or juice are appropriate) and arrive precisely on time—not early or late. Hosts will have been fasting all day and time the meal preparation precisely for sunset.

Navigating the Weather: Practical Tips

No matter when you visit Cairo, adapting to the local climate enhances your experience. Here are my hard-earned insights:

Winter Visits (December-February)

Always carry a light jacket or sweater for evening temperature drops
Expect occasional morning fog along the Nile that typically burns off by 9-10am
The desert areas around the Pyramids are significantly cooler and windier than the city center
Rare rainstorms can cause significant street flooding as drainage is limited

Summer Survival (June-August)

Shift your schedule to early mornings and evenings, with indoor activities during 11am-4pm
Carry a water bottle with electrolyte tablets—dehydration happens quickly in dry heat
Use sun protection obsessively, including high SPF sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
Wear loose, light-colored cotton clothing that covers shoulders and knees (for both sun protection and cultural appropriateness)
Focus on indoor activities during peak heat: Egyptian Museum, Coptic Museum, Islamic Art Museum

Dealing with Khamsin Winds

Spring visitors (particularly in March-May) may encounter the khamsin—hot sandy winds that blow in from the Western Desert. These dust-laden winds can persist for several days, reducing visibility and making outdoor activities uncomfortable. If you encounter a khamsin:

Wear sunglasses even on cloudy days to protect eyes from sand
Consider a lightweight mask or scarf to cover your nose and mouth
Focus on indoor activities until the wind subsides
Keep windows closed in your accommodation
Drink extra water as the dry wind accelerates dehydration

In my experience, these wind events typically last 1-3 days. While inconvenient, they rarely disrupt itineraries for more than a day if you’re flexible with your schedule.

Beyond Cairo: Seasonal Considerations for Side Trips

Most Cairo visitors incorporate side trips to other Egyptian destinations. The timing of these excursions deserves special consideration:

Luxor and Aswan (Upper Egypt)

Upper Egypt experiences even more extreme temperatures than Cairo. Summer temperatures in Luxor regularly exceed 110°F (43°C), making archaeological exploration almost unbearable except in early morning.

For Luxor and Aswan:

Ideal time: December-February for comfortable exploration
Challenging time: June-August (extreme heat)
Secret sweet spot: October and November offer pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds than winter

If your Cairo visit falls in summer but you’re determined to see Upper Egypt, consider a Nile cruise with air-conditioned cabins rather than land-based exploration.

Alexandria

Alexandria’s Mediterranean location gives it a different climate pattern than Cairo:

Summer: Significantly cooler than Cairo (typically 85-90°F/29-32°C) with refreshing sea breezes, making it a popular summer escape for Cairenes
Winter: Cooler and more humid than Cairo, sometimes with rain

Summer visitors to Cairo might consider an Alexandria side trip for temperature relief. The 2.5-hour train ride brings you to noticeably cooler conditions and beautiful Mediterranean beaches.

Red Sea Resorts (Hurghada, Sharm El-Sheikh)

Egypt’s Red Sea coast offers year-round warm temperatures moderated by sea breezes:

Winter: Warm days (70-75°F/21-24°C) but often too cool for swimming
Summer: Hot but bearable (90-95°F/32-35°C) with refreshing sea temperatures

Summer visitors to Cairo might consider a “split trip” with several days in the capital followed by a Red Sea beach break to recover from the urban heat.

Conclusion: My Recommendations for Your 2025 Visit

After seven visits across all seasons, my recommendations for when to visit Cairo come down to your personal priorities:

For Ideal Weather: Late October to Early April

If comfortable temperatures are your top priority, aim for the winter months. February offers particularly pleasant conditions with slightly smaller crowds than December/January holiday peaks.

For Budget Travel: May and September

These shoulder months offer the best balance of manageable weather and reduced prices. You’ll save 30-40% on accommodations while still enjoying reasonably comfortable conditions, especially during morning and evening hours.

For Authentic Local Experience: Ramadan

Despite the logistical adjustments required, experiencing Cairo during Ramadan offers cultural insights unavailable at other times. Just be prepared for modified opening hours and plan afternoon activities carefully.

For Photography: October and March

These transition months offer spectacular light conditions, especially during golden hour. The slanting sunlight brings Egypt’s monuments to life with subtle shadows and warm hues that summer’s harsh overhead light cannot match.

My Personal Favorite: April

After experiencing Cairo across all seasons, I’ve found late March through April offers the best overall experience. The weather remains comfortable, winter crowds have thinned, prices begin dropping from peak season rates, and the occasional spring sandstorm is a small price to pay for these advantages.

5-Step Action Plan for Planning Your 2025 Cairo Trip

Identify your priorities: Weather comfort, budget, or specific experiences/events
Check the 2025 Ramadan dates (approximately March 1-31) and decide whether to embrace or avoid this period
Book accommodations 3-4 months in advance for high season (December-February) or 1-2 months ahead for shoulder/low seasons
Plan your daily schedule according to your travel season: standard hours for winter, shifted to mornings/evenings for summer
Consider seasonal side trips: Alexandria for summer coolness, Upper Egypt only during cooler months

Whatever season you choose, Cairo rewards those who come prepared for its particular conditions and rhythms. The city’s ancient treasures and vibrant culture transcend seasonal challenges, offering unforgettable experiences throughout the year.

FAQ: Common Questions About Visiting Cairo

Is Cairo safe to visit in 2025?

Yes, Cairo remains generally safe for tourists despite occasional media portrayals suggesting otherwise. The Egyptian government prioritizes tourist safety with visible security around major attractions. Standard travel precautions apply—avoid isolated areas at night, watch for petty theft in crowded areas, and maintain awareness of your surroundings. The tourist police presence is particularly strong at major sites.

How many days do I need in Cairo?

A minimum of three full days allows you to see Cairo’s essential sites (Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo). Ideally, allocate 4-5 days to explore at a comfortable pace without exhaustion. If visiting during summer months, add an extra day to account for shorter active hours due to heat.

What should women wear when visiting Cairo?

Women should dress modestly but not necessarily adopt local dress codes. Clothing that covers shoulders and knees is appropriate in most situations. In summer, lightweight, loose cotton or linen garments provide both cultural sensitivity and heat management. A light scarf is useful for impromptu mosque visits. Tourist areas have more relaxed standards, but modest dress shows cultural respect and reduces unwanted attention.

Do I need a visa to visit Egypt?

Most nationalities require a visa to enter Egypt. Many visitors can obtain a visa on arrival at Cairo International Airport (currently $25 USD, subject to change). Alternatively, apply for an e-visa through the official Egyptian e-visa portal before travel. E-visas typically process within 5-7 business days. Check current requirements before travel as rules occasionally change.

Is tap water safe to drink in Cairo?

No, visitors should avoid drinking tap water. Stick to bottled water, which is inexpensive and widely available. Hotels typically provide complimentary bottled water in rooms. When buying bottled water from street vendors, ensure the seal is intact before purchasing. Ice in established restaurants and hotels is generally made from purified water and safe for consumption.

How is the air quality in Cairo? Does it vary by season?

Cairo experiences significant air pollution year-round, with seasonal variations. Winter months sometimes trap pollution in a temperature inversion, while spring can bring dust storms that temporarily worsen air quality. Summer heat can intensify smog. Visitors with respiratory conditions should monitor air quality apps and consider bringing a pollution mask, particularly for extended stays. Morning hours typically offer the clearest air.

Will Ramadan significantly impact my tourist experience?

Ramadan modifies but doesn’t prevent tourist activities. Major attractions remain open but often with reduced hours. Many restaurants close during daylight hours, though international hotels maintain food service. Evening hours become vibrant with festivities after the breaking of the fast. The impact is manageable with advance planning, and the cultural experience can be rewarding. For 2025, Ramadan is expected to fall in March.

When do the new Grand Egyptian Museum and National Museum of Egyptian Civilization have the smallest crowds?

These new museums experience their smallest crowds on weekday mornings (Sunday-Thursday) during shoulder seasons (May, September-October). Friday and Saturday (the Egyptian weekend) bring local visitors. Summer months offer lower overall tourism but less predictable patterns due to domestic tourism. Winter high season consistently brings the largest crowds, especially during morning hours.

What’s the best area to stay in Cairo for first-time visitors?

Zamalek offers an ideal balance for first-time visitors: central location on a Nile island, quieter than downtown, excellent restaurant options, good hotel choices, and easy access to major attractions. Downtown provides more budget options with historic atmosphere but more noise and traffic. Giza locations offer pyramid proximity but isolation from other attractions. Garden City and Maadi provide upscale residential atmospheres with good transportation links.

References

Egyptian Tourism Authority – Official tourism information
Weather and Climate in Egypt – Detailed monthly climate data
Pyramids of Giza Official Site – Opening hours and visitor information
Egyptian Museum – Collection information and visitor guides
AccuWeather Cairo – Current and historical weather patterns
Lonely Planet: Cairo – Practical travel information and guides
Cairo Governorate Official Website – Local government information
Grand Egyptian Museum – Information about the new museum
National Museum of Egyptian Civilization – Official site with visitor information
Egyptian Public Holidays – Calendar of national holidays
Encyclopedia Britannica: Cairo – Historical and geographical background
Cairo International Airport – Transportation and arrival information