Cairo International Airport (CAI)
Cairo International Airport is the main international airport serving Cairo.
- Distance to downtown
- 15.2 km
- Typical drive time
- Approx. 11 min
- Terminals
- 3
Flights to Cairo, Cairo Governorate
Discover Cairo, the largest city of Egypt: A Gateway of Heritage and Local Culture
Cairo GovernorateEastern European Summer TimeCAI
- Best round-trip fare
- $95.00
- Nonstop from
- 123
- Best time to visit
- Mar, Apr, Nov
- Updated
- 2026-10-28
Cairo travel overview
Cairo is the largest city of Egypt (country/territory code: EG), has an official capital/administrative population of 10,107,125 (2022, scope: Official city governorate), operating in the Africa/Cairo time zone. As the primary civic, administrative, and cultural gateway of Egypt, Cairo brings together national museums, historic monuments, civic architecture, and vibrant local markets. Visitors can explore heritage neighborhoods, sample authentic regional cuisine, and connect conveniently to wider regional attractions. Selection Note: Cairo is selected as Egypt's historic capital and largest metropolis, distinct from the New Administrative Capital.
- State
- Cairo Governorate
- Population
- 9,606,916 (2022)
- Time zone
- Eastern European Summer Time
- Average stay
- 2–3 days
- Nearest airport
- Cairo International Airport (CAI)
- Straight-line distance
- 15.2 km
Popular flights to Cairo
Find the most popular routes to Cairo, with flight times, airlines and typical prices.
| From | Flight time | Airlines(main) | Weekly flights | From price | Route |
|---|
Airports serving Cairo
Candidate airport code(s) associated with Cairo include CAI; verify your ticket's IATA code and ground transport links to central Cairo.
Best time to visit Cairo
No data
Average temperature and rainfall
High (°F)Low (°F)Rainfall (in)
Recommended months
March – AprilNovember
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Seasons
WinterNo data
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SpringNo data
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SummerNo data
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AutumnNo data
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Top things to do in Cairo
Landmarks, outdoor escapes and local culture for your Cairo itinerary.
Cairo Central Historic Quarter and Civic Plaza
Explore the central civic plaza, local heritage buildings, and community museums of Cairo in Egypt (EG-C).
Egyptian Museum in Tahrir & Grand Egyptian Museum Gateway
Explore the signature civic landmarks and historic core of Cairo, experiencing the urban layout and heritage of Egypt's largest city.
Citadel of Saladin & Historic Cairo UNESCO District
Discover archaeological artifacts, folk art, and historical exhibits chronicling Cairo and Egypt on a half-day cultural visit.
Nile-side Koshary & Traditional Egyptian Grill
Sample authentic Egypt dishes, fresh local produce, and street-food specialties across Cairo's lively markets and dining streets.
Cairo city transport
Compare practical ways to travel from the airport and around the city.
| Transport | Best for | Time to downtown | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| CAI Airport to Central Cairo Ground Transfer | Travelers arriving or departing Cairo via CAI | 15–50 min | USD 2–35 · estimated one-way airport-to-town; see cost notes · as of 2026-10-20 · Reference estimate (as of 2026-10-20): 15–50 minutes one-way between CAI and central Cairo; from USD 2.0 per person by public transit up to USD 35.0 per vehicle by taxi. Original charging basis: one-way CAI to central Cairo: public bus per person vs taxi per car in USD. |
| Airport to Cairo Center Ground Transfer (CAI) | Arriving/departing passengers and travelers with luggage | 20–60 min | EGP 190–1340 · per adult; one-way · as of 2026-10-21 · Estimated one-way fare in EGP; lower bound reflects public bus/rail and upper bound reflects official airport taxi/express. |
| Cairo Urban Public Transit Network | Budget travelers and daily sightseeing commuters | 10–45 min | EGP 50–190 · per adult; one-way · as of 2026-10-21 · Estimated single-ride urban transit fare in EGP; varies by zone distance or transit card discount. |
| Cairo Official Taxis & Ride-Hailing | Families, small groups, and evening travelers | 10–35 min | EGP 240–860 · per vehicle; one-way · as of 2026-10-21 · Estimated 5–10 km urban ride fare in EGP; peak traffic or late-night surcharges may apply. |
Where to stay in Cairo
When staying in Cairo, consider central town districts or areas near main transport corridors and CAI airport connections.
Central Cairo and Transport Hub Area
Centered around Cairo's main commercial streets and transport links, offering convenient access to dining, services, and transfers to CAI.
Downtown Cairo & Tahrir
Located in the primary sightseeing and civic core of Cairo, offering easy access to national museums, historic plazas, and local dining. Selection Note: Cairo is selected as Egypt's historic capital and largest metropolis, distinct from the New Administrative Capital.
Zamalek Island
Situated near main transport corridors, diplomatic quarters, or modern commercial amenities in Cairo, providing convenient transfers to CAI.
Cairo trip planning
Spend your first day exploring central Cairo, local museums, and markets, and dedicate a second day to nearby nature trails or regional landmarks.
- Daily budget
- USD 110–260 · estimated per person/day in USD; local stay, meals & transit · 2026-10-20 · Reference estimate (as of 2026-10-20): expect about USD 110–260 per person/day for budget-to-midrange lodging, meals, and local transit in Cairo (quoted in USD, excluding flights).
- Local time
- No data
- Tipping
- In Egypt, rounding up the bill or leaving about 5–10% for good restaurant service is a common courtesy; check bills for included service charges.
- Power outlets
- Carry a universal travel adapter and check voltage compatibility (typically 220–240 V or local standard) when visiting Cairo, Egypt.
- Accessibility
- Main terminal facilities at CAI and modern buildings in Cairo generally provide basic accessible access, while older streets or rural trails may have uneven surfaces.
- Suggested stay
- 2–3 days
Explore more destinations
Continue planning with cities near Cairo.
Popular routes from Cairo
Allow ample buffer time for ground transfers to CAI airport or intercity rail/bus terminals when departing Cairo.
Frequently asked questions about Cairo
Which airport codes and payment preparations should I note when visiting Cairo, Egypt?
Cairo is associated with candidate airport code(s) CAI; local transactions use USD, so carry both a major payment card and some USD cash for local transit and markets.
What is Cairo's role in Egypt, and what special selection notes apply?
Cairo serves as the largest city of Egypt. Selection Note: Cairo is selected as Egypt's historic capital and largest metropolis, distinct from the New Administrative Capital. Primary air access is via CAI in the Africa/Cairo time zone.
What is the typical daily budget in Cairo, and what currency and power outlets are used?
Local transactions in Cairo use EGP, with an estimated daily budget of 3600–8640 EGP per person (budget to mid-range). Power standard: Type C, F, or G outlets, 220–240V/50Hz (a universal travel adapter is recommended).