London to Cairo – Cheap Flights, Travel Tips & Attractions

Last updated: 11 August 2025

Cairo blends ancient wonders with a lively, modern city. From the Great Pyramids to the Nile, it’s a destination where planning pays off: choose the right airport transfer, stay in the right neighbourhood, and time your booking window — and your trip gets cheaper and easier.

✈️ Finding the Best Cheap Flights from London to Cairo

Direct flights from London to Cairo (CAI) take around five hours. You’ll also find competitive one‑stop options via hubs in Europe or the Middle East. For better value, compare all London airports (LHR, LGW, LTN, STN) and be flexible by a day or two — midweek departures (Tue–Thu) and early morning flights often price lower.

When to book: for long‑haul or near‑long flights like London–Cairo, aim 6–10 weeks ahead outside school holidays. Set fare alerts, and if you spot a sale fare, act quickly — the cheapest inventory can disappear within hours.

🚖 Cairo Airport Transfers (CAI → City)

Taxi & ride‑hailing: Taxis are plentiful; agree the fare before starting. Ride‑hailing apps (Uber/Careem) offer upfront pricing and are popular for convenience, especially late at night.

Buses & shuttles: Public bus routes connect to major districts and can be the cheapest option, though they’re slower at peak times. Several hotels offer paid pick‑ups — a good choice after long flights.

Tip: Have your hotel address in Arabic on your phone just in case, and keep small notes/coins for tolls and tips.

🏨 Where to Stay in Cairo

Zamalek (Gezira Island): upmarket, leafy, and central‑ish with cafes and Nile views — ideal if you want quieter nights.

Downtown / Tahrir: close to the Egyptian Museum and metro links; a good mid‑range base with classic architecture.

Giza: perfect for sunrise/sunset pyramid views; expect longer rides into central Cairo.

Budget picks: backpacker hostels and basic hotels cluster around Downtown and Dokki; read reviews and check air‑conditioning and lift access in older buildings.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit

Weather: October–April brings milder temperatures and clearer sightseeing. Summer (May–Sep) can be very hot; plan early starts and indoor breaks.

Costs: Shoulder months outside major holidays tend to have better flight and hotel availability, giving you more room to find a deal.

🗺️ 3‑Day Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive and settle into your neighbourhood. Evening Nile walk or felucca ride; dinner in Zamalek.

Day 2: Morning at the Pyramids and Sphinx; optional camel ride with reputable operators. Afternoon at the Egyptian Museum; sunset views from a rooftop terrace.

Day 3: Explore Islamic Cairo — Khan El Khalili bazaar, Al‑Azhar Mosque, and nearby historic lanes. Cap the trip with a local dessert like basbousa or kunafa.

🍽️ Food & Drink

Don’t miss koshari, falafel, grilled meats, and fresh juices. Street food is excellent — choose busy stalls with high turnover. For coffee lovers, traditional cafes around Downtown mix old‑world charm with modern roasteries.

🚇 Getting Around Cairo

The Cairo Metro can bypass traffic for cross‑city trips. Ride‑hailing is convenient door‑to‑door; expect variable traffic. Many sights are spread out — plan clusters (e.g., Pyramids/Giza one day, Downtown/Museum another) to cut travel time.

🧭 Practical Safety & Etiquette

• Carry small change for tips and transport; keep valuables zipped and out of sight.
• Dress modestly at religious sites; ask before photographing people.
• Stay hydrated and take shade breaks, especially in summer.
• Use reputable operators for desert or pyramid area activities.

💸 Budget Tips

• Compare all London airports and use flexible calendars for the lowest fares.
• Choose refundable hotel rates and re‑check a week before arrival; rebook if the price drops.
• In Cairo, eat where locals eat — great food at a fraction of tourist‑zone prices.
• Use metro or ride‑hailing for predictable costs; avoid unofficial rides.

🛂 Documents & Entry (General)

Ensure your passport has sufficient validity and that you meet entry requirements for Egypt before you travel. Processing rules can change, so check official government sources close to your departure date. Consider travel insurance that covers medical care and trip interruptions.

🧳 What to Pack for Cairo

• Breathable clothing, hat, sunglasses, and high‑SPF sunscreen.
• Comfortable walking shoes for uneven surfaces.
• Light scarf or shawl for sun and modesty when needed.
• Reusable water bottle and electrolytes for hot days.

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