The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

With recent events playing heavily on our minds – and our schedules – it’s important to remember what a vibrant city we live in. Of course, not much goes on after the clock strikes 7, but before then we can live less nocturnally and try and enjoy long daytime hours.

At the peak of summer, the rays are calling us from sun loungers all over the capitol. Relax your worries away with a day of sunbathing and swimming at one of Cairo’s many renowned hotels. The Sofitel in Zamalek is known for its breath-taking Nile-side infinity pool whilst the Intercontinental in Heliopolis gets extra brownie points for being within tip-toeing distance of the shopping mall. A little further out in the 6th October, the Swiss Inn and Hilton hotels are known for their affordable, family friendly vibes. Alternatively, if you’re craving the beach but couldn’t quite make it there, the JW Marriott does its best at imitating waves, sandy shores and a Copacabana ambience.

Restaurants and cafés are staying open for as long as possible over the weekend to help keep those butterflies socialising. Our favourite riverside hangouts, Sequoia and Left Bank, are open from 10AM to 6PM. Also in Zamalek, recently opened sushi and grill Gui (12PM-5PM) scores high on our list of places to visit, as well as the shiny new branch of Taboula (10AM-8.30PM). Dokki’s mystical retreat Alchemy is serving up a brunch menu between 12PM and 6PM whilst Lettuceat strive to bring you their healthy salad snacks between 9AM-5PM. A little further afield in Heliopolis, Ayadina is serving up their authentic Lebanese dishes from 11AM to 6PM whilst the fun-loving Fondue Pot is taking orders from 1PM to 5PM.   

The city’s monstrous shopping malls are open too, providing entertainment for the whole family until 5PM. Find everything you need at some of the largest retail therapy spots: The Mall of Arabia, City Stars, Sun City or Dandy Mega Mall.

The arts haven’t stopped either; albeit a small number, there are some exhibitions still running. Fadwa Ramadan’s exhibition ‘Circles’ at Estoril takes a particularly close look at the little shape we often take for granted. Several larger group exhibitions include ‘Masterpieces XI’ at Zamalek Art Gallery, ‘Gallery Artists’ at Al Masar Gallery and ‘Urban Visions’ at GIZ.

For more ideas on what to get up to, be sure to check out Cairo 360’s Sights & Travel section.

With plenty to do during the non-curfew hours, we wish Cairo a very safe and peaceful weekend.