It’s difficult to narrow down, as there are SO many incredible Instagram worthy spots in Cairo! From the narrow alleyways, to the grand mosques, there’s so much beauty to be captured and stored in photo memories.
Instagram is a great tool to use to discover the top photo opp spots in a new city. On many occasions I’ve actually used Instagram to introduce me to new hot spots or even provide photo ideas on where to snap the best pics! Whether you live in Cairo and are just looking for some new places to get some Instagram worthy pictures, or you’re visiting Cairo for the first time – this guide of the best instagram spots in Cairo is for you!
Al-Azhar Park
An underrated site to see in Cairo that most tourists don’t visit, is the Al-Azhar park. The park is an incredible oasis in the midst of the hustle and bustle of Cairo. It’s located in the centre of Islamic Cairo with unobstructed views of the city skyline and silhouettes of the Mohamed Ali Mosque and Citadel in the background. Whether you come here to people watch, come for a tea in one of the cafe’s or just to see some greenery in the desert, there’s something here for everyone. Life here seems to slow down (the car horns and honking are still there – just from a distance) and there’s no shortage of photo opportunities.
Manial Palace Museum
With a rich royal history, there’s many former palaces, now museums to explore throughout Egypt, but in Cairo in particular. With both European and Islamic design perfectly intertwined, there’s so much decadence to absorb!
Hanging Church
Although today Cairo is known as the city of a thousand minarets, the city still has many impressive Coptic Churches. The most well known is of course the oldest, the Hanging Church (or the Church of the Virgin Mary). Why’s it called Hanging, you ask? Why don’t you venture a visit to historic and beautiful Coptic Cairo to see for yourself!
Mohamed Ali Mosque
The most famous Mosque in Egypt, is most arguably the Mohamed Ali Mosque (and no, it’s not named after the boxer). However, it’s also known as the alabaster mosque, and once you take in it’s intricate and ornate details, you’ll know exactly why!
Cairo Citadel
Perched atop the highest point of the city, it’s got one of the best views in the whole city. What was once a fortress is now a preserved museum with three mosques on site, including the Mohamed Ali Mosque.
Khan el-Khalili
A must for bargain shoppers and adventurers alike is the Khan el-Khalili market. A labyrinth of shops and artisans, that with it’s narrow alleyways transports you back in time.
Cairo Tower
Another must visit spot for a view of the city where you truly get a 360 degree view, is the Cairo Tower. If you’re lucky on a clear day you’ll be able to see the Pyramids in the skyline. But on any other day, enjoy the birds eye view of the feluccas sailing quietly below.
Baron Palace
The Baron Palace is a historic building in Cairo, Egypt. It was built in the early 20th century by the Belgian-born Egyptian industrialist and politician Tawfiq Pasha, also known as Baron Empain. The palace is known for its distinctive architectural style, which combines elements of European and Middle Eastern design. It is considered one of the most important examples of Art Deco architecture in the Middle East. The palace is now a museum and is open to the public for tours.
Egyptian Museum
While the new Grand Egyptian Museum has yet to open, this one still has plenty of incredible artifacts to be discovered – over 120,000 in fact! There’s everything from mummies to sky high statues to the infamous gold mask of Tutankhamun.
Mosque of Ibn Tulun
When in Cairo, you can’t just visit one mosque, there’s too many incredible ones to uncover, each with a charm of it’s own. Take the Mosque of Ibn Tulun for example, it’s lesser frequented by tourists, so you can often find the vast space all to yourself. It’s also one of the oldest Mosque in all the city!
Marriott Mena House
Mena House by far has one of the best close up and personal views of the pyramids – check out these other hotels with stunning Pyramids views. Imagine waking up with a view like this (or at least stop by for brunch!).
Cairo Marriott Hotel
In the heart of Zamalek, is yet another hotel with a rich history, and an amazing hotel to consider on your stay in Cairo (for other recommendations check out this neighborhood guide on where to stay in Cairo). This particular Marriott was once a Palace, and sure has the architecture to prove it!
The Great Pyramids & Sphinx
What visit to Cairo is complete without some time at the Great Pyramids? While you’re here, don’t forget to stop by and say hello to the Sphinx! There are photo opportunities to be had everywhere here, whether it’s up close or from a distance (or from atop a camel), you can really get creative as you marvel at one of the wonders of the world!
El Muizz Street
While en route to the Khan el-Khalili market, or if you’re lost and take a turn here, you’ll end up on El Muizz street, once of the oldest streets in the city. Luckily this stretch is pedestrian only and is home to some unbelievably incredible buildings and mosques.
Abdeen Palace Museum
Everything from the garden grounds to the international exhibits, there’s yet another royal residence to be discovered. This isn’t a destination typically on the list for most tourists, but it’s a worthwhile spot for those curious to learn more about the royal history and politics.
Unique Streets of Cairo
Just the streets! Roam and explore! Look up and down, you’ll surely find something worth capturing a memory of! I mean.. is there anywhere else in the world where you would see a monkey in a laundry machine?
What are you favorite instagram spots in Cairo? Was there anything missed? Would love to hear your suggestions in the comments!
Some additional guides that may help with your trip planning:
- Tipping Etiquette in Egypt with tips from a local (my hubby!)
- Where to stay in Cairo, advice on the best neighbourhoods
- 30+ best places to see in Egypt
- Amazing pyramid view hotels you should consider staying at
- 2-day guide to Alexandria Egypt
- What to wear in Egypt a guide for women
- 4-day Nile Cruise review from Aswan to Luxor
- The best souvenirs to look for in Egypt
- Traditional Egyptian food you must try!
Like this? Pin it for later!
I love this guide! It’s been so long since I’ve been to Cairo, but the Mena House was stunning! I also regret not getting to the Hanging Church either! Such a great guide, and I’d love to go back to this beautiful city one day.