The best nightlife activites in Cairo Egypt

By Katie May | Update on: Oct 15, 2024

Cairo, the capital city of Egypt, is the 16th biggest city worldwide. This ancient city might not be your preferred port of call for an invigorating extravaganza, but it would have certainly amazed you with its exciting nightlife! Cairo nightlife is undoubtedly a unique experience as it offers you electrifying minutes in this historic location of pyramids.

So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and enjoy the best Egypt Cairo nightlife, as it is worth the experience.

Table of Contents

Top fun activities to do at night in Cairo
Top bars and clubs for an amazing nightlife experience
Tips for visitors to go out in Cairo for the first time

Top fun activities to do at night in Cairo

Immerse yourself in the vibrant heartbeat of Egypt's Cairo nightlife with these exciting nighttime activities. Explore the lively Khan El Khalili market, where the bustling atmosphere and traditional souvenirs create a sensory delight. For a modern twist, head to the trendy bars and eclectic nightlife of Zamalek district. Catch the enchanting sound and light show at the Giza Pyramids, a captivating blend of history and technology. Dive into Egypt's cultural richness with traditional music or dance performances. Indulge in local delicacies at late-night street food stalls or dance the night away at a lively club. Cairo's nightlife promises an unforgettable fusion of history, culture, and contemporary excitement.

1. Sound & Light Show at Giza Pyramids

The Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids of Giza is a mesmerizing nocturnal spectacle that breathes life into the ancient wonders of Egypt. As the night sky darkens, the pyramids come alive with a play of lights, accentuating their timeless beauty. Accompanied by evocative music, the multilingual commentary transports visitors through the epochs, offering a magical and immersive experience. The Sound and Light Show is a must-attend event for those seeking to connect with the mystique of ancient Egypt. Additionally, when exploring the best places in Cairo for nightlife, this iconic show provides a unique blend of historical storytelling and the breathtaking ambiance of one of the world's most legendary archaeological sites.

The Sound and Light Show is a must for those captivated by ancient Egypt's mystique

The Sound and Light Show is a must for those captivated by ancient Egypt's mystique

2. Night Show at Cairo Opera House

The Cairo Opera House was opened in 1988, and is located on a magnificent site near Gezira Island on the Nile River. It is an exceptional performing arts facility in Egypt that showcases the finest of Egyptian culture. It has seven theaters hosting spectacular ballet performances, concerts, and plays. A music library, an art gallery, and a museum are located on the premises. Enjoy Cairo's captivating weather while seeing excellent outdoor performances at the Open-Air Theatre, which seats up to 600 people.

3. Khan El-Khalili Market

The Khan El-Khalili market, Cairo's retail hub, was established in the 14th century and continues contributing to the city's cultural mystique. It is an integral part of Egypt Cairo nightlife, close to the Ataba Metro Station and the well-known Tahrir Square. You can get lost in the wealth of items offered here, which includes anything from gold to antiques, silver to handmade carpets, and spices to silver. The tiny lanes are lined with businesses and restaurants, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of Egypt Cairo nightlife. The El-Fishawi café, which serves fresh and hot traditional Egyptian food, is also located here, making it a charming spot to experience the city's rich history and contemporary allure.

Lantern Shop in the Khan El Khalili market in Islamic Cairo

Lantern Shop in the Khan El Khalili market in Islamic Cairo

4. Islamic Cairo Night Tour

An evening stroll through Cairo's calm streets through history, art, and architecture is a must-do, especially on nights on weekends. You may hire local guides to assist you in discovering the city's beauty and atmosphere. Enjoy the quintet of Old Cairo streets, as well as its traditions and history. Along the way, you'll observe numerous nighttime markets crowded with tourists looking for gifts. Do not miss the walking tour of Islamic Cairo, which includes secret galleries, the Old Market, and classic cafés.

5. Cultural Heritage Walk at Wekalet El Ghouri Arts Center

A visit to the famous Wekalet El Ghouri, erected during Sultan Ashraf Qaansuh's Mamluk dynasty, is a must on every trip to Cairo. This culturally rich 16th-century archeological district is a tourist magnet all year and brilliantly depicts the city's great history. Several pre-organized art and historical exhibits draw large crowds every day. There are modest souvenir stores where you may take home memories. The main draw is the music and light spectacle, as well as seeing the Tanoora Dance Group. Know everything there is to know about the country's conflict: art and craft, traditional music, and songs. The Tanoora dance, performed while wearing a traditional Tanoorat, depicts the year's four seasons via their dance.

A visit to the famous Wekalet El Ghouri is a must on every trip to Cairo

A visit to the famous Wekalet El Ghouri is a must on every trip to Cairo

Top bars and clubs for an amazing nightlife experience

Cairo's nightlife is a vibrant tapestry, with nightclubs in Egypt's capital city taking center stage. From downtown hotspots to trendy venues in Zamalek and beyond, nightclubs in Cairo promise an unforgettable experience for those seeking pulsating beats and lively dance floors. With a diverse range of music genres and stylish settings, the nightclubs in Cairo Egypt cater to a dynamic crowd, making the city a pulsating hub for nocturnal revelry amid the ancient charm of Egypt.

1. Cairo Jazz Club

The Cairo Jazz Club is one of the best nightclubs in Cairo to go to if you like jazz and want to hear some live jazz music in Cairo. This is one of Cairo's best live music venues. Explore the artistic evolution of Cairo Jazz Club's interior design via the work of Amr Qenawi. The one-of-a-kind artwork and creative print work deserve a lot of praise. If you're lucky, you could get to see foreign singers perform with the country's greatest bands, such as Wust El Balad, The Riff Band, and Screwdriver. Cairo Jazz Club has different daily events, with a superb variety of beverages and cuisine to satisfy hunger.

Location: 197 26th of July Corridor, Madinet Al Eelam, Agouza, Giza
Timings: 9 pm - 3 am

Cairo Jazz Club is one of the best live music venues in Egypt

Cairo Jazz Club is one of the best live music venues in Egypt

2. Shahrazad Cairo

Traditional Egyptian entertainment, such as belly dance can be seen at this renowned bar in Downtown Cairo's hipster quarter near Talaat Harbour St. The orientalist fantasia of Cairo's Shahrazad Club makes it a must-see club. Its gorgeous interior design, replete with crimson velvet drapes, astral lighting, sophisticated Arabic music, flavorsome cuisine, and an exciting environment, make it a must-visit place for partygoers. Relax by ordering Sakkara, the well-known local beer served with a plate of lupin beans.

Location: 182 El Nil Street, Cairo, Egypt
Timings: 10 pm - 4 am

3. Pub 28

Pub 28 is one of the oldest British pubs in the middle of Zamalek. The pub's vintage-styled design draws both young and old folks to enjoy the old-fashioned atmosphere. The classic bar drinks, such as a basic Mojito of rum, lime, mint, and club soda or a Margaretha of rum, Cointreau, and tequila, are true mood changers. The cocktails are served with a variety of delectable dishes, ranging from shrimp to beef cubes. The bar also offers excellent Martinis.

Location - 28 Shagaret Al Dor, Abu Al Feda, Zamalek, Cairo Governorate 4271020, Egypt
Timings - 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM

Local people in the bars next to the Khan el-Khalili bazaar in Cairo

Local people in the bars next to the Khan el-Khalili bazaar in Cairo

4. The Lemon Tree & Co.

A romantic date night at The Lemon Tree & Co. in Cairo allows visitors to experience the city's seasonal flavor surprises. The great atmosphere here draws locals and is a favorite of all visitors. The greasy atmosphere of the eatery is a must-try on your bucket list. Exceptional architectural designs may be found around every turn. The beach bar is appealing and provides an excellent starry sky view.

Location - Katameya Heights Rd Katameya Heights Clubhouse, Cairo Egypt
Timing: 9 PM - 3 AM every Monday - Sunday

Tips for visitors to go out in Cairo for the first time

Embarking on a journey in Cairo for the first time can be an exhilarating adventure, and a few tips can enhance the experience.

Cairo’s Metro provides an easy, affordable, and safe way to get around the city center from 5:15 a.m. to 1 a.m.
If you plan on staying out later than 1 a.m. (or if your destination isn’t on the metro route), hail a taxi or use a rideshare app like Uber or Careem.
Taxis rarely have working meters, and as such, it’s important to agree on a price before accepting a ride. Be prepared to haggle for the best price (as with many other aspects of life in Cairo).
Tipping is expected for almost every service in Egypt. An appropriate reward for good service at a bar or restaurant is 10 to 20 percent of your final bill.
Remember that Egypt is a Muslim country and public displays of affection are frowned upon. This is especially true for gay couples and unmarried couples of any gender.
Drinking in the street or any other unlicensed public place is illegal and can lead to arrest. Public drunkenness is also considered offensive to the majority of Egyptians.
The legal drinking age in Egypt is 21.

There are so many activities that visitors can do during Egypt Cairo nightlife, from enjoying a Felucca ride to enjoying a drink with the view of the Nile. This city is a city of wonder and beauty. The nightlife in Cairo is even better with a perfect plan in hand. Apply for an Egyptian visa, prepare your luggage, and embark on a journey to Cairo during your upcoming travels, creating lasting memories.

The best nightlife activites in Cairo Egypt