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The capital of Egypt, Cairo, is a bustling city rich in history, culture and incredible things. Though the scorching summer months might stop you from visiting Cairo, December offers the perfect climate to explore the city’s wonders. Egypt’s top things to do in Cairo in December ensure you make the most of your visit. In December, when the weather is mild with very light showers, Cairo is the place to go for adventure, leisure and culture.
10 Best Things To Do In Cairo In December
From visiting the Pyramids of Giza to getting festive in the Coptic Quarter, explore all these things to do in Cairo in December:
1. Visit The Egyptian Museum
Photo: Bs0u10e01 / Wikimedia Commonsikipedia
The Egyptian Museum is a must-visit in Cairo, especially in December when the weather is more favourable for outdoor exploration. Tahrir Square, the museum contains some of the vast archives of antiquities, among them is the ruins of Tutankhamun. December holds special significance at the Egyptian Museum as it’s a frequent place for shows of ancient Egyptian deities. In the museum’s exhibits, you will be treated to a rare window into Egypt’s past with statues, mummies and other historical artefacts. Its special exhibitions in December, showcasing the rich history of Egyptian traditions, are a must-visit on your Cairo itinerary.
Location: Tahrir Square, Downtown Cairo, Egypt
2. Take A Nile River Cruise
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
A Nile river cruise is one of the most iconic activities you can enjoy in Cairo, and December is the perfect month for it. The cooler temperatures make it an ideal time to sail the longest river in the world without the discomfort of summer heat. Many cruises offer a chance to see the city from a different perspective. These provide stunning views of the Cairo skyline, the Pyramids of Giza, and historic landmarks dotting the banks of the river. December is a particularly busy month for Nile cruises, as tourists flock to Cairo during the Christmas holidays. You can either choose the short nature tour or a more luxurious dinner cruise that has cultural shows.
Location: Nile River, Cairo, Egypt
3. Explore The Pyramids Of Giza At Sunset
Photo: Douwe C. van der Zee / Wikimedia Commons
No visit to Cairo is complete without seeing the Pyramids of Giza, and December is a good month to visit these majestic structures. A camel ride around the pyramids in the evening is one of the most popular things to do in Cairo in December. The weather is cooler, the camel rides are easier, and the sunset over the pyramids is breathtaking. Add a guided tour of the Sphinx and Pyramid of Khufu, one of the three pyramids. The cooler December evenings also make it a great time for photography, as the golden hues of the sunset light up the ancient structures.
Location: Giza Governorate, Egypt
4. Attend The Pyramids Light And Sound Show
Photo: Wow / Wikimedia Commons
If you’re in Cairo in December, don’t miss the Pyramids Light and Sound Show. The lighting, sound, and projections in this grand evening show are an exploration of the ancient Egyptians, their deities, and the building of the pyramids. The performance is held on the base of the Pyramids of Giza and is magical to see the old structures at night. December is a great time to see the show since the cooler temperatures make for a more comfortable evening. Since the holiday season brings more tourists, the show is more frequently performed.
Location: Giza Plateau, Giza Governorate, Egypt
5. Stroll Through The Coptic Quarter
Photo: Néfermaât / Wikimedia Commons
Cairo’s Coptic Quarter is a must-visit, especially in December when the area is infused with the spirit of Christmas. Though it’s a heavily Muslim metropolis, the Coptic Christians of Cairo celebrate Christmas in early January. There are several churches that are among the largest in Cairo, such as the Hanging Church and the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus. Museums and old religious monuments beautify the region as well, a nice spot to go sightseeing. The Coptic Quarter is filled with Christmas decorations, processions, and festivities in December, making it a wonderful cultural experience. It’s an excellent place to learn about Egypt’s Christian heritage and the historical significance of the Holy Family’s exile to Egypt.
Location: Coptic Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
6. Visit The Cairo Tower For Panoramic Views
Photo: Frank Schulenburg / Wikimedia Commons
The Cairo Tower is the best place to see Cairo, especially if you visit in December with blue sky and pleasant weather. It is built on Zamalek Island, which is 187 metres high with great panoramic views of the city, the Nile and the Pyramids of Giza behind. The top floor of the building is a good place to watch the sunset over Cairo and take amazing shots of the whole metropolis below. You can enjoy the beautiful view from there without the scorching heat of the summer in December. Alternatively, you can try the tower’s rotating restaurant, from where you get 360-degree panoramic views while you are eating.
Location: Zamalek, Cairo, Egypt
7. Explore The Islamic Cairo District
Photo: Ahmed zakaria 2025 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Cairo is home to a rich Islamic heritage. With December’s warm weather, it is a great time to see Cairo’s old mosques, markets, and palaces. The district of Islamic Cairo is dotted with beautiful pieces of Islamic architecture. This includes Al-Azhar Mosque, Citadel of Saladin, and Sultan Hassan Mosque. You can also go through the narrow streets of the bustling Khan El Khalili Bazaar to shop for traditional Egyptian souvenirs, spices, jewellery, and more. December is an excellent time to visit these historical sites as the weather allows for comfortable exploration. The crowds are slightly thinner compared to peak summer months then.
Location: Islamic Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
8. Shop At Khan El Khalili Bazaar
Photo: Heba otefy / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Speaking of shopping, Cairo’s Khan El Khalili Bazaar is one of the most famous markets in the Middle East. The market, in the old quarter of Islamic Cairo, is a series of tucked-away alleys lined with vendors selling different things. These include spices, perfumes, jewellery, fabrics, etc. December, being cooler than the summer months, is the perfect time to explore the market. You’ll find a range of unique gifts and souvenirs, such as handcrafted jewellery, local spices, and traditional Egyptian crafts. The market is also a great place to experience Cairo’s vibrant street life, with vendors calling out to passersby and the smell of incense and fresh bread filling the air.
Location: Islamic Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
9. Indulge In Egyptian Cuisine At Local Restaurants
Photo: Orientalist / Wikimedia Commons
Egyptian cuisine is rich, flavourful and diverse, and December is the perfect time to enjoy it in Cairo’s many restaurants. From traditional dishes like koshari (a mix of rice, lentils, pasta, and fried onions) to stuffed grape leaves and grilled meats, there’s something for every palate. Cairo’s local restaurants also serve delicious desserts like basbousa (a semolina cake) and kunafa (a sweet pastry soaked in syrup). Dining al fresco is especially enjoyable in December. This, with the cool temperatures, creates the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing meal outdoors. Don’t forget to try some traditional Egyptian street food from vendors along the streets as well!
Location: Throughout Cairo, Egypt
10. Attend The Cairo International Film Festival
Photo: Siyff / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you are a movie enthusiast, then December is the month to visit the Cairo International Film Festival. This has been held every year since 1976. As one of the oldest film festivals in the Arab world, it reaches filmmakers, actors, and cinephiles all around the world. The festival shows various foreign movies in premieres, special shows, and awards. Whether you go for the films, or you get to meet the filmmakers or you just want to party, there’s nothing like the Cairo International Film Festival.
Location: Cairo Opera House, Zamalek, Cairo, Egypt
Cairo in December offers a perfect balance of cultural experiences, historical exploration and pleasant weather. Whether you are a history lover, foodie or culture buff, Cairo has it all for you this holiday season. There are a variety of things to do in Cairo in December that will not disappoint you. Book your trip to Cairo today with TripXL and ensure you make the most of this incredible city!
Cover Photo: Nina R / Wikimedia Commons
