Cheap Flights to Cairo

Cairo’s Egypt’s busy capital—most people come here to see the Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx (definitely book a morning tour to beat the crowds and heat!). You’ll also want to check out the Egyptian Museum (tons of ancient artifacts, like King Tut’s mask) and walk through Khan el-Khalili, the old market (great for spices, jewelry, but haggle for prices—don’t pay the first ask!). Do remember to dress modestly: Women—wear long pants/skirts and cover your shoulders (especially in mosques or the market). Men—avoid shorts (long pants are better).

Key Tips for U.S. Travelers

• Visa: U.S. citizens need a visa to enter Egypt. The easiest way is to get an e-visa online (apply 1–2 weeks before your trip, costs ~$25, valid for 30 days). You can also get a visa on arrival at Cairo Airport, but it’s slower (bring cash—$25–$35, and a passport photo).
• Passport: It must be valid within six months after your trip, with no exceptions (if the expiration time is shorter, they may reject you).
• Time Zone: Eastern European Time (UTC+2). It is 7 hours earlier than New York and 10 hours earlier than Los Angeles. Jet lag is very severe - plan to take a nap on the first day.

Flights to Cairo (Main Airport)

Cairo’s only major airport is Cairo International Airport (CAI), 15 miles northeast of downtown. There are no direct flights from the U.S.—you’ll need 1 stop, usually in Europe or the Middle East.

When to Fly Cairo for the Best Deals

Flight prices depend on season and demand—this table helps you save (no fixed prices, since they shift year to year):

So How to Book the Best Cairo Flights?

• International flights = book early: It's best to go to Cairo 3 to 4 months in advance. Last-minute flights (2 weeks in advance) may cost 50% more.
• Use price alerts: Trip.com allows you to set alerts - they will send you an email when the price of the flight ticket for your date drops.
• Check layover times: Avoid layovers over 6 hours (you’ll get bored!). If the airport is small (such as Istanbul or Doha), a short transfer (2-3 hours) is acceptable.
• Watch for baggage fees: Some budget airlines (such as Wizz Air) charge extra for checked luggage - add it to your total cost when comparing flights.

Top Airlines Flying to Cairo

About Cairo International Airport (CAI)

CAI has 4 terminals—Terminal 3 is for most international flights (where you’ll land from the U.S.). There are free shuttle buses between the terminals (a 10-minute drive).

• Amenities: Free Wi-Fi (you need to log in with your phone number), currency exchange (convert US dollars to Egyptian pounds at the most favorable exchange rate in Terminal 3), 24-hour cafe (try local tea and baklava), and duty-free shop (suitable for perfume or Egyptian cotton).
• Getting to Downtown Cairo:
• • Uber: The most reliable - 30 to 45 minutes to the city center, approximately $15 to $25. Download this app before your trip (for Cairo).
  • Taxi: Use official “White Taxis” (look for the logo). Agree on the price before getting in—should be $15–$30 to downtown. Don’t take random drivers who approach you (they’ll overcharge).
  • Airport Bus: The cheapest - $2 each time, 60-75 minutes to Liberation Square (city center). There is a bus every 30 minutes, but it might be very crowded.

Best Time to Visit Cairo

• December–February: Perfect—mild weather (60–75°F), which is perfect for visiting the pyramids and strolling through the market. It's very busy at this time, so it's best to book hotels and travel one month in advance.
• March–May / September–October: Warm (80–90°F), but not as hot as in summer. There are fewer people here than in winter - that's great if you want to avoid tour groups.
• June–August: Super hot (95–110°F) - Only go if you don't mind staying indoors at noon. The hotel is often 20-30% cheaper and the pyramid is not so crowded.