Cairo Tower is the city's classic viewpoint — a 187-metre, lotus-shaped tower on Gezira Island with the best panorama over Cairo and the Nile. For expats, it's an easy sunset outing and a reliable spot to take visitors.
What you're looking at
Completed in 1961 in the Nasser era, the tower was designed by Naoum Chebib in the form of a stylised lotus that nods to ancient Egyptian motifs. (A popular, often-repeated story claims it was built partly with US "aid" money that Nasser redirected as a political statement — a good tale, though not firmly documented.) At the top are an open observation deck and a revolving restaurant and café.
Visiting as a resident
It's on Gezira Island next to Zamalek, a short ride from Downtown or the west bank. Aim for late afternoon into sunset for the best light, when you can pick out the Pyramids on a clear day. Lifts take you straight up, so it's an easy visit for anyone.
Good to know
- Sunset and clear days give the best views; haze can cut visibility.
- The revolving café/restaurant is a relaxed way to linger over the view.
- It stays open late, so an evening visit avoids the daytime heat.
- Pair it with a walk around leafy Zamalek.
Related
- Living in Egypt — the full expat guide
- Getting around in Egypt — Cairo's metro and transport
- Egyptian Museum — the antiquities museum nearby
- Great Pyramids of Giza — visible from the top on a clear day