Cairo Tower

Cairo Tower

Standing proudly in the heart of Cairo, the Cairo Tower (Borg El-Qahira) is one of the most iconic landmarks in Egypt. Rising to a height of 187 meters, this architectural marvel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the capital and beyond, making it an essential stop on any traveler’s itinerary. Whether you’re savoring a sunset dinner at the revolving restaurant or gazing at the ancient and modern wonders that dot the skyline, a visit to Cairo Tower Egypt is an unforgettable experience.

cairo-tower-information

But Cairo Tower is more than just a vantage point — it’s a symbol of Egypt’s spirit, history, and ambition. Originally completed in 1961, the tower was envisioned to reflect modernity and national pride. It remains today not only a spectacular viewing platform but also a testimony to the creativity and resilience of the Egyptian people. If you're planning your Egypt sightseeing journey, Cairo Tower tickets are worth every penny, granting you access to views that stretch as far as the Pyramids of Giza.

Cairo Tower Information | A Landmark Rooted in History

The story of Cairo Tower begins in the mid-20th century. Between 1956 and 1961, Egyptian architect Naoum Shebib, a pioneer in modern Egyptian architecture, led the construction of the tower. The structure is made of reinforced concrete and was designed to resemble the Lotus plant, a significant symbol in ancient Egyptian culture. Over 500 Egyptian workers were involved in bringing this vision to life.

The tower was financed using a controversial donation of six million pounds from the United States. Rather than using the funds as the U.S. intended — to influence Egypt’s foreign policy — President Gamal Abdel Nasser directed the money toward building a monument to national independence and progress. Thus, the Cairo Tower became not only a tourist destination but also a political statement.

In 2006, a major renovation began, spearheaded by the Arab Contractors company. The two-year project modernized the structure, upgraded its safety features, and rejuvenated the experience for visitors — all at a cost exceeding 15 million pounds.

Cairo Tower Location and How to Get There

Located on Gezira Island in the Zamalek district, the Cairo Tower location is ideal for easy access and proximity to many of Cairo’s attractions. It's just a short distance from Tahrir Square, the Egyptian Museum, and the Nile Corniche.

  • Address: El-Gezira, Zamalek, Cairo Governorate
  • Opening Times: Daily from 9:00 AM to midnight

If you’re staying in central Cairo, you can easily reach the tower by taxi, ride-sharing apps, or even on foot, depending on your hotel’s location. Public transportation options like the metro (Opera Station) are also available nearby.

What is Special About the Cairo Tower?

There are several reasons why the Cairo Tower stands out among Egypt tourist places:

  • Height: At 187 meters, it is taller than the Great Pyramid of Giza by 43 meters.
  • 360-Degree Views: The observation deck provides sweeping vistas of Cairo, the Nile, and even the Pyramids of Giza on a clear day.
  • Architecture: Inspired by the lotus flower, its elegant structure celebrates Egypt’s ancient heritage in a modern form.
  • Revolving Restaurant: Located on the 14th floor, this restaurant spins slowly to offer diners a panoramic view of the city while they eat.

Whether you’re curious about Cairo Tower how many floors it has (it's 16 floors tall), or just looking for the perfect Instagram shot, this site delivers.

Cairo Tower View and Dining Experience

One of the main highlights of the tower is its open-air observation deck. Equipped with telescopes, the platform allows you to spot a multitude of landmarks, such as:

As night falls, the tower lights up beautifully, providing a magical backdrop for a romantic evening or peaceful moment. Many visitors combine their visit with a felucca ride on the Nile — a traditional Egyptian sailing boat — for a complete Cairo experience.

Dining at the tower is equally enchanting. The circular restaurant on the 14th floor features 19 tables, each seating five guests, and offers a 360-degree view of the city. As the platform slowly rotates, you’ll enjoy ever-changing scenes of bustling Cairo beneath you. From local Egyptian cuisine to international dishes, the menu caters to a variety of tastes.

Can You See the Pyramids from the Cairo Tower?

Absolutely — on a clear day, visitors can spot the Pyramids of Giza from the tower’s observation deck. This is one of the few places in the city where you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of both modern urban life and the ancient wonders of Egypt in a single glance.

Cairo Day Tours Featuring the Cairo Tower

At Afro Asian Travel, we incorporate Cairo Tower into our carefully curated Cairo day tours and Egypt private tours. These tours are designed to give travelers a complete experience of the city’s history, architecture, and local culture.

Some recommended places to visit in the same day include:

  • The Egyptian Museum: Home to thousands of artifacts, including King Tutankhamun’s treasures.
  • Khan el-Khalili Bazaar: Cairo’s most famous market for souvenirs and local crafts.
  • Mosque of Ibn Tulun: One of the oldest mosques in Africa, with stunning Islamic architecture.
  • Al-Azhar Park: Offering green spaces and great city views.

Practical Cairo Tower Information for Visitors

If you’re planning a visit, here’s some essential info:

  • Cairo Tower Tickets:

    • Local Citizens: ~100 EGP
    • Foreign Tourists: ~350 EGP
    • Children: Discounts available
  • Best Time to Visit: Sunset for stunning views and cooler temperatures
  • Photography Tips: Bring a zoom lens and visit early morning or late evening for the best lighting
  • Dining Reservations: Highly recommended during weekends or holidays

Why Include Cairo Tower in Your Egypt Itinerary?

If you're researching your Egypt itinerary or comparing Egypt tour packages from USA, make sure Cairo Tower is on your list. Whether you're on a luxury vacation or a family holiday, the tower offers something for everyone — history, views, culture, and excellent dining.

Afro Asian Travel offers fully customizable packages, including Egypt luxury tours and Egypt vacation packages all inclusive, that let you explore Cairo at your own pace. From airport pickup to guided city tours, we handle everything, so you can focus on making memories.

Plan Your Trip with Afro Asian Travel

Your adventure to Egypt deserves to be exceptional. Afro Asian Travel is proud to be among the best Egypt tour companies, offering guided experiences that blend luxury with authenticity. Let us help you create a journey filled with discovery, comfort, and unforgettable moments.

Contact us today to include Cairo Tower and other top sights in your Egypt travel package — tailored just for you.

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