Cairo: A Night Out in Egypt’s Bustling Capital
Cairo might not be your first port of call when you’re seeking a lively night out in the Middle East. However, after some challenging years, the city has made a raucous comeback. Whether you’re eager to meet locals and fellow travelers dancing to old-school beats or yearning to soak in the starry skies along the River Nile, the night is always better with a beer in hand at these nightlife hotspots.
Cairo Jazz Club
Many underground bands in Egypt emerged after the 2011 revolution, contributing to the vibrant nightlife scene. The Cairo Jazz Club is a legendary venue, renowned for hosting a diverse range of music styles, from indie rock to hip-hop. Regardless of when you visit, you’ll likely discover some of the best local talents performing live.
Shahrazad
If you’re interested in traditional Egyptian entertainment such as belly dancing, Shahrazad is the place to be. Situated near Talaat Harb St in downtown Cairo, this unique casino may have an unassuming exterior, yet it offers an inviting atmosphere upstairs. Enjoy a refreshing Sakkara beer with complimentary lupin beans as you take in the enchanting performances. Shahrazad operates seven days a week until dawn, ensuring that your night continues well into the morning.
Crimson Cairo
Discreetly located on a back street of Zamalek Island, Crimson Cairo boasts an exceptional view of the Nile from its rooftop terrace. Enjoy wines from local winery Omar Khayyam while soaking in the spectacular panorama of the city lights.
Cairo Cellar
Cairo Cellar has been part of the nightlife landscape since the era of Egypt’s monarchy. Nestled within the basement of The President Hotel, this retro-style English pub features an extensive selection of liquors and wines, making it the perfect place to sample their house gin.
The Tap
Don your dancing shoes because The Tap is a popular venue where you can truly let loose. However, the entrance policy can be strict, so it’s wise to secure a reservation in advance. Once inside, be prepared for an exhilarating atmosphere as live bands ramp up the energy from soft to intense. After the dance floor beckons you, challenge yourself with foosball or arcade games to keep the fun going.
Golden Pharaoh Dinner Cruise
Aboard The Golden Pharaoh, you will experience whirling dervishes and traditional baladi dancers amidst an authentic Egyptian ambiance. This delightful cruise on the Nile, accessible from Nile St in Giza, offers a wonderful option for a relaxed night out, as you meander between Zamalek and Giza. The splendid luxury boat serves a rich buffet of Middle Eastern and Egyptian dishes, concluding the night with a mesmerizing tanoura dance performance.
Zigzag
Cairo’s downtown is home to an exciting alternative music scene, with Zigzag at the helm. Situated conveniently near Steigenberger Hotel, this vibrant venue showcases a blend of sounds, ranging from African and South American beats to electronic music. Due to its popularity, it may be crowded, yet there’s always space on the dance floor for those ready to groove. To ensure entry, send a reservation request via Facebook and arrive dressed to impress.
Khan Al Khalili
For an authentic local night out that can extend into the early hours, visit Khan Al Khalili. Explore the illuminated alleyways of this centuries-old marketplace, eventually discovering popular spots such as Fishawi’s or the vicinity of the Mosque of Sayyidna Al Hussein. Treat yourself to delightful local desserts such as basbousa drizzled with syrup, or kunafeh topped with whipped cream and pistachios. Wrap up your evening with a steaming cup of mint tea and enjoy a game of backgammon.
Get your own felucca down the Nile
If you’re in the mood for a more personalized night out, consider hiring a felucca for a spontaneous sail down the Nile. This perhaps requires some planning: pick up a few drinks from Drinkies and create a playlist of your favorite songs. Feluccas are available for rent from locals situated across from KFC on Abu El Feda St in Zamalek by the hour, with the operator navigating while you enjoy the beautiful views. The open-top boats allow the refreshing wind to breeze through, ensuring a memorable Cairo night experience.
