Cairo Tower in Egypt – History, Height, Tickets & Views
The Cairo Tower in Egypt is one of the most recognizable modern landmarks in Cairo and a must-visit attraction for travelers seeking to experience the city from above. Rising 187 meters over the Nile River, the tower delivers one of the highest public viewpoints in the capital, combining modern engineering with deep ancient symbolism.
Located in the heart of Zamalek, Cairo Tower represents Egypt’s post-1950s era of independence and modernization. Its lotus-inspired design reflects ancient Egyptian identity, while its height and structure project strength, pride, and self-reliance.
In this complete guide, you’ll find everything you need to know before visiting Cairo Tower: location, history, height, design meaning, ticket prices, opening hours, best time to visit, what you can see from the top, restaurant details, photography tips, and whether Cairo Tower is really worth your time.
Key Takeaways – Cairo Tower at a Glance
- Height: 187 meters (614 feet), taller than the Great Pyramid of Giza.
- Location: Zamalek, Gezira Island, central Cairo.
- Completed: 1961, during President Gamal Abdel Nasser’s era.
- Design: Lotus flower lattice inspired by ancient Egypt.
- Main attraction: 360° panoramic views over Cairo and the Nile.
- Best time to visit: Sunset and early evening.
What Is the Cairo Tower?
Cairo Tower is a reinforced concrete observation and communication tower built as a national landmark. Since its opening, it has become a visual anchor on Cairo’s skyline and one of the city’s most visited modern attractions.
Unlike ancient monuments, Cairo Tower reflects a modern chapter of Egyptian history—one shaped by independence, ambition, and architectural confidence. Today, it stands as both a sightseeing destination and a cultural symbol of Egypt’s mid-20th-century transformation.
Where Is the Cairo Tower Located?
Cairo Tower is located in the Zamalek district on Gezira Island, surrounded by the Nile River. This central position makes it easily accessible from downtown Cairo, Giza, and major hotels.
Its riverside setting already offers scenic views at ground level, but the elevated platform provides one of the clearest overviews of Cairo’s full urban layout.
When Was the Cairo Tower Built?
Construction began in the late 1950s and Cairo Tower officially opened in 1961. The project reflected Egypt’s vision at the time—modern, independent, and capable of producing world-class architecture.
Who Built the Cairo Tower?
The tower was designed by Egyptian architect Naoum Chebib, a pioneer of high-rise construction in Egypt. President Gamal Abdel Nasser personally commissioned him to create a structure that symbolized Egyptian resilience and self-confidence.
Cairo Tower Height & Design
At 187 meters, Cairo Tower is about 50 meters taller than the Great Pyramid of Giza. Its open lattice exterior resembles a blooming lotus flower—an ancient Egyptian symbol of rebirth, purity, and eternity.
Granite sourced from Aswan was used in its construction, linking the tower directly to the same stone traditions used in Egypt’s ancient temples.
What Is It Like to Visit the Cairo Tower?
A high-speed elevator takes visitors from the entrance to the observation deck in about 45 seconds. Once at the top, the atmosphere is open, calm, and surprisingly spacious.
Walking around the platform gives you a real sense of Cairo’s size—something you simply can’t grasp from the street level.
View from the Cairo Tower
From the top, you can see the Nile River, downtown Cairo, major bridges, and landmarks such as the Egyptian Museum and the Citadel of Salah El-Din.
On very clear days, the Pyramids of Giza appear faintly on the horizon—connecting modern Cairo with its ancient past in one frame.
Cairo Tower at Sunset & Night
Sunset is widely considered the best time to visit the Cairo Tower. The city shifts from warm daylight to glowing city lights, offering the most photogenic moments of the day. At night, the atmosphere becomes quieter and more romantic, with reflections dancing on the Nile below.
Cairo Tower Tickets & Opening Hours
Ticket prices (approximate):
• Foreign visitors: 300–350 EGP.
• Egyptian residents: lower local rate, about 100-150 EGP.
• Revolving restaurant: separate charge.
Opening hours: 8 AM to midnight (or 1 AM) in winter/autumn and 9 AM to 1 AM in spring/summer, closing around midnight or 1 AM, depending on the season.
Restoration of the Cairo Tower
Between 2006 and 2008, Cairo Tower underwent major restoration works, improving safety systems, visitor facilities, and structural reinforcement while preserving its original design.
Final Thoughts – Is the Cairo Tower Worth Visiting?
Yes, Cairo Tower is absolutely worth visiting. It offers one of the best panoramic views in Egypt, a strong cultural story, and a unique way to experience Cairo from above. Whether you visit during the day or at night, Cairo Tower gives you a perspective of the city that few attractions can match.
Plan Your Cairo Visit with Egypt Tours Group 🇪🇬
Explore Cairo Tower as part of our curated Cairo Day Trips or combine it with longer Egypt Tour Packages.
FAQs – Cairo Tower in Egypt
How tall is the Cairo Tower?
Cairo Tower is about 187 meters (614 feet) tall, making it one of the tallest landmarks in Egypt and taller than the Great Pyramid of Giza.
Where is Cairo Tower located?
Cairo Tower is located in the Zamalek district on Gezira Island, surrounded by the Nile River in central Cairo.
What can you see from the top of Cairo Tower?
From the observation deck, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Nile River, downtown Cairo, major bridges, the Egyptian Museum, the Citadel of Salah El-Din, and on clear days, the Pyramids of Giza.
What are the opening hours of Cairo Tower?
Cairo Tower is usually open daily from morning until late evening, with last entry typically around 11:00 PM. Opening times may vary during public holidays.
Is Cairo Tower worth visiting?
Yes. Cairo Tower is worth visiting for its panoramic city views, especially at sunset or at night, and for understanding Cairo’s layout from above.
How can I visit Cairo Tower with a guided tour?
You can include Cairo Tower as part of a guided city experience by booking through ETG Cairo Day Trips.
