A Visitor’s Guide to Cairo

Cairo is the capital of Egypt and the largest city in the Middle East, with a population of more than 20 million people. It is one of the oldest cities in the world, having been founded in 969 AD by the Fatimid dynasty. Over the centuries, it has been a center of trade and commerce, art and culture, and religion and politics. Today, it is a bustling metropolis, full of life and activity. For visitors to Cairo, there is no shortage of things to do and see. From its renowned historical sites, such as the pyramids and the Ancient Egyptian Museum, to its bustling bazaars and vibrant nightlife, Cairo has something for everyone.

History of Cairo

Cairo is one of the oldest cities in the world, with its foundations laid in 969 AD by the Fatimid dynasty. The city was originally established as a new capital for the Fatimid caliphate, which was centered in North Africa at the time. It quickly became an important commercial center, connecting the Mediterranean and Red Seas with the Nile Valley. The city grew in importance and size over the centuries, becoming a center of art and culture, religion, and politics in the region.

What to See and Do in Cairo

Cairo is home to many iconic landmarks and attractions that draw millions of visitors every year. From its ancient sites to its bustling bazaars, there are plenty of activities to keep visitors busy. Here are some of the must-see attractions in Cairo:

The Pyramids of Giza

The Pyramids of Giza are one of the most iconic landmarks in all of Egypt. Located on the Giza Plateau, just outside of Cairo, they are the last remaining ancient wonder of the world. Built as tombs for Egyptian pharaohs, they are estimated to be around 4,500 years old. Visitors can explore the pyramids and sphinx up close, learning about the history of these ancient monuments.

The Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum is located in Tahrir Square in Cairo, and it is home to one of the largest collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world. Visitors can explore thousands of artifacts from ancient Egypt, including mummies, jewelry, sculptures, and artifacts from Tutankhamun’s tomb. There is also a children’s section that features interactive displays and activities.

The Khan el-Khalili Bazaar

The Khan el-Khalili bazaar is one of Cairo’s most famous attractions. It is a crowded market that has been trading goods since 1382 AD. Visitors can wander through the winding alleys, bargaining with vendors for jewelry, spices, carpets, and other souvenirs. The bazaar is also home to many cafes and restaurants where visitors can grab a bite to eat or a cup of tea while exploring.

Islamic Cairo

Islamic Cairo is a picturesque area full of mosques and palaces that have been around since the 11th century. Visitors can explore this historic area and admire its grand architecture while learning about its history and culture. Some popular sites to visit include Al-Azhar Mosque, Al Muizz Street, and Sultan Hassan Mosque.

Book an Example Tour Here

For those looking for an even richer experience in Cairo, there are several popular tours that offer visitors a unique opportunity to explore the city’s cultural heritage. One such tour is a guided walking tour of Islamic Cairo. Led by an expert guide, visitors will have the chance to explore the area’s ancient mosques, palaces, and monuments while learning about its history and culture. This tour includes visits to Al-Azhar Mosque, Al Muizz Street, and Sultan Hassan Mosque as well as stops at local cafes for traditional snacks. This tour can be booked here.

Another popular tour is a sunset dinner cruise on the Nile River. This tour takes visitors on a relaxing boat ride down one of the world’s oldest rivers while enjoying dinner and entertainment from local musicians. The tour includes stops at historical sites along the way and provides breathtaking views of Cairo’s skyline at night. This tour can be booked here.

Conclusion

Cairo is a vibrant city full of life and activity. From its ancient monuments to its bustling bazaars, it has something for everyone. For those looking to experience this unique city firsthand, there are plenty of tours and activities to choose from to make your visit even more memorable. Whether you’re looking for a guided tour or an evening cruise on the Nile River, Cairo has something for everyone.

Cairo Must See: An Insider’s Guide

Cairo, the capital city of Egypt, is a land of ancient civilizations, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the bustling streets of Khan el-Khalili to the iconic pyramids, Cairo has something for everyone. As a local, I would like to share some of the hidden gems of the city that can make your trip to Cairo an unforgettable one.

Local Attractions: Discover Hidden Gems

Sure, the pyramids and Sphinx are must-see attractions, but Cairo is full of hidden gems that most tourists miss. One such place is the City of the Dead, a fascinating necropolis with beautiful Islamic architecture, where locals go to pay their respects to their loved ones. Another hidden gem is the Al Rifai Mosque, a stunning example of Mamluk architecture that is often overshadowed by the nearby Ibn Tulun Mosque.

For those who want to see Cairo’s artistic side, the Darb 1718 Contemporary Art and Culture Center is a great place to visit. It’s an independent art space that showcases the work of local and international artists in an industrial environment.

Dining Spots: Taste the Best of Egypt

Cairo is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide range of dishes that reflect the city’s multicultural history. One cannot miss experiencing the local specialties such as Koshari, a mix of rice, lentils, noodles, chickpeas, and topped with tomato sauce and fried onions. Feteer meshaltet, a flaky, layered pastry filled with sweet or savory ingredients is another local delicacy.

For an authentic experience, venture to Fasahet Somaya in the Al Hussein district for delicious Egyptian street food or get a cup of coffee with Nafisa at El Fishawy Cafe in the Khan al Khalili Souk, one of the oldest in the city and a testament to traditional Cairo.

Cultural Experiences: Dive into the Rich Culture

Cairo has an exciting and rich culture that has been shaped by centuries of Islamic rule, Pharaonic dynasties, and European influences. Every year, in the spring, the city comes alive with the “Sham el-Nessim” festival, marking the beginning of the spring season with picnics and special snacks, celebrating the new year in the Coptic Orthodox Church calendar.

If you want to experience traditional dance and music, the El Dammah Theater is the perfect place. The theater presents folk music and dances from all over Egypt, such as Tanura spinning, Sufi chanting, and traditional Egyptian music.

Local History: Discover the Untold Stories

Cairo is full of fascinating history, stories, and legends, not all of which are commonly known. One such story is that of Salah al-Din, or Saladin, who recaptured Jerusalem from the Crusaders and drove them out of the Holy Land. He is buried in the Al Rifa’i Mosque, making it a crucial historical site with a touching backstory.

The Hanging Church, also known as St. Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church, is another historical landmark that you should not miss. Built on top of the southern gate of the Roman fortress of Babylon, the Hanging Church is the oldest church in Egypt and an iconic symbol of the Coptic Church’s history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Make Your Trip Unforgettable

To see something extraordinary that few tourists witness, take a hot air balloon ride over the Nile Valley and watch the sunrise over the ancient landscape. You can also take a felucca (sailboat) ride on the Nile and learn the history of how the river shaped the city.

Another fascinating experience is the Sound and Light Show at the Giza Pyramids. At night, the pyramids are lit up, and the story of their construction and history is told through an audiovisual display. It’s an unforgettable experience.

In conclusion, Cairo is a city that has so much to offer. By stepping off the beaten path and indulging in the local food, history, culture, and attractions, one can discover another face of the city that makes it even more magical. Enjoy your trip to Cairo, and be sure to treasure all of the magical moments you will encounter.