Cairo Things To Do: A City Guide for Tourists Visiting for the First Time

Cairo is a city with a rich history, culture, and vibrant atmosphere. Located on the banks of the Nile River in Egypt, it is the capital and largest city in the country. With a population of over 20 million, it is one of the most populous cities in Africa. Cairo is home to many ancient monuments, including the Giza Pyramids, the Great Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum. There are also plenty of modern attractions, including world-class museums, art galleries, and shopping districts.

The city has been inhabited since at least 4500 BC and has been a major center for trade, culture, and politics throughout its long history. It was once the capital of Egypt’s powerful Mamluk Sultanate and was an important center of Islamic learning for centuries. Today, Cairo is a vibrant metropolis with a diverse population, bustling markets, and plenty of modern attractions.

History of Cairo

Cairo has been inhabited since at least 4500 BC, though its modern name dates back to when it was founded as part of the Fatimid Caliphate in 969 AD. At this time, it became an important center of Islamic learning and culture. It would remain an important city under successive dynasties and empires until it was captured by the Ottoman Empire in 1517.

In the 19th century, Cairo was transformed by modernization projects under the rule of Egypt’s former ruler Mohammed Ali Pasha. He built many of Cairo’s modern monuments and infrastructure, including the Opera House and the University of Cairo. Under his rule, Cairo also saw an influx of immigrants from around the world, many of whom were Jewish. This influx of immigrants made Cairo one of the most diverse cities in the world and helped create its unique atmosphere.

After Egypt gained independence in 1922, Cairo became the official capital and has remained so ever since. In 1952, a military coup transformed Egypt into a republic and Cairo has continued to grow and modernize ever since. Today, it is one of the most populous cities in Africa and a major hub for tourism, business, and politics.

Famous Sites and Cultural Attractions

Cairo is home to many famous sites and attractions. The Giza Pyramids are some of the most famous sites in the world and are easily accessible from downtown Cairo. The Great Sphinx is another popular tourist destination, located right next to the Giza Pyramids. The Egyptian Museum is another must-see destination, with a vast collection of artifacts from ancient Egypt.

Other popular attractions include Al-Azhar Mosque, Khan El-Khalili bazaar, Coptic Cairo, and Islamic Cairo. Al-Azhar Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in the world and is an important center for Islamic learning. Khan El-Khalili bazaar is one of the oldest markets in the Middle East and offers everything from spices to jewelry to souvenirs. Coptic Cairo is home to many churches and ancient monuments from Egypt’s Christian past. And Islamic Cairo is full of mosques, tombs, and other relics from Egypt’s Islamic history.

Popular Activities

Cairo is full of activities for tourists to enjoy. Shopping is one of the most popular activities in the city, with plenty of bazaars and markets offering everything from souvenirs to spices to jewelry. There are also plenty of restaurants offering traditional Egyptian cuisine as well as international favorites.

The city also has a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs offering live music and dancing. There are also many cultural attractions such as museums, art galleries, and historic monuments worth exploring. And there are plenty of parks and gardens to explore as well as camel rides and boat trips on the Nile River.

Book a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Cairo

Hot air balloon rides are one of the best ways to experience all that Cairo has to offer. You can take in stunning views of the Giza Pyramids and other ancient monuments while soaring high above the city skyline. The hot air balloon rides typically last around 2 hours and include an experienced pilot who will guide you through the flight. If you’re lucky you might even get to see some wild animals such as gazelles or ibexes during your flight! To book a hot air balloon ride over Cairo simply visit Viator, where you’ll find plenty of tour operators offering hot air balloon rides over Cairo.

Take a Tour Through Cairo’s Ancient Streets

Another must-do activity for tourists visiting Cairo is taking a tour through its ancient streets. You can explore Khan El-Khalili bazaar, one of the oldest markets in the Middle East, or take a stroll through Coptic Cairo’s churches and historic monuments. You can also visit Islamic Cairo’s mosques and tombs to learn more about Egypt’s Islamic past. Tours can be booked through GetYourGuide, with plenty of options for both private tours as well as group tours available for booking.

Experience Life on a Nile River Cruise

Experience life on the Nile with a Nile River cruise! You can explore both sides of the river while stopping at various points along the way. A typical cruise lasts around 5 hours and includes stops at some of Cairo’s most famous monuments such as the Great Pyramid of Giza and the Great Sphinx. You can also take advantage of traditional Egyptian cuisine while onboard your cruise or relax on deck while taking in some stunning views of the city skyline! To book a Nile River cruise simply visit GetYourGuide.

Conclusion

Cairo is a city full of history and culture that has something for everyone to enjoy! From shopping at Khan El-Khalili bazaar to taking a hot air balloon ride over the city skyline to experiencing traditional Egyptian cuisine on a Nile River cruise – there are plenty of activities for tourists visiting Cairo for the first time! With its ancient monuments, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse population – Cairo is sure to be an unforgettable experience!