How to Plan Your Private Tour of Coptic Cairo: The Hanging Church, Abu Serga & Ben Ezra

Coptic Cairo is a historic neighborhood and a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the history of Christianity in Egypt. The area houses several early Christian churches, synagogues, and museums, all of which tell a fascinating story about Egypt’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.If you’re planning a visit to Coptic Cairo, there’s no better way to explore this area than taking a private tour. In this post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of planning a private tour of Coptic Cairo’s most famous landmarks, the Hanging Church, Abu Serga, and Ben Ezra Synagogue.

Step 1: Choose a Reputable Tour Company

To ensure the best tour experience, you’ll want to book with a reputable tour company that has a guide with excellent knowledge of the area’s history, culturally-sensitive guides, and provides highly-personalized attention. You can find many tour companies operating in Cairo, but not all offer the quality of service you deserve.We recommend booking a private tour with Viator, as they are highly reputable, offer personalized attention, and have excellent reviews. Moreover, our tour guide on this tour, an expert Egyptologist, can speak several languages fluently.

Step 2: Decide on the Best Time to Book Your Tour

The tour is available daily at 8:00 am, 9:00 am, 10:00 am, 11:00 am, 12:00 pm, or 1:00 pm, and we recommend booking well in advance to secure the time slot that best suits you. Also, if you’re visiting Cairo during peak season (from October to April), book even earlier to ensure availability.

Step 3: Be Ready to Discover Coptic Cairo’s Sites

The tour starts at your chosen meeting point by a private, air-conditioned minivan that will take you to Coptic Cairo. Our Egyptologist guide will then take you on a private tour of the following sites:

The Hanging Church

The Hanging Church is one of the oldest and most famous churches in Coptic Cairo. The church dates back to the 3rd century AD and takes its name from being suspended between two towers of the ancient Roman fortress of Babylon. The church is an architectural masterpiece, featuring intricate carvings, ancient paintings, and holy relics.

Abu Serga

Abu Serga is an early Christian church that is believed to rest on the spot where the Holy Family rested during their flight from Israel. The church dates back to the 4th century AD and is famous for its ancient frescoes, mosaic floors, and unique architectural style.

Ben Ezra Synagogue

Ben Ezra Synagogue is one of the oldest synagogues in Egypt, dating back to the 9th century AD. The synagogue is famous for its incredible history, as it was initially a Coptic Christian church before being converted to a synagogue by the Jewish community in the 12th century. The synagogue’s architecture is unique and breathtaking, with Islamic motifs, pre-Islamic pharaonic designs, and medieval-style decorations on the walls.

The Coptic Museum

The Coptic Museum is a treasure trove of artifacts and artworks from Coptic Christian history. The museum houses a vast collection of ancient manuscripts, textiles, icons, and other relics that tell the story of the Coptic community’s rich past.

Step 4: What’s Included with Your Tour Booking

Booking a private tour with Viator includes roundtrip transportation by private minivan, an expert Egyptologist guide, entry tickets to all the sites mentioned above, and a personalized tour itinerary that suits your preferences, offering exclusive attention to you and your group.

Step 5: Book Your Tour Now!

Book your tour of Coptic Cairo’s most prominent sites today with Viator via their online platform at book the tour here. By choosing the private tour option, you’ll enjoy a personalized tour experience with an expert guide that meets all your requirements. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the rich and diverse history of Coptic Cairo.

FAQs About Cairo

Cairo is the capital city of Egypt and is one of the largest cities in Africa and the Middle East. It is a city full of history and culture, with a mix of old and new. For travellers planning to visit this fascinating city, there may be many questions to answer. In this blog post, we will address some of the most frequently asked questions about Cairo.

1. What is the best time to visit Cairo?

Cairo is best visited during the cooler months from November to February when the weather is milder. The temperature can get very hot in the summer months, making it difficult to explore the city. However, the off-peak season from May to September is when you can find lower prices and fewer crowds.

2. How safe is Cairo?

Cairo is generally a safe city to visit, but it is advised to take certain precautions. It is recommended to avoid crowded areas and not to carry too much cash or wear expensive jewellery. It is also suggested to use only licensed taxis or use Uber for transport.

3. What are the must-visit attractions in Cairo?

Cairo is home to several iconic tourist attractions that should not be missed. Some of the must-visit attractions include the Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum, the Citadel, Khan Al-Khalili market, and the Al-Azhar Mosque.

4. What is the dress code for visitors to Cairo?

Egypt is a conservative country, and visitors are advised to dress modestly. For women, it is recommended to wear loose-fitting clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Men should also avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless shirts.

5. What language is spoken in Cairo?

The official language of Cairo is Arabic, but many locals also speak English, especially in tourist areas. Other languages spoken include French and German.

6. What is the currency used in Cairo?

The currency used in Cairo is the Egyptian pound (EGP). It is recommended to exchange money at authorized exchange bureaus or banks.

7. What is the food like in Cairo?

Egyptian cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. Some popular dishes include ta’amiya (Egyptian falafel), koshari (a mix of lentils, rice, and pasta), and ful medames (fava beans boiled and served with garlic and lemon juice).

8. What is the public transport system like in Cairo?

Cairo has an extensive public transport system that includes buses, metro, and trains. The metro system is the fastest and most efficient way to get around the city, with three lines that cover different parts of the city.

9. Is it necessary to tip in Cairo?

Tipping is a common practice in Cairo, especially in restaurants and cafes. The standard tip is around 10% of the total bill.

10. What are the customs and traditions in Cairo?

Egypt has a rich culture and history, and it is important to respect the customs and traditions of the people. It is considered impolite to photograph people without their permission, especially women. It is also recommended to remove shoes before entering mosques and religious sites.

Conclusion

Cairo is a city full of history, culture, and traditions. To make the most of your visit, it is essential to plan ahead and be aware of the customs and traditions of the people. By following the tips and advice provided in this blog post, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to this amazing city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Cairo

Cairo is one of the most beautiful and historically significant cities in Egypt. As a tourist, you want to make sure you make the most of your time in this magical city. To help you out, we have put together this comprehensive guide on how to spend your time in Cairo, including some of the most famous landmarks, eateries, and activities.

1. The Pyramids of Giza

No visit to Cairo is complete without a trip to the Pyramids of Giza. These structures have been standing tall for more than 4,500 years and are considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. When visiting the Pyramids of Giza, you can choose to take a guided tour or explore them on your own. You can also ride on a camel or horseback around the pyramids, which is a unique and entertaining experience.

2. The Sphinx

Located near the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx is a significant landmark in Cairo. It is a mythological creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human. The Sphinx was built during the Pharaoh Khafre reign, which makes it over three thousand years old.

3. The Egyptian Museum

One of the largest museums in the world dedicated to ancient Egyptian history, the Egyptian Museum houses more than 120,000 artifacts. These artifacts include the famous Tutankhamen’s treasures, which are a must-see. The museum is divided into two floors, with the first floor featuring statues, whereas the second floor showcasing the burial masks of mummies.

4. Al-Azhar Mosque

Located in Islamic Cairo, Al-Azhar Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in the world, dating back to the 10th century. The mosque has a beautiful exterior and interior, and it is open to non-Muslim tourists. Visitors should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering.

5. Khan El Khalili Market

If you want to experience the bustling atmosphere of Cairo, visit the Khan El Khalili Market. This ancient market is famous for its handmade souvenirs, textiles, and spices. It is also a perfect place to try out street food, including Egyptian falafel, koshari, and other delicious street snacks.

6. Citadel of Saladin

Built in the 12th century, the Citadel of Saladin is a beautiful fortress that offered protection to Egyptians from invaders. The citadel now houses several museums, including the Military Museum, which features ancient weapons and instruments of war.

7. Nile River Cruise

A cruise on the Nile River is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You get to see the city from a different angle and observe all the ancient structures. There are cruises available during the day and night time.

8. Tahrir Square

Tahrir Square is a significant landmark in Cairo that was the center of the 2011 Egyptian revolution. The square is now a popular tourist spot and a place where you can relax and take in the city’s beauty.

9. Local Foodie Experiences

Food is an integral part of any culture, and Egypt is no exception. Cairo has a diverse food scene, and trying the local cuisine should be on your itinerary. You can either opt for street food or dine at a local Egyptian-themed restaurant to have a meal full of authentic flavors.

10. Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids

Ending your visit to Cairo with the Sound and Light show at the Pyramids is a memorable experience. As night falls, the pyramids are illuminated and narrated with a dramatic story that takes you on a journey through the history of the Pyramids.

Conclusion

Cairo is a magical city that offers tourists an array of experiences, from ancient pyramids and landmarks to local flavors, souvenirs, and night cruises. We hope this guide helps you plan your Cairo itinerary and make the most of your time in this historically rich city.