The Most Famous Sightseeing Attractions of Cairo

## IntroductionCairo, the capital city of Egypt, is known for its history, culture and ancient landmarks. With a unique blend of the old and the new, Cairo attracts tourists from all over the world. In this post, we will talk about the most famous sightseeing attractions of Cairo that you must visit during your trip to this incredible city.

The Great Pyramids of Giza

The Great Pyramids of Giza, located on the outskirts of Cairo, are one of the most famous landmarks in the world. These pyramids were built over 4,500 years ago and are the last surviving wonder of the ancient world. The Great Pyramid of Giza is the largest and the most famous of the three pyramids and is believed to have taken twenty years to construct. It is also the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World that still exists today.

The Sphinx

Adjacent to the Great Pyramids of Giza is the Sphinx, a mythical creature with the head of a human and the body of a lion. The Sphinx is believed to have been built around 2500 BC during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre. It is the largest monolithic statue in the world and a popular tourist attraction in Cairo.

The Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum, located in the heart of Cairo, is home to the most extensive collection of Egyptian antiquities in the world. The museum has over 120,000 items on display, including the priceless treasures of King Tutankhamun. It is an excellent place to learn about the history and culture of Ancient Egypt.

The Citadel

The Citadel is a medieval Islamic fortress located in Cairo. It was built in the 12th century by Saladin to protect Cairo from invasion. The fortress houses several museums, including the Military Museum and the Police Museum. The most famous landmark inside the citadel is the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque due to the extensive use of alabaster in its construction.

Khan el-Khalili

Khan el-Khalili is an ancient bazaar in Cairo that dates back to the 14th century. It is one of the oldest and largest markets in the world, and its narrow streets are filled with shops selling everything from spices and jewelry to souvenirs and textiles. It is the perfect place to buy unique souvenirs to take back home.

Old Cairo

Old Cairo, also known as Coptic Cairo, is a historic district in Cairo that dates back to the Roman era. It is home to some of the oldest Christian churches in the world, including the Hanging Church, which is suspended above a gatehouse of the Babylon Fortress. The district also houses the Ben Ezra Synagogue and the Mosque of Amr Ibn Al-As, the first mosque built in Egypt.## ConclusionCairo is a city that is rich in history and culture, and its landmarks are a testament to the incredible civilization that Egypt has produced. The Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, the Citadel, Khan el-Khalili, and Old Cairo are must-visit destinations for anyone traveling to Cairo. These landmarks are a testament to the incredible history and civilization of Egypt, and they offer a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. Plan your visit to Cairo around these attractions, and you will not be disappointed.

The Insider’s Guide to the Most Famous Sightseeing Attractions of Cairo

Cairo is the capital city of Egypt and is one of the oldest cities in the world. Known as the “City of a Thousand Minarets,” Cairo is famous for its ancient monuments, cultural landmarks, bustling bazaars, and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you are a history buff, a culture enthusiast, a foodie, or a shopaholic, there is something for everyone in Cairo. In this insider’s guide, we will explore the most famous sightseeing attractions of Cairo and provide recommendations for dining, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Top Sightseeing Attractions

One of the most famous landmarks of Cairo is the Giza Pyramid complex, which includes the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Sphinx, and several smaller pyramids. The Pyramids of Giza are among the seven wonders of the world and are a must-visit attraction in Cairo. The Egyptian Museum is another must-visit attraction, which houses the relics of ancient Egyptian civilization, including the treasures of King Tutankhamun. The Citadel of Cairo is a massive medieval fortress that was once home to the rulers of Egypt and offers a stunning panoramic view of the city. The Khan el-Khalili bazaar is a popular shopping destination in Cairo, where you can find everything from spices to souvenirs.

Dining Spots

Cairo is a foodie’s paradise, with a plethora of dining options to suit all budgets and tastes. For authentic Egyptian cuisine, head to Abu Shakra, which is famous for its grilled meat dishes and mezze platters. Felfela is another popular restaurant that specializes in local Egyptian fare. For a more upscale dining experience, head to Arabesque and enjoy panoramic views of the Nile River while sampling gourmet Middle Eastern cuisine.

Cultural Experiences

Cairo is steeped in history and culture, and there are several ways to experience this firsthand. Take a sunset camel ride through the desert and witness the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx as they light up in a golden glow. Explore the ancient city of Memphis, which was once the capital of ancient Egypt and is home to several ancient temples and statues. Check out the Light and Sound Show at the Pyramids, which is an unforgettable sound and light show that tells the story of ancient Egypt.

Local History

Cairo is bursting with history and is home to several ancient landmarks that provide a glimpse into the past. Take a stroll through the streets of Islamic Cairo and explore the Al-Azhar Mosque, which is one of the oldest universities in the world. The Hanging Church is another landmark that dates back to the 7th century and is one of the oldest Coptic Christian churches in Egypt. The Saladin Citadel is another historical site that was built in the 12th century and was once home to the Mamluk rulers of Egypt.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique experience, head to the Dahshur Pyramids, which are located on the outskirts of Cairo and are much less crowded than the Pyramids of Giza. Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is to explore the Islamic cemetery of Bab al-Nasr, which is home to several intricately decorated tombs and mausoleums. For a more modern experience, check out the Cairo Tower, which offers a stunning view of the city from its observation deck.

In conclusion, Cairo is a vibrant and exciting city that is bursting with history, culture, and adventure. With so much to see and do, you will need a few days to explore all the famous attractions as well as hidden gems that Cairo has to offer. Be sure to check out our insider’s guide to make the most of your trip to Cairo!