Things To Do In Cairo, Egypt

Cairo is the largest city in Egypt and is a bustling metropolis that has been around for thousands of years. It is the historical and modern capital of the country, offering visitors a unique blend of ancient ruins and modern attractions. Cairo is a city with a fascinating history, rich culture, and plenty of things to do. From taking a hot air balloon ride to exploring the ancient pyramids, there’s something for everyone in Cairo.

A Brief History of Cairo

Cairo has a long and fascinating history that dates back to around 969 AD when it was founded by the Fatimid dynasty. It was originally built at the site of an ancient Egyptian city known as Memphis, and it quickly became an important center for trade and commerce. The city grew in size and importance over the centuries, and it was even made the capital of Egypt during the Ottoman Empire in 1517. After the fall of the Ottoman Empire, Cairo was declared the capital of Egypt by Muhammad Ali in 1805.

In the modern day, Cairo is one of the largest cities in Africa with a population of over 20 million people. It is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich culture and plenty of things to see and do. From exploring ancient sites to indulging in some retail therapy, there’s something for everyone in Cairo.

Top Attractions in Cairo

Cairo is known for its ancient sites and monuments, but there’s also plenty of modern attractions to explore. Here are some of the top attractions in Cairo:

The Great Pyramids of Giza

No visit to Cairo is complete without visiting the iconic Great Pyramids of Giza. These ancient monuments were built by the Pharaohs of the Old Kingdom around 4,500 years ago and are one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The site also includes the Great Sphinx, an enormous stone sculpture with the body of a lion and the head of a Pharaoh. It’s an iconic symbol of Egypt and an incredible sight to behold.

The Citadel of Cairo

The Citadel of Cairo is an imposing fortress that was built by Saladin in 1176 AD. It was originally built as a military base, but over time it became a royal palace and even served as the residence of Egypt’s rulers for centuries. Today, it’s one of the most popular attractions in Cairo and is home to some fascinating museums and mosques.

The Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum is one of Cairo’s most popular attractions and is home to an incredible collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts. The museum houses over 120,000 artifacts including mummies, jewelry, sculptures, and much more. It’s an incredible place to learn about ancient Egyptian history and see some amazing artifacts up close.

Khan el-Khalili Bazaar

Khan el-Khalili is one of Cairo’s oldest bazaars and is home to more than 700 shops and stalls selling everything from jewelry and spices to carpets and textiles. It’s an incredible place to wander through and pick up some unique souvenirs. It’s also a great place to eat, with plenty of restaurants serving up delicious local cuisine.

Things To Do in Cairo

In addition to exploring some of Cairo’s top attractions, there are plenty of other things to do in this vibrant city. Here are some ideas for things to do in Cairo:

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

One of the best ways to take in the sights of Cairo is on a hot air balloon ride. You can soar high above the city for a birds-eye view of the city’s ancient monuments and modern skyscrapers. It’s an unforgettable experience that’s sure to be one of your favorite memories from your visit to Cairo.

Go on a Nile River Cruise

Another great way to experience Cairo is on a Nile River cruise. You can take in the sights of the city from the comfort of your cruise boat while enjoying some delicious food and drinks. It’s a relaxing way to explore some of Cairo’s most popular attractions such as The Citadel and The Great Pyramids.

Visit Islamic Cairo

Islamic Cairo is an area in Cairo that’s home to some incredible Islamic monuments and buildings such as mosques, mausoleums, and palaces. It’s an important religious center for Muslims and is also home to some great shopping opportunities. You can also explore some fascinating museums here such as The Museum of Islamic Art which houses an impressive collection of Islamic artifacts from around the world.

Explore Old Cairo

Old Cairo is home to some incredible ancient sites that date back to Roman and Byzantine times. This area of the city is a great place to explore some interesting ruins such as the Hanging Church, Ben Ezra Synagogue, Bab Zuweila, and much more. It’s also home to some great markets where you can pick up some unique souvenirs.

Popular Tours In Cairo

There are plenty of great tours available in Cairo that will enable you to explore some of its top attractions with ease. Here are two popular tours that you can book:

The Pyramids Private Tour

The Pyramids Private Tour is a great way to explore the iconic Great Pyramids of Giza in depth with a knowledgeable guide. You’ll learn all about these incredible monuments from your guide as you explore this incredible site at your own pace. You’ll also have time for souvenir shopping at the local bazaar and have time for lunch at one of the nearby restaurants. You can book this tour here.

Cairo City Tour with Lunch

The Cairo City Tour with Lunch is a great way to explore some of Cairo’s top attractions such as The Citadel, The Egyptian Museum, Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, and much more. You’ll have time to explore each site at your own pace before enjoying a delicious lunch at one of the nearby restaurants. You can book this tour here.

Conclusion

Cairo is an amazing city with plenty to see and do. From exploring ancient monuments to indulging in some retail therapy, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping activities or more relaxed sightseeing experiences, you’ll be sure to find something that suits your taste in Cairo. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!