What Are Some of the Most Popular Destinations in Cairo?

Egypt’s sprawling capital of Cairo is a fascinating mix of old and new, where ancient monuments sit alongside cosmopolitan hotels and bustling bazaars. With so much to see and do, it can be difficult to choose which attractions should be the focus of a visit to the city. To help visitors decide, this article takes a look at the ten most popular tourist destinations in Cairo.

1. The Great Pyramid of Giza

The world-famous Great Pyramid of Giza is a must-see for any visitor to Cairo. Built around 2500 BCE as a tomb for the Pharaoh Khufu, it is the oldest and largest of the three great pyramids of ancient Egypt and one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. It is also one of the best-preserved ancient monuments in the world and stands as a testament to the power and sophistication of the ancient Egyptian civilization.

2. The Great Sphinx

No visit to Cairo would be complete without seeing the iconic Great Sphinx, which stands guard at the entrance to the Great Pyramid complex. Built from solid limestone, this creature with a human head and lion’s body is believed to date from about 2500 BCE and is one of the world’s oldest and largest monumental sculptures.

3. The Egyptian Museum

The world-famous Egyptian Museum in Cairo contains the world’s greatest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including Tutankhamun’s golden death mask, royal mummies, and other incredible finds from archaeological excavations. Established in 1835, it is a must-see for any history buff or archaeology fan, and is home to more than 120,000 artifacts, including items that have never been displayed before.

4. Khan El-Khalili

Khan El-Khalili is one of Cairo’s oldest bazaars, and a must-visit for anyone looking for souvenirs, antiques, clothing, or traditional handicrafts. This vibrant, centuries-old market in the heart of the city has been buzzing with life since medieval times, and wandering its narrow alleys is one of the most atmospheric experiences that Cairo has to offer.

5. Al-Azhar Mosque

The Al-Azhar Mosque is one of Cairo’s oldest and most important Islamic structures. Dating from 972 CE, it is widely considered to be the world’s oldest university, and became a center of religious learning and debate during medieval times. Today it still serves as a place of study for Islamic scholars and offers visitors a unique glimpse into Cairo’s storied past.

6. Coptic Cairo

The area of Old Cairo known as Coptic Cairo is home to some fascinating attractions, most notably the Hanging Church, one of Cairo’s oldest churches, and the Ben Ezra Synagogue, believed to be the site of Moses’ burning bush. It’s a great area for those interested in Christian history or architecture.

7. Saladin Citadel

Built in 1176 AD by Saladin as an antitower to his enemies in Cairo, today this impressive fortification is home to many museums, mosques, and cultural attractions such as charming Islamic gardens and art galleries. It’s also worth visiting simply to take in views across the city.

8. Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan

Completed in 1363, this stunning mosque and madrassa complex is considered to be one of Cairo’s finest examples of Islamic architecture and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The building is still in use today as an active mosque, but visitors are also able to admire its beautiful interiors and courtyard gardens.

9. Garden City

Garden City is one of Cairo’s most exclusive neighborhoods, renowned for its wide tree-lined boulevards and elegant 19th century villas surrounded by lush green gardens. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll or lunch break from sightseeing elsewhere in the city, as many restaurants here offer outdoor seating beneath shade trees.

10. Unfinished Obelisk

Located in Aswan’s granite quarries just south of Luxor, this giant abandoned obelisk is an intriguing sight. Dating from around 1450 BCE, it was abandoned when flaws were discovered in its granite base, though still remains one of Egypt’s oldest monuments and an important archaeological site. Cairo is teeming with fascinating attractions for tourists to explore and discover. From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to ancient tombs and historic bazaars, there is something for everyone in this bustling city. Whether it’s soaking up some history at Khan El Khalili, or wandering through Garden City in search of a tasty bite to eat, Cairo offers visitors an unforgettable experience – one that will live long in the memory!

Insider’s Guide: Discovering the Hidden Gems of Cairo

Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is known for its rich cultural history, ancient landmarks, and vibrant local culture. However, beyond the popular tourist attractions, there is a wealth of hidden gems that only the locals know about. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the city’s lesser-known treasures.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems in Cairo

There’s more to Cairo than the Pyramids and the Sphinx. While these world-famous landmarks are a must-visit, we recommend venturing off the beaten path to discover some hidden gems. For instance, head to the City of the Dead, a sprawling graveyard that’s home to intricately decorated mausoleums and mosques that date back to the Fatimid era. You can walk through the narrow streets, experience the extraordinary architecture and even enjoy picnics among the tombs.

Another attraction that’s popular among Cairenes but relatively unknown to visitors is the Fish Market. Here you can witness lifelong fishermen selling their fresh catch of the day, and grab a delicious seafood meal. Located in the suburb of Madinaty, it’s a unique local experience that’s worth the trip.

Dining Spots: Savoring the Tastes of Cairo

Egyptian cuisine is a melting pot of flavors from the Mediterranean, North Africa, and the Middle East. To savor the authentic tastes of Cairo, venture beyond the popular tourist restaurants and visit local eateries instead. For an authentic Egyptian breakfast, head to Fasahet Somaya where you can enjoy foul (bean stew), falafel, and tehina (sesame paste).

For lunch, try the local specialty, Koshari, a dish of rice, lentils, pasta, fried onions, and tomato sauce. A popular place to try this dish is in Abou Tarek in downtown Cairo. For dinner, head to the Fishawi Cafe, one of the oldest cafes in Cairo located in Khan El-Khalili Market. It’s the perfect spot to sample traditional Egyptian tea, indulge in some authentic dessert pastries like basbousa and enjoy the vibrant ambiance of the market.

Cultural Experiences: Exploring Cairo’s Traditions and Festivals

Cairo is not just a hub of ancient culture, but also a city of modern art, music, and vibrant customs. For a glimpse of Cairo’s contemporary art scene, head to the Contemporary Image Collective in downtown Cairo, a gallery that showcases the work of young, Egyptian artists.

One of the most exciting cultural festivals in Cairo is the Mawaweel festival. During the holy month of Ramadan, the streets of Cairo come alive as musicians, performers, and food vendors set up along the alleyways of the old city. The festival attracts thousands of visitors each year and is a unique way to experience the local culture.

Local History: Uncovering the Stories of Cairo’s Past

Cairo’s history is as old as civilization itself, with a past dating back to the Pharaohs, through to the Fatimids, and onto the modern-day. To unlock the secrets of Cairo’s past, a visit to the Ibn Tulun mosque is a must. This ninth-century mosque is one of the oldest and most well-preserved in Cairo and is an architectural masterpiece.

Another fascinating piece of Cairo’s history is found in the City of the Dead. Inside the tombs and mosques, you’ll find unusual and intricate details, like stained-glass windows and ornate wooden doors. These historic sites are a testament to the city’s craftsmen, architects, and artists throughout the centuries.

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Unique and Unforgettable Experiences

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, you could take a felucca boat ride on the Nile River at sunset. It’s a relaxing and idyllic way to explore the city from a different perspective. Or, visit one of the many traditional public baths known as ‘hammams.’ You can enjoy a traditional bath and massage treatment in a historic hammam. An authentic and rejuvenating experience.

In conclusion, Cairo is a city that offers a plethora of hidden treasures. With this insider’s guide, you can delve deeper into the local culture, discover some unique experiences that are not to be missed, and have an unforgettable visit that you’ll likely want to share with others.