What Are the Top Attractions in Cairo?

Located on the banks of the River Nile, Cairo is an ancient yet modern city that has been known for its rich culture since centuries. It is the capital of Egypt and holds a great number of interesting and unique attractions that are well worth a visit.

Cairo is a city full of historical monuments, ancient artifacts, and art galleries that are a testament to its rich cultural past. If you’re looking for a great destination to explore during your next vacation, Cairo is definitely one of the most exciting cities to visit.

Here are the top attractions to visit in Cairo:

1. The Pyramids of Giza

Built some 4,500 years ago, the Pyramids of Giza are the last remaining of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. They are situated just a few kilometres from the centre of Cairo and are a great destination for both archeologists and tourists alike. The Pyramids have earned the reputation for being the most iconic — and photo-worthy — attraction in Egypt. As part of any visit to Cairo, a trip to the Pyramids is essential for its sheer antiquity, majestic size and for being a real-life masterpiece of history book. Don’t forget to take plenty photos as a souvenir!

2. The Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum is one of Cairo’s top attractions. It’s an extensive museum that houses treasures from the Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt, ranging from mummies to statues and carvings, dating back as far as 5,000 years ago. The museum also exhibits ancient pieces from other countries, ranging from stone carvings from Mexico to encased insects from Japan. It’s particularly impressive to see how such antiquities are preserved despite being so old. Although large crowds can be expected, it’s definitely worth the trip to explore such fascinating and unique artifacts.

3. Islamic Cairo & Khan El Khalili Bazaar

The Khan El Khalili is one of the most popular districts in Cairo, thanks to its labyrinthine streets that contain exotic markets lined with merchants selling everything from spices to jewelry. This bazaar is over 600 years old and provides an authentic insight into the local culture and lifestyle of Egyptians from that era. Its narrow market lanes are bustling with activity making it a great place to explore if you want to soak up the atmosphere. Islamic Cairo is another must-visit district that houses many old mosques and monuments such as the famous Al-Hakim and the Al-Azhar universitiesbrilliant examples of Islamic architecture from the 10th century onwards.

4. The Citadel of Salah El Din

Situated on a hilltop in the middle of Cairo, The Citadel of Salah El Din is one of the most impressive pieces of Islamic architecture in Egypt, having been constructed by Saladin himself and further expanded by Mohamed Ali Pasha in the 19th Century. The Citadel itself houses two palaces, two mosques, and more which are some of the most interesting attractions in Cairo today due to their elaborate grounds and interiors that are remarkable for their magnificence and grandeur. This is an ideal location for capturing stunning pictures of the city before heading to any monument or bazaar nearby.

5. Cairo Tower

The Cairo Tower is a magnificent 187 metre-high tower that stands tall in the middle of Cairo and offers panoramic city views from its topmost point. The tower stands out due to its elegant design accessible from all directions,giving visitors an insight into its amazing pattern from afar — or even from the window seat of a plane! The view from the top is simply stunning, especially at night when it’s illuminated against the backdrop of the city skyline. The tower also has an observation deck which can be accessed via elevator as well as retail outlets selling souvenirs.

Regardless of your budget or how much time you have available in Cairo, these five attractions offer you a wide range of options to discover some of the city’s hidden gems as well as world-class monuments that have made this destination so unique over centuries.

An Insider’s Guide to Cairo: Discovering the city’s hidden gems

Cairo is a city bursting with history, culture, and stunning architecture. But beyond its legendary landmarks like the Pyramids and the Sphinx, there are countless hidden gems that only locals know about. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take you on a journey to discover some of the city’s best-kept secrets.

Uncovering Hidden Attractions

While the Pyramids and the Egyptian Museum are on every Cairo itinerary, there are plenty of lesser-known attractions that are worth visiting. One example is the El Fishawy Cafe in Khan el Khalili, the oldest cafe in Cairo, and a great place to watch people or enjoy a traditional shisha. Another example of an off-the-tourist-track attraction is the Zabbaleen Garbage Village, where residents recycle most of the city’s waste. It’s a unique and eye-opening experience to see how they turn trash into treasure.

Tasting Local Cuisine

Egyptian cuisine is famous for its flavorsome and traditional dishes. Start your day with Ful Medames – a hearty breakfast dish made of stewed fava beans, garlic, and spices. For lunch, head to Felfela restaurant, an iconic eatery in downtown Cairo known for its traditional Egyptian dishes. For dinner, try koshari – a must-try dish for first-time visitors; it’s a flavorful mix of lentils, pasta, onions, and tomato sauce, topped with crispy fried onions.

Experiencing Culture

Cairo celebrates many cultural festivals throughout the year. One of the biggest ones is the Moulid al-Nabi, a colorful street festival held in honor of the Prophet Muhammad. For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Museum of Islamic Art is essential. It showcases some of the world’s best-preserved Islamic art masterpieces from rugs, textiles, ceramics, metalwork, and woodwork.

Discovering Local History

Cairo is a city with a long and rich history. As you wander through the streets, take note of the graceful Islamic architecture, including the stunning mosques and historic houses in the old city. Explore the Citadel of Saladin, which dates back to the 12th century, and the enchanting Mosques of Ibn Tulun & Al Azhar. To learn more about Egypt’s ancient past, visit the Egyptian Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of pharaonic antiquities.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

In addition to the attractions mentioned above, there are many other one-of-a-kind experiences you can enjoy in Cairo. Consider spending a day exploring the city’s Islamic monuments with a local guide, or take a cooking class to learn how to make your own Egyptian delicacies. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try sandboarding down the dunes of the Black and White Deserts.

In summary, Cairo is a city that offers plenty to see, do, and experience, beyond just its famous landmarks. With this insider’s guide, you’ll have a chance to discover unique and unforgettable experiences that will make your trip to Cairo all the more memorable.