What is Cairo?

Cairo is the capital of Egypt and the largest city in both Africa and the Middle East. Situated on the Nile River, it is the heart of Egyptian culture and contains some of the oldest and most fascinating sights in the world. While it is considered a City of a Thousand Minarets, its cultural heritage that includes art, architecture, music and history.Cairo covers an area of 453 square miles and is home to approximately 20 million people. Known by locals as “Misr,” Cairo has been a major cultural and religious center in North Africa since ancient times. It is an important hub for trade, finance and media, and boasts the largest concentration of universities in the region.The city is structured around two major districts – the east-west Cairo-Giza axis and the north-south axis along the Nile River. Cairo is divided into 30 governorates, each of which comprises a number of districts, followed by smaller neighborhoods. The layout enables citizens to easily move throughout this large metropolis.Although Cairo generally experiences hot and dry weather throughout the year, certain parts of the city do experience some rain on a seasonal basis. With moderate seasonal temperatures ranging from 40°F in winter to nearly 100°F in summer, it is possible for locals to enjoy mild weather for much of the year.Cairo has a long history and rich cultural heritage, much of which has been preserved through many of its monuments. Perhaps its most famous landmark is the Pyramids of Giza, which date back to around 2550 BC and are one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Other landmarks include the Citadel, built in the 1300s; the Cairo Tower, completed in 1961; and Al-Azhar Mosque, built in 970 AD. With countless cultural institutions such as the Egyptian Museum and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, visitors can come to better understand the history of this ancient city and explore its deep roots.The city also hosts all sorts of entertainment events and markets. Every night, downtown buzzes with locals enjoying a movie at Genaina Theatre, visiting one of its many nightclubs or strolling along Zamalek’s famous arts walk, full of local art galleries. Popular farmer’s markets such as El-Dahabieh are also enjoyable for tourists, providing an interactive experience with locals selling home-made jewellery and crafts.Cairo may very well be one of the oldest cities in the world, but it’s no doubt one of the most vibrant. With hundreds of attractions, cultural centers and hidden gems both near and far from downtown, it is easy to see why Egypt’s largest city has become such a popular destination for tourists. From its beautiful architecture to its numerous festivals and markets, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy and explore.Discovering Egypt has put together a comprehensive guide to help travelers better understand what Cairo has to offer—from attractions to cuisine and accommodation options. Whether you are looking for ancient artifacts or modern restaurants, you’re sure to find what you need to make your trip memorable in this iconic city!

An Insider’s Guide to Cairo

Cairo is the capital of Egypt, located in the northeastern region of the African continent. It is a city rich in history, culture, and shopping, with plenty of attractions, serene spots, and delicious dining options. Here’s your ultimate insider’s guide to exploring Cairo.

Top Local Attractions

Cairo is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Pyramid of Giza. Other must-visit tourist spots include the Sphinx, Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, the Egyptian Museum, Citadel and the Alabaster Mosque.

For those interested in history, a visit to the Saladin Citadel is a must. The citadel exhibits the historical fortification in Islamic Cairo, which was built during the 12th century. It is also home to the Mohamed Ali mosque, a stunning piece of architecture in its own right.

For panoramic views of the city beyond imagination, go to the Cairo Tower. At the top, you will get stunning views of the sprawling cityscape, endless minarets, and the Nile Delta running like a silver ribbon through the centre of the city.

Best Dining spots

Cairo is a culinary haven for foodies, with plenty of delicious and authentic dining spots.

Start your day with some Egyptian-style breakfast – fuul and falafel, consommé, or tahini with honey, and some extremely sweet and satisfying fried dough pastries called balah el sham.

For lunch, head over to Al Hussein Square to try the best koshari, a local dish of noodles, rice, and lentils topped with tomato sauce and fried onions. Another great spot is the Taboula restaurant, a cosy and elegant Mediterranean eatery that serves mouth-watering dishes.

For a special dinner experience, try Abou el-Sid, a high-end establishment that serves Egyptian dishes. From stuffed mulukhiya, a traditional Egyptian vegetable dish, to lamb chops and kofta, there’s something for everyone.

Cultural Experiences in Cairo

Cairo is steeped in history and culture, with plenty of opportunities to experience this firsthand.

The best way to experience the local culture is to visit the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. It is one of the oldest markets in Cairo, dating back to the 14th century, and famous for its gold, spices, textiles, and souvenirs.

For traditional music and dance performances, visit El Tanoura, a 13th-century Sufi dance hall in Islamic Cairo. It hosts daily cultural performances, including the Sufi Tannoura and the folkloric Al-Hadra dances, which will leave you spellbound.

For history buffs, a visit to Old Cairo is a must. This area is home to some of the first Islamic and Christian monuments and architecture in the country.

Local History

Cairo has a rich, fascinating history to explore. The Egyptian Museum offers an excellent avenue to discover the history of the country and its most famous Pharaohs, along with the largest collection of Egyptian antiquities.

Another historical spot is the Cairo Citadel and Alabaster Mosque, which was built on the order of the Ottoman dynasty during the 19th century to protect Cairo from foreign invaders.

To explore Cairo’s Islamic history, head over to the Muizz Street. It encompasses the fascinating Fatimid Cairo, home to one of the world’s oldest universities, the Al-Azhar mosque, which dates back to the 10th century.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

While visiting Cairo’s popular attractions is a great way to experience the city, there are plenty of lesser-known spots to explore.

Take a Nile river cruise at sunset. Not only will you enjoy a scenic view of the city, but you will also be serenaded with traditional Egyptian music and get a glimpse of the citylife on the shores.

Visit the Zabaleen community on the outskirts of Cairo, also known as Garbage City. They are responsible for collecting and recycling around 80% of Cairo’s waste and have a fascinating history and culture of their own.

Finally, a visit to Baron Empain Palace is perfect for those seeking a touch of the supernatural. This century-old palace, constructed in the early 20th century by Belgian industrialist Baron Empain, is said to be haunted!

In Summary, Cairo is a stunning city that is worth multiple visits. With its rich history, culture, and delicious food, it is a melting pot of experiences just waiting to be discovered. Follow this insider’s guide, and you are in for a fantastic time.