What Is There See and Do in Cairo?

As the largest city and capital of Egypt, there are plenty of activities to be done and sights to see while visiting Cairo. Travelers who come to experience this bustling metropolis will discover many exciting attractions, historical artifacts, and cultural experiences. From ancient tombs and mosques to markets and Mediterranean cuisine, Cairo offers something for everyone.

Take a Sightseeing Tour

Sightseeing tours offer visitors the opportunity to experience Cairo’s most iconic monuments and landmarks. Popular landmarks that should be visited include the Egyptian Museum, which is home to the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, the 6th Century Citadel, and the Great Pyramid of Giza. Tour operators offer various types of experiences, from full-day trips to four-hour sightseeing tours that include transport between destinations.

See the Great Pyramid

No visit to Cairo is complete without a trip to see the Great Pyramid of Giza. The only remaining structure of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramid of Giza dates back over 4,500 years and remains one of the world’s longest standing monuments. Visitors can tour the inside the Great Pyramid itself, snap photos of the Pyramid complex, or take a camel ride around it. To get the most out of the experience, consider booking a guided tour with a knowledgeable guide who can answer questions and provide insight into the history of the location.

Shop in Khan el-Khalili

Since 1382, Khan el-Khalili has been a bustling market in Cairo’s old Islamic district full of locally made goods, spices, and food stalls. Strolling through this old market feels like time traveling through 14th Century Cairo. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike because it is also home to several souks and traditional craft shops specialising in jewelry, leather goods, spices and more.

Admire Islamic Art

Cairo contains several mosques and palaces from the Islamic era that are well worth visiting. The Al-Azhar Mosque is the oldest university in Egypt founded in 969 A.D. Once a site of intellectual discourse, the mosque currently serves as a center for religious teaching of Islamic sciences. The Ibn Tulun Mosque is another interesting architectural landmark worth checking out. It has two minarets that were constructed in 876 A.D., making it the oldest Islamic building in Egypt.

Explore Coptic Cairo

Coptic Cairo or Old Cairo is home to several fascinating churches and monasteries including Abu Serga, which is believed to be built on top of a crypt where the Holy Family stayed during their travels in Egypt; and St. Sergius which is said to contain the bones of Holy Innocents. Aside from interesting historical sites, visitors will also find several archaeological sites including Fustat, one of the first capitals of Islam located just outside Cairo; Roman ruins and over 15 Coptic churches

Visit The Pyramids of Dahshur

Located just South of Cairo lies Dahshur, which is often overlooked due to its proximity to Giza. The area contains two impressive pyramids; the Bent Pyramid, which is visibly curved due to its construction; and the Red Pyramid with its steep sides – both fascinating sights to see when compared to their two siblings in Giza.

Go Desert Camping

Just an hour’s drive from central Cairo lies the awe-inspiring Sahara Desert, where visitors can enjoy a unique camping experience amongst its golden dunes. Campers can take jeep rides through the desert, explore its many rock formations, go sandboarding and star-gaze at night in a desert sky sprinkled with millions of stars. Furthermore, travelers looking for adventure can explore various historical sites such as the necropolis of Saqqara, or find tranquility in oasis towns such as Bahariya or Siwa.

From ancient tombs and mosques, markets and Mediterranean cuisine to camping trips through the Golden Sands of the Sahara Desert in Egypt, Cairo should surely be included on any travellers must-see list. Its rich history with some of the oldest architectures, monuments and artifacts control the ambiance and brings out some sheer beauty to this captivating city that will not easily be forgotten.

An Insider’s Guide to Cairo: Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences

Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a bustling city that boasts of a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant modern lifestyle. For tourists visiting Cairo, there is so much to see and do beyond the common tourist spots. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore some of the hidden gems and unique experiences that only locals know about.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems in Cairo

While iconic landmarks like the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx are, of course, a must-visit, exploring the lesser-known sites is a rewarding experience. Visit the Azhar Park, an oasis of greenery in the middle of the city where you’ll find stunning views of the Cairo Citadel. The Garbage City, with its narrow pathways, small businesses, and welcoming community, is a unique and humbling exploration of the city’s informal economy. Another hidden gem is the Beit Al-Suhaymi, an 18th-century mansion that offers a glimpse into the traditional domestic architecture and decoration of Cairo.

Dining Spots: Tasting the Best of Cairo’s Cuisine

No visit to Cairo is complete without indulging in the city’s mouthwatering cuisine. From the traditional Egyptian-style coffee shops to the upscale rooftop restaurants, Cairo’s food scene is diverse and delicious. Try the koshari, a national dish made with rice, lentils, macaroni, and topped with chickpeas and crispy fried onions, at Abou Tarek or Zooba. For a sweet treat, check out Naguib Mahfouz Cafe and try the Om Ali, a delicious dessert made with bread, cream, milk, and nuts.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in Cairo’s Traditions

Cairo is a culturally vibrant city with a long and complex history. Take an Arabic calligraphy class at Mokattam School to learn about the art of writing Arabic letters, or plunge into a Sufi music performance to experience the spiritual traditions of Islam. Discover the exquisite craftsmanship of The Tentmakers of Cairo, a group of artisans who make handmade textiles using traditional quilting techniques. You can also witness an Egyptian wedding or engagement ceremony for an immersive and unforgettable experience.

Local History: Stories from Cairo’s Past

Cairo has a rich and complex history that dates back thousands of years. Every street and corner has a story to tell. Explore the mysterious City of the Dead, a massive cemetery dating back to the medieval Mamluk period, and learn about the unique funeral traditions of the city. Visit the Museum of Islamic Art to immerse yourself in the beauty of the historic art pieces and artifacts of the Islamic golden era. For a more recent story, get to know Mohamed Mahmoud Street’s mural art, which started as a response to a violent political upheaval in 2011.

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

For a truly unique experience, go on a hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings in Luxor. You can also take a felucca ride on the Nile at sunset while enjoying a cup of tea. Another off-the-beaten-path idea is touring the old streets of Islamic Cairo on foot or by bike, which offers an authentic cultural experience. Additionally, take a trip to the nearby Fayoum Oasis, where you can hike in the desert, swim in natural springs, or visit the ancient mud-brick cities and temples.

Cairo is a city full of surprises, and this insider’s guide is just a glimpse of the unique experiences and hidden gems it has to offer. Start your Cairo adventure today, and create unforgettable memories that will stay with you forever.