What is There to See and Do in Cairo?

Cairo is one of the most populous cities in Africa and the Middle East. It is located in the north of Egypt. Cairo is known as the “City of a Thousand Minarets” and is home to some of the oldest sites in the world, making it a popular destination for history buffs and tourists alike. With its numerous monuments from different dynasties and its vibrant culture, there is something for everyone in Cairo. So what is there to see and do in Cairo?

Cairo is home to many famous sites, including the Giza Pyramids, the Cairo Tower, the Cairo Citadel, the Great Sphinx, and the Mosque of Mehmet Ali. All of these attractions are surrounded by beautiful gardens, palaces and ancient ruins. For those interested in history, there are also numerous museums throughout Cairo, displaying ancient artifacts from Egypt’s many eras.

For a truly unique experience, one must visit Khan el-Khalili, one of the oldest bazaars in the world. This legendary market is bursting with color and culture, with over 400 shops selling all kinds of trinkets, souvenirs and spices. The alleys and streets of this old bazaar are an ideal place to pick up unique gifts, or simply wander around to get a glimpse of life in Cairo.

For those who love outdoor activities, they can explore the nearby Giza Plateau. Here visitors can visit the Pyramids, view the Sphinx, or even take a camel ride through the desert. There are also plenty of places to take a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s eye view of this area and experience what it must have been like for ancient Egyptians looking out onto the horizon.

Cairo also has its fair share of green spaces such as Al-Azhar Park and Cairo National Park. Al-Azhar Park is a lush oasis of trees, fountains and playgrounds right in the heart of Cairo, while Cairo National Park offers visitors plenty of outdoor activities such as camping, hiking and horseback riding.

For those who prefer to spend their time indoors, there are plenty of cultural offerings in Cairo. Some of the city’s more famous cultural attractions include the Egyptian Museum, Manial Palace Museum and Coptic Museum. The Egyptian Museum is home to the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, while Manial Palace Museum contains numerous objects dating back to the Ottoman Empire and Coptic Museum showcases artifacts from Egypt’s Coptic era.

Cairo also has an abundant nightlife, with clubs and other venues offering an array of shows such as belly-dancing spectacles, live music, traditional performances and more. A good way to learn more about Cairo’s rich culture is to visit its many theaters where plays with traditional Arabic themes are often performed.

To experience even more of Cairo’s culture, visitors should try their hand at some traditional activities such as carpet weaving, leather painting or woodworking. While these activities are fun to do, visitors should also take part in some local specialties such as falafel and koushari – dishes that have been popular in Cairo for centuries.

Finally, no trip to Cairo would be complete without sampling its delicious local food. Cafes line almost every street corner throughout Cairo, offering a variety of mouth-watering specialties such as koshari (a rice and pasta dish made with tomato sauce), taamiya (ground fava bean patties), ful (fava beans served with olive oil and tomatoes), and molokhia (a soup made with parsley).

With so much to see and do in Cairo – from visiting ancient monuments to sampling the local cuisine – it truly is one of the most interesting cities in the Middle East. It’s no wonder why so many people visit this dynamic city each year! For more information on what to see and do in Cairo, check out BeMyGuest’s guide to explore Cairo.

An Insider’s Guide to Cairo

Cairo, the bustling capital city of Egypt, is a land of mystery, antiquity and beauty. A Mecca for archaeology and history enthusiasts, Cairo is also a city of contrasts, where ancient landmarks and traditional bazaars exist alongside modern skyscrapers and luxury hotels.

As an insider, I am excited to share with you some hidden gems, local cuisine, cultural experiences, and unheard-of stories from Cairo.

Local Attractions: Uncovering the Hidden Gems

While visiting the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum are must-do items on any tourist’s itinerary, Cairo has plenty of hidden treasures that are often overlooked.

Start with Garbage City, a unique neighborhood famous for its recycling industry and the Cave Church of St. Simon. Explore the abandoned palace of Princess Fawzia, sister of King Farouk, and the beautiful mosque of Ibn Tulun, the oldest surviving mosque in the city almost 1,000 years old. Take a leisurely stroll on Al-Muizz Street, a pedestrian zone with a collection of beautifully preserved medieval buildings and historical landmarks.

Dining Spots: Indulging in the Local Cuisine

Cairo’s street food culture is legendary, and a gastronomic tour of the city is a must. Start with koshary, a vegetarian dish of rice, pasta, and lentils served with tomato sauce and fried onions. Try some ful medames, mashed fava beans seasoned with spices, olive oil, and lemon juice, served with fresh bread. Kebabs, stuffed pigeon, and stuffed grape leaves are other popular dishes worth trying.

While exploring the city, do not miss a visit to the famous Khan el-Khalili market, where you can taste the best of traditional Egyptian sweets and drinks, such as qahwa (coffee), shay (tea), and hibiscus juice.

Cultural Experiences: Immersing in the Local Traditions

Cairo is a hub of culture and creativity, with a long history of tradition and innovation. The city has something for everyone – whether you prefer art, music, literature, or fashion.

Visit Al Azhar Park, a beautiful urban green space that offers stunning views of the city, cultural events, and live music performances. Alternatively, take a felucca ride on the Nile in the evening to enjoy a mesmerizing sunset with traditional Egyptian music as the background score.

For an immersive experience into the Egyptian culture, attend the Whirling Dervishes ceremony at Al-Ghouri complex, a UNESCO heritage site. The Sufi dancing performance is an enchanting display of spiritual devotion, artistic expression, and cultural heritage.

Local History: Discovering the City’s Fascinating Past

As one of the oldest cities in the world, Cairo has a rich and fascinating history that goes back to the Pharaohs and beyond. Some lesser-known facts include the story of the unfinished obelisk in Aswan, inspiration for the iconic Washington Monument. Learn about the history of the Mamluk slave dynasty that ruled Egypt for almost three hundred years, and their legacy reflected in the architecture and art of the city. Hear about the mother of the last khedive of Egypt, the mysterious woman known as the Red Lady, and her incredible life story.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

If you’re seeking an unforgettable experience, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the Pyramids at dawn or enjoying a cup of tea in the rooftop garden of the legendary Hotel Shepherd overlooking downtown Cairo. Visit a traditional perfumery in the heart of Islamic Cairo, where you can learn about the process of making fragrances and pick up a unique scent to take home. Take a private tour of the historic Al Kotob Khan bookstore, browse its unique collection of Arabic books, and discuss literature with the friendly staff.

In conclusion, Cairo is a city that captures your heart and soul, with its vibrant culture, storied history, and welcoming people. By exploring hidden gems, trying local cuisine, and immersing in the city’s cultural experiences, you can make memories that will last a lifetime.