A Guide to the Best Activities in Cairo

Your image of a trip to Egypt is one that probably includes lots of desert scenery, majestic ancient ruins in the middle of dunes, and lush gardens around the banks of the Nile. Cairo is none of that. Cairo is one of - if not the largest, depending on your source - metro area in Africa, and definitely the largest in the Arab World. It's crowded, busy, bustling, noisy, and chaotic. Very few of its site date back to ancient Egypt and most travelers leave either underwhelmed or worn down by the large city. But, this is a really easy fix: adjust your expectations. Because Cairo is a city oozing in culture and history. It's also the center of the Arab World's music and film industries, and has been the preeminent center of culture in the Arab World for over a millennia. With amazing neighborhoods and dynamic experiences, you could easily entertain yourself for four days in Cairo. So, what should you do in Cairo? I'm glad you asked! Here is my guide to Cairo's best sites.

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Ancient Egypt Highlights

The Pyramid of Giza + the Sphinx

@markfedoronko

Ok we knew this one was on the list. So here's some advice. There are a lot of hawkers. Be stern and don't let them bother you. If you want to take a camel ride, it's an amazing experience but know you'll need to barter. If you want a picture expect to pay more. A guide is not a bad idea given all the hawkers. The Pyramids and the Sphinx are not in the middle of nowhere. You probably know about the Pizza Hut right across the street from the entrance. However, if you must see the Pyramids in its most deserts form, try to get an ATV to go from Giza out to the Pyramids. They'll take you to the backend of the Pyramids which is way more "desolate". It is protected land on the west side of the Pyramids. Granted, the inside is not super impressive but may be worth it if you want to experience it. The Sphinx is also underwhelming. But unlike many people, I found the three Pyramids majestic and incredible. It's a bit surreal to see them for the first time.

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Pyramid of Djoser at Saqarra

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The original pyramid, It's over a 1000 years older than the ones in Giza and impressively restored by the Egyptian government. Also on the site, you can tour several tombs underground with impressive hieroglyphics and an ancient temple. While it's more of a "day trip" from Cairo, Saqarra is the most impressive complete ancient site within an hour of Cairo (outside of the Great Pyramids of course)

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The Grand Egyptian Museum GEM

@markfedoronko

Granted this is under construction and not open yet as this was written in November 2023 - it's slated to open early 2024. However, it will be a fantastic array of ancient Egyptian artifacts. It's unclear whether this museum will replace the one on Tahrir Square, but it will be magnificent

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The Egyptian Museum in Cairo

@markfedoronko

The majestic Egyptian Museum was built during the age of Napoleon. The museum still looks majestic, but the collection is even more impressive. Filled with one of the greatest collections of Egyptian antiquities including a whole room full of mummies (for an additional cost), every room is filled with incredible items. A real must see. One note for visitors in summer - only two rooms in the whole museum has air conditioning (stunning for such a collection of antiquities that the preservation is so subpar). So if you do want to go during the summer, get there in the morning at opening or it will be a sticky visit.

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Islamic Cairo

Salah ad-Din (Saladdin) Citadel)

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Situated on a hill overlooking Islamic Cairo, the citadel of Salah ad-Din dates back to the days of Salah ad-Din (the 1100's). Granted, there isn't actually that much in the citadel except for the Mohamed Ali Basha mosque - more on that to follow

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Mohamed Ali mosque

@markfedoronko

Cairo's most incredible structure - including the Pyramids - is the Mohamed Ali Basha Mosque. Built in the 1800's by the founder of "Modern Egypt", the facades and intricate interior make this an absolute must visit in Cairo. Fun fact - the exterior was sculpted using the aesthetic exterior of the Pyramids, hence why the pyramids are less smooth on the bottom. Make sure to bring a head scarf if you are a woman and dress conservatively when you visit

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Khan el-Khalili

@markfedoronko

The historic market place in Islamic Cairo is bustling and magnificent. While most vendors sell tourist knickknacks, there are lots of locals going around to go to coffee shops (men only) and get food. It is especially vibrant on Thursday evenings. Be careful as there are pickpockets around. And make sure to negotiate as all prices can be bartered down. Another tip of advice: the market during the day is completely different to the evening. I'd recommend going at both times.

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Al Moez Ldin Allah Al Fatmi - the historic street of Islamic Cairo

@markfedoronko

The best description of Mo'ez el-Din is the main historic street of Islamic Cairo. With literally hundreds of historic sites in and around the street, this is the focus of your visit to this part of Cairo. Almost all of the buildings date back over 600 years Which sites should you visit? It's hard to say. Pretty much any of the mosques, madrassas, or historic buildings are worth looking at if you're interested and want to pay whatever entrance feeds. A guided tour may help you find the best sites to tour, but I say wander and going where it is interesting is the best strategy. The street empties into Khan al-Khalili so this is a great time to see the market during the day!

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Al-Azhar Mosque

@markfedoronko

Most of the mosques to tour in Islamic Cairo are off of Mo'ez ed-Din. Al Azhar is a little off the path but wonderfully magnificent. The main center of worship for Al Azhar, one of the oldest universities in the world and a center of Islamic scholarship, this really is a top site if you're interested in touring all of the historic sites of Islamic Cairo As with all religious sites, dress conservatively and cover if you are a woman

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Other Historic Sites

Prince Mohamed Ali Palace (Al Manial Palace)

@markfedoronko

The Manial Palace was built by Prince Mohammed Ali Tewfik between 1899 and 1929. He had it designed in a style integrating European Art Nouveau and Rococo with many traditional Islamic architecture styles. It's a real triumph of the "newer" historic sites dating to post Ottoman independence in Cairo and certainly worth touring

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The Hanging Church

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While statistics are iffy, it is believed that anywhere from 5 to 20 percent of Egypt's population is Christian. The largest group is the Coptic Church, an ancient church that speaks the language of ancient Egypt written to Greek letters. Coptic Cairo could be a whole day of exploring fascinating ancient traditions. However, if you're only interested in the highlights, the Hanging Church is where you should visit. Believed to be built during the 600's, the Church is among the oldest in Cairo and is the seat of the Coptic Pope.

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Museum of Islamic Art in Cairo

@markfedoronko

This museum is a treasure trove of artifacts from the Emirates based in Cairo from 800 until the 1400's and periods afterward. It is a lovely experience to explore these artifacts if you are into Islamic art

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Modern Cairo Experiences and Neighborhoods

Felucca on the Nile

@markfedoronko

This map isn't super accurate as you can get a boat on the Nile anywhere along the river. However, this is a really good spot. Plus the area around here is beautiful and oozes the French charm of post-napoleonic Cairo, when the city was completely remodeled to resemble Paris. The traditional felucca - basically a sail boat - is a must experience. Seeing the wide Nile and the immense greenery around it (especially after seeing the complete desert the airport is in) makes it almost magical. Want a little more energy? You can take a "party" felucca playing all the best Arab hits while on the river. Both are great experiences

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Zamalek

@markfedoronko

You'd be hard pressed to find a nicer neighborhood in Cairo. Located on the island of Gazira (incredibly dumbly called the island in Arabic but I digress), Zamalek has long been the preferred residence of expats and wealthy Egyptians. In the area you'll find bars, restaurants, shops, and wonderful banks of the Nile to walk. Make sure to spend some time here while in Cairo!

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Cairo Tower

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A modern skyscraper towering over Zamalek, the Cairo Tower is built to resemble a lotus and dates back to Gamal Abdel Nasser. Today the tower is primarily an observation deck with great views ranging from the Salah ad-Din citadel to the Pyramids

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Tahrir Square

@markfedoronko

While modern Egyptian history and the 2010 Revolution have ingrained the name of Tahrir Square in everyone's minds, it really is just a glorified traffic circle. It's incredibly wide and very busy. Should you skip it? Well the Egyptian Museum is still right off Tahrir Square and you shouldn't miss that so just stop and see it while going to the Museum

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Maadi

@markfedoronko

A little south of Cairo proper, Ma'adi is accessible on the train from the center of the city. Ma'adi is a leafy neighborhood with great restaurants, cafes, and places to hang out, A neighborhood like this one is great, especially if you are looking for great places to hang out that are female friendly, as this is harder in Cairo than one would hope

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Umm Kulthum Museum

@markfedoronko

More for the Arab culture lover than the typical tourist, Umm Kulthoum is one of the Arab World's most cherished singers. Her songs last about two hours each (no that's not a joke) and Arabs all over the world used to crowd the radio to listen to one song an evening. Today, the Umm Kulthoum Museum is a great monument to an Egyptian pop culture icon and a great way to learn a bit more about modern Arab culture

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Zamalek SC

@markfedoronko

Not for the light of heart, but Egypt is a massive football loving nation. The favorite team? Depending who you ask: either Al Ahly or Zamalek. There's a whole movie about two feuding families who support different teams and their kids fall in love. I probably have insulted half of Cairo by choosing Zamalek, but seeing a football match is a real show of modern Egypt. Passionate fans who love the game and their local clubs show a real glimpse of modern Egypt.

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Abou Tarek

@markfedoronko

This article was more supposed to be about attractions than restaurants, but Abou Tarek transcends being a restaurant. You know the food must be good if they only serve one item and still fill a three story restaurant serve this one item. Abou Tarek serves koshary, the national dish of Egypt and carb overload. Rice, pasta, lentils, tomato sauce, chickpeas, crispy onions and some spicy and zesty sauce makes this delicious meal. While Egypt is not a great food country, Abou Tarek is a must stop in Cairo

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Some Lodging Recommendations

Grand Nile Tower

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A decent hotel with great views of the Nile and a nice morning breakfast

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President Hotel

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A solid midrange hotel located in Zamalek. With it's great location, this is a great hotel if you want to enjoy everything on offer on Gazira

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Le Riad Hotel de Charme

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Options in Islamic Cairo are limited for lodging, and this is head and shoulders the nicest option. With nicely decorated rooms, this hotel oozes with the old world charm of historic Cairo

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Kempinski Nile Hotel Garden City Cairo

@markfedoronko

There are a slew of high end chain hotels overlooking the Nile. The Kempinski is one of the cheaper options, but still a very nice option! Great Nile views

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Marriott Mena House, Cairo

@markfedoronko

Granted it's expensive and a chain, but is there another hotel in all the world that has such a dramatic view? When was the last time you ate a buffet dinner in a luscious garden overlooking the Pyramids? The Marriott Mena House is a very unique stay and allows you to be really close to the sites in Giza

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Reach out to Mark!

Mark provides all sorts of info to help your travel needs! This includes specific travel itineraries and planning services. Please reach out if you have any questions or would like customized travel services.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mark Fedoronko

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My name is Mark, and I've been travel planning since the age of 11. About Me I help redefine the way you experience the world. I don't just plan trips; we craft extraordinary adventures tailored to your unique desires. Mark's journey into the realm of travel planning began at an early age, driven by an insatiable curiosity to uncover the hidden gems and cultural nuances that make each destination truly exceptional. Expertise Beyond Borders Boasting an extensive portfolio of expertise, Mark is a seasoned navigator through the enchanting landscapes of Morocco, the captivating history of Jordan, the rich tapestry of Israel/Palestine, the cosmopolitan allure of Copenhagen, and beyond. Whether you're yearning for the vibrant markets of Marrakech, the ancient wonders of Petra, the historical significance of Jerusalem, or the contemporary charm of Copenhagen, I ensure that your journey is not just a trip but a transformative experience. Custom Itineraries, Crafted with Care I understand that no two travelers are the same. My commitment to personalization means that every itinerary is a bespoke masterpiece, meticulously crafted to reflect your preferences, interests, and dreams. From immersive cultural excursions to adrenaline-pumping adventures, we curate experiences that resonate with your individual travel style. Why Choose Mark's Travel Recs? Passion-Driven Expertise: Mark's lifelong passion ensures every itinerary has an authentic touch. Global Perspective: With knowledge spanning diverse destinations, I offer journeys beyond the ordinary. Attention to Detail: I leave no stone unturned, from accommodation to off-the-beaten-path excursions. Seamless Planning: Let me take the reins for a stress-free journey from conception to execution. Embark on a voyage of a lifetime with me—where the world is your oyster, and I help you discover its pearls

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