Like a number of vacationers, I spent two days in Cairo as a part of a week-long journey to Egypt, additionally visiting Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel. As Egypt’s capital metropolis and main cultural hub, it’s a preferred begin and finish level for many journeys. Two days is the minimal beneficial time right here, though you can additionally go to for 3 or 4 days to actually get a really feel for town.
Cairo is chaotic and intense, with fixed honking, jam-packed streets, and the nerve-wracking expertise of attempting to cross the street. As a pedestrian you simply form of must stroll out into the stream of vehicles and hope they decelerate for you. It sounds demanding, and it’s at instances, but it surely’s additionally a part of what makes town really feel alive.
Most individuals come to Cairo for the pyramids, and to be honest, they’re spectacular as you’d anticipate. However what shocked me was that my most memorable moments weren’t gazing up on the pyramids or driving a camel within the desert. Town has a lot extra to find than that. My private highlights of Cairo have been visiting the Citadel, which supplies you sweeping views over Cairo, and wandering round Khan el-Khalili market, the place you possibly can browse every thing from spices to souvenirs. It’s additionally a kind of cities the place merely sitting down with a plate of meals or a glass of tea and watching the world go by is value making time for.
Earlier than what to see and do, let’s take a fast take a look at one of the best methods to get to Cairo.
Getting There: Flying into Cairo
Cairo Worldwide Airport is among the busiest airports in Africa and the Center East, and it connects to locations all around the world.
Should you’re touring regionally or inside Egypt, Nile air is an effective choice. Nile Air is one among Egypt’s main carriers, working flights between Cairo and different main Egyptian cities like Luxor and Aswan, in addition to routes throughout the Center East. This makes it handy in the event you’re planning to mix Cairo with different elements of the nation, or in the event you’re coming in from close by locations.
When you land, the airport is a couple of 30 to 45 minute drive from town heart, relying on site visitors. Taxis and ride-hailing apps can be found, however for first-time guests, I’d counsel arranging an airport switch prematurely by way of your lodge or tour supplier so that you don’t have to fret about scams or getting ripped off.
When you’re within the metropolis heart, getting round by Uber may be very low cost and handy, because you don’t have to fret about carrying money with you. I felt very protected in Cairo realizing that my Uber rides have been tracked by GPS.
Begin With the Museums
I’d suggest beginning your journey to Cairo with a go to to the museums, since they’ll offer you a strong background on Egypt’s historical past earlier than you exit and see the massive sights in particular person.
The principle museum to go to is the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Sq.. It’s large, packed ground to ceiling with statues, sarcophagi, jewellery, and nearly every thing else you possibly can think about. There are over 120,000 objects on show (which is nearly an excessive amount of to absorb) however the principle draw right here is Tutankhamun’s gold masks – the strong gold funerary masks that was positioned over the face of the younger pharaoh when he was buried over 3,000 years in the past. Even in the event you’re not often huge on museums, I’d say this one is value a few hours at the least.
One other place you would possibly like to go to is the Coptic Museum. It doesn’t get as many guests, which makes it a bit calmer, and the gathering is fascinating in the event you’re interested in Egypt’s Christian historical past. Past the collections of manuscripts, textiles, and artwork, the museum’s design usually catches individuals’s consideration. The carved woodwork and ethereal courtyards make the house really feel welcoming and serene.
When you have extra time, the Museum of Islamic Artwork can be glorious. This museum covers centuries of Islamic historical past by way of issues like ceramics, calligraphy, and textiles, and it’s the most effective collections of its form anyplace. Since Cairo is thought for its Islamic structure and historic mosques, coming right here first helps put a number of what you’ll see across the metropolis into perspective.
The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
After all, you possibly can’t speak about Cairo with out mentioning the Pyramids of Giza. The pyramids are solely a couple of 30-minute drive from downtown, however when you’re standing there within the desert, it feels such as you’ve stepped into one other world. I’d counsel hiring a information to indicate you round – this fashion you received’t expertise any trouble whenever you’re there. Lots of people complain about being hassled or ripped off in Egypt, however when a information is current, you received’t be bothered. Your information will take loads of images of you with the pyramids and also you received’t must haggle on the worth of a camel experience.
The Nice Pyramid, constructed for Pharaoh Khufu, is the biggest and the oldest of the three pyramids. You may climb partway up and even enterprise inside one of many pyramids to see the chambers, although it may be a bit claustrophobic for the reason that passages are slender. One other main spotlight is the Sphinx, the well-known statue with the physique of a lion and the face of a pharaoh, which sits subsequent to the pyramids as if guarding the positioning.
My recommendation: go early within the morning earlier than the tour buses arrive and earlier than the warmth of the day units in. When you have the time, stick round for sundown when the sunshine casts a golden glow over the stones.
Outdated Cairo
After seeing the traditional wonders, head to Outdated Cairo for a very completely different aspect of town. This district has been residence to Christians, Jews, and Muslims for hundreds of years, and you may see that blend mirrored within the structure.
The Hanging Church, named as a result of it was constructed on prime of a Roman fortress, is among the oldest church buildings in Egypt. Inside, you’ll discover wood carvings, icons, and a peaceable ambiance that contrasts with the busy streets outdoors.
Close by is the Ben Ezra Synagogue, which has an enchanting historical past tied to Jewish life in Cairo. The Amr Mosque, Cairo’s first mosque, can be on this space. The mosque has been rebuilt a number of instances over the centuries, but it surely stays an essential landmark and a peaceable spot to step inside and take a break from town’s chaos.
Khan el Khalili: Cairo’s Well-known Market
Considered one of my favourite experiences in Cairo was wandering by way of Khan el Khalili, town’s historic bazaar. This well-known market dates again to the 14th century and remains to be a hub of exercise immediately. The slender alleys are crammed with outlets promoting every thing from gold jewellery to colourful lamps, spices, and textiles.
Even in the event you don’t plan on shopping for a lot, it’s enjoyable to browse and take within the ambiance. Haggling is a part of the expertise right here, so don’t be shy about negotiating costs. Once you want a break, cease at El Fishawy, a café that’s been serving tea and low for hundreds of years.
Life on the Nile
The Nile River has formed Egyptian tradition for 1000’s of years, and it nonetheless performs a central function in Cairo immediately. Taking a ship experience on the river is among the most stress-free issues you are able to do within the metropolis.
A felucca, a standard wood sailboat, is ideal if you would like one thing easy and peaceable. Should you take one at sundown, town lights begin to come on and the skyline takes on a heat, magical glow.
For a livelier expertise, there are dinner cruises with dwell music and dancing. It’s a completely completely different vibe, however each choices offer you a way of how essential the river is to Cairo’s life and tradition.
Up to date Cairo
Moreover historical past, Cairo additionally has a rising trendy artwork and music scene that’s value exploring.
In Zamalek, a leafy neighborhood on an island within the Nile, you’ll discover galleries just like the Zamalek Artwork Gallery and the Townhouse Gallery. Each galleries showcase each established and rising Egyptian artists, and exhibitions change often. Even in the event you’re not an artwork buff, it’s a great way to see what’s taking place within the metropolis creatively proper now.
The Cairo Opera Home is one other must-see. This gorgeous constructing homes every thing from ballet and opera to conventional Egyptian music concert events. Earlier than you go to, it’s value checking the schedule to see what’s on so you possibly can catch a efficiency.
Smaller Museums Value Your Time
Past the massive museums, Cairo has some smaller ones which are additionally value a go to and make for a pleasant change of tempo:
- The Gayer-Anderson Museum is a restored Seventeenth-century home crammed with antiques, art work, and conventional furnishings. It’s like moving into the house of a rich household from centuries in the past.
- The Umm Kulthum Museum is devoted to the lifetime of Egypt’s most beloved singer. Umm Kulthum was a cultural icon throughout the Arab world, and the museum shows her costumes, devices, and private belongings.
- The Panorama of the October Struggle tells the story of the 1973 battle with Israel. The spotlight is a rotating platform with a panoramic portray of the battle, mixed with artifacts and reveals.
Native Meals to Attempt in Cairo
Once you discover Cairo, the landmarks are solely a part of the image. You’ll additionally wish to get a style of native life and check out some Egyptian meals whilst you’re there.
Attempt koshari, a mixture of rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and crispy onions topped with tomato sauce and chili. It’s filling, low cost, and very talked-about with locals. Ful medames (fava beans) and taameya (Egyptian falafel made with fava beans as a substitute of chickpeas) are additionally staple dishes you’ll see in all places.
Sitting in a café is one other must-do. Cairo has an extended coffeehouse custom, and plenty of locations are simply as a lot about people-watching and dialog as they’re in regards to the drinks. Order a mint tea or a powerful espresso, and watch the world go by.
A Steered Three-Day Itinerary
Should you’re quick on time however wish to get mixture of experiences, right here’s a prompt itinerary in your journey:
- Day 1: Egyptian Museum, Tahrir Sq., and a sundown felucca experience.
- Day 2: Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx within the morning, then dinner in Zamalek.
- Day 3: Outdated Cairo—Hanging Church, Amr Mosque, Ben Ezra Synagogue, and Khan el Khalili.
A Remaining Phrase
Cairo won’t all the time really feel simple to navigate, but it surely’s a spot you shouldn’t skip in the event you’re heading to different locations in Egypt like Luxor or Aswan. I’d suggest giving your self at the least two to a few days right here to get a correct really feel for town.
Between the museums, the meals, the markets, and the historic websites, there’s greater than sufficient to maintain you busy. And in the event you’re feeling adventurous, you possibly can even take a day journey as much as Alexandria for a change of surroundings alongside the Mediterranean coast.
Like a number of vacationers, I spent two days in Cairo as a part of a week-long journey to Egypt, additionally visiting Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel. As Egypt’s capital metropolis and main cultural hub, it’s a preferred begin and finish level for many journeys. Two days is the minimal beneficial time right here, though you can additionally go to for 3 or 4 days to actually get a really feel for town.
Cairo is chaotic and intense, with fixed honking, jam-packed streets, and the nerve-wracking expertise of attempting to cross the street. As a pedestrian you simply form of must stroll out into the stream of vehicles and hope they decelerate for you. It sounds demanding, and it’s at instances, but it surely’s additionally a part of what makes town really feel alive.
Most individuals come to Cairo for the pyramids, and to be honest, they’re spectacular as you’d anticipate. However what shocked me was that my most memorable moments weren’t gazing up on the pyramids or driving a camel within the desert. Town has a lot extra to find than that. My private highlights of Cairo have been visiting the Citadel, which supplies you sweeping views over Cairo, and wandering round Khan el-Khalili market, the place you possibly can browse every thing from spices to souvenirs. It’s additionally a kind of cities the place merely sitting down with a plate of meals or a glass of tea and watching the world go by is value making time for.
Earlier than what to see and do, let’s take a fast take a look at one of the best methods to get to Cairo.
Getting There: Flying into Cairo
Cairo Worldwide Airport is among the busiest airports in Africa and the Center East, and it connects to locations all around the world.
Should you’re touring regionally or inside Egypt, Nile air is an effective choice. Nile Air is one among Egypt’s main carriers, working flights between Cairo and different main Egyptian cities like Luxor and Aswan, in addition to routes throughout the Center East. This makes it handy in the event you’re planning to mix Cairo with different elements of the nation, or in the event you’re coming in from close by locations.
When you land, the airport is a couple of 30 to 45 minute drive from town heart, relying on site visitors. Taxis and ride-hailing apps can be found, however for first-time guests, I’d counsel arranging an airport switch prematurely by way of your lodge or tour supplier so that you don’t have to fret about scams or getting ripped off.
When you’re within the metropolis heart, getting round by Uber may be very low cost and handy, because you don’t have to fret about carrying money with you. I felt very protected in Cairo realizing that my Uber rides have been tracked by GPS.
Begin With the Museums
I’d suggest beginning your journey to Cairo with a go to to the museums, since they’ll offer you a strong background on Egypt’s historical past earlier than you exit and see the massive sights in particular person.
The principle museum to go to is the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Sq.. It’s large, packed ground to ceiling with statues, sarcophagi, jewellery, and nearly every thing else you possibly can think about. There are over 120,000 objects on show (which is nearly an excessive amount of to absorb) however the principle draw right here is Tutankhamun’s gold masks – the strong gold funerary masks that was positioned over the face of the younger pharaoh when he was buried over 3,000 years in the past. Even in the event you’re not often huge on museums, I’d say this one is value a few hours at the least.
One other place you would possibly like to go to is the Coptic Museum. It doesn’t get as many guests, which makes it a bit calmer, and the gathering is fascinating in the event you’re interested in Egypt’s Christian historical past. Past the collections of manuscripts, textiles, and artwork, the museum’s design usually catches individuals’s consideration. The carved woodwork and ethereal courtyards make the house really feel welcoming and serene.
When you have extra time, the Museum of Islamic Artwork can be glorious. This museum covers centuries of Islamic historical past by way of issues like ceramics, calligraphy, and textiles, and it’s the most effective collections of its form anyplace. Since Cairo is thought for its Islamic structure and historic mosques, coming right here first helps put a number of what you’ll see across the metropolis into perspective.
The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
After all, you possibly can’t speak about Cairo with out mentioning the Pyramids of Giza. The pyramids are solely a couple of 30-minute drive from downtown, however when you’re standing there within the desert, it feels such as you’ve stepped into one other world. I’d counsel hiring a information to indicate you round – this fashion you received’t expertise any trouble whenever you’re there. Lots of people complain about being hassled or ripped off in Egypt, however when a information is current, you received’t be bothered. Your information will take loads of images of you with the pyramids and also you received’t must haggle on the worth of a camel experience.
The Nice Pyramid, constructed for Pharaoh Khufu, is the biggest and the oldest of the three pyramids. You may climb partway up and even enterprise inside one of many pyramids to see the chambers, although it may be a bit claustrophobic for the reason that passages are slender. One other main spotlight is the Sphinx, the well-known statue with the physique of a lion and the face of a pharaoh, which sits subsequent to the pyramids as if guarding the positioning.
My recommendation: go early within the morning earlier than the tour buses arrive and earlier than the warmth of the day units in. When you have the time, stick round for sundown when the sunshine casts a golden glow over the stones.
Outdated Cairo
After seeing the traditional wonders, head to Outdated Cairo for a very completely different aspect of town. This district has been residence to Christians, Jews, and Muslims for hundreds of years, and you may see that blend mirrored within the structure.
The Hanging Church, named as a result of it was constructed on prime of a Roman fortress, is among the oldest church buildings in Egypt. Inside, you’ll discover wood carvings, icons, and a peaceable ambiance that contrasts with the busy streets outdoors.
Close by is the Ben Ezra Synagogue, which has an enchanting historical past tied to Jewish life in Cairo. The Amr Mosque, Cairo’s first mosque, can be on this space. The mosque has been rebuilt a number of instances over the centuries, but it surely stays an essential landmark and a peaceable spot to step inside and take a break from town’s chaos.
Khan el Khalili: Cairo’s Well-known Market
Considered one of my favourite experiences in Cairo was wandering by way of Khan el Khalili, town’s historic bazaar. This well-known market dates again to the 14th century and remains to be a hub of exercise immediately. The slender alleys are crammed with outlets promoting every thing from gold jewellery to colourful lamps, spices, and textiles.
Even in the event you don’t plan on shopping for a lot, it’s enjoyable to browse and take within the ambiance. Haggling is a part of the expertise right here, so don’t be shy about negotiating costs. Once you want a break, cease at El Fishawy, a café that’s been serving tea and low for hundreds of years.
Life on the Nile
The Nile River has formed Egyptian tradition for 1000’s of years, and it nonetheless performs a central function in Cairo immediately. Taking a ship experience on the river is among the most stress-free issues you are able to do within the metropolis.
A felucca, a standard wood sailboat, is ideal if you would like one thing easy and peaceable. Should you take one at sundown, town lights begin to come on and the skyline takes on a heat, magical glow.
For a livelier expertise, there are dinner cruises with dwell music and dancing. It’s a completely completely different vibe, however each choices offer you a way of how essential the river is to Cairo’s life and tradition.
Up to date Cairo
Moreover historical past, Cairo additionally has a rising trendy artwork and music scene that’s value exploring.
In Zamalek, a leafy neighborhood on an island within the Nile, you’ll discover galleries just like the Zamalek Artwork Gallery and the Townhouse Gallery. Each galleries showcase each established and rising Egyptian artists, and exhibitions change often. Even in the event you’re not an artwork buff, it’s a great way to see what’s taking place within the metropolis creatively proper now.
The Cairo Opera Home is one other must-see. This gorgeous constructing homes every thing from ballet and opera to conventional Egyptian music concert events. Earlier than you go to, it’s value checking the schedule to see what’s on so you possibly can catch a efficiency.
Smaller Museums Value Your Time
Past the massive museums, Cairo has some smaller ones which are additionally value a go to and make for a pleasant change of tempo:
- The Gayer-Anderson Museum is a restored Seventeenth-century home crammed with antiques, art work, and conventional furnishings. It’s like moving into the house of a rich household from centuries in the past.
- The Umm Kulthum Museum is devoted to the lifetime of Egypt’s most beloved singer. Umm Kulthum was a cultural icon throughout the Arab world, and the museum shows her costumes, devices, and private belongings.
- The Panorama of the October Struggle tells the story of the 1973 battle with Israel. The spotlight is a rotating platform with a panoramic portray of the battle, mixed with artifacts and reveals.
Native Meals to Attempt in Cairo
Once you discover Cairo, the landmarks are solely a part of the image. You’ll additionally wish to get a style of native life and check out some Egyptian meals whilst you’re there.
Attempt koshari, a mixture of rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and crispy onions topped with tomato sauce and chili. It’s filling, low cost, and very talked-about with locals. Ful medames (fava beans) and taameya (Egyptian falafel made with fava beans as a substitute of chickpeas) are additionally staple dishes you’ll see in all places.
Sitting in a café is one other must-do. Cairo has an extended coffeehouse custom, and plenty of locations are simply as a lot about people-watching and dialog as they’re in regards to the drinks. Order a mint tea or a powerful espresso, and watch the world go by.
A Steered Three-Day Itinerary
Should you’re quick on time however wish to get mixture of experiences, right here’s a prompt itinerary in your journey:
- Day 1: Egyptian Museum, Tahrir Sq., and a sundown felucca experience.
- Day 2: Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx within the morning, then dinner in Zamalek.
- Day 3: Outdated Cairo—Hanging Church, Amr Mosque, Ben Ezra Synagogue, and Khan el Khalili.
A Remaining Phrase
Cairo won’t all the time really feel simple to navigate, but it surely’s a spot you shouldn’t skip in the event you’re heading to different locations in Egypt like Luxor or Aswan. I’d suggest giving your self at the least two to a few days right here to get a correct really feel for town.
Between the museums, the meals, the markets, and the historic websites, there’s greater than sufficient to maintain you busy. And in the event you’re feeling adventurous, you possibly can even take a day journey as much as Alexandria for a change of surroundings alongside the Mediterranean coast.
Like a number of vacationers, I spent two days in Cairo as a part of a week-long journey to Egypt, additionally visiting Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel. As Egypt’s capital metropolis and main cultural hub, it’s a preferred begin and finish level for many journeys. Two days is the minimal beneficial time right here, though you can additionally go to for 3 or 4 days to actually get a really feel for town.
Cairo is chaotic and intense, with fixed honking, jam-packed streets, and the nerve-wracking expertise of attempting to cross the street. As a pedestrian you simply form of must stroll out into the stream of vehicles and hope they decelerate for you. It sounds demanding, and it’s at instances, but it surely’s additionally a part of what makes town really feel alive.
Most individuals come to Cairo for the pyramids, and to be honest, they’re spectacular as you’d anticipate. However what shocked me was that my most memorable moments weren’t gazing up on the pyramids or driving a camel within the desert. Town has a lot extra to find than that. My private highlights of Cairo have been visiting the Citadel, which supplies you sweeping views over Cairo, and wandering round Khan el-Khalili market, the place you possibly can browse every thing from spices to souvenirs. It’s additionally a kind of cities the place merely sitting down with a plate of meals or a glass of tea and watching the world go by is value making time for.
Earlier than what to see and do, let’s take a fast take a look at one of the best methods to get to Cairo.
Getting There: Flying into Cairo
Cairo Worldwide Airport is among the busiest airports in Africa and the Center East, and it connects to locations all around the world.
Should you’re touring regionally or inside Egypt, Nile air is an effective choice. Nile Air is one among Egypt’s main carriers, working flights between Cairo and different main Egyptian cities like Luxor and Aswan, in addition to routes throughout the Center East. This makes it handy in the event you’re planning to mix Cairo with different elements of the nation, or in the event you’re coming in from close by locations.
When you land, the airport is a couple of 30 to 45 minute drive from town heart, relying on site visitors. Taxis and ride-hailing apps can be found, however for first-time guests, I’d counsel arranging an airport switch prematurely by way of your lodge or tour supplier so that you don’t have to fret about scams or getting ripped off.
When you’re within the metropolis heart, getting round by Uber may be very low cost and handy, because you don’t have to fret about carrying money with you. I felt very protected in Cairo realizing that my Uber rides have been tracked by GPS.
Begin With the Museums
I’d suggest beginning your journey to Cairo with a go to to the museums, since they’ll offer you a strong background on Egypt’s historical past earlier than you exit and see the massive sights in particular person.
The principle museum to go to is the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Sq.. It’s large, packed ground to ceiling with statues, sarcophagi, jewellery, and nearly every thing else you possibly can think about. There are over 120,000 objects on show (which is nearly an excessive amount of to absorb) however the principle draw right here is Tutankhamun’s gold masks – the strong gold funerary masks that was positioned over the face of the younger pharaoh when he was buried over 3,000 years in the past. Even in the event you’re not often huge on museums, I’d say this one is value a few hours at the least.
One other place you would possibly like to go to is the Coptic Museum. It doesn’t get as many guests, which makes it a bit calmer, and the gathering is fascinating in the event you’re interested in Egypt’s Christian historical past. Past the collections of manuscripts, textiles, and artwork, the museum’s design usually catches individuals’s consideration. The carved woodwork and ethereal courtyards make the house really feel welcoming and serene.
When you have extra time, the Museum of Islamic Artwork can be glorious. This museum covers centuries of Islamic historical past by way of issues like ceramics, calligraphy, and textiles, and it’s the most effective collections of its form anyplace. Since Cairo is thought for its Islamic structure and historic mosques, coming right here first helps put a number of what you’ll see across the metropolis into perspective.
The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
After all, you possibly can’t speak about Cairo with out mentioning the Pyramids of Giza. The pyramids are solely a couple of 30-minute drive from downtown, however when you’re standing there within the desert, it feels such as you’ve stepped into one other world. I’d counsel hiring a information to indicate you round – this fashion you received’t expertise any trouble whenever you’re there. Lots of people complain about being hassled or ripped off in Egypt, however when a information is current, you received’t be bothered. Your information will take loads of images of you with the pyramids and also you received’t must haggle on the worth of a camel experience.
The Nice Pyramid, constructed for Pharaoh Khufu, is the biggest and the oldest of the three pyramids. You may climb partway up and even enterprise inside one of many pyramids to see the chambers, although it may be a bit claustrophobic for the reason that passages are slender. One other main spotlight is the Sphinx, the well-known statue with the physique of a lion and the face of a pharaoh, which sits subsequent to the pyramids as if guarding the positioning.
My recommendation: go early within the morning earlier than the tour buses arrive and earlier than the warmth of the day units in. When you have the time, stick round for sundown when the sunshine casts a golden glow over the stones.
Outdated Cairo
After seeing the traditional wonders, head to Outdated Cairo for a very completely different aspect of town. This district has been residence to Christians, Jews, and Muslims for hundreds of years, and you may see that blend mirrored within the structure.
The Hanging Church, named as a result of it was constructed on prime of a Roman fortress, is among the oldest church buildings in Egypt. Inside, you’ll discover wood carvings, icons, and a peaceable ambiance that contrasts with the busy streets outdoors.
Close by is the Ben Ezra Synagogue, which has an enchanting historical past tied to Jewish life in Cairo. The Amr Mosque, Cairo’s first mosque, can be on this space. The mosque has been rebuilt a number of instances over the centuries, but it surely stays an essential landmark and a peaceable spot to step inside and take a break from town’s chaos.
Khan el Khalili: Cairo’s Well-known Market
Considered one of my favourite experiences in Cairo was wandering by way of Khan el Khalili, town’s historic bazaar. This well-known market dates again to the 14th century and remains to be a hub of exercise immediately. The slender alleys are crammed with outlets promoting every thing from gold jewellery to colourful lamps, spices, and textiles.
Even in the event you don’t plan on shopping for a lot, it’s enjoyable to browse and take within the ambiance. Haggling is a part of the expertise right here, so don’t be shy about negotiating costs. Once you want a break, cease at El Fishawy, a café that’s been serving tea and low for hundreds of years.
Life on the Nile
The Nile River has formed Egyptian tradition for 1000’s of years, and it nonetheless performs a central function in Cairo immediately. Taking a ship experience on the river is among the most stress-free issues you are able to do within the metropolis.
A felucca, a standard wood sailboat, is ideal if you would like one thing easy and peaceable. Should you take one at sundown, town lights begin to come on and the skyline takes on a heat, magical glow.
For a livelier expertise, there are dinner cruises with dwell music and dancing. It’s a completely completely different vibe, however each choices offer you a way of how essential the river is to Cairo’s life and tradition.
Up to date Cairo
Moreover historical past, Cairo additionally has a rising trendy artwork and music scene that’s value exploring.
In Zamalek, a leafy neighborhood on an island within the Nile, you’ll discover galleries just like the Zamalek Artwork Gallery and the Townhouse Gallery. Each galleries showcase each established and rising Egyptian artists, and exhibitions change often. Even in the event you’re not an artwork buff, it’s a great way to see what’s taking place within the metropolis creatively proper now.
The Cairo Opera Home is one other must-see. This gorgeous constructing homes every thing from ballet and opera to conventional Egyptian music concert events. Earlier than you go to, it’s value checking the schedule to see what’s on so you possibly can catch a efficiency.
Smaller Museums Value Your Time
Past the massive museums, Cairo has some smaller ones which are additionally value a go to and make for a pleasant change of tempo:
- The Gayer-Anderson Museum is a restored Seventeenth-century home crammed with antiques, art work, and conventional furnishings. It’s like moving into the house of a rich household from centuries in the past.
- The Umm Kulthum Museum is devoted to the lifetime of Egypt’s most beloved singer. Umm Kulthum was a cultural icon throughout the Arab world, and the museum shows her costumes, devices, and private belongings.
- The Panorama of the October Struggle tells the story of the 1973 battle with Israel. The spotlight is a rotating platform with a panoramic portray of the battle, mixed with artifacts and reveals.
Native Meals to Attempt in Cairo
Once you discover Cairo, the landmarks are solely a part of the image. You’ll additionally wish to get a style of native life and check out some Egyptian meals whilst you’re there.
Attempt koshari, a mixture of rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and crispy onions topped with tomato sauce and chili. It’s filling, low cost, and very talked-about with locals. Ful medames (fava beans) and taameya (Egyptian falafel made with fava beans as a substitute of chickpeas) are additionally staple dishes you’ll see in all places.
Sitting in a café is one other must-do. Cairo has an extended coffeehouse custom, and plenty of locations are simply as a lot about people-watching and dialog as they’re in regards to the drinks. Order a mint tea or a powerful espresso, and watch the world go by.
A Steered Three-Day Itinerary
Should you’re quick on time however wish to get mixture of experiences, right here’s a prompt itinerary in your journey:
- Day 1: Egyptian Museum, Tahrir Sq., and a sundown felucca experience.
- Day 2: Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx within the morning, then dinner in Zamalek.
- Day 3: Outdated Cairo—Hanging Church, Amr Mosque, Ben Ezra Synagogue, and Khan el Khalili.
A Remaining Phrase
Cairo won’t all the time really feel simple to navigate, but it surely’s a spot you shouldn’t skip in the event you’re heading to different locations in Egypt like Luxor or Aswan. I’d suggest giving your self at the least two to a few days right here to get a correct really feel for town.
Between the museums, the meals, the markets, and the historic websites, there’s greater than sufficient to maintain you busy. And in the event you’re feeling adventurous, you possibly can even take a day journey as much as Alexandria for a change of surroundings alongside the Mediterranean coast.
Like a number of vacationers, I spent two days in Cairo as a part of a week-long journey to Egypt, additionally visiting Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel. As Egypt’s capital metropolis and main cultural hub, it’s a preferred begin and finish level for many journeys. Two days is the minimal beneficial time right here, though you can additionally go to for 3 or 4 days to actually get a really feel for town.
Cairo is chaotic and intense, with fixed honking, jam-packed streets, and the nerve-wracking expertise of attempting to cross the street. As a pedestrian you simply form of must stroll out into the stream of vehicles and hope they decelerate for you. It sounds demanding, and it’s at instances, but it surely’s additionally a part of what makes town really feel alive.
Most individuals come to Cairo for the pyramids, and to be honest, they’re spectacular as you’d anticipate. However what shocked me was that my most memorable moments weren’t gazing up on the pyramids or driving a camel within the desert. Town has a lot extra to find than that. My private highlights of Cairo have been visiting the Citadel, which supplies you sweeping views over Cairo, and wandering round Khan el-Khalili market, the place you possibly can browse every thing from spices to souvenirs. It’s additionally a kind of cities the place merely sitting down with a plate of meals or a glass of tea and watching the world go by is value making time for.
Earlier than what to see and do, let’s take a fast take a look at one of the best methods to get to Cairo.
Getting There: Flying into Cairo
Cairo Worldwide Airport is among the busiest airports in Africa and the Center East, and it connects to locations all around the world.
Should you’re touring regionally or inside Egypt, Nile air is an effective choice. Nile Air is one among Egypt’s main carriers, working flights between Cairo and different main Egyptian cities like Luxor and Aswan, in addition to routes throughout the Center East. This makes it handy in the event you’re planning to mix Cairo with different elements of the nation, or in the event you’re coming in from close by locations.
When you land, the airport is a couple of 30 to 45 minute drive from town heart, relying on site visitors. Taxis and ride-hailing apps can be found, however for first-time guests, I’d counsel arranging an airport switch prematurely by way of your lodge or tour supplier so that you don’t have to fret about scams or getting ripped off.
When you’re within the metropolis heart, getting round by Uber may be very low cost and handy, because you don’t have to fret about carrying money with you. I felt very protected in Cairo realizing that my Uber rides have been tracked by GPS.
Begin With the Museums
I’d suggest beginning your journey to Cairo with a go to to the museums, since they’ll offer you a strong background on Egypt’s historical past earlier than you exit and see the massive sights in particular person.
The principle museum to go to is the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Sq.. It’s large, packed ground to ceiling with statues, sarcophagi, jewellery, and nearly every thing else you possibly can think about. There are over 120,000 objects on show (which is nearly an excessive amount of to absorb) however the principle draw right here is Tutankhamun’s gold masks – the strong gold funerary masks that was positioned over the face of the younger pharaoh when he was buried over 3,000 years in the past. Even in the event you’re not often huge on museums, I’d say this one is value a few hours at the least.
One other place you would possibly like to go to is the Coptic Museum. It doesn’t get as many guests, which makes it a bit calmer, and the gathering is fascinating in the event you’re interested in Egypt’s Christian historical past. Past the collections of manuscripts, textiles, and artwork, the museum’s design usually catches individuals’s consideration. The carved woodwork and ethereal courtyards make the house really feel welcoming and serene.
When you have extra time, the Museum of Islamic Artwork can be glorious. This museum covers centuries of Islamic historical past by way of issues like ceramics, calligraphy, and textiles, and it’s the most effective collections of its form anyplace. Since Cairo is thought for its Islamic structure and historic mosques, coming right here first helps put a number of what you’ll see across the metropolis into perspective.
The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
After all, you possibly can’t speak about Cairo with out mentioning the Pyramids of Giza. The pyramids are solely a couple of 30-minute drive from downtown, however when you’re standing there within the desert, it feels such as you’ve stepped into one other world. I’d counsel hiring a information to indicate you round – this fashion you received’t expertise any trouble whenever you’re there. Lots of people complain about being hassled or ripped off in Egypt, however when a information is current, you received’t be bothered. Your information will take loads of images of you with the pyramids and also you received’t must haggle on the worth of a camel experience.
The Nice Pyramid, constructed for Pharaoh Khufu, is the biggest and the oldest of the three pyramids. You may climb partway up and even enterprise inside one of many pyramids to see the chambers, although it may be a bit claustrophobic for the reason that passages are slender. One other main spotlight is the Sphinx, the well-known statue with the physique of a lion and the face of a pharaoh, which sits subsequent to the pyramids as if guarding the positioning.
My recommendation: go early within the morning earlier than the tour buses arrive and earlier than the warmth of the day units in. When you have the time, stick round for sundown when the sunshine casts a golden glow over the stones.
Outdated Cairo
After seeing the traditional wonders, head to Outdated Cairo for a very completely different aspect of town. This district has been residence to Christians, Jews, and Muslims for hundreds of years, and you may see that blend mirrored within the structure.
The Hanging Church, named as a result of it was constructed on prime of a Roman fortress, is among the oldest church buildings in Egypt. Inside, you’ll discover wood carvings, icons, and a peaceable ambiance that contrasts with the busy streets outdoors.
Close by is the Ben Ezra Synagogue, which has an enchanting historical past tied to Jewish life in Cairo. The Amr Mosque, Cairo’s first mosque, can be on this space. The mosque has been rebuilt a number of instances over the centuries, but it surely stays an essential landmark and a peaceable spot to step inside and take a break from town’s chaos.
Khan el Khalili: Cairo’s Well-known Market
Considered one of my favourite experiences in Cairo was wandering by way of Khan el Khalili, town’s historic bazaar. This well-known market dates again to the 14th century and remains to be a hub of exercise immediately. The slender alleys are crammed with outlets promoting every thing from gold jewellery to colourful lamps, spices, and textiles.
Even in the event you don’t plan on shopping for a lot, it’s enjoyable to browse and take within the ambiance. Haggling is a part of the expertise right here, so don’t be shy about negotiating costs. Once you want a break, cease at El Fishawy, a café that’s been serving tea and low for hundreds of years.
Life on the Nile
The Nile River has formed Egyptian tradition for 1000’s of years, and it nonetheless performs a central function in Cairo immediately. Taking a ship experience on the river is among the most stress-free issues you are able to do within the metropolis.
A felucca, a standard wood sailboat, is ideal if you would like one thing easy and peaceable. Should you take one at sundown, town lights begin to come on and the skyline takes on a heat, magical glow.
For a livelier expertise, there are dinner cruises with dwell music and dancing. It’s a completely completely different vibe, however each choices offer you a way of how essential the river is to Cairo’s life and tradition.
Up to date Cairo
Moreover historical past, Cairo additionally has a rising trendy artwork and music scene that’s value exploring.
In Zamalek, a leafy neighborhood on an island within the Nile, you’ll discover galleries just like the Zamalek Artwork Gallery and the Townhouse Gallery. Each galleries showcase each established and rising Egyptian artists, and exhibitions change often. Even in the event you’re not an artwork buff, it’s a great way to see what’s taking place within the metropolis creatively proper now.
The Cairo Opera Home is one other must-see. This gorgeous constructing homes every thing from ballet and opera to conventional Egyptian music concert events. Earlier than you go to, it’s value checking the schedule to see what’s on so you possibly can catch a efficiency.
Smaller Museums Value Your Time
Past the massive museums, Cairo has some smaller ones which are additionally value a go to and make for a pleasant change of tempo:
- The Gayer-Anderson Museum is a restored Seventeenth-century home crammed with antiques, art work, and conventional furnishings. It’s like moving into the house of a rich household from centuries in the past.
- The Umm Kulthum Museum is devoted to the lifetime of Egypt’s most beloved singer. Umm Kulthum was a cultural icon throughout the Arab world, and the museum shows her costumes, devices, and private belongings.
- The Panorama of the October Struggle tells the story of the 1973 battle with Israel. The spotlight is a rotating platform with a panoramic portray of the battle, mixed with artifacts and reveals.
Native Meals to Attempt in Cairo
Once you discover Cairo, the landmarks are solely a part of the image. You’ll additionally wish to get a style of native life and check out some Egyptian meals whilst you’re there.
Attempt koshari, a mixture of rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, and crispy onions topped with tomato sauce and chili. It’s filling, low cost, and very talked-about with locals. Ful medames (fava beans) and taameya (Egyptian falafel made with fava beans as a substitute of chickpeas) are additionally staple dishes you’ll see in all places.
Sitting in a café is one other must-do. Cairo has an extended coffeehouse custom, and plenty of locations are simply as a lot about people-watching and dialog as they’re in regards to the drinks. Order a mint tea or a powerful espresso, and watch the world go by.
A Steered Three-Day Itinerary
Should you’re quick on time however wish to get mixture of experiences, right here’s a prompt itinerary in your journey:
- Day 1: Egyptian Museum, Tahrir Sq., and a sundown felucca experience.
- Day 2: Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx within the morning, then dinner in Zamalek.
- Day 3: Outdated Cairo—Hanging Church, Amr Mosque, Ben Ezra Synagogue, and Khan el Khalili.
A Remaining Phrase
Cairo won’t all the time really feel simple to navigate, but it surely’s a spot you shouldn’t skip in the event you’re heading to different locations in Egypt like Luxor or Aswan. I’d suggest giving your self at the least two to a few days right here to get a correct really feel for town.
Between the museums, the meals, the markets, and the historic websites, there’s greater than sufficient to maintain you busy. And in the event you’re feeling adventurous, you possibly can even take a day journey as much as Alexandria for a change of surroundings alongside the Mediterranean coast.
