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Cairo is the bustling capital of Egypt and it’s probably the most fascinating locations on Earth. Because the gateway to the Nice Pyramids of Giza, and residential to many inspiring museums, it’s no marvel it’s one of many world’s hottest cities to go to.
However in the case of deciding on what to do in Cairo, it will possibly get overwhelming. The sheer variety of Cairo sights could make deciding which of them to go to a tough process.
That can assist you out, we interviewed Giulia Cimarosti, who has beforehand lived in Cairo and is an everyday customer, who has shared with us all the highest issues to do in Cairo for a primary time go to.
Giulia not solely shares with us her insider tips about what to do in Cairo, Egypt, however she additionally shares one of the best locations to eat, keep, drink, and discover. Let’s see what she says…
Is Cairo Price Visiting?
Cairo has at all times been included in package deal excursions for principally any journey to Egypt, however what’s normally proven just isn’t the town itself. Solely the Pyramids, the Nice Egyptian Museum, and some extra touristic spots are all of the guests get to see.
Too many occasions I hear folks saying they’ve been to Egypt however all they did was go to a seaside resort and spend no more than per week there.
It could be lovely but it surely’s undoubtedly not an genuine Egyptian expertise!
In my view, one can’t say he’s been to Egypt with out spending a while in Cairo, this actually takes folks into the hectic Egyptian life, along with its many contrasts and actual tradition, meals, habits.
In Cairo yow will discover one factor and its reverse; luxurious and poverty, tradition and illiteracy, magnificence and ugliness, the friendliest folks on Earth and essentially the most dishonest ones, and so forth.
Two days by no means look the identical once you stay in Cairo. If it’s important to go from A to B you’ll undoubtedly must face challenges and discover a totally different resolution day-after-day and that is what makes it so thrilling!
Nobody can say that Cairo just isn’t an journey, and for the adventurous traveller, for that cause I’d say it’s undoubtedly value visiting.
What to do in Cairo
To reply this query, I have to ask myself “the place would I take you in case you visited me in Cairo?” – and the reply is undoubtedly these high sights in Cairo.
1. Go to Al Azhar Park for Sundown
On the identical day you arrive, I’d take you out for dinner at Al Azhar Park simply earlier than sundown, to indicate you the town from above and the solar taking place on the Pyramids.
Positioned on the Mokattam Hills, it is likely one of the largest parks in Cairo and presents a variety of actions and sights such Bab El-Wazir Cemetery and Metropolis Of The Useless cemetery.
It additionally has some good fountains, swimming pools, and play areas for youngsters. Its huge inexperienced lawns are good for picnics or taking leisurely strolls.
This park is a relatively fancy and clear, which I imagine is the right place for a mushy introduction to the town.
2. Go to the Cairo Citadel of Saladin
One other “simple” factor to do in Cairo is go to the Citadel, a spot with no vehicles the place you possibly can wander and take lovely pictures of Cairo from above.
Positioned on a hill within the coronary heart of Cairo, it presents gorgeous views of the town and past. The Citadel itself is a testomony to its wealthy historical past, with remnants from numerous empires, together with Mamluk and Ottoman durations.
Contained in the Citadel, you possibly can discover a number of thrilling landmarks equivalent to mosques, palaces, and charnel homes.
When visiting the Citadel, it’s best to take time to discover the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, which is taken into account to be among the many most lovely architectural masterpieces in Egypt.
Adorning its partitions are intricately carved designs comprised of marble and alabaster stone that show conventional Islamic artistry.
One other space value exploring is Salah El-Din’s Avenue the place yow will discover many memento outlets promoting conventional gadgets equivalent to leather-based luggage and hats that make for glorious presents or recollections of your journey!
3. Take a Felucca Journey on the Nile
It’d sound touristy but it surely’s very typical, so I’d invite you on a felucca trip on the Nile at sundown, to chill out and benefit from the views and the uncommon silence.
Taking a felucca trip lets you really feel the light breeze and calming waters of the river, and the views alongside the banks are breathtaking, with lush vegetation, historic monuments and gorgeous Islamic structure.
You’ll be able to observe native life as you cruise alongside, watch fisherman casting their nets and crusing boats buying and selling items.
At evening the Nile transforms right into a magical place; you possibly can see stars glittering above you and listen to the distant sound of drums from locals celebrating at river-side cafes. As your felucca sails additional away from the town, it’s simply you and nature’s wonders surrounding you.
For those who’re unfamiliar with feluccas, they’re shallow boats powered by wind or sail, making them good for navigating by means of slender channels whereas avoiding sandbanks on this nice river that’s full of historical past. Being on a felucca provides to the general ambiance of being in such an incredible metropolis like Cairo.
4. Go to the Well-known Pyramids of Giza
Visiting the Pyramids of Giza and the Nice Sphinx is after all a should. The Nice Pyramids of Giza are one of many Seven Wonders of the Historical World and have grow to be an emblem of Egypt’s historic tradition and heritage.
Positioned on the west financial institution of the Nile River, this UNESCO World Heritage Website are among the most spectacular monuments ever constructed by man.
The oldest pyramid on the Giza plateau, referred to as the Pyramid of Khufu, is assumed to have been commissioned by the 4th-Dynasty Pharaoh Khufu within the twenty sixth century, and is estimated to comprise greater than 2.3 million stones. Additionally it is the biggest pyramid in Egypt and stands at a formidable 139 meters tall.
The opposite two pyramids, referred to as the Pyramid of Khafre and Pyramid of Menkaure, have been constructed between 2558 BCE and 2510 BCE.
Inside every pyramid there exists a grand burial chamber lined with polished granite flooring, hieroglyphs that inform tales about historic life, and slender shafts that result in further tunnels or secret chambers.
Visiting the Nice Pyramids is a once-in-a-lifetime expertise for many individuals so don’t miss this primary attraction in Cairo!
5. Wander Round Downtown Cairo
Some neighborhoods are as huge as cities so it’s not simple to easily wander the neighborhoods. I heard that the neighborhood of Maadi alone has one thing like 2 million folks!
However if you wish to stroll round and easily take within the neighborhoods, my favourite one is Downtown (Wust el Balad). I immediately fell in love with the world the primary time I noticed it from the window of a bus, on a “Cairo by evening” tour.
That is the place the Egyptian Museum and Tahrir Sq. are situated, simply to call essentially the most well-known issues.
The subsequent time I went again to this space I used to be alone and I have to say I used to be intimidated by its chaos and other people watching me. However now I wouldn’t stay anyplace else!
One thing very fascinating to go to in Cairo is the so-called “Coptic Cairo”, or “Previous Cairo”, an space the place you possibly can go to church buildings, Christian graveyards, and the well-known Hanging Church.
It’s such an surprising ambiance, it virtually looks like being in one other metropolis.
6. Eat Scrumptious Egyptian Meals
In Cairo, there may be undoubtedly numerous selection in the case of meals! For very low cost meals, strive the Felfela takeaway for falafel and foul – you possibly can eat a “taameya” (falafel sandwich) for about 1.50 EGP: 0,25 USD.
For those who like koshary (a typical mixture of rice, pasta, lentils, meat, and spices) don’t miss Abou Tarek, simply behind Tahrir Sq.. It’s tremendous low cost and you’ll’t get something extra typical than that!
For a flowery dinner with a wonderful view, don’t miss the Restaurant at Al Azhar Park.
I even have to say my favourite Italian restaurant in Cairo: it’s known as “La Bodega” and even when it’s expensive in native phrases (about $30 per meal) the meals is scrumptious and with an excellent service.
Final however not least, Cairenes love quick meals!
So don’t really feel responsible if you wish to hit Pizza Hut, McDonald’s or the extra native Hardee’s – it’s regular behavior in Cairo, and in case you really feel lazy there’s an internet site known as Otlob.com the place you possibly can order almost any sort of meals – from Chinese language to McDonald’s, to Yemenite – 24/7.
The everyday Egyptian breakfast known as “foul”. It’s made with a bean paste and greens, served in a typical flat bread bun.
You must also be sure that to strive:
- Taameya: the falafel sandwich named above, normally bought in the identical locations the place they promote foul.
- Koshary is possibly the most common factor. Very low cost and it fills you up for hours! It’s a mixture of rice, noodles, pasta, lentils and chickpeas.
- Shawerma: additionally known as “kebab” by somebody, however that is the Egyptian model! It’s made with both lamb or hen meat, peppers and numerous spices. So tasty!
- One thing very typical that I didn’t dare making an attempt is the stuffed pigeon.
- Sahlab is a tepid milk cream that’s served with fruits, chocolate, coconut or no matter you ask for. It’s freshly made to order.
- Additionally, don’t miss the “mahshy” – greens full of meat, rice and extra greens.
Fruit juices are bought at kiosks on the streets and are as low cost as refreshing. In Egypt I ate the tastier fruit ever, and no I’ve by no means been sick.
7. Watch a Sufi Dance in Bayt el Harawi
If you wish to breathe the ambiance of Islamic Cairo, don’t miss Bayt el Harawi at evening, the place you possibly can watch free reveals equivalent to sufi dance and tannoura (whirling dervish), live shows with typical Center Jap devices, and many others.
For different issues to do in Cairo at evening, there are some good golf equipment equivalent to Buddha Bar, Stiletto, Purple and numerous new golf equipment that preserve opening. Most of them are situated on docked boats on the Nile, so the situation alone makes the outing value it.
Additionally, sitting for hours in an “ahwa”, the Egyptian identify for a restaurant (principally chairs on the streets) chatting, smoking shisha and enjoying board video games is one thing very typical.
8. Hunt for Treasures in Khan el Khalili Bazaar
In terms of buying, there is no such thing as a higher place than Cairo. With bustling souk markets and bazaars, you’ll discover the whole lot from textiles, spices, lamps, ceramics, silverware and extra.
For souvenirs, I’d undoubtedly go to the well-known Khan el Khalili market. It’s lovely and even when the principle roads grew to become manner too touristy you possibly can at all times discover the backstreets to seek out one of the best offers.
If you wish to buy groceries and you want branded clothes and many others, you possibly can’t miss the Metropolis Stars mall, a 7-storied constructing with outlets, film theaters, eating places and a souq replica.
For reasonable clothes I at all times select Downtown with its colourful and big home windows. Final time I purchased 2 pairs of denims and spent one thing like €12.
One other factor I like about these outlets is that actually the whole lot they’ve is proven within the home windows so you possibly can take a look from the skin and enter the store solely in case you are and once you already selected what you need.
9. Expertise Ramadan in Cairo
Visiting Cairo throughout Ramadan will not be for everybody however there are specific benefits when visiting throughout the Holy Month.
As most of you might know, that is the Holy Month when folks quick till sundown, there are particular praying periods and everybody has to behave effectively, donate to charity, spend time with their households and typically stay with out committing sins.
After sundown although, the town appears fully totally different.
The streets are lightened with colourful lights, folks collect to eat collectively, the music is within the air. It’s undoubtedly very fascinating to witness the Ramadan, however keep in mind that it’s not well mannered to eat and drink in public throughout the day of Holy Month – respect the people who find themselves fasting.
What’s nice about Ramadan is that eating places are quiet within the day time, folks are likely to not go to vacationer sights as a result of they need to keep indoors and preserve their vitality, and persons are general extra pleasant due to the character of gift-giving and reflection that comes with Ramadan.
Nevertheless, it will also be tough to seek out lodging, particularly throughout the first evening and the final three nights of Eid.
Additionally, most golf equipment (and corporations typically) keep closed throughout the Holy Month so in case your intention is partying effectively that’s not one of the best time of the 12 months!
Then again Ramadan is a good time to benefit from the metropolis with out an excessive amount of visitors as many individuals take holidays and journey exterior of Cairo.
There are lots of non secular feasts all year long, however one which I believe is value mentioning is the Eid el Adha – that is the feast when folks slaughter cows and sheep within the streets.
And in case you don’t just like the sight of blood then you possibly can undoubtedly keep away from it, or take benefit to have a brief journey exterior of Cairo.
Apart from non secular festivities, the most important nationwide holidays are the Sinai Liberation Day (April twenty fifth), Labour Day (Might 1st), Revolution Day (July twenty third, on the subject of the 1953 Revolution), Armed Forces Day (October sixth), and naturally the Nationwide January twenty fifth Revolution Day!
10. Take a Day Journey to Quieter Pyramids
I really like Cairo as a result of in a 2 hours vary you possibly can go from the ocean to the desert! I’ll record 3 lovely facet journeys that you could have in a single full day:
The pyramids of Saqqara, Dahshur and Memphis: do you know that there are a lot of extra pyramids in Egypt aside from the Giza ones?
Earlier than the Pyramids of Giza, there have been some smaller pyramids constructed to try to get the design proper.
Dahshur has 3 pyramids and is far much less touristy than Giza.
You’ll be able to enter the “Purple Pyramid” and also you gained’t discover any crowd or tout round it. Memphis, also referred to as the bent pyramid, was the traditional capital of Egypt, and Saqqara is the place the well-known “Step Pyramid of Djoser” is situated, along with its temple and lots of superbly adorned tombs.
11. Take a Journey to the Seashores
If you wish to go to the ocean, Ein El Sokhna is the closest seaside resort to Cairo. You may get there in about 2 hours, driving east. There isn’t any coral reef or something, and the place just isn’t too crowded as Sharm El Sheikh, so it’s very quiet and easy.
Another choice is driving north to the so-called “North Coast”, on the Mediterranean Sea. There are some lovely seaside resorts up there, equivalent to Marsa Matrouh for instance.
12. Take a Journey to El Fayoum
Final however not least, at nearly 2 hours driving south of Cairo you may get to the oasis of El Fayoum with its pretty cities, lake and pottery factories.
Simply exterior of the oasis there may be the attractive desert of Wadi al Hitan (the valley of the whales) and Wadi al Rayan, the place you possibly can trip lovely dunes, camp and see the fossils of sea crops and fish that used to stay there when the desert was as soon as an ocean… how fascinating!
13. Go to Mokattam Mountain
There’s a “drive by means of” model of almost something in Cairo: you possibly can cease by a kiosk and get your drinks, meals, ice-cream and even shisha immediately in your automotive.
That is one thing very typical and enjoyable! Ask your Egyptian buddies to take you to a few of these locations and also you’ll undoubtedly have a superb chuckle along with yummy meals.
For some extra lovely views over Cairo you possibly can take pleasure in sitting on the sting of the flat Mokattam Mountain, overlooking the town.
Additionally they serve drinks and shisha up there, however the cafes are usually a bit too expensive if in comparison with different locations in Downtown.
14. Go to “Rubbish Metropolis”
An expertise that I like to recommend to everyone seems to be visiting the so-called “Rubbish Metropolis”, an space the place folks actually stay within the rubbish, spending their lives separating the trash and promoting the totally different supplies to make a residing out of it.
It goes with out saying, Rubbish Metropolis is a really poor space. It’s a Christian neighborhood and after you cross all of it (a powerful expertise itself) you’re “rewarded” by the magnificent view of the Cave Church buildings.
I do know there are folks that may by no means dare going to Rubbish Metropolis, however I additionally imagine that with a purpose to absolutely perceive the place we’re, we are able to’t solely see the attractive sides of the locations we go to.
15. Go to the Grand Egyptian Museum
Find out about Historical Egypt and the Egyptians on the Grand Egyptian Museum, which is predicted to open in 2023, however the actual date has not been confirmed but.
The Grand Egyptian Museum will home artifacts from historic Egypt, spanning over 5000 years of historical past.
It can comprise artifacts from the world-famous Tutankhamun pharaohs’ tombs, together with sculptures, treasures, jewellery, and hieroglyphics.
The museum is predicted to be probably the most full and largest museums on Historical Egyptian historical past on this planet, and would be the good place to realize perception into Historical Egyptian tradition whereas studying extra about its historical past.
16. See the Royal Mummies at The Egyptian Museum
One other museum in Cairo to not miss is the Egyptian Museum, to not be confused with the Grand Egyptian Museum – complicated, I do know!
The Egyptian Museum is an extremely enriching and academic expertise. This museum accommodates artifacts from historic Egypt, together with the royal mummies, statues and reliefs depicting historic Egyptian gods, and lots of different gadgets from Historical Egypt.
Not solely is the gathering huge, it gives a fascinating perception into historic occasions, tradition and traditions.
Be taught in regards to the religions, customs, beliefs and life of this influential civilization.
17. Wander Over to Gezira Island
Gezira Island is situated within the Nile River and sits within the very heart of Cairo, dwelling to the Zamalek district. It’s dwelling to many iconic landmarks in Cairo, such because the Cairo Tower and Cairo Opera Home.
Guests can marvel on the grandeur of The Pyramids of Giza from the highest of Cairo Tower and discover the attractive gardens and artwork galleries.
18. Go to the Ben Ezra Synagogue
For Christians visiting Cairo, or these all for Christian historical past, will take pleasure in visiting the Ben Ezra Synagogue, which is alleged to be constructed on the spot the place moses washed up in a basket among the many reeds.
The Ben Ezra Synagogue was first constructed within the ninth century AD and has been superbly maintained over the centuries.
It nonetheless stands as a testomony to Jewish tradition and heritage, with its gorgeous structure and inside design.
Not solely is it a unprecedented historic web site, but it surely’s additionally a pilgrimage web site for Jews for generations.
19. Go to the Coptic Museum
One other vital non secular web site in Cairo is the Coptic Museum, which homes an intensive assortment of artifacts and artworks from historic Egypt and different nations, providing a novel perception into the tradition, historical past, and coptic christian faith of the area.
It has over 1,600 gadgets on show together with stone, wooden and metallic works, icons, frescoes, textiles and ceramics from everywhere in the area.
The museum additionally options some shows devoted to Christian artwork and structure because it pertains to the Coptic Church.
Whereas right here, guests can view gorgeous items equivalent to ornate wall work, intricate mosaic flooring and spectacular stained glass home windows.
Getting Round Cairo
Public transportation in Cairo contains taxis, metro, buses and microbuses.
I wouldn’t suggest transferring round by bus and microbus to a newcomer – it’s not simple to determine their vacation spot as a result of it’s both written in Arabic or there’s nothing written on the bus itself: somebody peeking from the bus door simply screams the vacation spot to the folks on the street so in case you don’t communicate the language is sort of laborious.
After a while you possibly can work out the routes of buses and microbuses additionally by asking to locals in an effort to lastly do this journey and discover the town within the least expensive doable manner.
The metro is straightforward to make use of, there are separate vehicles for women and men (that’s: girls can trip males’s vehicles – at their very own threat – however males can’t entry the ladies’s ones) and it’s clear sufficient.
Sadly, the metro doesn’t attain all areas of Cairo but, but it surely’s very low cost (1 EGP per trip = 12 Euro cents) and it makes you keep away from visitors, so typically you should use a mix of metro and taxi to maneuver faster.
The simplest option to transfer round Cairo is certainly by taxi, however there are 3 sorts of taxis and it’s important to know the variations.
Black taxi are the oldest ones, normally with out air conditioned and at all times with no meter. For those who go for a black taxi it’s important to agree on a worth earlier than getting on the automotive, or your journey will finish with a taxi driver asking for an outrageous amount of cash, particularly in case you appear to be a vacationer or it’s apparent that you simply don’t know the place you’re going.
Another choice is to ask nothing, act like you understand precisely what you’re doing and when the trip is over give the cash to the driving force and stroll away. In fact on this case, it’s important to know roughly how a lot the trip is value.
A neater possibility is the white taxi. These are newer and nicer, and the principle distinction is that they’ve a meter so that you gained’t must haggle for the worth. Simply watch out, typically the taxi drivers modify their meters to get extra money or flip off the meter to ask you the cash they need. Attempt to keep away from these!
The third sort of taxi is the yellow one. That is the one you name and make a reservation for, so that you by no means really want it except as an illustration you may have a flight at a sure time and need a dependable service to select you up, be on time and take you to the airport. Additionally they have mounted charges.
Finest time of 12 months to go to Cairo
I’d say anytime however summer time (Might to September).
Winter can get fairly chilly in Cairo too, so in case your lodging doesn’t have a heating, which may be very seemingly if it’s a funds resort or hostel, it will possibly get robust.
On winter I’d suggest going south and visiting Luxor, Abu Simbel, Marsa Alam and the opposite places in Higher Egypt, the place the temperatures preserve very heat all year long.
One other factor you may need to take into account is Ramadan – since most golf equipment, outlets, and corporations are closed throughout this month, it’s undoubtedly fascinating however there gained’t be a lot to do.
The place to remain in Cairo Egypt
I normally keep in flats, because it’s general cheaper than any funds lodging. Phrase of mouth is certainly the easiest way to seek out the proper sublet for you.
There are additionally some very low cost hostels in downtown however after all, you possibly can’t count on a lot luxurious.
There are very trendy, luxurious and delightful motels. Think about staying on the 4 Seasons, Sofitel or the Kempinski – you gained’t be upset.
If alcohol is vital for you, test if it’s served within the resort you select earlier than confirming your reservation.
For extra locations to remain in Cairo select from the biggest vary of motels, flats, and guesthouses with our companion Reserving.com. You get free cancelation on most rooms, and typically you solely pay once you keep. You can too scroll by means of the record under.
Closing Ideas on What to Do in Cairo
I really like Cairo as a result of it’s inconceivable to get bored once you’re there. It’s a protected and extremely full of life metropolis.
Individuals listed below are pleasant and useful, and I met a few of my greatest buddies throughout my keep in Cairo.
I really like Cairo as a result of it’s an reasonably priced place to stay in.
It’s a metropolis the place yow will discover something you need, and in case you are burdened by its hectic life you possibly can attain the peace of the desert or the ocean in simply a few hours.
I really like Cairo as a result of even within the worst visitors you typically spot the pyramids on the horizon, or you end up crossing one of many numerous bridges on the Nile, and you’re subsequently continually reminded of the magnificent historical past of this place, and you’ll’t assist feeling a profound awe, reverence, and respect in the direction of it.
We hope this information helped you propose what to do in Cairo and gave you inspiration for some sights so as to add to your itinerary.
BIO: Giulia Cimarosti is Italian by start, however nonetheless have to seek out my “dwelling”. I suppose I discovered it in Egypt, however I need to go on exploring the world and see all of it earlier than settling down! Nicely, I modify my plans virtually each day, so I do not know the place I’ll find yourself, and I’m effective with it!
All I do know is that I stay to journey and my ardour is reporting the whole lot I see with because of my journey weblog, my fb web page, my twitter and my beloved digicam.
Excursions of Cairo
Earlier than you go, be sure that to take a look at some excursions of Cairo and plan prematurely. It will assist you to maximise your time and keep away from spending time in lengthy queues.
Excursions of Egypt
For those who don’t need to journey to Egypt as an unbiased traveler, G Adventures supply guided excursions. We companion with G Adventures for his or her dedication to the supporting the atmosphere and conserving native cultures.
Extra North Africa Journey Suggestions
Planning to go to different elements of Northern Africa? Then you might discover these different guides useful.
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Supply: Breaking Travel News