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Fair Travels with Travel TalkCairo is set on the Nile river, is the capital and largest city in Egypt. The city’s municipal area is the biggest in the Middle East and in the Arab world. For many, Cairo can seem like an initially bewildering experience; an intoxicating, bustling city, with narrow sandy streets and bazaars filled to bursting point with antiques and spices. For these reasons, it’s a good idea to know where to go when you first arrive in Cairo.
Written by Ashlee Delahunty
Travel Talk Contributor
Here are 5 top things to do in Cairo.
1. Giza
Of course, no Egypt trip would be complete without a visit to Giza. Located just outside the city, Giza is the site of the iconic pyramids and Great Sphinx, dating to the 26th century. They’re situated on the stark, windswept desert and cannot be missed. Several of the Giza pyramids are counted among the largest structures ever built. The Pyramid of Khufu at Giza is the largest Egyptian pyramid. It is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still in existence!
2. Egyptian Museum
The Egyptian museum is widely considered to be one of the finest Cairo tourist attractions. This remarkable building houses the most extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world, including the Golden Mask of Tutankhamen, which is undoubtedly a highlight. The mask, which rested over the King’s bandaged face in his sarcophagus is made up of 11kgs of solid gold and is thought to represent the King’s features.
3. Muhammad Ali Mosque
Cairo boasts several impressive mosques, and the Muhammad Ali Mosque, which is the most visible mosque in Cairo, is perhaps the finest example. Whilst on an Egypt tour, make sure not to miss this religious building, to take in the classic Islamic architecture and the evocative ambiance. Ali, regarded as the founder of modern Egypt, is buried in white marble tomb in the Mosque’s courtyard.
4. Old City
Cairo is often thought to be a solely Muslim country. However, it also has a fascinating Christian past, which can be viewed in the Coptic region of the city, particularly in the dusty, dimly lit interior of the Coptic Church. This small church which lies within the walls of Old Babylon is where the Roman Emperor Trajan first built a fortress along the Nile. The Coptic Museum contains a wealth of information of Egypt’s early Christian period and is home to one of Egypt’s finest collections of Coptic art.
5. Khan-el-Khalili
Avid shoppers and explorers alike will love the winding streets and stalls that make up the souk district of the city where many say is one of the world’s great shopping experiences. Whilst in Cairo, tour through the narrow alleys and make sure to brush up on your haggling skills, as bartering is an accepted part of the shopping experience! This shopping district was established in 1400 AD and still is home to mental workers and silversmiths. Here you’ll find everything from antiques to clothing to woven textiles.
Cairo Tour: Culture, History & Entertainment In One City
Cairo is a remarkable city, whatever experience you are searching for. Whether you’re a history buff with a keen desire to discover more about the ancient lives of the Egyptians, or simply a traveller who loves nothing more than to soak up an entirely new atmosphere, Cairo, is a fascinating and intoxicating place to visit.
Travel Talk offer a range of Egypt tours, perfect for those who want to get to grips with this renowned country and to explore at a pace that suits them.
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