Discover one of the world’s greatest ancient civilisations in the museums and nearby pyramids of Egypt’s dynamic and surprisingly modern capital.
Cairo is a cultural delight. Discover glittering ancient treasures in the Egyptian Museum, explore the breathtaking architecture and streetscapes of Islamic Cairo and immerse yourself in the contemporary arts on the island of Gezira. Just 30 minutes’ drive from downtown Cairo at the Giza Plateau, enter the tombs of the pharaohs at the Great Pyramids and marvel at the Great Sphinx.
Start your adventure into the history of the city by exploring Old Cairo, an area surrounded by the walls of Babylon Fortress, dated at nearly 2,000 years old. In the area around the fortress, known as Coptic Cairo, you will find the Coptic Museum, home to artefacts of early Christian history, art and culture. Don’t miss the Hanging Church, which has religious paintings from the 8th to the 18th centuries. Next door, at the Ben Ezra Synagogue, visit the place baby Moses is said to have been found.
For a taste of contemporary Egyptian culture, head across one of the many bridges to Gezira Island, located in the centre of the Nile. Experience Egypt’s incredibly rich music scene at the Cairo Opera House or at the Egyptian Center for Culture and Art (Makan). Then dine by the Nile’s ancient waters or join a dinner cruise to take in the lights of Cairo at night.
If you’re keen to take some of Cairo home with you, go shopping at the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. Here, you can sample street food and wander the labyrinth of stalls selling jewellery, perfume, spices, hand-painted pots and brass lanterns. After the bustle of the bazaar, take a break in one of Cairo’s green spots. Picnic in Al-Azhar Park’s shady, landscaped gardens or enjoy the views over the city from one of the restaurants that ring the park.
Cairo is easy to navigate via subway and bus services, but for trips to Giza and the Old City it’s best to go with a guided group so you don’t miss anything!
