Egypt is an incredible destination that is rich in natural beauty and has more historical sites than I can count. If you’re planning a trip to Egypt, you know the pyramids are an absolute must-see. But what else should you check out while you’re there? From ancient tombs to modern museums, there are plenty of amazing attractions that offer something different from the classic tourist spots. To help you make the most of your time in Egypt, here are the best and most fun things to do in Cairo, Egypt.
Things to do in Cairo
As the capital city, Cairo is home to some of the country’s most iconic and well-known sites! Visiting the Pyramids of Giza and The Sphinx should be at the top of your list of things to do in Egypt. They are incredibly popular so plan accordingly but there are a few other things not to miss. But there are so many other things to do in Cairo!
The Cairo Citadel
One of the top things to do in Cairo is to visit the majestic Cairo Citadel. Located on the Mokattam Hill, it was built by Saladin in 1183 CE and served as the seat of power for almost 700 years. The magnificent Citadel complex consists of several mosques, museums, palaces, and other monuments, as well as lush gardens, making it one of Egypt’s top tourist attractions.
If you’re interested in history, the National Military Museum inside the Citadel offers an interesting insight into the region’s military history. Visitors can view displays of weapons, uniforms, and photographs from different periods of Egypt’s past.
The Mosque of Suleiman Pasha is also worth a visit, with its colorful mosaics and marble floors.
Muhammad Ali Mosque
One of the most iconic sites in Cairo, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali is an important landmark and a major tourist attraction. Located on the Citadel of Salah al-Din, it was built between 1828 and 1848 and is a perfect example of Ottoman architecture. The mosque is dedicated to Muhammad Ali Pasha, the founder of modern Egypt, and its minarets are visible from all parts of the city.
The Mosque of Muhammad Ali stands out for its bright white walls and grand dome that’s visible from afar. Inside, the mosque features exquisite wall paintings, marble floors, and gold decorations. The central courtyard has a large fountain surrounded by marble walls with intricate designs. Visitors will find two marble pulpits that were crafted by Turkish artisans in Istanbul, as well as unique stained glass windows which illuminate the entire mosque.
Visitors should expect to abide by a strict dress code when visiting the Mosque of Muhammad Ali; women must wear headscarves and long-sleeved clothing. Admission to the mosque is free of charge, but hours may vary depending on the season. The Mosque of Muhammad Ali is one of Cairo’s most impressive attractions, and visitors shouldn’t miss out on the opportunity to explore this magnificent building and its history.
For a break from sightseeing, there are plenty of cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops near the Citadel. So why not take a break and enjoy some delicious traditional Egyptian dishes while admiring the spectacular view? No matter what your interests are, visiting the Cairo Citadel should be at the top of your list of places to visit in Egypt. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in centuries of culture and history – and admire one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
The Egyptian Museum
The Egyptian Museum is one of the top things to do in Cairo and a must-see for anyone visiting Egypt. The museum is home to some of the world’s most renowned artifacts and antiquities, including King Tutankhamun’s treasures and royal mummies. The museum contains more than 120,000 ancient artifacts and offers visitors an in-depth look into the country’s rich history.
The museum is divided into two floors with the first floor featuring objects from the Prehistoric Era to the Greco-Roman period. On the first floor is the Royal Mummy Room, which contains 26 royal mummies from the New Kingdom including Hatshepsut and Ramesses II. There are also other objects from the Pharaonic period such as jewelry, pottery, sculpture, and papyrus scrolls.
On the second floor, you can find more recent artifacts and antiquities from the Islamic Period. Included in this large collection are Islamic coins, glass and pottery ware, artworks, carpets, and textiles. You’ll also find a room dedicated to Tutankhamun’s treasures and a collection of objects from the Graeco-Roman period.
Overall, The Egyptian Museum is an essential stop for anyone looking to explore Egypt’s past and learn about its ancient civilizations. With its vast collection of artifacts, this museum offers visitors a unique experience that cannot be found anywhere else. Whether you’re looking for things to do in Cairo or Alexandria, The Egyptian Museum should definitely make your list of Egypt top 10 things to do!
Admission to the Egyptian Museum is 50 Egyptian Pounds (around $3 USD) for adults. If you want to see the mummy rooms, it costs an extra 100 Egyptian Pounds (around $6 USD). For tourists who wish to take photos inside the museum, an extra fee of 25 Egyptian Pounds (around $1.50 USD) is required.
Islamic Cairo
Islamic Cairo is an area of the city that serves as a reminder of the city’s Arab and Islamic past. Many of the buildings and monuments in this part of Cairo date back to the Fatimid era (969-1171) and were built when the city was an important center of the Islamic world. Notable points of interest in Islamic Cairo include the Mosque of Ibn Tulun, one of the oldest mosques in Egypt; the Citadel of Salah el Din, a fortress which was once the home of Egypt’s ruler and later served as a military prison; and the Khan el-Khalili bazaar, one of the most famous markets in Cairo.
Mosque of Ibn Tulun
The Mosque of Ibn Tulun is certainly worth visiting, not just for its historical significance, but also for its magnificent architecture. The surrounding area has been beautifully preserved and is now a popular spot for visitors to explore. The Citadel of Salah el Din is also an important site in Islamic Cairo, and can be reached by climbing up the Mokattam Hills. Visitors can explore the mosque, fortifications and prisons, as well as take in the stunning view from the top of the hills.
Khan el-Khalili Market
No trip to Islamic Cairo would be complete without a visit to the Khan el-Khalili bazaar.
The market is an important district for cultural and economic activity. It dates back to 1382 and is now one of the top places to visit and things to do in Egypt. It’s a great place to get a taste of local culture while shopping for souvenirs and finding great bargains. This bustling market offers everything from spices, souvenirs, jewelry and clothing to traditional Egyptian food. While you’re here, make sure you try some of the local dishes like Kushari or Falafel!
When you’re exploring Khan el-Khalili, you’ll find vendors selling all kinds of handmade goods, from jewelry and spices to perfumes and copper items. You can also find unique items like antique Islamic ornaments, coins, carpets and glassware. The market also offers an array of food options like koshari (a rice, lentil and macaroni dish), falafel, and shawarma.
Overall, Khan el-Khalili is a great place to pick up some unique souvenirs, try some delicious Egyptian food, and explore one of the oldest markets in the Middle East. This is one of the top things to do in Cairo and a must-visit destination when you’re exploring the best places to visit in Egypt.
With its rich history, fascinating monuments and vibrant bazaar, Islamic Cairo is definitely one of the must-see places in Egypt.
Old Cairo
Nestled at the edge of modern Cairo lies Old Cairo, a must-visit spot for anyone interested in exploring the rich history of Egypt. Dating back to ancient times, Old Cairo (or Coptic Cairo) is home to several churches and other religious sites, making it an important pilgrimage site for Christian visitors.
History enthusiasts will love exploring the area’s many historical sites, such as the Babylon Fortress and the Hanging Church. The Babylon Fortress, which dates back to the Roman era, was once a heavily fortified outpost used to defend against invaders. Inside the fortress walls, visitors can explore the remains of two churches, a synagogue, and a mosque.
Beyond its religious sites, Old Cairo is also home to other things to see and do. Visitors can wander through markets to experience Egyptian culture and pick up souvenirs, explore the Ben Ezra Synagogue to learn about Jewish heritage in Egypt, or take a walk along the Nile River. For those wanting to immerse themselves in Old Cairo’s history, guided tours are available to make sure you don’t miss out on any of its highlights.
Coptic Museum
Located beside the remains of the Roman fort of Babylon, the Coptic Museum is a must-see attraction on any Egypt top 10 list. It houses the largest collection of Coptic artwork and cultural artifacts in the world and is a great place to learn about the history of Coptic Christianity.
The Coptic Orthodox Church is separate from the Orthodox Churches of Greece and Turkey and the Catholic Church in Rome, and it was the dominant religion in Egypt before the arrival of Islam in the 7th century. The museum’s collection illustrates the interaction of several different cultures and religions, including ancient Egyptian and Greek, Jewish, Christian, and Islamic. One example is the similarity between the ancient Egyptian ankh symbol and the cross of Christianity.
Overall, Old Cairo provides an enriching experience for tourists who are looking to learn more about Egypt’s fascinating past. With its wide variety of religious sites, markets, and historic locations, this ancient city is sure to be one of the most memorable places to visit during your trip. The Hanging Church, located nearby, is another notable site that was originally built in the 3rd or 4th century. This ancient church features a unique combination of Coptic and Roman architecture.
Hanging Church
The Hanging Church is a unique Coptic Christian church located in the Muqattam Mountain. It is also known as the Church of the Virgin Mary and is considered one of the oldest churches in Egypt. The church was built around the 4th century and is an example of Coptic architecture. It’s located near many of Cairo’s other attractions, making it a popular stop on many tourists’ itineraries.
The Hanging Church is named for its location atop Muqattam Mountain, where it appears to be hanging from the cliffs below. Inside, the ceiling features intricate designs, while its walls are covered with vibrant artwork and paintings. The structure also includes multiple domes and a bell tower.
The main draw of the Hanging Church is the St. George icon that hangs from the wall and is said to have miraculous healing properties. Many tourists come to the church to receive blessings from the icon, which is believed to have been created in the 5th century. The church also includes several shrines devoted to saints, as well as a chapel dedicated to St. Barbara.
If you’re looking for things to do in Cairo, the Hanging Church should definitely be high on your list. Admission to the church is free, although donations are accepted. The church is open every day from 9am to 7pm. Be sure to dress appropriately and respect local customs when visiting the Hanging Church or any of Egypt’s other attractions. With its long history and spiritual significance, the Hanging Church is one of the top places to visit in Egypt.
Cairo Tower
Cairo Tower is one of the top things to do in Cairo. Standing at 614 feet (187 metres) tall, it is the tallest tower in North Africa. Designed to represent a Pharaonic lotus flower, the tower is illuminated each evening in different colours, making it an impressive sight both day and night.
Visitors can head up to the observation deck at the top of the tower to enjoy spectacular views of the Saladin Citadel, the Pyramids of Giza and of Saqqara. It is best to visit on a clear day for maximum visibility. For an extra special experience, visitors can even take a ride on the tower’s revolving restaurant for dinner with a view!
Cairo Tower is just one of the many incredible things to do in Egypt. From Alexandria to Luxor, there are countless places to explore and discover. Whether it’s visiting the tombs in the Valley of the Kings or the ancient ruins of Abu Simbel, Egypt has something for everyone. If you’re looking for more fun activities, check out these popular options: things to do in Alexandria, Egypt Top 10 Things to Do, What to Do in Egypt, Things to See in Egypt, Places in Egypt, and Places to Visit in Egypt.
Saqqara
Saqqara is the largest archaeological site in Egypt and for over 3500 years it was the place where nobles were laid to rest. A visit to Saqqara should be high on the list of things to do in Cairo, Alexandria, or anywhere in Egypt. The Step Pyramid of Djoser is perhaps the most iconic site here and one of the oldest monumental cut stone structures in the world. Built by Imhotep during the reign of Pharaoh Djoser around 2630 BCE, this was the first successful attempt to build a pyramid. As well as the Step Pyramid, there are many other structures to explore here including the Mastaba of Ti and the Serapeum. For fans of Egyptian history and architecture, the Imhotep Museum is a great place to explore and learn more about the ancient monuments here. With so much to see and explore, Saqqara should be at the top of your list of places to visit in Egypt.
Egypt is a country that has many incredible places to explore and activities to enjoy. Whether you are looking for the top things to do in Cairo, or the best places to visit in Alexandria, Egypt offers something unique for everyone. From historical sites such as the Cairo Citadel and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali to lively markets such as Khan el-Khalili and unique experiences like the Hanging Church and Saqqara, there are plenty of things to do in Egypt. Whether you are looking for an educational experience or a fun adventure, Egypt has something for everyone and is sure to be a trip of a lifetime.