Cairo has become a buzzing modern city from being an ancient necropolis place. It has changed itself at a dizzying pace. In the Arab world and Africa, it is one of the largest and most prominent cities and has a political and economic center. It has a fascinating history where tourists explore the diverse cultures since ancient times. Home to the famous pyramids, roman ruins, medieval mosques, churches and ancient city of Memphis, there are several places to visit in Cairo, the melting pot of history.
Top 14 Places To Visit In Cairo For Their Collection Of Antiques And Museums
Description: Cairo has gotten its nickname of the city of thousand minarets and is popular for its Islamic architecture. A land that gave birth to a fascinating history and culture, there are so many places to visit in Cairo and enjoy several activities, entertainment and shopping. There are so many reasons to explore the once upon a time defeater.
- Pyramids of Giza
- Al-Azhar Mosque
- The Citadel
- Khan el-Khalil
- Asfour Crystal Factory
- Coptic Cairo
- Bab Zuwaila
- Al Azhar Park
- Rhode Island
- Zamalek
- Mosque of Mohammad Ali
- Cairo Tower
- Egyptian Museum
- Tentmakers Market
1. Pyramids of Giza
The Pyramids of Giza, one the most majestic attractions in Cairo, is a must visit for tourists. Nestled on the edge of the city, these dynasty funerary pyramids have been wooing tourists since centuries from around the world. The pyramids have been and will always be one of the most popular highlights of the city. When tourists get to view the superb Pyramids of Cheops, the best in the Giza collection, the heat and dust seem trivial. It is a simple tomb chamber with a sarcophagus and is also known as the Pyramid of Kufu. The solar boat display room shows fascinating sun-controlled barques, nestled inside the sections of the pyramid.
Location - Al Haram, Nazlet El-Semman, Al Giza Desert, Giza Governorate, Egypt
Timings – 8am – 5pm
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2. Al-Azhar Mosque
Al Azhar Mosque, a breathtaking establishment in the heart of the city, is one of the most gorgeous building that attracts millions throughout the year. It was in AD972, quite old and is one of the best tourist attractions in Cairo. It is in the center of the downtown area and is one of the oldest universities in the world, along with being a mosque. It is a massive gateway enabling tourists to explore the amazing architecture; and the five minarets have been seen and felt. People pray in the central hall to get peace from the busy world; and is one of the many places to visit in the middle east.
Location: El-Darb El-Ahmar, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
Timings: Anytime
3. The Citadel
Established in 1176, the fortress of the Saladin Citadel sits on the foothills of Mokattam. Several tourists come to explore one of the amazing creations of military infrastructure. The most famous church in Egypt known as the Alabaster Mosque, is popularly known for its white stone with which it was built. It is one of the places to go to in Cairo to witness the surrounding breathing taking views. Go north east and explore the magnificent El Nasir mosque as it one of the ideal places to visit in the month of March, April, October and November. It is a must visit when on vacation in Cairo.
Location: Salah Salem St, Al Abageyah, El-Khalifa, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
Timings: 8 am- 4 pm
4. Khan el-Khalil
Khan el Khalili is one of the biggest markets in the world and is quite chirpy, exciting and inspiring. The local market is worth a visit as one will get to see constant selling, bargaining and purchasing. Tourists like spending time exploring the specialties and buying souvenirs, one of the things to do in Egypt. The range of shops and stores occupy a large acre of land and have everything customer look for. In Cairo, famous places to visit are Fishaw’s Ahwa café and Midaq Alley, known for its amazing architecture.
Location: El-Gamaleya, El Gamaliya, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
Timings: 12 pm- 12 am
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5. Asfour Crystal Factory
Home to the crystals, stones and gems, the Asfour Crystal Factory is one of the best places to visit in Egypt. The bright crystals are an absolute treat to the eyes. The factory does have several delightful, imaginative pieces for tourists and will be in awe of how crystals are made. The chandeliers are an absolute treat to look at with its sparkling and twinkling lights. The intricate work in the showroom makes it a magical space. The factory also has a museum like room where all the greatest works are on display. It is one of Cairo’s tourist spot which is absolutely breathtaking to visit.
Location: Mnia Al Kmh - Cairo Rd, Souq Al ASR, Bulaq, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
Timings: 9 am- 5 pm
6. Old Cairo (Coptic Cairo)
Old Cairo, the small church has twisty laneways that are present in the Old Babylon walls where the Roman Emperor Trajan established a fortress along the river Nile. The parts of the Roman towers are seen nestled over the main road. Also known as Coptic Cairo, Old Cairo is the most ancient part of the city. One of the ideal things to do in Cairo, is visit the heart of the Coptic Christian group, which has always been an intriguing spot to visit. The museum has valuable information on Egypt’s initial Christian period and is home to the finest Coptic art collections. The hanging church is said to have some of the most elegant collections of Coptic design.
Location: Cairo Governorate, Egypt
Timings: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
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7. Bab Zuwaila
Ah! Bab Zuwaila is one of the most fascinating gates established in the 11th century. It does have a distinct old charm about it. It is one of the best places to visit in Cairo as tourists climb the relic to see some of the most breathtaking views on the rooftop over Islamic Cairo. It was built in the medieval times and happens to be the only surviving southern gate of the city. The minarets on the gate are gorgeous as they depict the architecture of that era. The gate is quite popular as it was used to execute criminals and prisoners by rulers during that era.
Location: Al Motaz Ldin Allah, El-Darb El-Ahmar, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
Timings: 12 pm –10 pm
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8. Al-Azhar Park
Al Azhar Park was once a upon a time nonexistent and has been transformed into a peaceful green space to the nature lovers. The park offers the perfect respite to the travelers contrary to the hustle and bustle of the city. The green leafy tracts and the nature in its most ideal form is absolutely breathtaking. Climb up to the summit to discover the gorgeous blue lake and the breathtaking central fountain. Relax at some of the cafes and bars. Tourists will have the best time of their lives. This is spot is one of the best places to visit in Cairo and should be on everyone’s bucket lists.
Location: Salah Salem St, El-Darb El-Ahmar, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
Timings: 9 am –10 pm
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9. Rhoda Island
Rhoda Island is the perfect blend of Al Manyal museums and green gardens, nestled along the Nile in Central Cairo. It is one of the oldest landmarks in Egypt and is a lucrative tourist place in Cairo. Monastili Palace is one of the biggest attractions for tourists who have often described as a magnificent Egyptian architecture. The island in Egypt is bound to woo travelers with its amazing history, whenever on vacation in the city of Cairo. It is one of the most amazing islands that people should visit at least once in a life time.
Location: Nile River, Cairo
Timings: 9 AM-4PM
10. Zamalek
Situated in the heart of Gezira alongside the gleaming Nile, Zamalek is known for its extravagance and gives you a luxurious European feel with English style decorated boutiques and restaurants. It is equally known for its exhibitions, restaurants, bars and hotels. In Cairo, the places to visit is the Palace of arts, which hosts the best pieces of ancient Egyptian artwork by the artists. Be in awe of the Nile and appreciate the spectacle of the district. It is a must visit and should be on everyone’s bucket list of places to see.
Location: Cairo
Timings: Anytime
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11. Mosque of Mohammad Ali
Located in the heart of the Cairo city, Mosque of Mohammad Ali was built in 19th century that throws light on rich Egyptian history and culture. With an elevated Ottoman architectural style, it features the animated silhouette and twin minarets which were built in the memorandum of Tasun Pasha. With a central dome surrounded by four semicircular domes, the mosque is mainly made up of limestone, leaving an impact on the minds of visitors for its intriguing features that makes it one of the best places to visit in Cairo. Pay tribute to this architectural treasure to embark on a historical journey.
Location: 27H5+FXM, Al Abageyah, El Khalifa, Cairo Governorate 4252360, Egypt
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm
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12. Cairo Tower
Perched on Gezira Island in the middle of the Nile River, Cairo Tower is one of the most significant landmarks next to the Pyramids in Cairo. Built in the late 20th century and with a height of about 187 meters, the Cairo tower boasts of its exquisite lattice work which was designed to create a Pharaonic lotus flower to represent the ancient Egypt’s culture and grandeur. Visit this quintessential attraction during daytime to witness some clear spectacular sights and to learn about Cairo’s development process and it should be added to the list of things to do in Cairo.
Location: قصر النيل, Gezira St, Zamalek, Cairo Governorate 11567, Egypt
Timings: 9 am to 1 am
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13. Egyptian Museum
The Egyptian Museum is one of the best places to visit in Cairo to unveil its backstories and historical facts for an insightful experience throughout the tour. If you are a history buff, take up some historical tours to this museum to witness some of the best Pharaonic & Greco-Roman exhibits like replica of tombs of Pharaohs especially Thutmosis & Amenhotep, Tomb of Tutankhamun, two royal mummies, etc. You can also find innumerable silver coins, papyrus, textiles, reliefs, relics dating to Greco-Roman period which is itself a treasure box to a history lover to spend hours in the museum, delving into Egypt’s history.
Location: El-Tahrir Square, Ismailia, Qasr El Nil, Cairo Governorate 4272083, Egypt
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm
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14. Tentmakers Market
Visitors who are keen in textile and handicrafts, Tentmakers Market is very ideal for shopping in Egypt as they can dive into Egypt’s rich culture and traditions. This market is not only famous for its exquisite handicrafts, but also the home to a group of skilled artisans who have continued this legacy of creating magic out of passion and creativity for ages. Appreciate their hard work and you can witness a living testament of the age-old spirit of Egypt which represents the glorious past of the Egyptians. Don’t forget to buy fine blankets, uniquely embroidered pillow covers etc., to decorate your home.
Location: 27R4+FXF, Al Khayama, El-Darb El-Ahmar, Al-Darb Al-Ahmar, Cairo Governorate 4292230, Egypt
Timings: 10 am to 9 pm (Remains closed on Sunday)
Sightseeing in Cairo often includes visiting the pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian museum, Khan EL- Khalili, Sultan Haasan Mosque, to name a few. These are some of the places to visit in Cairo, that should be on everyone’s bucket list as they are absolutely breathtaking and shouldn’t be missed when on vacation. It is a once in a life time opportunity and so, book your flights to Cairo and be in awe of the breathtaking tourist attractions. It will be one the best memorable experiences of a lifetime, as the opportunity may or may not come again.
FAQs
Cairo is a rich cultural hub of Egypt that houses several museums and mosques apart from the grand Pyramids complex.Some of the ideal tourist attractions in Cairo are Rhoda island, Zamalek, Al Azhar Park, Bab Zuweilla, Old Cairo, Asfour Crystal Factory and Citadel.
One of the majestic attractions in Cairo, the pyramids of Giza has been wooing tourists from around the world. People can see the view the Pyramids of Cheops, the best in the Giza collection. it is an absolute breathtaking site.
People can go to the park anytime between 9 am and 10 pm. It offers peace and serenity people often look when on vacation and of course to get away from the busy city life.
Asfour crystal factory is home to the crystals, stones and gems and has several delightful imaginative pieces for tourists. It has a chandelier which is an absolute treat to look at with its sparkling and twinkling lights. The intricate work makes the factory quite magical.
It is one of the most amazing gates that was established in the 11th century. Bab Zuwaila has an old charm to it and people can get the best view of Islamic Cairo from the rooftop.
The best time to visit Cairo is March and April. There is so much to see and do in the capital. Tourists will not get bored even for a single minute.
Zamalek is known for its extravagance and offers a luxurious European feel with an English style decorated boutiques and restaurants.
The best time to visit Rhoa Island is between 9 am to 4 pm.It is ideal to visit the Rhoda Island during evening hours to watch the mesmerizing sights of the setting sun.
Cairo is most famous for being the home to one of the Seven Wonders of the world, the Great Pyramids along with the world’s oldest and biggest statue of Sphinx and the mummification house. Moreover, Cairo also has a plethora of tourist attractions to explore ranging from the classic museums to the quaint architectural mosques.
2-3 days are ideal enough to spend in Cairo and you can cover the major highlights of the city for an enriching cultural tour including the majestic Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, Khan El-Khalili market, etc. Moreover, you can also extend your trip in Cairo based on your preferences because you will need a full day for Pyramid complex sightseeing.
