With so much to do in the sprawling metropolis of Cairo, it’s easy to feel disoriented and overwhelmed. And you don’t want to be disappointed by realizing, by the time you leave, that you haven’t made the most of your time in Cairo. Here are a few suggestions about the most important attractions in Cairo, and how to plan your visit to ensure you spend your time well during your visit.
1. The Great Pyramids and Sphinx at Giza
You’ve read about Great Pyramids and Sphinx at Giza since you were a child. You saw them on the Discovery Channel and promised yourself that you would visit them some day. And here you are, finally! Impressive yet extremely crowded during the day, these historical attractions appear even more spectacular in during the evening, when the sound and light show brings these ancient structures to live.
2. The Egyptian Museum is an excellent place to visit and learn more about the complex and intriguing history of Egypt. Discover Egypt’s past when you browse among the exhibits – some of which are priceless - arranged chronologically behind protective glass. It’s also the place where you’ll come face to face with King Tut and the amazing treasure revealed when his tomb was discovered many years ago.
3. Khan-el-Khalili is a huge and extremely charming open air-market dating back to 1382, and is considered by many travelers to be the most entertaining part of Cairo. Prepare yourself for great souvenir shopping at this unique and interesting venue! There are traditional galabeya robes, interesting spices, sheesha with flavored tobacco, and lots of colorful jewelry to suit any taste and preference. Stick to these simple rules – keep your calm, compare prices in several shops and be friendly! Relax with tea and sheesha at the picturesque Fishawi’ café that has been in existence for more than 200 years.
4. Listen to the silent tale of Egyptian architecture by visiting the most sacred site in Cairo, the Mosque of Sayyidna al-Hussein. Don’t miss the massive Citadel of Salah-el-Din, a witness of Egypt ’s tumultuous past, crowned as the mosque of Mohammed Ali. The reward for facing the heat in this Islamic tour is the impressive view from the Citadel over Cairo and the Pyramids.
5. A felucca ride on the Nile will show you a side of Cairo at its most serene. Enjoy the best city views in the sunset light, when the city sounds disappear and you can hear the prayers from all the mosques of this amazing metropolis.
