10 great things to do in Cairo and Giza

Are you looking for an unforgettable travel experience? Cairo is the perfect destination for a unique, fascinating and exciting trip. This vibrant city has thousands of years of history and has a lot to offer – from modern attractions to ancient monuments.

Cairo and Giza are two cities that should be on everyone's bucket list. From the iconic Great Pyramids of Giza to the historic Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, the area has numerous interesting attractions. You can also visit the majestic Al-Azhar Mosque, explore Old Cairo and its iconic bazaars, shop at Khan el-Khalil, climb to the top of Bab Zuweila or take a Nile cruise.

Ancient Wonders: Exploring the Great Pyramids of Giza 

The size and magnificence of this structure make it a must-do in Cairo and Giza – and luckily, you can explore at your own pace thanks to numerous tours and on-site cafes, kiosks and souvenir shops. as well as two on-site museums that are also worth checking out.

And don't forget to bring your camera; this is one sight you will want to capture for many years..

Religious experience: Visiting the Al-Azhar Mosque

When you are in Cairo, you should set aside some time to explore the Al-Azhar Mosque. Located in the heart of historic Cairo, this mosque was founded in 970, making it the oldest university in the world. Admire its peaceful courtyard and its distinctive minaret-inspired architecture.

Al-Azhar Mosque is considered a pilgrimage site for Muslims and is known for its religious significance - in fact, coming here can be quite a spiritual experience. Pay attention to details such as intricate marble carvings and stained glass windows. As you explore, see historical monuments such as the mausoleum, which dates back to the 16th-century Mameluke sultans.

This is also an opportunity to see how people practice their faith: all-day participants come here to attend prayers and study Islamic theology at the university. For travelers interested in learning about Egyptian culture, a visit to the Al-Azhar Mosque is not only a must, but an unforgettable experience.

Step back in time: discover old Cairo

Exploring Old Cairo is one of the most amazing things to do in Cairo and Giza. Founded by the Fatimids as the city of Fustat in the 11th century, it includes a Roman-era fortress. Due to its diverse history, Old Cairo is a World Heritage Site.

Walking through Old Cairo is like walking back in time, with stunning ancient landmarks such as the Abu Serga Church – an ancient Coptic church – and the Ben Ezra Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogues in Egypt. You can also explore religious sites such as the Hanging Church and the Amr ibn al-As Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Egypt, as well as traditional markets and souks.

Old Cairo has something for everyone: keen shoppers who love to browse the wares at the Khan el-Khalil market; for history buffs who can explore monuments such as Bab Zuweila (the last remnant of the medieval city walls); for photographers looking for timeless shots on cobbled streets; for diners looking for delicious treats at some of the city's best restaurants. Exploring Old Cairo is truly an unforgettable experience not to be missed!

Ancient Burial Sites: Visit to Saqqara

But if you're looking for something extra unique, Saqqara is a must-visit. This is where the Serapeum - the underground gallery where the Apis bulls were buried - is located. Here you can admire crypts filled with granite sarcophagi that contained the mummified remains of 26 bulls.

So be sure to include a trip to Saqqara while you're in Cairo and Giza – it's a humbling experience to stand among centuries of preserved history in such an ethereal atmosphere.

Shopping Hotspot: Shopping in Khan El-Khalil

You'll find everything from spices and perfumes to vibrant fabrics and traditional Egyptian souvenirs. And don't forget to stop at a traditional teahouse for a quick shopping break! Here you can experience authentic Egyptian hospitality while sipping the drink of your choice and tasting local delicacies.

Khan El-Khalil should definitely be on your list when visiting Cairo or Giza for an authentic shopping experience that allows you to see a side of Egypt that few tourists get to enjoy.

Unique attractions: climbing to the top of Bab Zuweila

For those brave enough to climb, be prepared for steep stairs and narrow corridors. You will be rewarded with a wonderful 360° bird's eye view of Cairo and Giza. So don't forget your camera for this experience - you won't want to miss it!

Views aside, Bab Zuweila is also impressive as a historical structure. It's a great reminder of how much civilizations have changed over time, and it's interesting to see how this architecture has been incorporated into modern day Cairo. So if history and culture are two things you are interested in seeing in Egypt, definitely climb to the top of Bab Zuweila!

A relaxing cruise along the Nile River

During your trip, you'll have the chance to see some of Cairo's most famous landmarks, including:

·       Salah El Din Fortress and Mausoleum

·         Mosque of Ibn Tulun

·         Al-Azhar Mosque

·        Hanging Church

·         Downtown Cairo

Plus, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of the Nile, which provides a wonderful backdrop for those who just want to sit back, relax and take in their surroundings. You can even sample fresh fruit and traditional chef-prepared dinners while enjoying delightful music from local entertainers. So be sure to add it to your itinerary!

Explore Islamic art and architecture at the Sultan Hassan Mosque

This mosque was designed as a large complex with several sections dedicated to prayer, religious achievements and even a madrasa (school). You can explore the main mosque itself, with its ornately decorated facade and pillars. There are two minarets that are more than 100 meters high, and the mihrab (prayer niche) is decorated with marble mosaics.

The dome roof is made of stone, and some areas have wooden carved reliefs. The frescoes on the walls are incredibly intricate and vibrant, originally painted in gold and other colors - a true testament to the skill of the 14th century artisans!

Take your time here and admire all the beauty that can be found, from the carved marble blocks to the Quranic verses carved into the pillars. 50 bays for praying and over 5,000 square meters for walking, you won't run out of things to see soon!

Get cultural immersion on a traditional Felucca ride

You can't leave Cairo without experiencing a traditional felucca ride. A felucca is a type of boat that was made famous in ancient Egypt - they were used by merchants, ferried pharaohs and carried pilgrims up and down the Nile. Even today, they sail between cities, offering an impressive view of coastal cities such as Cairo.

These boats sail with late sails, and many operators offer sunset cruises for the best experience. Plus, get full cultural immersion by chatting with your friendly captain as you take in all the sights of the Nile River.

It's a great way to end your visit to Cairo, as you can enjoy traditional Egyptian meals such as kushari or mulukhiya while watching the city's skyline change as night falls.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cairo, the capital of Egypt, has everything amazing that a traveler could wish for. It is an ancient city full of history, culture and mystery. Whether you're on a tight budget or splurging, there's no shortage of exciting sights, activities and experiences when you visit. The ancient pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, Al-Azhar Mosque, Old Cairo, Saqqara, Khan el-Khalili and Bab Zuweila are just a few of Cairo's attractions. Don't forget that a Nile cruise is a must experience while in Cairo. So, what are you waiting for? Book your next adventure to Cairo now and discover all it has to offer!

Step back in time at Cairo Citadel

Stroll through the fort's courtyard and visit its many buildings, including the Muhammad Ali Mosque, Al-Gawhara Palace and the Sultan Hassan Mosque. As you explore, you'll find some of Cairo's oldest Islamic monuments.

The fort is also a great place to watch the sunset as it offers an incredible panoramic view of the city. At night, it is illuminated by dazzling lights, which makes it an even more special place to visit.

Take a trip to the Great Pyramids of Giza

The pyramids are the tombs of the pharaohs built during the 4th dynasty and built of white limestone blocks. When you climb up the ancient steps and find the tombs inside, you will be amazed at the craftsmanship