Pyramids of Giza
The Pyramids of Giza are some of the world’s oldest and most iconic landmarks. Located in Cairo, Egypt, the Pyramids of Giza have been the center of many stories, myths, and legends.
The three main pyramid complexes – the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure – are among the most famous attractions in the world and a must-see when visiting Cairo.
Explore the Great Pyramid of Giza
As one of the world’s most famous landmarks, the Pyramid of Giza stands out among Cairo’s many attractions. The Great Pyramid, or the Pyramid of Khufu, is the oldest and largest of three pyramids in Giza and was built around 2560 BC for Pharaoh Khufu. Visitors to the site can explore several areas both inside and outside of its walls.
Viewing areas on the outside allow visitors to get up close to all three pyramids and admire their iconic silhouettes from afar. You will also find several monuments within the complex, such as a temple dedicated to Isis between two smaller pyramids, the Pyramid of Mycerinus and the Pyramid of Khafre. If you have the opportunity, you can take a guided tour through one of these ancient structures, which features numerous chambers at different levels within each pyramid. But be sure to book ahead since entry is limited each day!
For those interested in seeing more than just these monumental sites, one can also explore nearby attractions such as The Solar Boat Museum, which houses an ancient funerary boat discovered at the Pyramids of Giza or visit a nearby traditional Bedouin market where handmade crafts are sold. From its impressive Pyramids showcasing ancient relics from thousands of years ago to discovering authentic, timeless gems offered by locals, a visit to Cairo promises visitors an experience unlike any other.
Climb the Great Sphinx of Giza
The Great Sphinx of Giza is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world and one of Cairo’s most enticing attractions. Dating back more than 4,500 years, it is believed to be the oldest monument in Egypt and one of the oldest in the world. Standing 73 meters (240 feet) long, 19.3 meters (63 feet) wide, and 20 meters (65 feet) high, this enormous limestone statue depicts a mythical creature with a lion’s body and a human head.
Located near the Pyramids of Giza, sand and wind erosion have preserved the Great Sphinx since ancient times. Its body has undergone minor repairs over time due to vandalism, but its neck and head remain intact. Climb up the steps to get an excellent view from atop its back or enter through an opening at one of its paws. Inside, you will find a small gray chapel built by Khufu, son of King Cheops, responsible for making most of Giza’s monuments, including three pyramids.
The Great Sphinx attracts thousands of tourists annually and offers breathtaking views with visits to nearby attractions such as Menkaure Pyramid or Cheops Pyramid – Depending on your available time. It’s worth witnessing the Pyramids aligned perfectly in Eastern light during a morning or afternoon visit for a few hours to experience the true mystery of this ancient marvel!
The Egyptian Museum
If you’re looking to explore the rich history of Cairo, Egypt, there’s no better place to start than the iconic Egyptian Museum. This treasured building in central Cairo houses the world’s most extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including thousands of mummies, statues, jewelry, and more. So let’s look closer at the Egyptian Museum and its offerings.
See the Mummies and King Tut’s Tomb
Located in historic Cairo, the Egyptian Museum is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Egypt. The Museum houses an extensive collection of mummies and artifacts associated with Ancient Egyptian culture and Pharaohs, including a miniature golden sarcophagus containing the mummy of King Tutankhamun.
It also has an extensive collection of antiquities from different periods of ancient Egyptian history.
The Mummies Room at the Museum is one of its most visited attractions and contains some 30 mummies from various dynasties of the pre-Christian era. Among these are notable pharaohs like Ramses II and royalty like Seti I and Hatshepsut. This room is particularly popular with tourists due to its colorful displays that feature detailed descriptions of each mummy’s past life and achievements.
Another significant attraction at the Museum is the tomb of King Tutankhamun, which British archaeologist Howard Carter discovered in 1922. Visitors can explore this unique tomb featuring artifacts such as a gilded bed, dagger, jewelry boxes, and chariots placed inside upon his burial in 1323 BC.
The Museum also contains thousands of other artifacts collected throughout Egypt’s history. These range from sculptures spanning ancient dynasties to smaller items such as jewelry made by artisans between Roman rule and the Muslim conquest in 641 CE.
Learn about Ancient Egyptian Culture
The Egyptian Museum in Cairo is one of the world’s most important museums of Ancient Egypt. It provides visitors with the unique opportunity to explore and discover the richness and complexity of Ancient Egyptian civilization.
The Museum holds a vast collection of artifacts from different historical periods, from prehistory to the Greco-Roman period. Here you can find a variety of carvings, funerary goods, mummies, jewelry, headrests, and figurines, among many other objects that help explain our understanding of this ancient culture. In addition, some royal mummies and royal tombs are on display in this fantastic Museum.
Visitors to The Egyptian Museum can also marvel at numerous rare examples of art from Ancient Egypt, including paintings, sculptures, pottery, and carvings. Many exhibits also tell stories about Pharaohs and the myths associated with them.
Those that visit this Museum will be welcomed with interactive displays where they can learn about what life was like in those times or view recreations of famous scenes such as Thebes temple or Karnak Temple Complex, where the sun god Amon-Ra was revered by the Pharaohs. It is a great way for visitors to understand and appreciate the ancient culture before exploring it further with trips outside Cairo.
Islamic Cairo
Cairo, Egypt, is a bustling city with a rich culture and exciting attractions. One of the city’s most iconic areas is Islamic Cairo, with its stunning monuments, towering mosques, and fascinating bazaars. Whether you’re on a tight budget or have plenty of money, there’s something for everyone in Islamic Cairo.
Let’s dive into all the attractions and activities that this area has to offer:
Visit the Citadel of Salah el-Din
The Citadel of Salah el-Din, also known as the Cairo Citadel, is a great place to visit during your stay in Cairo. Initially constructed in the 12th century, this fortification was built by the Ayyubid Sultan Saladin and served as his royal residence for almost 250 years.
Today, this grand castle remains a symbol of Islamic power and privilege with its towering minarets and imposing gateway. While exploring the massive citadel, you will find many must-see attractions like The Mosque of Muhammad Ali, The Museum of Egyptian Arms & Armaments, and numerous other awe-inspiring architectural sights.
For centuries, this citadel has been the protective guardian of many famous Islamic monuments and sites in Cairo, such as the Al-Azhar Mosque, Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, and Koran School. With its majestic domes, long winding streets lined with ancient buildings, and genuinely fascinating attractions, it is no surprise that this historic landmark remains a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Explore the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
Cairo is home to some of the world’s oldest and most fascinating bazaars, including the bustling Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. Located near Al-Azhar Mosque in Islamic Cairo, this market offers everything from spices, precious metals, and gemstones to textiles, incense, and traditional souvenirs. It’s a great place to pick up an authentic gift or two for friends or family – just be prepared to haggle!
Journey through Khan el-Khalili Bazaar’s maze-like alleyways and explore its various sections. Get lost among the wooden kiosks of perfumes and cosmetics in Mazatlan; find silver jewelry and trinkets at Yousuf al-Hassan; venture into Attarine Souk for leather goods and boxes; immerse yourself in El Fishawy, which dates back to 1737, for live music and freshly brewed teas; grab a falafel sandwich at Al Sioufiyya; stop by Ataba Square for walnuts from Nubia; browse ancient copperware at Tannouret Al Nahas (e.g., lamps); bargain for textile treasures like qahremal (traditional fabric from Lower Egypt) at Sidi Ahmed Taymour Clothing Souk; satisfy your sweet tooth at El Abdul Latif Sweets Shop –the options are endless! With live shows all around you, it’s easy to enjoy the sights and sounds of one of Cairo’s oldest Souks.
Coptic Cairo
If you’re looking for an exciting and unique experience in Cairo, visiting Coptic Cairo should be at the top. This area of Cairo is home to some of the oldest and most fascinating monuments in the city and provides a unique insight into the rich culture and history of the area.
From ancient churches to ancient catacombs, there is something to explore in this beautiful area of Cairo:
Visit the Hanging Church
The Hanging Church of the Virgin Mary, also known as the al-Muʿallaqah or Suspended Church, is one of Cairo’s oldest and most famous Christian churches. It was built in the 7th Century AD and is believed to be on top of older Roman fortifications. Its distinct architecture, featuring two curved outside walls and a main entrance with columns, is an example of Coptic art. Inside, visitors can find impressive Norman-style arches that adorn its interior. Many ancient artifacts and beautiful murals are also housed in this cherished building.
Although it suffered damage after the Overthrow of Hosni Mubarak’s oppressive rule in 2011, visitors can still enjoy this incredible structure while visiting Coptic Cairo. Previously closed to visitors before 8 am due to religious services from Coptic Christians taking place there, prayer times have been standardized so that anyone can now visit at any time to admire its grandeur throughout the day.
Explore the Coptic Museum
The Coptic Museum in Cairo is an important historical site and makes a great outing or day trip traveled alone or with a packed. Located in Coptic Cairo, international visitors will discover the city’s Coptic (Christian) history and view many beautiful examples of ancient Coptic art, such as crosses, manuscripts, icons, stonework, and carpets.
The Museum includes many churches and monasteries that have been discovered underneath Cairo. It is run by the Greek Catholic Church and houses one of the world’s largest collections of Islamic-era Coptic artifacts. In addition, tourists can appreciate some magnificent paintings from early Christian and Muslim influences.
The Museum undergoes renovation every so often to preserve and showcase its wonderful art pieces, offering visitors a glimpse into Egypt’s complex past. It is also home to one of the earliest libraries in the world: The Al-Qosor Library which houses more than 8000 manuscripts from different religions that date back to early Islamic periods between 619-829 AD! Additionally, there are several rare drawings from the crusades, including events from Jesus’s life story depicted on them and other stories on essential figures in Jewish or Christian religions at that period.
Visitors can explore some beautiful outdoor gardens with plants native to Egypt, like palm trees or greenery around ancient ruins found within the grounds of this incredible Museum!
Nile Cruise
Taking a Nile Cruise is one of the most popular activities in Cairo, Egypt. A cruise down the Nile River is a great way to explore Cairo’s unique sites and attractions. You can experience breathtaking views of the Pyramids, desert landscapes, and traditional villages along the River. The cruise usually includes a delicious meal and even a few activities.
Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect from a Nile Cruise:
Take a Nile River Cruise
A Nile River cruise might be right for you if you want to explore Egypt most romantically and leisurely. This timeless journey will have you drifting slowly down one of the world’s oldest and most renowned rivers, offering guests an unforgettable experience of Egypt’s incredible history while being treated to unparalleled hospitality.
A Nile River Cruise typically starts in Cairo and ends in Luxor, traveling through several Egypt cities, including Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Gebel el Silsila, Esna, and Denderah. By day guests can marvel at ancient ruins hidden along the banks of the Nile, such as The Temple of Karnak at Luxor and The Temple of Isis at Philae; relax on board with your favorite book; take guided tours to markets, Museums, and more; or partake in outdoor activities such as sailing on a felucca or exploring villages. By night guests are usually invited to enjoy onboard entertainment from traditional folklore shows to belly dancing performances amongst candle-lit tables set with beautiful arrangements of roses – nature’s ultimate symbol for love.
Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation – a boat cruise along Egypt’s longest River is an ideal way to learn about the country’s culture while enjoying stunning sunrises and sunsets over the mesmerizingly beautiful sweeping views that make the legendary Nile so iconic all over the world!
Visit the Valley of the Kings
As you explore the captivating sights of Cairo, a highlight for many visitors is a trip to the nearby Valley of the Kings. This area near Luxor on the west bank of the Nile River is the destination for incredible ancient tombs, including those containing treasures from Tutankhamun’s reign.
Its stunningly preserved ancient site can be visited in a single day or extended with an overnight stay at one of Luxor’s hotels. The wonders in and around Luxor are so immense that several days-long options are available to explore this remarkable area. However, no matter what length of stay you choose, a journey through Egypt’s Valley of the Kings will reveal many layers of astonishing notes in Egyptian history.
Your Nile cruise can include visits to spectacular temples, fascinating tombs such as King Tut’s, and even donkey rides through narrow cobblestone streets offering breathtaking views of the traditional Egyptian lifestyle. Lose yourself in time as you marvel at ancient statues, hieroglyphics, monuments, and more – all blissfully set against Egypt’s majestic mountains and mesmerizing desert landscape.
At nightfall, you’ll be awed by incredible starry skies and can sleep soundly aboard your luxury cruiser after a fascinating journey back into antiquity through Egypt’s breathtaking Valley of Kings!