Cairo is a city ripe with culture, tradition, and attractions. There's a seemingly endless number of things to do whether you are traveling with family, friends, or lover. While it would be impossible to list all of the things to do in Cairo, there are a number of sites that you would regret not seeing before you ended your vacation. Here is a quick rundown of the top 5 things to do in Cairo.
The Pyramids
No journey to Cairo is complete without a tour of the Pyramids. While the area is overcrowded and seemingly overdone, you have to see these "wonders of the world" in person. The light show at night is spectacular, bringing a modern feel to the ancient beauty of the area, and is also affordable. For around $20 you can gain access to a number of areas.
The Sphinx
The sphinx is one of the most famous monuments in all of Egypt. Although you have seen pictures before, they do not do any justice to what the Sphinx looks like in person. While it is also filled with tourists, a trip to Cairo would not be complete without viewing this guard of the Giza Plateau.
The Egyptian Museum
The Egyptian Museum is a must see if only to view King Tut and the vast amount of treasure uncovered from his tomb. Because of the historically known rampant theft of Egyptian valuables, the Museum is enshrined with police and security guards, so take your film from your camera before entering. Everything within the museum is arranged chronologically and is behind protective glass, so taking pictures isn’t really an option. Admission is 20 pounds (10 for students).
Kahn Ali-Kalili
Khan Ali-Kalili is Cairo’s biggest open air market. Virtually unchanged since the 14th century some of the people here have been in the Khan market business for generations. Located in the heart of Islamic-Cairo, tourists amble through rows and rows of exotic jewelry, spices, perfumes and souvenirs. Be sure you’ve honed your haggling skills and put them to good use here, no price is ever fixed! Start low and work back and forth with the vendor. Haggling is actually seen as a way of communicating and some vendors are insulted if you don’t haggle because it’s a way of interacting with them!
Bab Zuweila Gate
The Sayyidna al-Hussein Mosque is one of the most sacred spots in all of Egypt. While the mosque is an attraction in and of itself, you should take the opportunity to head south and locate the busy street market. Not only is the market full of delightful finds, but you will come across the gate of Bab Zuweila. This gate is the only gate that is left from the wall that used to border the south of the old city. It is a reminder of what happened here and gives insight into the culture that surrounds Cairo.
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Attractions In Cairo