7 things to see and do around Cairo (that aren’t the pyramids!)

Cairo, with one of the wonders of the world as it’s backdrop (a short drive away in Giza), is a unique city to explore. When you first arrive, you feel as though you’ve been transported to another world! The city is busy all the time and it’s truly alive. While there is no shortage of things to do in Cairo, here are a few of my favourites. Check them out to get a better feel for the city, it’s rich culture and history – both recent and ancient.

1. The Egyptian Museum

The current Egyptian Museum is located by Tahrir Square (the heart of the 2011 Egyptian Revolution). It’s most famous for housing Tutankhamun’s Gold Mask along with about 120,000 other incredible artifacts. The museum is truly packed to the brim, so much so that they’re currently building a bigger and better site, right by the pyramids. The new Grand Egyptian Museum is set to open before the end of 2018, which is meant to rehouse and restore artifacts from all over the world back to their roots. I’m already planning my trip back to check it out!

2. Al Azhar park

This park is truly an oasis in the middle of the hustle and bustle of downtown Cairo. My local friends and family were shocked when I said I wanted to check out the park. I got to see it on my third visit to Cairo and of all the sites I’ve seen, it’s probably one of my absolute favourites. With unobstructed views of Old Cairo and the Citadel in the skyline, it’s hard not to let time fly while you sip some tea at one of the many cafes.

A post shared by Monica Hrubcinova-Safwat (@monicahrubcinova) on Mar 25, 2018 at 6:35am PDT

3. Cairo Citadel

The Saladin Citadel of Cairo as many fortresses usually are, was strategically built on a hilltop. The advantageous viewpoints made it difficult to attack, but also gave it the incredible views of the city that we now still see today. This is probably one of the best viewpoints to see the Cairo skyline and be able to admire all the minarets. If you’re lucky and it isn’t too cloudy you can also see the pyramids in the distance from there as well!

4. Mohamed Ali Mosque

Come for the Citadel, and stay for the mosques. My favourite of the 3 mosques located at the Citadel, and the most famous is the Mohamed Ali Mosque (no, it’s not named after the boxer).

 It’s a landmark of the city, also known as the Alabaster Mosque whose ornate details are inspirational. Take a few minutes to pause inside the mosque and take your time walking around, you’re sure to be surprised!

A post shared by Monica Hrubcinova-Safwat (@monicahrubcinova) on Dec 28, 2017 at 4:52pm PST

5. Khan el Khalili

A must-see not only for the souvenir shopping, but for the narrow alleyways and head turning architecture. The Khan el-Khalili market for me, felt like a true Arabian experience. Explore the streets to find local artisans in the midst of their craft, but don’t forget which way you came in, the market can be a maze!

Note: Egyptians are expert negotiators, so be prepared, bargaining here is an art form!

6. Ibn Tulun Mosque

You’d be hard pressed to come to Cairo and only visit one mosque, the city is after all known as the city of a thousand minarets. The next best mosque to visit, would be the largest as well as one of the oldest in the city, Ibn Tulun.

7. Felucca ride on the Nile

The most relaxing way to sit back and take in Cairo is by boat, but no ordinary boat, a felucca! A felucca is a traditional Egyptian wooden boat. Feel the wind at your cheeks and watch the city buzz from a distance. Sailing at sunset down the Nile is the perfect end to a busy day.

Whether in town for a few hours or days, there is so much more to Cairo than the pyramids! This is the first of many posts to highlight all the other wonders (pun intended) it has to offer! If this hasn’t convinced you, take a look at these 10 photos that will make you want to travel to Egypt TODAY!

Some additional guides that may help with your trip planning:

• Tipping Etiquette in Egypt with tips from a local (my hubby!)
• Where to stay in Cairo, advice on the best neighbourhoods
• 30+ best places to see in Egypt
• Amazing pyramid view hotels you should consider staying at
• The best 15 spots in Cairo for instagram photos
• What to wear in Egypt a guide for women
• 4-day Nile Cruise review from Aswan to Luxor
• The best souvenirs to look for in Egypt
• Traditional Egyptian food you must try!

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