Cairo is a vibrant metropolis with a true Arabic mummery, and travellers from Western countries or Asia will experience culture shock on their first visit.
Find out what to do in Cairo and discover its hidden beauty.
View the 10 best hotels in Cairo
Discover ancient monuments
Egypt's ancient civilisations have attracted the attention of millions since time immemorial. Egypt was one of the cradles of advanced civilisation for millennia, and precious monuments from this era have survived to this day that will leave you breathless.
Head to the outskirts of Cairo and discover some of the world's most infamous monuments. In the adjacent city of Giza lies the world-famous Necropolis of Giza, with Egypt's largest pyramid. And just about 20km to the south, you'll visit the mysterious Pyramids of Djoser in the Saqqara Necropolis, where noticeably fewer tourists head.
Then there are the numerous mosques and fortresses of the lively Islamic Cairo, which lies on the eastern edge of the centre, dating from as early as AD.
And on the southern edge, just next to the metro station, wander into the shady and very quiet narrow streets of the Christian Coptic city.
Visit the lively souqs and bazaars
The Arab world is synonymous with lively souqs or bazaars. And of course, the largest city in the Arab world, Cairo, cannot be left behind.
Experience the authentic atmosphere of the local markets, where tourists stray only minimally and the vast majority of visitors are locals for whom the souqs are the main source of shopping.
Where can you find the best markets in Cairo?
Khan Al-Khalili
The most famous bazaar in the Islamic Quarter can be found just a few steps north of the Al-Azhar Mosque. It's the only one that's the most touristy, but even here it's dominated by locals. But you can also buy a bit of souvenirs in this market, as well as clothes, jewellery, antiques, and many restaurants...
Al Khyiamia
Probably the most authentic souq in Cairo, frequented mainly by locals, stretching along several streets from the Al-Azhar Mosque towards the south. The entrance to the market can be identified by a massive wooden gate. Here you will experience the true Egyptian mummery, see vendors selling live chickens or pigeons, butchers, bakers, but also many other shops.
Boulaq
The largest clothing market, which stretches practically across the entire district of the same name. Stalls and clothing shops are ubiquitous and you'll experience true Egyptian chaos here too.
Talaat Harb Street
Central Cairo's main street is not a classic market, but you'll find plenty of shops, stalls and kebab stands. Talaat Harb is Cairo's main shopping street, and you'll find mainly more upmarket shops selling clothes, shoes or leather goods.
But you'll find smaller bazaars and markets at virtually every major intersection throughout Cairo.
