Cairo Attractions

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Attractions

One only needs to look up to the Pyramid on the skyline to be reminded that Cairo's ancient attractions are part of the city's fabric rather than only tourist exhibits.

Cairo has been attracting tourists for thousands of years, and the Pyramids of Giza alongside the Sphinx are some of the oldest and arguably most impressive attractions in the world. One would think other attractions in Cairo competing for attention would pale in comparison. Yet, visitors find some of the best the sights in Cairo are rare places where people go about daily life in ancient surroundings.

Not least among these is Khan al-Khalili, a central and much used market which gives visitors a chance to experience the bazaar much as it was 700 years ago. Another is Old Cairo, an ancient Coptic Christian community from Roman times. Other historic religious sites still in use include the ancient Hanging Church and the slightly less ancient (12th century) but enormous Saladin Citadel.

Tourists shouldn't discount the museums however, particularly the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, which is one of the most impressive in the World and full of scary mummies.

There are harems of tour groups but many explore their favourite destinations on their own, which before long, usually includes an eager unofficial tour guide anyway.

Egyptian Museum of Antiquities

With over 100,000 artefacts in 107 halls, the Egyptian Museum provides days of exploration. Inside are treasures from ancient Egypt, including priceless finery taken from ancient royal tombs, and one of the museum’s masterpieces, the statue of Khafre (Chephren). The most popular attraction is the... see full details

Pyramids of Giza

The pyramids are the earth’s oldest tourist attraction and the Great Pyramid of Khufu (Cheops) is the only remainder of the seven ancient wonders of the world. Throughout their history, they have fired human imagination, with much speculation as to their origin and purpose,... see full details

Old Cairo

The small and enclosed area, also known as Coptic Cairo, is the oldest part of the city and was once known as the Roman stronghold of Babylon; some of the old walls still exist. It is the ancient heart of the Coptic Christian... see full details

Coptic Church of St. George (Mari Girgis)

One of the few round churches still in existence in the East, the Greek Church of St. George features a long set of steps that lead up to the church where visitors will find a relief of St. George and the dragon wrapped... see full details

Hanging Church (El Muallaqa, Sitt Mariam, St Mary)

The Hanging Church derives its name from its location on top of the southern tower gate of the old Babylon fortress with its nave suspended over a passage. It's the most famous Coptic Church in Cairo with the earliest mention of the church... see full details

Asfour Crystal Factory

The Egyptians were the first people to develop the art technology of manufacturing glass and cutting it into beautiful shapes and began doing this 5,000 years ago. Established in 1961 and located in Shobra, the Asfour Crystal Factory Showroom is the largest crystal factory... see full details

Saladin Citadel (Al-Qalaa)

This massive stone fortress set in a beautiful tropical location with magnificent views, was built by Salah ad-Din in the 12th century. Visitors have the freedom to roam the castle, which remains in pristine condition, including the execution room. Two other mosques are located... see full details

Ramses II Statue

Discovered in 1882 during excavations, the statue of Pharaoh Ramses II was cut into six pieces in the 1950s and moved to Ramses Square in central Cairo where it stood for a further 50 years. In 2006 the statue moved to a new... see full details

Dr. Ragab's Pharaonic Village

This living museum is a fabulous attraction for the whole family to enjoy. Visitors sail down a network of canals in motorized barges where a cast of actors and actresses work to recreate ancient Egypt. All the characters from pharaohs and fishermen to slaves... see full details

Magic Galaxy

This indoor amusement park spans two floors and features 10 big rides, over 100 games and rides, and even a Baby Zone section for the very young visitors. Kids can enjoy rides such as the Moon Buggy or Falling Star, or even let... see full details

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