Egypt is one of the most fascinating destinations in the world, full of fascinating history and culture. From the Nile to the Red Sea, Alexandria and Cairo, the pyramids of Giza, dating back to 2500 BC, invite you to take a real journey through time. Don’t miss the vibrant bustle of Cairo, and if you can, adventure further along the Red Sea to Luxor!
Language: several languages are spoken in Egypt, but the primary language is Egyptian Arabic, also known as Masri/Masry.
Currency: The official currency of Egypt is the Egyptian pound (EGP).
TIP: Cash is still very important here. The local currency, the Egyptian pound (EGP), is still very important. Many places will accept US dollars or euros, but they are poorly changed.
Did you know that Cairo is also known as the “city of a thousand minarets”.
History
Cairo’s history dates back more than a thousand years, but the areas that preceded it have played a significant role since ancient times. The city was founded in 969 by the Fatimids and has been Egypt’s most important centre ever since. Over time, it has been shaped by Arab, Turkish and British influences, while its pyramids and mummy heritage remain one of Cairo’s greatest attractions.
Places to visit
Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx – One of the most famous wonders of the ancient world, an unmissable destination for history lovers. Here is your guide to the Pyramids of Giza!
Egyptian Museum – home to one of the world’s richest collections of ancient art, with over 120 000 items. It houses the gold mask and tomb treasures of Tutankhamun, as well as stunning pharaoh statues and sarcophagi. The museum has two levels covering thousands of years of Egyptian history, including the famous royal mummies. Although the new Grand Egyptian Museum is gradually taking over, the charm and historical significance of the classical building will remain.
TIP: The Treasures of Tutankhamun section is particularly popular, featuring the young pharaoh’s gold mask and other fascinating artefacts discovered more than 3,000 years after his death. No photography is allowed in this room and the objects will soon be moved to the new Grand Egyptian Museum.
Khan el-Khalili Bazaar – Cairo’s vibrant market where visitors can buy handicrafts, spices and local specialities.
TIP: Bargaining is a must for bazaar shopping. It’s worth starting at half the price offered and working your way up, then stopping somewhere around 70% of the original price
Alabaster Mosque (Mohamed Ali Mosque) – Located in the Citadel, this impressive building is one of Cairo’s iconic landmarks.
Coptic Cairo – One of the most important sites of the early Christian heritage, with the famous Hanging Temple and several historic Coptic temples.
Ibn Tulun Mosque – One of the most important and impressive historic buildings in Cairo. The mosque was built by Governor Ibn Tulun in the 9th century and is one of the earliest and best preserved examples of Islamic architecture in Egypt. The building is simple yet exudes a special atmosphere. The vast inner courtyard is surrounded by arched columns. Here rises the famous spiral staircase minaret, unique in Islamic architecture. From the top you can enjoy an extraordinary view.
Gayer Anderson Museum – Located next to the Ibn Tulun Mosque, the museum is known locally as Beit al-Kiritliya. One of Cairo’s special treasures, it offers a glimpse into a historic Egyptian home. The museum consists of two traditional Arab houses built in the 16th and 17th centuries. It was converted in the 20th century by British Army Colonel Gayer-Anderson, a passionate art collector and Egyptologist. He collected many rare objects and works of art, which are still in the museum. The collection includes traditional furniture, textiles, ceramics, glassware, and Egyptian, Persian, Syrian, and Turkish art.
Nile cruise – A romantic cruise on the Nile is an unforgettable experience, especially at sunset.
Luxor – the ancient city of Thebes, one of Egypt’s most magnificent cultural treasures. It is a true paradise for history lovers, home to the famous Valley of the Kings, where the tombs of the Egyptian pharaohs are hidden, and the impressive Temple of Karnak, one of the largest religious buildings in the world. Read our guide to visiting Luxor
Cairo is a city that both enchants with its ancient monuments and fascinates with its modern bustle. Whether you’re looking for historic monuments or bustling markets, you’re sure to find something worth travelling for. Cairo offers unforgettable experiences for all visitors!