Cairo

Overview

The old and the new blend seamlessly in this megacity, and the old can be viewed at the new at places such as the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, whose main exhibit is the Royal Mummies Collection. But the rock star of Cairo is the Giza Pyramid Complex, which is guarded by the iconic Sphinx. Its renowned pyramids were built from approximately 2550 to 2490 B.C. and are still some of the most visited structures on Earth. Other must-see sights in Cairo, aka the City of a Thousand Minarets, include Al-Azhar Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in the city which is also home to the world’s second-oldest educational institution; Khan el-Khalili, a famous and historic bazaar and souk in Old Cairo that was established in the 14th century; and the Museum of Islamic Art, which houses one of the largest collections of Islamic artifacts in the world.

What to See

Giza Pyramid Complex – The stars of this UNESCO World Heritage Site are the Great Pyramid, which is the largest pyramid in Egypt and the oldest and last remaining of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World; the Pyramid of Khafre, the second largest of the group and the tomb of Pharaoh Khafre; and the Pyramid of Menkaure, the smallest of the three main pyramids. The Giza Pyramid Complex is also home to the world-famous Great Sphinx.

Nile Island of Gezira – Home to the trendy Zamalek District, peaceful Gezira Island is overflowing with hip cafés, world-class restaurants, and tranquil gardens. Here you will also find the iconic Cairo Tower and Cairo Opera House.

Coptic Cairo – Take a trip back in time in Coptic Cairo. This section of Old Cairo boasts some of the holiest and most historical sites in the city, including some of Egypt’s earliest churches. Some of its most venerated attractions include the Babylon Fortress, which was built by the Romans, and the Hanging Church and Church of St. George are built into and on its walls; Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church (Abu Serga), one of the oldest Coptic churches in Egypt purportedly built on the site where Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus once rested; and Ben Ezra Synagogue, the oldest Jewish temple in Cairo, which is said to be built on the site where Pharaoh’s daughter found Moses.

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo – Discover the history of Egypt in one place at the Egyptian Museum, which exhibits more than 100,000 unique artifacts. It is the oldest archaeological museum in the Middle East and possesses the largest collection of ancient Egyptian antiquities in the world, including the Golden Mask of King Tutankhamun.