Top Things to Do in Cairo City
Top 4 Things to Do in Cairo City
Cairo is the capital of Egypt and one of the most fascinating cities in the world. Travelers searching for things to do in Cairo city are drawn by its unmatched blend of Ancient Egyptian wonders, Islamic heritage, and modern city life. Home to the iconic Giza Pyramids, bustling bazaars, and historic mosques, Cairo leaves every visitor amazed by its depth of history and vibrant energy.
With a population of over 16 million, Cairo is the largest city in Africa and a true cultural powerhouse. Let’s explore its story and the top things to do in Cairo city.
A Brief History of Cairo City
Before exploring modern attractions, understanding Cairo’s past adds depth to every visit. The origins of Cairo trace back to Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt during the Old Kingdom (2686–2181 BC), located about 24 km southwest of today’s city.
Nearby stood the Roman Fortress of Babylon, which later became a center of early Christianity and home to landmarks like the Hanging Church.
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The Birth of Islamic Cairo
Cairo began as Fustat in the 10th century when the Fatimids established it as their capital. This era saw the construction of landmarks such as Al-Azhar Mosque, one of the world’s oldest universities.
Later, Saladin built the famous Citadel of Cairo in the 12th century, followed by the Mamluk era, during which Cairo became a global center of Islamic learning.
Modern Cairo
In the 19th century, Muhammad Ali Pasha modernized Egypt, reshaping Cairo with European-style boulevards. Despite periods of British occupation and political unrest, Cairo evolved into today’s sprawling metropolis and cultural heart of the Arab world.
Cairo’s Top Locations
When discussing things to do in Cairo city, it’s impossible to ignore Giza, a major suburb of Cairo. Giza is home to:
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Cairo is also known as the “City of a Thousand Minarets”, thanks to its stunning Islamic architecture and countless mosques.
Top 4 Things to Do in Cairo City
No list of things to do in Cairo city is complete without visiting the Pyramids of Giza. These monumental structures have stood for over 4,500 years and remain Egypt’s most famous attraction.
Standing before the pyramids and the Great Sphinx is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that connects visitors directly to ancient history.
One of the most important things to do in Cairo city is exploring the Egyptian Museum. It houses:
The museum offers a complete journey through 5,000 years of Egyptian civilization.
The Citadel of Saladin dominates Cairo’s skyline from the Mokattam Hills. It served as Egypt’s seat of power for nearly 700 years and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The highlight is the Muhammad Ali Mosque, inspired by Istanbul’s Blue Mosque and offering panoramic views over Cairo.
One of the final must-see things to do in Cairo city is strolling down Al-Muizz Street, one of the oldest streets in Islamic Cairo.
Stretching about one kilometer from Bab Zuweila to Bab Al-Futuh, the street is lined with:
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Popular Private Tours in Egypt
If you’re staying at the Red Sea and want to explore Egypt’s highlights, consider these private tours:
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