Experience the Charm of Islamic Cairo
With a history dating back to the 10th century, the city’s Islamic quarter is a fascinating blend of the historical and the contemporary. The area is home to several stunning mosques including the Al-Azhar Mosque and the Ibn Tulun Mosque, the latter being the oldest mosque in the city. A stroll through the narrow streets of Khan el-Khalili, a colorful bazaar, is a must-visit for tourists. Here, they can buy spices, souvenirs, and traditional Egyptian jewelry.
Visit the Pyramids of Giza
Cairo’s most iconic sight are the ancient pyramids at Giza. Built-in 2500 BC, the towering structures have stood for millennia as a testament to one of the greatest civilizations of the ancient world. The pyramids stand against the backdrop of the city, making for some truly remarkable photo opportunities.
Explore the Egyptian Museum
The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities is a treasure trove of over 120,000 items including mummies, jewelry, and ancient artifacts. The museum is especially famous for its Tutankhamun collection and the Golden Mask of the Pharaoh which is made of 11 kg of solid gold. The Museum is expected to soon move to its new location, closer to the Giza Pyramids.
Relax in Al-Azhar Park
Hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Al-Azhar Park is an oasis of tranquillity. Located on a hill in Islamic Cairo, the park boasts stunning views of the city skyline. The park combines lush green gardens, water features, and outdoor cafes. Visitors can escape the heat of the day by relaxing in the shade of a tree or having a picnic.
Sail on the Nile River
A Nile riverboat ride is the perfect way to experience the city and catch a breeze on a hot afternoon. Enjoy the views of the city from a completely different angle. Along the way, tourists can stop at one of the many floating restaurants and indulge in authentic Egyptian cuisine. For a more romantic experience, a night cruise with a candlelit dinner is an excellent choice.
Indulge in Local Cuisine
Cairo’s cuisine is a reflection of its long and rich history with notable influences from the Ottoman Empire, Persia, and neighboring Middle Eastern countries. Tuck into some kushari, a traditional Egyptian street food dish consisting of rice, lentils, and macaroni, topped with fried onions and tomato sauce; or try some foul medames, a popular breakfast dish of fava beans, garlic, and herbs. For adventurous eaters, there’s kofta, a local take on the meatball, and baladi bread, a sturdy, sourdough-like staple.
Cairo is a city that never stops surprising its visitors. Apart from the historical landmarks, there are numerous hidden gems and off-the-beaten-track neighborhoods that have yet to be explored. A trip to Cairo is an opportunity to immerse oneself in ancient history, exotic culture, and vibrant street life. Broaden your comprehension of the subject by exploring this external site we’ve carefully chosen for you. Explore this detailed article, obtain a fuller understanding of the subject addressed.
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