Cairo

القاهرة

Egypt's sprawling capital city at the apex of the Nile Delta, home to the Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo's medieval architecture, and the Giza Plateau with its pyramids and sphinx. While technically at the delta's edge, Cairo is the gateway to and cultural heart of understanding the region.

Things to do

• Egyptian Museum — Explore thousands of artifacts including Tutankhamun's treasures and royal mummies in this iconic museum overlooking Tahrir Square.
• Islamic Cairo — Wander through medieval bazaars, mosques, and madrasas in the UNESCO-listed old city, centered around Khan el-Khalili market.
• Giza Plateau Pyramids — Visit the Great Pyramid of Khufu, Pyramid of Khafre, and the enigmatic Sphinx across the Nile on Cairo's western edge.
• Citadel of Saladin — Tour this 12th-century fortress complex with panoramic city views, featuring the alabaster Mohammed Ali Mosque and military museums.
• Al-Azhar Mosque — Visit one of Islam's oldest and most prestigious institutions, a stunning mosque and university complex dating back to 970 CE.
• Coptic Cairo — Explore the ancient Christian quarter with the Hanging Church, Ben Ezra Synagogue, and the Coptic Museum.
• Nile River Felucca Cruise — Sail on a traditional wooden sailboat along the Nile at sunset, experiencing local river life and city views from the water.

Food to try

• Koshari — A beloved Egyptian comfort dish combining rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas topped with spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions.
• Ful Medames — A traditional breakfast of slow-cooked fava beans mashed with garlic, lemon, and olive oil, typically eaten with fresh pita bread.
• Molokhia — A leafy green vegetable stew cooked with garlic and served over rice or bread, considered Egypt's national dish.
• Konafa — A crispy layered pastry dessert filled with nuts or cream, soaked in honey syrup and often enjoyed with tea or coffee.
• Stuffed Pigeon (Hamam Mahshi) — Whole pigeons seasoned and filled with spiced rice and meat, a special occasion dish reflecting Egyptian culinary tradition.
• Egyptian Street Falafel — Deep-fried balls of ground fava beans or chickpeas seasoned with herbs, served in pita with tahini sauce and vegetables.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Modestly — Wear loose, long clothing covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting mosques and Islamic Cairo, as a sign of respect.
• Haggling is Expected — In Khan el-Khalili and street markets, vendors expect negotiation; start at 50-60% of the asking price and settle in the middle.
• Ramadan Etiquette — During Ramadan, avoid eating and drinking publicly during daylight hours out of respect; many restaurants close during the day but open festively at sunset.
• Use Right Hand for Eating — The left hand is considered unclean in Egyptian culture; always eat, greet, and offer items with your right hand.