Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a gigantic city spanning an area of 528 km² with over 19.5 million inhabitants. As you can imagine, there are many activities to do there, some of which are particularly interesting for tourists. If you’re planning a short trip to Cairo, here are the must-sees.
Visit the Pyramids and Sphinx of Giza
One cannot overlook the only ancient wonder of the world still intact in this list. The pyramids and the Sphinx are the main reasons most tourists visit Cairo. Discover this extraordinary monument dating back more than 4,500 years. To fully experience and understand the history of the tombs, consider hiring a guide. You will feel quite small next to the largest pyramid, which measures 139 meters in height. Once you’ve taken it all in, we recommend a camel ride. Don’t hesitate to ask your guide to negotiate for you!
Marvel at the Mosque of Muhammad Ali
The size of this mosque and its location are bound to leave you speechless. The building is massive and dominates the city. On a clear day, you may even see the Pyramids of Giza from here. Inside, the former king Muhammad Ali is buried. The mosque’s decorations are remarkable, making it well worth a visit.
Stroll through Souk Khan el-Khalili
To get a feel for contemporary Egyptian culture, wander through the alleys of the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. Here, all your senses will be engaged! It’s a great opportunity to find country souvenirs, often cheaper here than near the main tourist points.
Educate Yourself at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo
To fully immerse yourself in the country, head to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. You will discover many artifacts with explanations that will teach you about the ancestors of modern Egyptians. After visiting this museum, you’ll be well-versed in the rituals, habits, beliefs, and other aspects of ancient Egyptian civilization. It’s an essential visit for enriching your general knowledge!
Go to the Museum of Memphis in the village of Mit Rahina
A few miles south of Cairo, in the village of Mit Rahina, is the Museum of Memphis, home to the Colossus of Ramses II. This spectacular ten-meter-long statue is the centerpiece of the museum, which was built around it to protect not only the statue but also the surrounding artifacts like the Alabaster Sphinx.
As you travel to Mit Rahina, you’ll gain insights into the Egyptian way of life and the Nile.
If you stay more than three days, you’ll certainly have time to visit other exceptional places in Cairo and its surroundings, such as the Saqqara Necropolis, the City of the Dead, or the Papyrus Museum.
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