Cairo Attractions

10 best things to do in Cairo | Egypt Tour Packages

Location : Cairo

Type : the Best

time spent : one day (day tour)
Hagar Asal

Department of Civilization and History

Created: 28/04/2024 Last Update: 28/04/2024

1-What is special about the Egyptian Museum?

The Egyptian Museum, is situated in Cairo, Egypt. It holds the world's biggest assortment of Egyptian antiquities, It houses over 120,000 items. The Egyptian Museum with  Find Must-see attractions in Cairo, Discover the best activities, and the best things to do in Cairo to Plan your Holiday. Cairo Attractions is the oldest archaeological museum in the Middle East, and houses the largest collection of Pharaonic antiquities in the world. The museum displays an extensive collection spanning from the Predynastic Period to the Greco-Roman Era. The architect of the building was selected through an international competition in 1895, which was the first of its kind, and was won by the French architect, Marcel Dourgnon. The museum was inaugurated in 1902 by Khedive Abbas Helmy II, and has become a historic landmark in downtown Cairo, and home to some of the world’s most magnificent ancient masterpieces. Among the museum’s unrivaled collection are the complete burials of Yuya and Thuya, Psusennes I and the treasures of The city of Tanis contains one of the greatest archaeological treasures.It produced the royal tombs of Tanis which was once the capital of all Egypt. Tanis , and the Narmer Palette commemorating the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt under one king, which is also among the museum’s invaluable artifacts. The museum also houses the splendid statues of the great kings Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, the builders of the pyramids at the Giza plateau. An extensive collection of papyri, sarcophagi and jewelry, among other objects, completes this uniquely expansive museum.

 Ever since the discovery of Tutankhamun, ruled as a boy only for a short time. He is most famous because his tomb was discovered almost intact and full of treasures in 1922 Tutankhamun 's Tomb in 1922, the gold death mask of the young ruler has been carefully preserved. The mask and the Tomb itself are truly remarkable, adorned with depictions of Egyptian gods and goddesses. When you see the mask and the Tomb of King Tut, you can't help but appreciate the Egyptians' pride in their skills and culture during that era. The death mask of King Tut is a major highlight of the museum, attracting a large number of visitors who gather around to admire it.


2-What is the beauty of Old Cairo?

Old Cairo, also known as Coptic Cairo, is the oldest part of Cairo. It is the center of the Coptic Christian community and a fascinating place to visit. The Coptic Museum is a landmark in the history of the Egyptian art, confirming the immortality of this art and its inheritance . The Coptic Museum houses a wealth of information about Egypt's early Christian period and has one of the best collections of Coptic art in Egypt. This small area is filled with churches and narrow streets, located within the walls of Old Babylon where the Roman Emperor Trajan built a fortress along the Nile River. Some of the Roman towers still stand, overlooking the main road. Nearby, the Hanging Church, dating back to the 9th century, showcases beautiful Coptic designs. Originally built in the 4th century over the Roman gate towers, the church underwent significant reconstruction in the 9th century.




3-What is special about Al-Azhar Mosque?

The Al-Azhar Mosque in Cairo is an impressive structure that dates back to AD972. It is not only one of the oldest mosques in the world, but also one of the oldest universities. The mosque features a grand entrance and five towering minarets that can be seen from afar. Inside, visitors can find solace in the central hall where they can sit and pray.


4-What is special about Khan El Khalili?

Khan el-Khalili, Cairo Overview
Khan al-Khalili is a bustling and lively market, considered one of the largest in the world. It is a must-visit destination with its vibrant atmosphere of buying, selling, and bargaining. The market is famous for its beautiful handicrafts made from semiprecious and expensive stones, as well as various sizes of simulated pyramids. Covering a vast area, the market is home to numerous shops and stores that offer a wide range of products. You can find souvenirs at incredibly affordable prices to bring back for your loved ones. After exploring the market, take a break and relax at Fishaw's Ahwa cafe. Don't miss the chance to visit Midaq Alley, known for its impressive architecture.


5-What will I see on a Nile River cruise?

Nile River Cruise, Cairo Overview
Exploring Egypt's major historical sites has become even more popular with the option of a Nile cruise. This cruise allows you to spend several days on a boat, visiting various historical sites, ruins, and temples along the river. You can also visit beautiful cities like Luxor, Qena, and Aswan, depending on the type of cruise you choose. To make the most of your experience, it is advisable to gather detailed information from your preferred agency before booking your cruise.




6-What is the most famous street in Cairo?

Al-Muizz is an ancient street in Cairo that connects the southern gate of Bab-Zuweil to the northern gates of Bab-en-Nasr and Bab-al-Futuh. It is located about 30 minutes away from Downtown Cairo and is renowned for its Islamic architectural wonders from the medieval era. As you walk along this street, you will come across numerous mosques, as well as the goldsmiths bazaar, markets for bowls, pots, and ornaments, and the coppersmiths' bazaar. The coppersmiths' bazaar, also known as Al-Nahaseen, is a section of the street that used to be a grand parade ground between the caliphal palaces. Interestingly, the first book in Naguib Mahfouz's Cairo Trilogy was titled after this street and translates to "Palace Walk".


7-Cairo Opera House?

The Cairo Opera House is situated in the southern part of Gezira Island in Downtown Cairo's Zamalek district. It was given as a gift from Japan to Egypt and was officially opened in 1988. The opera house serves as a platform for various music groups, dance academies, museums, galleries, and other artists to showcase their art. Visitors who are interested in experiencing traditional Arabic dances and music can explore the opera house. It consists of four theaters and two exhibition halls, specifically designed for art and music. Guided tours are also available for the public to visit the Cairo Opera House. The first floor of the building houses the Opera Museum, which is dedicated to the history of the opera house, while the new opera house is located on the second floor.


8-What is the Nilometer used for?

The A nilometer was a structure for measuring the Nile River's clarity and water level during the annual flood season. Nilometer was a device used in the past to measure the water level of the river Nile. It was helpful in predicting floods and droughts. The structure, located between the Manasterly Palace and the Um Kalthoum Museum, has a beautifully designed conical dome at the top. Inside, there is a vertical column pillar immersed in water. From the building, visitors can enjoy a view of the coastal town of Dahab in the south. They can also feel the refreshing breeze coming from the river Nile. To enter the A nilometer was a structure for measuring the Nile River's clarity and water level during the annual flood season. Nilometer , tickets can be purchased at the entrance gate on Sharia Al Malek As Salih. A Site Guard will accompany visitors and guide them to the A nilometer was a structure for measuring the Nile River's clarity and water level during the annual flood season. Nilometer . This is necessary because the building is usually closed between visits.




9-Bab Zuweila

Bab Zuweila, the sole remaining southern gate of the city, was constructed during the medieval period and functioned as an entrance to Al-Qahira. The minarets on the gate showcase the stunning architectural style of that era. Additionally, the gate gained notoriety for its use in executing criminals and prisoners under the rule of that time. Visitors frequently delight in the captivating vistas from the summit of this remarkable landmark.


10-Coptic Museum

The Coptic Museum is a landmark in the history of the Egyptian art, confirming the immortality of this art and its inheritance . The Coptic Museum , established in 1908, houses over 16,000 artefacts dating back to the time when Christians were present in Egypt. These artefacts have been collected from various monasteries across the country. Situated at the Babylon site, the museum displays artefacts that showcase the connection between different religions during the transition from the Pagan era to the Christian period. Additionally, there is a separate museum dedicated to the history of the Coptic Museum and the nearby Coptic Churches, providing a deeper understanding of their significance. By visiting the Coptic Museum, you can gain insight into the values and cultures brought to Egypt by Christians, as well as witness the remarkable architecture of the museum and the surrounding churches. It is definitely a must-visit destination.


Also in Cairo

suggested tours


Table Of contents

You May Also Like