Cairo has always been included in the package tours to Egypt. But not many people know what they should do here. There are actually someone come here and enjoin themselves at a beach resort somewhere for more than a week. If you have Cairo in your trip to Egypt, here a few things you should try to see the true face of Cairo.
Al Azhar Park
They built Al Azhar Park about 6 years ago literally on a mountain of garbage. A nice move to improve the looks of the city, and to give people a quiet place to relax.
Al Azhar Park is not particularly attractive to visitors, but you definitely have to visit it at least once in your trip. The park offers a beautiful view over Cairo and the Citadel, especially at sunset. There are cafes, a restaurant and a lovely pond… it’s Cairo’s Central Park! If it hasn’t pique your interest, then try having dinner at this park just before sunset. The city view from above, and the sun going down on the Pyramids will definitely change your mind.
The Citadel
The Citadel is another typical touristic landmark, but that doesn’t mean you should miss it. Surrounded by the ancient walls, this place is closed to traffic, so you can have some peace walking around without worrying about… risking your life, which is, in fact, a true luxury in Cairo.
The Citadel includes several mosques, but the main one is the Mohammed Ali Mosque – it recalls the Blue Mosque of Istanbul with its shape, and it’s really huge. From the esplanade in front of it, you will also have a beautiful view over Cairo. And if the air is clear enough, you will also see the Pyramids on the horizon. Definitely worth spending your time here.
Egyptian Museum
Egyptian Museum, opened in 1902, contains 102 chronologically divided halls featuring mummies, jewels and other pieces from ancient ages. The museum might be disappointed when it comes to organization (in fact, it looks like there is none) but the value of the collection, historically, is priceless. The downside is that you might walk by the most important piece of art of Egyptian history with no sign or description to help you noticing. Try have a guide go with you, and you’ll see how great it is.
Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx
Like the Colosseum in Rome, the Blue Mosque in Istanbul and the Eiffel Tower in Paris, your trip is not completed without visiting the Giza Pyramids to gawk at its giant ancient monuments. The buildings around, the expected desert, and overcrowded with people might disappointed you at first. But hang in there, and you’ll find the sight worth your wait. Entering the pyramids is permitted, but it looks like a very claustrophobic experience. Find a rooftop nearby and wait for the sunset, the view together with the sunset prayer (Adhan) can be an impressive moment! Also, remember to bring water and sunscreen, since it’s a desert out there.
Coptic Cairo (Old City)
If you like learning about religious, you should not miss this oldest part of the city with twisting alleys and ancient churches. As the legend says, it was St. Mark who introduced to Christianity to Egypt, and so the first church of Africa – the Coptic Church of Egypt- was established. You’ll find thousands of Christian arts and relics, and a 9th century Hanging Church.
There are also other notable sites from other religious here, despite the predominant of Christian here. Like the Ben Ezra Synagogue (located next to the Coptic Museum) is the alleged site where the pharaoh’s daughter found Moses floating in his basket. Islamic heritage is also represented here with the Mosque of Amr Ibn al-‘Aas, which was constructed in 642 and is the oldest mosque in Africa. See with your own eyes and confirm the uniqueness of this place.
Enjoy the food
At some point, you’ll find yourself eating street food somewhere. Street food can be founded anywhere, and at a cheap price, too.
The typical Egyptian breakfast: “foul”: made of a bean paste and vegetables, served in a typical flat bread bun.
Taameya: the falafel sandwich named above, usually sold in the same places where they sell foul.
Falafel
Koshary is the most typical thing. It’s a mix of rice, noodles, pasta, lentils and chickpeas. It’s cheap, and can fill you up for hours. Good way to refill your stomach for a long trip.
Sahlab is a tepid milk cream that is served with fruits, chocolate, coconut or whatever you ask for. Definitely a good news for any sweet-tooth travelers out there.
Travel guide to Cairo: what you might miss
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