Experience Cairo
The Nile River flows through the heart of Cairo, providing breathtaking views and a source of livelihood for locals
Overview
Cairo, the capital city of Egypt, is a vibrant metropolis that boasts a rich and fascinating history, stunning architecture, and a bustling modern atmosphere. From the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx to the ancient mosques and bustling markets, Cairo is a city that is steeped in culture and tradition. With its unique blend of African, Arab, and Mediterranean influences, Cairo is a truly unique destination that offers visitors a breathtaking experience. Whether you’re exploring the city’s many museums and galleries, indulging in the local cuisine, or simply wandering through the bustling streets, Cairo is a city that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Cairo’s historic core, known as Islamic Cairo, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring stunning architecture from the Islamic Golden Age, including the Sultan Hassan Mosque and the Citadel of Saladin.
City History
Cairo, the capital city of Egypt, is a place of great historical significance. The city has been a center of trade, culture, and learning for centuries. Its origins date back to the 10th century when it was founded as a military camp. Over the years, it has been ruled by various dynasties, including the Fatimids, the Mamluks, and the Ottomans.
Yet, Cairo’s history stretches back even further. Just outside the city, the ancient pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx evoke the grandeur of Egypt’s Pharaonic past, dating back over 4,500 years. These ancient wonders have fascinated travelers and historians for centuries, symbolizing the ingenuity and spiritual beliefs of ancient Egypt. Visitors can also explore the city’s bustling souks, museums, and art galleries.
Things to See
The Great Pyramids of Giza – No trip to Cairo would be complete without a visit to the Great Pyramids of Giza. These iconic structures are the last remaining wonder of the ancient world, and are truly awe-inspiring to behold. As you stand before these towering monuments, your expert guide can explain the history and significance of these structures, and help you appreciate the incredible engineering feats that made them possible.
The Egyptian Museum – The Egyptian Museum in Cairo is home to the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. With your expert guide, you can explore the museum’s extensive collections and learn about the fascinating history and mythology of ancient Egypt.
The Citadel of Saladin – The Citadel of Saladin is a massive fortress that was built in the 12th century to protect Cairo from invading armies. Today, the Citadel is a popular tourist attraction that offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings. Your expert guide can take you on a tour of the Citadel, explaining its history and significance along the way.
Khan el-Khalili Bazaar – For a taste of traditional Egyptian culture, head to the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. This bustling market is filled with shops and stalls selling everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs. Your expert guide can help you navigate the market and find the best bargains, while also providing insights into the local culture and way of life.
Islamic Cairo – Islamic Cairo is a historic district that is home to some of Cairo’s most impressive architecture and landmarks. With your expert guide, you can explore the winding streets and alleys of this ancient neighborhood, stopping to admire the beautiful mosques, madrassas, and other historic buildings along the way.
Getting In
By Air: Cairo International Airport is the main airport serving the city, and it receives flights from major cities all over the world.
By Train: The city is well-connected to other major cities in Egypt by train, and there are several trains per day from cities like Alexandria and Luxor.
By Road: Driving to Cairo can be a great option if you’re up for a road trip, but be aware that traffic in the city can be quite chaotic. There are several long-distance bus companies that operate in Egypt, and you can find buses that travel to Cairo from cities all over the country.
Currency
The official currency used in Cairo, as well as the entire country of Egypt, is the Egyptian pound. It is denoted by the symbol “E£” and is subdivided into smaller units known as piastres, which are denoted by the symbol “Pt”. One Egyptian pound is equivalent to 100 piastres. The Egyptian pound has been the official currency of Egypt since 1834, when it was introduced by the country’s ruling authority at the time, the Khedivate of Egypt. Since then, the currency has undergone several changes, including the introduction of paper money in the early 20th century and the adoption of a floating exchange rate system in 2016. As a traveler to Cairo, it is important to note that the currency exchange rates can fluctuate and it is advisable to exchange money at official exchange offices to avoid scams. Additionally, it is customary to tip in Egypt, so having small denominations of Egyptian pounds on hand is always useful.
General Knowledge Base
General information about Cairo, Egypt.
It is believed to have originated from the Arabic word ‘Al-Qahirah’, which means ‘The Victorious’.
Al-Azhar University in Cairo is considered the oldest continuously operating university in the world, founded in 970 AD.
The Cairo Tower stands at a height of 187 meters and offers stunning views of the city.
The Nile River is the lifeblood of Cairo and its people, providing water for drinking, irrigation and transportation.
The Great Pyramid of Giza, located on the outskirts of Cairo, is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Khan el-Khalili, a bustling market in the heart of Islamic Cairo, has been in operation since the 14th century.
The Egyptian Museum, located in Tahrir Square, houses the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts.
The 6th of October Bridge, which spans the Nile River, is one of the busiest intersections in Cairo.
