City Guide: Cairo
Close to the heart, my home country of Egypt is always a magical place. Anytime I go, there's always a ton of new things to see and places to try. Although, there are a few places that I return to every single visit.
TO SEE
THE MOSQUES OF OLD CAIRO
Surrounded by beautiful and ancient structures — religious and cultural alike, Old Cairo is one of the most beautifully preserved sites I have been to.
Ad Deyorah, Misr Al Qadimah, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
THE PYRAMIDS
Still a mystery, this iconic landmark is one you don't want to miss (for obvious reasons). If you're traveling to Cairo in the summer, it might be super warm, so make sure to slip into linen or cotton to avoid the sweltering heat.
Al Haram, Nazlet El-Semman, Al Haram, Giza Governorate, Egypt
KHAN EL KHALILI
From belly dancing suits, to engraved gold pendants, this enchanted market place has all of the souvenirs your heart could desire. Make sure not to purchase upon the first price...haggling is key. Also, you won't want to miss the beautifully cherished Al-Hussein Mosque located in the heart of the market place.
El-Gamaleya, Qism El-Gamaleya, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
Museum of Islamic Art
Filled with ancient scriptures, architectual artifacts and mosaics, The Museum of Islamic Art is truly breathtaking. Easy to navigate, this museum carries a range of beautiful art collected over centuries of Islamic eras.
Port Said St., Bab AL- Khalq, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
AL AZHAR PARK
An enchanted public park overlooking the city of Cairo, Al Azhar park is a beautiful hub for a relaxing afternnon. It kind of reminds me of Central Park in NYC because it's a getaway from the hustle and bustle, but still right in the middle of it all. Located in the park, visit Lakeside Cafe for a delicious bite after you've enjoyed your stay.
Port Said St., Bab AL- Khalq, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
TO EAT
ZOOBA
Known for their contemporary twist on Egypt's most well-known dishes, Zööba is the spot for a good heart bowl of kushary. Also know as carb heaven, kushary is a bowl of your favorite carbs loaded with a yummy red sauce and topped with crunchy-friend onions. A must try.
26th of July Corridor, Al Gabalayah, Zamalek, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
MEZCAL
Looking for an up-scale restaurant for a celebratory evening? Located in the heart of one of Cairo's trendier neighborhoods, Mezcal offers beautifully presented dishes in a dimly lit designed space.
Taha Hussein, Abu Al Feda, Zamalek, Giza Governorate, Egypt
ANAS EL DAMASHQI
Known for their delicious savory pies, this is my go-to place for a night in when I want to relax and stay in. Thankfully, they deliver. Make sure to top off your order with a halawa and keshta pastry...thank me later!
Al-Nasr Rd. (Al-Mohandiseen Buildings), Madīnat an Naşr, Muḩāfaz̧at al Qāhirah
SEQUOIA
A contemporary and intimate restaurant tucked into hidden pocket along the Nile, this Middle-Easternn restaurant might have one of my favorite views (especially during the evening). Enjoy a wide range of traditional dishes from around the region. Their drink menu won't disappoint either.
53 Abou El Feda, Zamalek, Cairo, 11211, Egypt
to do
felluca in the nile
In the late night or the afternoon, the felluca is always a good idea. The felluca, a small boat, is usually a rusty, non-glamorous boat, but some of my favorite memories were made on a felluca. Usually rides cost around 100 Egyptian pounds (about $5 USD), and you get to enjoy the Nile River with Egyptian music and the wind blowing through your hair. It's actually quite romantic, or a good time if you're on a trip with friends.
Garden City, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
Al-Tannoura Dance Performance
Celebrating the rich history of Sufism in Egypt, this enchanted dance show will not disappoint. Located nearby Khan El Khalili, this performance will be one for the books. Immerse yourself in the beautiful performance after an evening out. Seats usually fill up super quickly, so make sure to get your tickets ahead of time and show up well enough before the performance begins.
Wikala Al-Ghouri, Giza, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
city stars mall
If you must (which you most likely will) City Stars is the mall to go to in Cairo. With over hundreds of stores, City Stars has many of the stores you would be able to find in the world's most metropolitan cities. I only say, "if you must". because Egypt has so much to offer, so spend as least time as you can retail shopping and enjoy the true gems of Cairo city!
Omar Ibn El-Khattab, Masaken Al Mohandesin, Nasr City, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
TO STAY
VILLA BELLE EPOQUE
In the multi-national neighborhood of Maadi, this boutique hotel is reminiscent of the tranquil and glamorous Cairo of the 1920's. Restored from a home, this hotel offers suites and traditional Egyptian dishes, such as lamb stew. Lined with fig, guava and peach trees, enjoy a dip in the sun lit backyard for a relaxing afternoon.
13th Street, Maadi as Sarayat Al Gharbeyah, Al Maadi, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
