Overview
Day tour NMEC and Coptic and Islamic Cairo
- National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) – Start your day at the NMEC, home to the famous Royal Mummies Hall. Explore Egypt’s diverse history, from prehistoric times to modern-day, through impressive artifacts and interactive displays.
- Coptic Cairo – Visit significant Christian landmarks, including:
- The Hanging Church (St. Virgin Mary’s Church), a masterpiece of Coptic architecture.
- Abu Serga Church, built over the cave where the Holy Family took refuge.
- Ben Ezra Synagogue, a historical Jewish site with fascinating legends.
- Islamic Cairo – Discover the grandeur of Islamic architecture and culture at:
- Sultan Hassan Mosque, an iconic example of Mamluk architecture.
- Al-Rifa’i Mosque, resting place of Egyptian royalty.
- Khan El Khalili Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace for souvenirs, spices, and traditional crafts.
Day tour NMEC and Coptic and Islamic Cairo
Day Tour to NMEC, Coptic, and Islamic Cairo – A Journey Through History!
Meet Your Guide at the Hotel
Your extraordinary day tour begins as you meet your knowledgeable guide at your hotel, setting off on a captivating journey through Egypt’s rich history and diverse cultural heritage.
First Destination: National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC)
Your first stop is the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC), an essential destination for history enthusiasts. This modern museum showcases Egypt’s historical evolution from prehistoric times to the present day. As you walk through its halls, you will witness an impressive collection of artifacts, ancient manuscripts, and beautifully preserved relics.
One of the most exciting sections of the museum is the Royal Mummies Hall, where you will come face-to-face with the remains of Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs, including Ramses II, Queen Hatshepsut, and Seti I. The dimly lit hall and its carefully curated ambiance create an immersive experience that transports you back to ancient times.
In addition to the royal mummies, the museum houses exhibits covering Egypt’s diverse cultural influences, from the Pharaonic and Greco-Roman periods to the Islamic and modern eras. Be sure to take your time to admire the rich textile collections, pottery artifacts, and ancient tools that reveal fascinating details about daily life in ancient Egypt.
Second Destination: Coptic Cairo – A Spiritual and Historic Journey
Next, you will head to Coptic Cairo, an area rich with religious and historical significance. This district is home to some of the oldest churches in Egypt, offering insight into Egypt’s Christian heritage.
The Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary’s Church)
Your first stop in Coptic Cairo is the Hanging Church, one of the most iconic churches in Egypt. Built atop the ruins of the Roman Babylon Fortress, this church appears as if it is “hanging” above the ground. Inside, you’ll admire stunning wooden ceilings, intricate icons, and beautiful Coptic artwork that tell stories from the Christian faith.
The Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus
Your journey continues with a visit to the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus, an ancient church believed to have sheltered the Holy Family during their flight into Egypt. As you walk through its stone corridors, you will feel the spiritual energy of this sacred site.
The Ben Ezra Synagogue
Just a short walk away, you’ll visit the Ben Ezra Synagogue, an important religious site with a fascinating history. This synagogue is believed to be the place where baby Moses was found in the Nile. Its ornate design and historical manuscripts offer a glimpse into Egypt’s Jewish heritage.
Third Destination: Lunch at a Traditional Egyptian Restaurant
After exploring Coptic Cairo, you’ll enjoy a delightful lunch at an authentic Egyptian restaurant, where you can savor traditional dishes such as koshari, grilled meats, molokhia, and fresh salads. This culinary break offers the perfect opportunity to relax and recharge for the rest of your tour.
Fourth Destination: Islamic Cairo – A Walk Through Timeless Beauty
Following lunch, you’ll head to Islamic Cairo, a district filled with architectural marvels and historic treasures. Walking through its ancient streets, you’ll admire the finest examples of Islamic art, mosques, and madrassas.
Sultan Hassan Mosque and Al-Rifa’i Mosque
Your first stop is the Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan, a stunning 14th-century mosque known for its grand scale and intricate stone carvings. Adjacent to it is the Al-Rifa’i Mosque, where members of Egypt’s royal family, including King Farouk and the last Shah of Iran, are buried.
Al-Muizz Street – The Heart of Medieval Cairo
Continuing your journey, you’ll explore Al-Muizz Street, one of the oldest streets in Cairo. This lively street is lined with beautifully restored mosques, madrasas, and palaces, making it one of the best-preserved areas of medieval Islamic architecture in the world.
Take your time to admire the magnificent Qalawun Complex, the grand Wekalet El-Ghouri, and the stunning architecture of Bayt Al-Suhaymi. The street is also home to vibrant markets, where you can browse for handcrafted souvenirs, brass lanterns, and exquisite textiles.
Fifth Destination: Khan El-Khalili Bazaar – A Shopper’s Paradise
No visit to Islamic Cairo is complete without experiencing the magic of Khan El-Khalili, Cairo’s most famous bazaar. Here, you can wander through a labyrinth of narrow alleyways filled with shops selling everything from handmade jewelry and intricate carpets to aromatic spices and perfumes.
Enjoy the lively atmosphere and try bargaining with local vendors to get the best deals. If you need a break, sit at El-Fishawy Café, a historic café that has been serving guests for over 200 years, and sip on traditional mint tea or Arabic coffee while soaking in the vibrant energy of the bazaar.
Returning to the Hotel with Unforgettable Memories
As the day comes to an end, you’ll return to your hotel with a newfound appreciation for Egypt’s diverse heritage. This tour seamlessly blends ancient history, religious traditions, breathtaking architecture, and cultural vibrancy, making it a truly enriching experience.
Book your tour now with Egy Travel Lux and immerse yourself in the wonders of NMEC, Coptic, and Islamic Cairo!
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Explore Egypt’s rich heritage with a Day Tour to NMEC, Coptic, and Islamic Cairo. Visit the Royal Mummies at NMEC, discover historic churches in Coptic Cairo, and walk through the grand mosques and markets of Islamic Cairo. Book your experience today!
Included
- Meeting and assistance from one of our representatives at your hotel
- • Transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle.
- • All visits are private.
- • Bottled mineral water and soft drinks during visits.
- • Shopping tours in Cairo
Excluded
- • Extra activities.
- • Tips.
- • Anything not expressly indicated in the itinerary and included items.