A Captivating Journey Through the Heart of Cairo
Embracing History, Culture, and the Spirit of Resilience
Start Your Day with a Warm Welcome
Your expert tour guide will meet you at your hotel in the morning, ready to take you on an unforgettable journey through Cairo’s most fascinating sites. This full-day adventure is designed to better understand the city’s diverse history, spiritual richness, and cultural depth.
Salah al-Din Citadel & the Alabaster Mosque
Your first stop is the legendary Citadel of Salah al-Din, a majestic fortress that once protected the city from invaders. Located high on the Mokattam hills, it offers panoramic views over Cairo. Inside the Citadel, you’ll visit the spectacular Mohamed Ali Mosque, famously known as the Alabaster Mosque, with its grand domes and elegant Ottoman architecture.
Khan El Khalili Bazaar – A Journey Through Time
Next, head to the heart of Old Cairo to explore the bustling Khan El Khalili Bazaar, one of the Middle East's oldest and most vibrant markets. Wander through narrow alleyways filled with traditional crafts, spices, jewelry, antiques, and more. Don't forget to enjoy a cup of tea at El Fishawy Café, a historic gem that has served locals and travelers for over two centuries.
Coptic Cairo – Spiritual Heritage
Your journey continues into Coptic Cairo, where the early Christian roots of the city come alive. Visit the famous Hanging Church, built above a Roman fortress, and explore its wooden ceiling and sacred icons. Then, step into the Church of St. Sergius, believed to have sheltered the Holy Family during their time in Egypt.
You'll also visit the Ben Ezra Synagogue, one of Cairo’s oldest Jewish landmarks, filled with stories of history, faith, and coexistence.
Lunch Break – Authentic Egyptian Flavors
Take a break and enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, where you can taste traditional Egyptian cuisine such as koshari, grilled meats, or flavorful stews served with rice and fresh bread.
Garbage City – A Hidden Side of Cairo
After lunch, take a deep dive into Cairo’s lesser-known but deeply inspiring side: Garbage City, home to the Zabbaleen community. These hardworking residents collect and recycle the majority of Cairo’s waste, using innovative and sustainable methods.
Here, you’ll witness their vital contribution to the city and see how they transform waste into opportunity and art. It’s a powerful, eye-opening experience that showcases the strength and creativity of this unique community.
The Cave Church – A Spiritual Marvel
Nestled within the cliffs of Mokattam lies the Monastery of Saint Simon, commonly known as the Cave Church. Carved directly into the mountain, this stunning church can seat over 20,000 worshippers and is adorned with biblical carvings and sculptures that will leave you in awe.
It’s not only a place of worship, but also a monument to the perseverance and unity of Cairo’s Christian community.
End of the Tour – Back to Your Hotel
As the sun begins to set, your guide will escort you back to your hotel, concluding a day filled with unforgettable memories, hidden wonders, and cultural treasures.
Included in This Tour:
Professional English-speaking tour guide
Private, air-conditioned vehicle
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites
Delicious lunch at a local restaurant
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Bottled water during the tour