Half Day Tour of Cairo Churches with Guide and Transportation

Cairo , Egypt

Half Day Tour of Cairo Churches with Guide and Transportation

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About this experience

Marvel at Cairo’s UNESCO-listed treasures tour that delves into the city’s historic churches. Explore the heart of Coptic Cairo, starting with the renowned Hanging Church. Visit the intriguing Cave Church, the Church of Santa Barbara, and the Church of Saint Sergius, each steeped in history and tradition. Learn about Cairo’s rich religious heritage from your expert tour guide, gaining insights into the city’s diverse spiritual tapestry.

This tour ensures a seamless experience with private, air-conditioned transport, hotel pickup and return, and the convenience of all service charges and taxes included. Enjoy the expertise of a qualified licensed driver and the personalized attention of a private guide. With a bottle of water provided during the tour, you can comfortably explore these significant landmarks, making your visit to Cairo both enriching and memorable.

Available options

Half Day Tour of Cairo Churches with Guide and Transportation

Pickup included

What's included

Qualified licensed driver.

All Entrance fees

Transport by air-conditioned vehicle

All service charges and taxes

Private Tour

Pick up Service from your hotel & return

Expert tour guide.

Bottle of Water During the Tour

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Advancing through the alleyways of the old city, you'll visit the Church of Saint Sergius and the Church of Santa Barbara, then continue to the Ben Ezra Synagogue and Saint Simon's Church, which is carved into the Mokattam Hills.

Stop 2

Your professional guide will drive you through the narrow lanes of Old Cairo to reach Coptic Cairo. The Hanging Church of the Virgin Mary, dating from the 7th century, features magnificent dark interiors with cedar paneling, a wooden ark ceiling, and a marble pulpit supported by 12 pillars.

Stop 3

The Church of St. Barbara, originally dedicated to St. Cyrus and St. John for their healing powers, is located in Old Cairo. A small church at the northeastern corner commemorates these two martyrs.

Stop 4

The Church of St. George is a Greek Orthodox church within the Babylon Fortress in Coptic Cairo. Dating back to the 10th century, the current structure was rebuilt after a fire in 1904 and completed in 1909. It is part of the Holy Patriarchal Monastery of St. George.

Stop 5

Originally a Coptic church, the Ben Ezra Synagogue was transformed in the 11th century. According to Jewish tradition, the prophet Jeremiah preached here, while Copts believe it is where baby Moses was found in a basket.

Stop 6

This church is believed to be a resting place for the Holy Family during their exile in Egypt. In the Chapel of the Convent of St. visitors can be wrapped in chains by the nuns for blessings.

The Monastery of Saint Simon, also known as the Cave Church, is located in the Mokattam mountain in southeastern Cairo. It features seven churches and chapels hidden within a series of caves, with the Virgin Mary and St. Simon Cathedral being the largest. The Monastery also includes an education center, a children's area, and a school for the deaf. Now one of the largest Coptic monasteries in Egypt, it offers spiritual meetings in St. Simon’s Hall, a large seating arena that accommodates 2,000 people.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Cairo

Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a vibrant metropolis where ancient history and modern life intertwine. As one of the largest cities in Africa, it offers a wealth of historical landmarks, bustling markets, and rich cultural experiences that attract millions of visitors each year.

Top Attractions

The Great Pyramids of Giza

The iconic pyramids are one of the most famous landmarks in the world and a must-visit for any traveler to Cairo. They are part of the Giza Necropolis, which also includes the Great Sphinx.

Historical Half day to full day Moderate (around $10-20 for entrance fees)

Egyptian Museum

This museum houses the largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in Egypt's rich history.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate (around $10-15 for entrance fees)

Khan el-Khalili Bazaar

One of the oldest and most famous markets in the Middle East, Khan el-Khalili offers a vibrant shopping experience with a wide range of goods, from spices and perfumes to jewelry and souvenirs.

Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate (prices vary depending on items)

Coptic Cairo

This area is home to some of the oldest Christian churches in Egypt, including the Hanging Church and the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus. It's a fascinating place to explore for those interested in the history of Christianity in Egypt.

Historical 1-2 hours Low (around $5-10 for entrance fees)

Nile River Cruise

A Nile River cruise offers a unique way to see Cairo from a different perspective. Many cruises include dinner and entertainment, making it a memorable experience.

Cultural 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive (depending on the cruise package)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Koshari

A popular street food made with a mix of rice, lentils, chickpeas, pasta, and fried onions, topped with a spicy tomato sauce.

Main Dish Vegetarian

Ful Medames

A traditional breakfast dish made with mashed fava beans, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil, often served with bread.

Breakfast Vegetarian, Vegan

Molokhia

A green leafy vegetable soup made with jute leaves, garlic, and coriander, often served with rice or bread.

Main Dish Vegetarian, Vegan

Kofta

Grilled minced meat skewers made with a mix of ground beef, lamb, or chicken, seasoned with spices and herbs.

Main Dish Contains meat

Popular Activities

Desert safaris Quad biking in the desert Hot air balloon rides over the Nile Nile River cruises Beach relaxation in Alexandria or Hurghada Spa and wellness treatments Exploring ancient temples and ruins Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

October to April

This period offers the most pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperatures are mild, making it ideal for exploring the city's historical sites.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other parts of the city

Currency

Egyptian Pound (EGP)

Time Zone

EET (GMT+2)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Cairo is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing, scams, and harassment can occur, especially in crowded areas. It's important to stay vigilant, be aware of your surroundings, and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or deserted areas.
• Be cautious when using taxis, and always agree on a fare or use the meter before starting your journey.

Getting there

By air

Cairo International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Ramses Station

By bus

Cairo Bus Station, Turgoman Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is the fastest and most efficient way to get around Cairo. It has three lines and is relatively affordable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Careem

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Cairo Islamic Cairo Zamalek Giza

Day trips

Alexandria

220 km from Cairo • Full day

Alexandria is a beautiful coastal city with a rich history, offering a mix of ancient landmarks, beaches, and vibrant culture.

Luxor

670 km from Cairo • Overnight

Luxor is often referred to as the world's greatest open-air museum, offering a wealth of ancient Egyptian landmarks and temples.

Aswan

870 km from Cairo • Overnight

Aswan is a charming city on the Nile, known for its beautiful landscapes, ancient temples, and relaxing atmosphere.

Festivals

Cairo International Film Festival • Late November to early December Cairo Jazz Festival • Late January to early February Cairo Fashion Festival • April

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Arabic phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Hire a guide for major attractions, such as the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum, to gain a deeper understanding of their history and significance.
Bargain when shopping at markets and bazaars, as it's expected and can help you get a better deal.
Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites, to show respect for local customs and traditions.
Be prepared for heavy traffic and crowded streets, especially during peak hours and in popular tourist areas.