Emam ElShafei , Mosques of Ala-Elbayt and Khan Elkhalili Market

Cairo , Egypt

Emam ElShafei , Mosques of Ala-Elbayt and Khan Elkhalili Market

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About this experience

You will be picked up from your hotel and will explore some Islamic sites of Al ElBayt in Cairo
You will visit the Mausoleum and the Mosque of Imam ElShafi.
The Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi’i is a mausoleum dedicated to Imam Al-Shafi’i, one of the four Sunni Imams who founded the Shafi’i Sunni Islamic school of jurisprudence. Located at the Imam Shafi’i Street in the City of the Dead, Cairo, the mausoleum is a hallmark of Ayyubid style architecture and historical significance.
Then you will explore the Mosque of ElSayyida Nafisa. It is built to commemorate Sayyida Nafisa, an acclaimed Islamic scholar and member of the bayt (household) of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. The mosque has Sayyida Nafisa's mausoleum inside. Along with the necropolis around it, it is listed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Historic Cairo. Then you will visit ElSayyida Sakina Mosque. Mosque of Sayyida Sakina Bent El Husein is one of the popular placed in Cairo.Then you will visit Khan Elkhalili Market

Available options

Emam ElShafei , Mosques of Ala-Elbayt and Khan Elkhalili Market

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

All taxes and service charge

Air conditioned private transportation

A professional Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

The Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi’i is a mausoleum dedicated to Imam Al-Shafi’i, one of the four Sunni Imams who founded the Shafi’i Sunni Islamic school of jurisprudence. Located at the Imam Shafi’i Street in the City of the Dead, Cairo, the mausoleum is a hallmark of Ayyubid style architecture and historical significance.
Imam al-Shafi'i travelled to Cairo in 813 where he taught at the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As, before his death in 819. He was buried by his child Ibn Abdulhakim in the place of graves in the City of the Dead. Later, the Ayyubid sultan Salah ad-Din built a tomb and a school for Shafi'i in 1176, marking the first establishment on his grave. In 1178, a wooden coffin was created with decorations of Islamic geometric patterns and inscriptions of the Qur'anic verses and the life of Shafi'i in Kufic and Ayyub scripts. The decorations were created by Abid al-Najar.

Al-Sayyida Nafisa Mosque or Mashhad al-Sayyida Nafisa is a mosque in al-Sayyida Nafisa district (or Sebaa Valley), a section of the larger historic necropolis called al-Qarafa (or City of the Dead) in Cairo, Egypt. It is built to commemorate Sayyida Nafisa, an acclaimed Islamic scholar and member of the bayt (household) of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. The mosque has Sayyida Nafisa's mausoleum inside. Along with the necropolis around it, it is listed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Historic Cairo.

Mosque of Sayyida Sakina Bent El Husein is one of the popular placed in Cairo. El Sayyida Sakina was the daughter of El Husein, grandson of Prophet Mohamed, the wife of Abd Allah Ibn El Zubair Ibn El Awam. She witnessed the War of Carbalaa where her father and her two brothers and a large number of her relatives and of the Muslims were martyred. Numerous people usually visit the mosque especially in the day of Mulid El Sayyida Sakina, regarding it as a more blessed place.
This mosque dates back to the Umayad period and this appears clearly in its style of decoration. The façade of the mosque is handsomely decorated with Kufic inscriptions and geometrically patterned Islamic decorations. The portal of the mosque is surmounted with a medium-size dome with fascinating Islamic decorations and floral paintings sided by a Minaret of Ottoman style. In one of the corners of the interior plan, stands the mausoleum of Sayyida Sakina with cleverly decorated silver screen around it.

Stop 4

Khan el-Khalili is a famous bazaar and souq in the historic center of Cairo, Egypt. Established as a center of trade in the Mamluk era and named for one of its several historic caravanserais, the bazaar district has since become one of Cairo's main attractions for tourists and Egyptians alike. It is also home to many Egyptian artisans and workshops involved in the production of traditional crafts and souvenirs. The name Khan el-Khalili historically referred to a single building in the area; today it refers to the entire shopping district.

What's not included

Tipping

Extra charge for the hotels far from the centre of Cairo like the 6 of October and the New Cairo

Available languages

Guide guide

AR EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Tahrir square in downtown in front of KFC

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.