Private Islamic Cairo and Coptic Cairo Day Tour

Cairo , Egypt

Private Islamic Cairo and Coptic Cairo Day Tour

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(5 reviews)

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About this experience

Architectural Grandeur: This tour explores Cairo’s Islamic heritage, where mosques, madrasas, and palaces showcase intricate Islamic architecture and artistry.
Historical Depth: Highlights include theCitadel of Saladin, Al-Azhar Mosque, and Sultan Hassan Mosque. Each site tells stories from the times of the Fatimid, Mamluk, and Ottoman empires. Vibrant Souks: Visits to places like Khan el-Khalili bazaar bring you into the heart of Cairo’s bustling trade and artisan history, with shops for traditional crafts, spices, and more.
Coptic Cairo
Spiritual Heritage: This tour delves into Egypt’s rich Christian heritage, especially from the Coptic period. You’ll visit ancient churches like the Hanging Church and the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus, reputedly where the Holy Family sought refuge.
Coptic Art and Culture: The tour highlights unique aspects of Coptic art, iconography, and tradition.
Religious Harmony: Islamic Cairo with its medieval Islamic influence and architecture,

Available options

Private Islamic Cairo and Coptic Cairo Day Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private tour

Air conditioned luxury car

Guide

Qualified Egyptologist guide

Skip the line

Bottled water

Detailed itinerary

Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church): Famous for its suspended nave, this church is one of the oldest in Egypt and a prime example of Coptic architecture.
Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus: Believed to be the resting place of the Holy Family during their time in Egypt.

Stop 2

Citadel of Salah El-Din (Saladin Citadel)
Explore this 12th-century fortress that once protected Cairo from the Crusaders. Visit the stunning Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, and enjoy magnificent views of the city , Citadel of Saladin: This massive medieval fortress offers panoramic views of Cairo and contains the Muhammad Ali Mosque (Alabaster Mosque), known for its impressive Ottoman architecture.
Mosque of Ibn Tulun: One of Cairo’s oldest and largest mosques, known for its unique spiral minaret and stunning simplicity

Stop 3

In a tour of Islamic Cairo and Coptic Cairo, travelers will see historic sites and landmarks that showcase Egypt’s religious and cultural history.

Islamic Cairo

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Al-Azhar Mosque: A cornerstone of Islamic learning and one of the oldest universities in the world.
Sultan Hassan Mosque: An architectural masterpiece with elaborate stone carvings and one of Cairo’s largest mosques.
Khan El Khalili Bazaar: A lively marketplace where travelers can shop for spices, jewelry, traditional clothing, and handicrafts.
Muizz Street: Lined with medieval mosques, madrasas, and other Islamic monuments, this street provides a glimpse of Cairo’s rich architectural heritage.

Additional Stops (Optional)
Papyrus or Perfume Shop Visit (Optional): Learn how ancient Egyptians made papyrus or explore Egyptian perfumes and oils

Stop 5

Discover the oldest mosque in Africa, founded in 642 AD. Enjoy a guided visit inside to admire its simple yet elegant design and learn about its significance in Egypt’s Islamic heritage.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

AR EN IT ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

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.