Koshary Abou Tarek Old Cairo and Khan Elkhalili Market Tour

Cairo , Egypt

Koshary Abou Tarek Old Cairo and Khan Elkhalili Market Tour

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About this experience

This tour stands out by offering a seamless blend of Cairo's rich history, vibrant culture, and authentic local experiences. Starting at one of Old Cairo’s few remaining gates, you delve into the city's Islamic heritage along Al Moez Street, where each monument tells a story. The tour offers a personalized shopping experience at Khan El Khalili, where your guide ensures you find hidden treasures. The visit to Al Feshawy Cafe, with its centuries-old tradition of mint tea and oriental music, provides a genuine taste of Cairo's living history. Ending with a meal at Koshary Abou Tarek, Cairo’s most beloved koshary restaurant, ensures you experience a true local favorite before returning to your hotel.

Available options

Tour + 1 hour Felucaa ride

Includes Feluca Nile ride : This option includes 1 hour sailing in the Nile River by a Feluca boat <br/>Pickup included

Koshary Abou tarek with old Cairo and khan Elkhalili market tour

Pickup included

What's included

Tourguide

Coffee or tea by the oldest cafe in Cairo

Pick up and drop off with a private air-conditioned vehicle

Bottle of water on board

Koshary abou tarek lunch

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

A visit to Al Azhar Mosque immerses you in Cairo's rich Islamic heritage. As you step inside, the bustling city noise fades, replaced by the serene beauty of centuries-old architecture. Your guide reveals the mosque's deep history as a center of learning, where time-honored traditions and spiritual devotion converge.

Stop 2

Visiting Khan El Khalili Market is a sensory journey through Cairo's vibrant past. As you enter the labyrinth of narrow alleys, you're enveloped by the rich aromas of spices and the glitter of handcrafted goods. Your guide leads you through the bustling stalls, where merchants call out, eager to share the stories behind their wares. The market's lively atmosphere, steeped in history, offers a glimpse into Cairo’s timeless charm and the enduring spirit of its people.

El Moez Street in Cairo is a living museum of Islamic architecture. Walking along this historic street, you're surrounded by stunning mosques, madrasas, and ancient gates. The blend of bustling activity and the timeless beauty of the structures creates a unique experience, offering a deep connection to Cairo's rich heritage.

Stop 4

Al Hakim Mosque, nestled in the heart of Cairo, is a tranquil escape into history. As you enter, you're struck by the mosque's vast courtyard and the simplicity of its design, which exudes a serene, spiritual atmosphere. The towering minarets, dating back over a millennium, stand as silent witnesses to the mosque's storied past, offering a peaceful retreat within the bustling city.

On your tour, you'll experience Koshary Abou Tarek, a famed spot for authentic Egyptian koshary. Here, you'll enjoy this traditional dish of rice, lentils, pasta, and chickpeas in a lively, local setting, offering a genuine taste of Cairo’s street food culture.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

AR EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

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.