Guided tour to the Citadel of Saladin & Old Cairo churches & Baron Palace

Cairo , Egypt

Guided tour to the Citadel of Saladin & Old Cairo churches & Baron Palace

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About this experience

Enjoy a day tour to Baron Empain Palace, the most famous landmark in the city of the sun (Heliopolis), located East of Cairo, then you will visit the citadel of Saladin and Mohamed Ali Mosque, then discover the art and architecture in Coptic Orthodox churchs.

Available options

Guided tour to the Citadel of Saladin & Old Cairo churches & Baron Palace

Pickup included

What's included

-English-speaking guide.

-Transfer in a private car with air conditioning.

-Pick up from/to the hotel in Cairo.

Detailed itinerary

Our Guide will pick you up from your hotel in Cairo by a private air-conditioned car to start your tour in Heliopolis city.
Pay a visit Baron Empain Palace, the most famous landmark of Heliopolis, the city of the sun, to find out the history of this great city and enjoy stories associated with this palace and its miscellaneous decorations. This palace consists of four floors, as well as its garden.
After that, go ahead to The Basilica Church where Baron Edward Empain willed to be buried.

Stop 2

Move ahead to the most famous fortress in Islamic Cairo, the Citadel of Saladin, built by Salah-El-Din Al-Ayoubi in the 12th Century to fortify Cairo against the Crusaders' attacks. This citadel was the seat of the rule for 700 years.
On the highest point inside the courtyard of the Citadel of Saladin, there is one of the most famous landmarks in Egypt, the Mosque of Muhammad Ali or Alabaster Mosque, designed in Turkish style by the Turkish architect Yousif Boushnaq who came especially from Istanbul to build this great mosque. This mosque distinguishes its beautiful decorations on its walls, its remarkable domes, and minarets.

Stop 3

Continue to Old Cairo to visit the Hanging Church, the oldest church in Egypt. This church was the seat of the Coptic Pope at the beginning of the eleventh century AD. It is called the hanging because it was built on a tower of Babylon Fortress established during the Roman period in the 2nd century AD.
Also you will visit the cavern charch which is one of the famous attractive sightseeing in Egypt,where the Holly family stayed for 3 months during their visit to Egypt.
Finally, our team will back you to your hotel in Cairo

What's not included

-Tips and personal expenses.

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

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

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.