Old Cairo Guided Walking Tour, History, Culture & Street Bites

Cairo , Egypt

Old Cairo Guided Walking Tour, History, Culture & Street Bites

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(15 reviews)

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About this experience

Discover the heart of Islamic Cairo on a guided walking tour. Visit historic mosques, Ottoman houses, and lively El Moez Street. Explore the vibrant Khan el Khalili Bazaar and enjoy the peaceful Al Hussein Mosque. Taste authentic street foods and local snacks for a truly cultural experience.

Walk through Bab al-Futuh gate into Old Cairo’s rich history
Visit the stunning Al-Hakim Mosque and its peaceful courtyard
Explore Bayt al-Suhaymi, a preserved 17th-century Ottoman house
Stroll along El Moez Street with its beautiful Islamic architecture
Enjoy Khan el Khalili Bazaar, filled with colorful shops and handmade crafts

Available options

Shared Tour with Meeting Point

This option includes a Shared Walking Tour with a Meeting Point. Hotel pickup or drop off is not available.

Shared Tour + Hotel Transfers

This option includes a shared walking tour with hotel pickup and drop-off<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Entrance fees to all attractions

Local snacks (Zalabya or Halabessa, or similar street snacks)

Bottled water

Street Food (Authentic Koshary or Egyptian Pie)

Pickup and drop off from your hotel in Cairo or Giza (if option booked)

All Service Tax

Professional Egyptologist Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Start your adventure at Bab al-Futuh, one of the main gates of Cairo’s old city walls. Meet your friendly Egyptologist guide, who will introduce you to the history of Old Cairo.

Stop 2

Visit Al-Hakim Mosque, one of the oldest and largest Fatimid mosques in Cairo, famous for its tall minarets, historic stone walls, and peaceful courtyard.

Continue to Bayt al-Suhaymi, a beautiful 17th-century Ottoman house. Walk through its rooms and courtyard as you learn about traditional Cairo life.

Stroll along El Moez Street, a lively historic street lined with stunning Islamic buildings, bustling shops, and cafés.

See the Sultan Barquq Mosque, known for its detailed Mamluk designs and fascinating history as a mosque, madrasa, and Sufi lodge, showcasing the grandeur of the 14th century.

Right next to it is the Qalawun Complex, with its mosque, school, and mausoleum – a masterpiece of medieval architecture.

Wander through the colorful Khan el Khalili Bazaar, where stalls overflow with spices, jewelry, fabrics, and souvenirs.

End your day at the Al Hussein Mosque, one of Cairo’s most important religious landmarks, offering a peaceful space for reflection in the heart of Islamic Cairo.

What's not included

Any other expenses not mentioned

Tipping (Not mandatory)

Available languages

Guide guide

AR EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.9

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The meeting point will be at Bab al-Futuh; ensure to arrive on time.

Tour sequence or attractions may change if any listed site is closed.

Please wear loose clothes covering shoulders, arms, legs, and knees. Women should use a scarf for religious sites—carry it or wear it as needed.

You may have the option to choose street food like authentic Koshary or Egyptian Pie with Zalabya or Halabessa, or other similar local snacks.

Recommended to carry cash for optional purchases or personal expenses.

Meeting point

Please meet your guide in front of the Bab al-Futuh gate.

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.