Exploring the region: things to see and do around

Cairo and its rich past
Cairo really does have the power to amaze you. From where the city stretches along the banks of the Nile, it’s just a short walk to three of Egypt’s most magnificent pyramids: the Great Pyramid of Cheops and its two companions, the pyramids of Chephren (the indomitable) and Mykerinos (the unfinished). After your daytime visit, return in the evening to enjoy the impressive sound-and-light show. Symbol of the city, the Sphinx at Giza invites you to fathom its mysteries. And in the Egyptian Museum you will find some of the most beautiful works of Ancient Egyptian art, including the treasures of Tutankhamen and the fascinating Royal Mummy Room. 


Old Cairo


Discover Cairo’s Coptic past, starting with the Coptic Museum. The museum nestles in a garden amid the ruins of the ancient Babylon fort, built in Roman times – some of the fort’s walls are still standing. You will find all kinds of artworks here, including carvings, textiles and manuscripts dating from the city’s lengthy
Christian period. This district is the oldest part of town, and boasts a number of Coptic churches. Externally they have few striking architectural features, but their interiors are richly decorated. Discover why the oldest of them is known as the Hanging Church!


Islamic Cairo


As one-time capital of the Islamic world, Cairo contains almost all of Egypt’s great Islamic monuments. You can venture through the doors of mosques, Koranic schools, museums and the unmissable Jewel Palace. As you tour the city, don’t overlook the lovely Al-Azhar Mosque, a thousand-year-old gem. In the
world-famous Khan el-Khalili bazaar, you will love strolling down the narrow thoroughfares in search of souvenirs and craftwork, or simply enjoying a glass of tea on a cafe terrace. In the evenings, the subdued lighting confers an unexpected peace and tranquillity upon the souk’s usual hustle and bustle.


Saqqara excursion


A day trip to Saqqara, 30 km south of Cairo, is a worthwhile expedition for anyone interested in Egypt’s ancient past. Formerly the necropolis of Egypt’s ancient capital, Memphis, it still preserves some of the potent atmosphere that must have prevailed when the first pharaohs were buried here. The necropolis is best known for its stepped pyramid, the oldest in Egypt. But Saqqara also boasts another 16 pyramids, in varying states of preservation. Don’t forget to visit the burial chamber of Pharaoh Unas, where you can
admire the extraordinary Pyramid Texts and well-preserved wall paintings