Cairo

Cairo is the capital city of Egypt, located in the northeastern part of the country, on the banks of the Nile River. It is known for its rich history, ancient landmarks, and vibrant culture. Cairo is home to many famous landmarks, including the Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum, and the Cairo Citadel.

The city is also famous for its colorful bazaars, such as the Khan el-Khalili market, and its delicious cuisine, including dishes such as koshari (a vegetarian rice and lentil dish), ful medames (stewed fava beans), and shakshuka (poached eggs in a tomato sauce). Cairo has a hot desert climate, with hot and dry weather throughout the year.

The public transportation system in Cairo includes buses, trains, and a subway system, providing easy access to all parts of the city. However, many locals and tourists opt for taxis or ride-hailing services like Uber or Careem. Cairo is also home to a major international airport, serving millions of passengers each year.

  • Country: Egypt
  • Capital city of the country: Cairo
  • Population: 9.9 million
  • Language: Arabic
  • Currency & Exchange Rate: Egyptian pound (EGP), 1 EGP = 0.063 USD (as of February 2023)
  • Area size: 3,085 km²
  • Main airport: Cairo International Airport
  • Visitors per year: Approximately 9 million
  • Official website for visa application: https://visa2egypt.gov.eg/

Best Things To Do in Cairo

Must Visit

Here are the top 10 must-visit activities in Cairo, Egypt:

  1. Giza Pyramids: A historic and iconic site with many impressive pyramids, including the Great Pyramid of Giza, as well as the Sphinx and many other ancient ruins.
  • Price: From EGP 200 (approx. USD $13) for standard admission
  • Opening Hours: 8am to 4pm
  • Website: http://www.pyramids.org/
  1. Egyptian Museum: A large museum with many impressive collections of art and artifacts from ancient Egypt, including many famous treasures such as the mask of Tutankhamun.
  1. Khan el-Khalili: A historic and bustling bazaar in the heart of Cairo, with many shops, restaurants, and vendors selling traditional crafts, spices, and souvenirs.
  • Price: Free
  • Opening Hours: Always open
  1. Cairo Citadel: A historic fortress and complex with many impressive buildings, including the Mosque of Muhammad Ali and many other museums and exhibitions.
  1. Islamic Cairo: A historic and charming neighborhood with many mosques, madrassas, and other buildings dating back to medieval times.
  • Price: Free
  • Opening Hours: Always open
  1. Al-Azhar Park: A beautiful park located in the heart of Cairo, with many gardens, lakes, and beautiful views of the city and the Nile River.
  1. Nile River Cruises: Many boats and ferries offer scenic rides and tours along the Nile River, with many opportunities for sightseeing, dining, and entertainment.
  • Price: Varies depending on the activity
  • Opening Hours: Varies
  1. Coptic Cairo: A historic and important district for Egypt’s Coptic Christian community, with many churches, monasteries, and other religious sites.
  • Price: Free
  • Opening Hours: Always open
  1. Manial Palace: A beautiful and historic palace located on an island in the Nile River, with many impressive collections of art and artifacts, as well as beautiful gardens and architecture.
  1. Sultan Hassan Mosque: A beautiful and historic mosque located in Islamic Cairo, known for its impressive architecture and many artistic and cultural treasures.
  • Price: From EGP 50 (approx. USD $3) for standard admission
  • Opening Hours: 9am to 5pm

Activities for Kids

Here are the top 10 activities for kids in Cairo, Egypt:

  1. The Egyptian Museum: A museum with exhibits on ancient Egyptian history and artifacts, including King Tut’s treasures.
  1. Giza Pyramids and Sphinx: A complex of pyramids and the Great Sphinx, with views of the desert and the city.
  1. The Pharaonic Village: An open-air museum with exhibits and shows on ancient Egyptian life and culture.
  1. Magic Galaxy: World of Illusion: An indoor amusement park with interactive exhibits and illusions, including a mirror maze and a virtual reality roller coaster.
  1. Dream Park: An outdoor amusement park with rides, shows, and attractions for all ages.
  1. Cairo Tower: A tall tower with panoramic views of the city and the Nile River.
  • Price: EGP 200 (approx. $12 USD) per person for adults, EGP 100 (approx. $6 USD) per person for children
  • Website: http://www.cairotower.net/
  1. Al-Azhar Park: A large public park with gardens, fountains, and views of the city and historic sites.
  1. The Citadel: A historic fortress and mosque with panoramic views of the city, including the Muhammad Ali Mosque.
  1. The Nile River: A boat ride on the Nile River with views of the city and historic sites.
  1. Khan el-Khalili: A historic bazaar with shops selling souvenirs, jewelry, and crafts, located in the Islamic quarter of Cairo.

Areas

Here are the top 10 neighborhoods in Cairo, Egypt:

  1. Downtown Cairo: The historic and cultural heart of the city, Downtown Cairo is home to many of the city’s most famous landmarks and attractions, including Tahrir Square, the Egyptian Museum, and the Nile River.
  2. Maadi: An affluent and upscale neighborhood that is located to the south of the city center, Maadi is known for its elegant homes, high-end restaurants, and trendy cafes.
  3. Zamalek: An exclusive and upscale island community that is located on the Nile River, Zamalek is known for its luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, and trendy boutiques.
  4. Giza: A diverse and bustling neighborhood that is located to the west of the city center, Giza is known for its iconic pyramids, bustling markets, and lively nightlife.
  5. Heliopolis: A residential neighborhood that is located to the east of the city center, Heliopolis is known for its elegant homes, beautiful parks, and upscale shopping malls.
  6. Nasr City: A modern and rapidly developing neighborhood that is located to the northeast of the city center, Nasr City is known for its high-rise apartment buildings, shopping malls, and family-friendly attractions.
  7. Mohandessin: A busy and commercial neighborhood that is located to the west of the city center, Mohandessin is known for its high-end shopping malls, bustling markets, and trendy cafes and restaurants.
  8. Islamic Cairo: A historic and cultural neighborhood that is home to many of Cairo’s most famous mosques, madrasas, and ancient monuments, including the Al-Azhar Mosque and the Khan El-Khalili Bazaar.
  9. Zabbaleen: A unique and fascinating neighborhood that is located on the outskirts of Cairo, Zabbaleen is known for its garbage collectors, who recycle and sort the city’s waste.
  10. Sayeda Zeinab: A religious and cultural neighborhood that is home to the Sayeda Zeinab Mosque, one of Cairo’s most important Islamic sites. The neighborhood is also known for its lively markets and traditional street food.

Restaurants

Here are the top 10 restaurants in Cairo, Egypt:

  1. Sequoia: Contemporary restaurant offering a menu of Mediterranean-inspired dishes and cocktails.
  1. Kazoku: Fine-dining restaurant offering a menu of modern Japanese cuisine.
  • Price range: $$$ – $$$$ (moderate to expensive)
  • Location: 42 Ismail Mohamed Street, Zamalek, Cairo
  • Website: http://www.kazokuegypt.com/
  1. Andrea: Fine-dining Italian restaurant offering a menu of classic dishes made with high-quality ingredients.
  1. Osmanly: Fine-dining restaurant offering a menu of Ottoman-inspired cuisine.
  1. Tabla Luna: Contemporary restaurant offering a menu of Latin American-inspired dishes and cocktails.
  1. The Four Fat Ladies: Casual restaurant offering a menu of classic British dishes and desserts.
  1. Citadel Grill: Casual restaurant offering a menu of Middle Eastern-inspired grilled meats and vegetables.
  1. Abou El Sid: Casual restaurant offering a menu of traditional Egyptian dishes.
  • Price range: $$ – $$$ (moderate)
  • Location: Multiple locations, including Zamalek and Maadi
  • Website: https://www.abouelsid.com/
  1. Birdcage: Contemporary restaurant offering a menu of European-inspired dishes and cocktails.
  1. Le Pacha 1901: Floating restaurant offering a menu of international cuisine and cocktails.

Bars

Here are the top 10 most popular bars/pubs in Cairo:

  1. The Tap – craft brewery with multiple locations throughout the city
  2. Cairo Jazz Club – live music venue with jazz and electronic music in Agouza area
  3. Pub 28 – British-style pub with sports screenings in Zamalek area
  4. The Tap West – craft brewery with live music and sports screenings in 6th of October City area
  5. La Bodega – wine bar with Spanish food in Zamalek area
  6. The Lemon Tree & Co. – bar and lounge with rooftop seating in Zamalek area
  7. The Cellar – wine bar with live music and tapas in Sheraton area
  8. The Garden Nile Front – outdoor bar and restaurant with Nile views in Maadi area
  9. Doggy Style – bar and lounge with dog-friendly seating in Zamalek area
  10. Odeon Palace – bar and restaurant with live music and Mediterranean food in Heliopolis area

And here are the top 10 best rooftops in Cairo:

  1. Sky Bar – rooftop bar with Nile and city views in Four Seasons Nile Plaza, Garden City area
  2. Nineteen Twenty Five – rooftop bar with city views and a speakeasy vibe in New Cairo area
  3. The Roof – rooftop bar with Nile and city views in The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Downtown area
  4. Upstairs Bar & Grill – rooftop bar and restaurant with city views in Downtown area
  5. L’Oriental – rooftop bar and restaurant with panoramic city views in Zamalek area
  6. Zitouni – rooftop restaurant with Nile and city views in Four Seasons Nile Plaza, Garden City area
  7. The Terrace – rooftop bar and restaurant with Nile and city views in Kempinski Nile Hotel, Garden City area
  8. Vertigo – rooftop bar with Nile and city views in Cairo Marriott Hotel, Zamalek area
  9. Nox – rooftop bar and lounge with Nile and city views in Giza area
  10. The Roof – rooftop bar and restaurant with Nile and city views in InterContinental Cairo Semiramis, Garden City area.

Shopping

Here are the top 10 shopping areas in Cairo, Egypt:

  1. Khan El Khalili: This historic market is located in the heart of Cairo and features many handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to experience local culture and find unique gifts and souvenirs.
  2. City Stars Mall: This large shopping mall is located outside the city center and features many international fashion brands, department stores, and gourmet restaurants. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
  3. Cairo Festival City Mall: This large shopping mall is located outside the city center and features many international fashion brands, designer stores, and gourmet restaurants. It’s a great place to shop and dine in luxury.
  4. Zamalek: This upscale neighborhood is known for its boutique shops, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants. It’s a great place to find unique clothing and accessories with a local touch.
  5. Mall of Arabia: This large shopping mall is located outside the city center and features many international fashion brands, department stores, and gourmet restaurants. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
  6. Cityscape Mall: This large shopping mall is located outside the city center and features many international fashion brands, designer stores, and gourmet restaurants. It’s a great place to indulge in luxury shopping and dining.
  7. Genena Mall: This large shopping mall is located outside the city center and features many international fashion brands, department stores, and gourmet restaurants. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
  8. Mall of Egypt: This large shopping mall is located outside the city center and features many international fashion brands, designer stores, and gourmet restaurants. It’s a great place to shop and dine while exploring the surrounding neighborhoods.
  9. Downtown Cairo: This historic neighborhood is known for its traditional shops and market stalls, selling everything from textiles to souvenirs to traditional Egyptian handicrafts. It’s a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs with a local touch.
  10. Galleria40: This small shopping mall is located in the Sheikh Zayed area and features many boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a great place to escape the crowds and explore a charming neighborhood.

Museums

Here are the top 10 museums in Cairo, Egypt:

  1. The Egyptian Museum: A museum with a collection of ancient Egyptian art and artifacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, and tomb treasures.
  1. The Museum of Islamic Art: A museum with a collection of Islamic art and artifacts from Egypt and around the world, including textiles, ceramics, metalwork, and manuscripts.
  1. The Coptic Museum: A museum with a collection of Coptic art and artifacts from early Christianity in Egypt, including textiles, icons, and manuscripts.
  • Price: EGP 100 (about $6.50 USD) for adults, EGP 50 (about $3.25 USD) for students.
  • Website: www.coptic-cairo.com
  1. The Gayer-Anderson Museum: A museum with exhibits related to the life and collections of British collector Major Robert Gayer-Anderson, including Islamic art, furniture, and antiquities.
  1. The Royal Mummies Hall: A museum with a collection of royal mummies from ancient Egypt, including the pharaohs Ramses II and Tutankhamun.
  1. The Museum of Egyptian Civilization: A museum with exhibits related to the history and culture of ancient Egypt, including a display of mummies and funerary objects, as well as interactive displays and a children’s museum.
  • Price: EGP 200 (about $13 USD) for adults, EGP 100 (about $6.50 USD) for students.
  • Website: www.mec.gov.eg
  1. The Manial Palace and Museum: A museum and historic site with exhibits related to the life and collections of Prince Mohammed Ali, including Islamic art, furniture, and antiquities.
  • Price: EGP 100 (about $6.50 USD) for adults, EGP 50 (about $3.25 USD) for students.
  • Website: www.manialpalace.org
  1. The Mahmoud Khalil Museum: A museum with a collection of European and Egyptian art from the 19th and 20th centuries, including paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts.
  • Price: EGP 70 (about $4.50 USD) for adults, EGP 35 (about $2.25 USD) for students.
  • Website: www.mkm.gov.eg
  1. The Ibn Tulun Mosque and Museum: A museum and historic site with exhibits related to the history and architecture of the Ibn Tulun Mosque, one of the oldest and most significant mosques in Egypt.
  • Price: EGP 100 (about $6.50 USD) for adults, EGP 50 (about $3.25 USD) for students.
  • Website: www.tulunmosque.com
  1. The El Sawy Culturewheel: A cultural center with a variety of arts and cultural programs, including music, dance, theater, and film, as well as art exhibitions, workshops, and lectures.

Parks

Here are the top 10 parks in Cairo:

  1. Al-Azhar Park: This park is located near the Islamic Cairo area and features several gardens, walking paths, and stunning views of the city skyline and the Al-Azhar Mosque. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities and cultural events.
  2. Cairo Festival City Park: This park is located near the New Cairo area and features several walking and biking paths, a large green area, and several water features. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
  3. Giza Zoo: This park is located near the Giza area and features several animal species, walking paths, and several picnic areas. It’s a popular spot for families and animal lovers.
  4. Gezira Sporting Club: This park is located near the Zamalek area and features several sports facilities, a large green area, and several cultural events. It’s a popular spot for sports enthusiasts and cultural events.
  5. Orman Garden: This park is located near the Giza area and features several gardens, walking paths, and several historical landmarks, including several royal palaces. It’s a popular spot for cultural events and sightseeing.
  6. Al-Azhar Park (New Cairo): This park is located near the New Cairo area and features several walking paths, a large green area, and several water features. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
  7. El Mamoura Park: This park is located near the Heliopolis area and features several walking paths, a large green area, and several sports facilities. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
  8. The Andalus Park: This park is located near the Al Mokattam area and features several gardens, walking paths, and several water features. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
  9. Aquarium Grotto Garden: This park is located near the Zamalek area and features several gardens, walking paths, and several water features. It’s a popular spot for nature lovers and relaxation.
  10. Salah El-Din Citadel Park: This park is located near the Islamic Cairo area and features several gardens, walking paths, and several historical landmarks, including the Salah El-Din Citadel and several museums. It’s a popular spot for cultural events and sightseeing.

Opening hours & prices are subject to changes. Please visit the website for updated information.

TOP 10 Things You Need To Know About Cairo

Best Time To Visit

Weather in Cairo:

Cairo has a desert climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Here are the average temperatures in Cairo throughout the year:

  • Summer (June to August): 20-35°C (68-95°F)
  • Fall (September to November): 15-28°C (59-82°F)
  • Winter (December to February): 9-20°C (48-68°F)
  • Spring (March to May): 13-28°C (55-82°F)

Peak Season: Cairo’s peak tourist season is during the winter months of December to February when the weather is most pleasant, and many tourists flock to escape the cold temperatures in other parts of the world. This is also the busiest time, and prices for accommodations and attractions are higher.

Off-Peak Season: The best time to visit Cairo in terms of smaller crowds and more affordable prices is during the summer months of June to August. Although the weather may be hot and dry, you can enjoy discounts on accommodations and attractions, and the city is less crowded.

In addition, visiting during cultural events such as the Cairo International Film Festival, the Cairo Book Fair, or the Sufi Festival can be a unique and memorable experience.

In summary, the best time to visit Cairo is during the winter months of December to February when the weather is most pleasant and many tourists flock to escape the cold temperatures in other parts of the world. However, if you’re looking for more affordable prices and don’t mind the hot and dry weather, visiting from June to August can also be a great option. Additionally, visiting during cultural events can offer unique opportunities to experience Cairo’s vibrant culture.

Transportation

Here’s a summary of transportation options for getting around Cairo:

  1. Metro: Cairo has a metro system that covers most parts of the city, including the downtown area and many of the tourist destinations. A single ride typically costs EGP 5 to EGP 7 (about $0.32 to $0.44 USD) depending on the distance traveled. There are also various types of passes available, including a rechargeable transportation card called the “smart card.” The official website to buy transportation tickets and for the map of the lines is http://www.cairometro.gov.eg/.
  2. Bus: Cairo also has an extensive bus network that covers most parts of the city and some of the surrounding areas. A single ride typically costs EGP 3 to EGP 5 (about $0.19 to $0.32 USD) depending on the distance traveled. There are also various types of passes available, including the smart card. The official website to buy transportation tickets and for the map of the lines is http://www.cairotransport.org/.
  3. Microbus: Microbuses are a form of informal public transportation that are widely used in Cairo. They are often overcrowded and may not have fixed routes or schedules, but they are very affordable, with fares typically ranging from EGP 1 to EGP 5 (about $0.06 to $0.32 USD).
  4. Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Cairo, and they are metered. The base fare is EGP 3.5 to EGP 6 (about $0.22 to $0.38 USD), and the cost per kilometer is EGP 1.4 to EGP 1.8 (about $0.09 to $0.11 USD). There may be additional charges for tolls and late-night rides.
  5. Rideshare: Rideshare services like Uber and Careem are available in Cairo. The cost varies depending on the distance traveled and the time of day.
  6. Felucca: A felucca is a traditional wooden sailboat that can be rented for a scenic ride on the Nile River. The cost varies depending on the rental company and the length of the rental.

Overall, Cairo’s public transportation system can be challenging to navigate due to its size and congestion. The metro and buses are the most convenient and cost-effective options for getting around the city. Microbuses are a useful option for short distances, but they may not be safe or reliable. Taxis and rideshares can be useful for short trips or exploring specific areas of the city. Feluccas can provide a unique and scenic way to explore the Nile River.

Celebrities

Here are the top 10 celebrities from Cairo:

  1. Umm Kulthum: 1904-1975 – singer and actress, regarded as the greatest Arabic singer of the 20th century
  2. Naguib Mahfouz: 1911-2006 – novelist and screenwriter, awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature
  3. Omar Sharif: 1932-2015 – actor and film producer, awarded multiple Golden Globe Awards and Academy Award nominations
  4. Yousra: born 1951 – actress and producer, awarded multiple international awards for her work in film and television
  5. Amr Diab: born 1961 – singer, composer, and actor, known as the Father of Mediterranean Music
  6. Salah Jahin: 1930-1986 – poet, lyricist, and cartoonist, known for his satirical and political works
  7. Adel Emam: born 1940 – actor and producer, known for his comedic and dramatic roles in Egyptian films and television series
  8. Leila Mourad: 1918-1995 – singer and actress, known for her contribution to the Egyptian cinema and music industry
  9. Faten Hamama: 1931-2015 – actress and film producer, awarded multiple international awards for her performances in Egyptian films
  10. Tawfiq al-Hakim: 1898-1987 – playwright, novelist, and essayist, regarded as the father of modern Arabic drama.

Movies

Here are 10 notable movies that were filmed in Cairo, Egypt:

  1. The Mummy (1999) – This action-adventure film follows the story of a group of explorers who accidentally awaken an ancient mummy in Cairo.
  2. Lawrence of Arabia (1962) – This classic film is set during World War I and features several scenes shot on location in Cairo and the surrounding desert.
  3. The Spy Who Loved Me (1977) – This James Bond film features several scenes set in Cairo, including a thrilling chase sequence through the city’s streets.
  4. Cairo Time (2009) – This romantic drama is set in Cairo and follows the story of a woman who falls in love with her husband’s friend.
  5. The Night Manager (2016) – This television series, based on the novel by John le Carré, features several scenes shot on location in Cairo.
  6. The Return of the Mummy (1975) – This horror film is a sequel to the classic film “The Mummy” and features stunning shots of Cairo’s historic landmarks.
  7. The Yacoubian Building (2006) – This drama is set in Cairo and explores the lives of the residents of a luxurious apartment building.
  8. The Battle of Algiers (1966) – This film, set during the Algerian War of Independence, features several scenes shot in Cairo.
  9. The Rains of Ranchipur (1955) – This romantic drama is set in India but features several scenes shot on location in Cairo.
  10. The Ten Commandments (1956) – This classic film, based on the Biblical story of Moses, features several scenes shot on location in Egypt, including Cairo.

Facts

Here are 10 interesting facts about Cairo, Egypt:

  1. Cairo is the capital city of Egypt and is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.
  2. The Great Pyramids of Giza are a famous landmark in Cairo that are over 4,500 years old. They are the only remaining wonder of the ancient world and are a popular destination for tourists.
  3. The Sphinx is another famous landmark in Cairo that stands near the Great Pyramids. It is a statue of a mythical creature with the head of a human and the body of a lion.
  4. The Egyptian Museum is a popular attraction in Cairo that features a variety of artifacts and treasures from ancient Egypt, including the famous King Tutankhamun’s golden mask.
  5. Islamic Cairo is a historic neighborhood in Cairo that features beautiful mosques, madrassas, and other Islamic architecture. It is a great place to experience the traditional side of Cairo.
  6. The Nile River runs through Cairo and is the longest river in the world. It is a popular destination for boat tours and cruises.
  7. Egyptian cuisine is known for its delicious and unique flavors, including dishes such as koshari, ful medames, and shakshuka.
  8. The Khan el-Khalili Bazaar is a popular shopping destination in Cairo that features a variety of shops and stalls selling traditional Egyptian crafts, souvenirs, and food.
  9. Cairo is a city of contrasts, with modern high-rise buildings and trendy neighborhoods sitting alongside historic landmarks and traditional bazaars.
  10. The Al-Azhar Park is a beautiful park in Cairo that features stunning views of the city and a variety of gardens, fountains, and walking paths. It is a great destination for picnics and outdoor activities.

Venues

Here are ten popular entertainment venues in Cairo:

  1. Cairo Opera House – a large performing arts center that includes multiple theaters and hosts a variety of shows, including opera, ballet, theater, and music performances
  2. El Sawy Culturewheel – a cultural center that includes theaters, exhibition spaces, and a library for various shows and performances
  3. Egyptian Museum – a historic museum that showcases ancient Egyptian artifacts and hosts cultural events and exhibitions
  4. Cairo International Convention Centre – a large convention center that hosts various events, including trade shows, conferences, and cultural events
  5. The Cairo Jazz Club – a popular music venue that features live jazz, blues, and rock performances
  6. The Sound Garden – a popular music venue that features both local and international musicians and artists, including electronic and indie music performances
  7. The Citadel – a historic fortress that hosts cultural events and exhibitions, as well as musical performances during the annual Cairo Opera Festival
  8. The Egyptian National Theatre – a theater that hosts plays, musicals, and other cultural events
  9. Al-Azhar Park – a scenic park that hosts outdoor concerts and other cultural events throughout the year
  10. The El Genaina Theatre – an outdoor theater that hosts cultural events and performances during the summer months, including music, dance, and theater shows.

Food

Here are the top 10 dishes to try in Cairo:

  1. Koshary – This Egyptian dish is a staple of Cairo street food, and it features a mix of lentils, rice, and pasta that is topped with crispy fried onions and a spicy tomato sauce.
  2. Ful Medames – This traditional Egyptian breakfast dish features slow-cooked fava beans that are seasoned with garlic, lemon juice, and spices, and served with pita bread.
  3. Kebab – This grilled meat dish is a popular choice in Cairo, and it features skewered and marinated meat (usually lamb or beef) that is grilled over an open flame and served with rice and vegetables.
  4. Ta’ameya – This Egyptian version of falafel is made from ground fava beans that are mixed with herbs and spices and deep-fried until crispy. It’s often served in a pita with vegetables and sauces.
  5. Kofta – This spiced meatball dish is a popular choice in Cairo, and it features ground meat (usually lamb or beef) that is mixed with herbs and spices and grilled or roasted until tender.
  6. Molokhia – This traditional Egyptian soup is made from the leaves of the molokhia plant, which is similar to spinach. It’s typically served with rice and chicken or beef.
  7. Hawawshi – This stuffed pita bread is a popular Cairo street food, and it features ground meat (usually beef or lamb) that is mixed with herbs and spices and stuffed into a pita before being baked or grilled.
  8. Fatta – This traditional Egyptian dish features layers of bread, rice, and meat that are topped with a tomato sauce and yogurt. It’s typically served for special occasions or celebrations.
  9. Basbousa – This sweet Egyptian dessert is made from semolina and coconut and is typically drizzled with honey syrup. It’s a popular choice for a sweet treat or after-dinner snack.
  10. Mahshi – This stuffed vegetable dish is a popular choice in Cairo, and it features vegetables (such as zucchini or eggplant) that are stuffed with a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices, and then cooked in a tomato sauce.

Events

Here are the top 10 events in Cairo, Egypt:

  1. Cairo International Film Festival: A film festival showcasing both Egyptian and international films
  1. Cairo International Book Fair: A book fair featuring both Arabic and international books
  1. Cairo Fashion Festival: A fashion event featuring both local and international designers
  1. Cairo Jazz Festival: A music festival featuring jazz performances from both local and international artists
  1. Cairo International Biennale for Contemporary Art: An art exhibition featuring contemporary art from around the world
  1. Cairo ICT: An information and communication technology trade fair featuring the latest in technology and innovation
  1. Cairo International Book Club Fair: A book fair featuring book clubs and literary groups from Egypt and around the world
  1. Cairo Opera House Performances: A performing arts venue featuring various cultural performances, including music, dance, and theater
  1. Cairo International Festival for Experimental Theatre: A theatre festival featuring experimental theatre from both local and international groups
  1. Al Moulid Al Nabawi Celebrations: A celebration of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad with various cultural events, including music, dance, and religious rituals
  • Throughout the year (specific dates depend on the Islamic calendar)
  • Various locations throughout Cairo
  • No official website, but information can be found on the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism’s website: https://www.egypt.travel/event/al-moulid-al-nabawi
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