10 Places to Visit and 5 to Avoid in Cairo, Egypt

Cairo is the largest city in Egypt and the capital of the Arab world. It has a long and rich history, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Middle East. The city is home to many unique attractions and experiences, such as the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum. There are plenty of things to do in Cairo, from shopping in its bustling bazaars to exploring the city’s vibrant nightlife. But with so many options, it can be difficult to decide which places to visit and which to avoid. Here is a list of 10 places to visit and 5 to avoid in Cairo.

1. The Great Pyramids of Giza

The Great Pyramids of Giza are one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and a must-see for anyone visiting Cairo. Located on the Giza Plateau, the pyramids were built over 4,500 years ago and are still an impressive sight today. Visitors can explore the inside of the Great Pyramid, walk around the plateau, and take a camel ride to get a closer look at the pyramids.

2. The Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum is one of the most important museums in the world and contains more than 160,000 artifacts from ancient Egypt. The museum houses mummies, sarcophagi, jewelry, statues, and much more. Visitors can also view the Tutankhamun collection and the Royal Mummy Room.

3. Khan el-Khalili Bazaar

Khan el-Khalili Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest markets in the Middle East. It is a great place to shop for souvenirs, jewelry, traditional clothing, and spices. The market is also home to many restaurants and cafes, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring.

4. Al-Azhar Park

Al-Azhar Park is one of the largest parks in Cairo and is a great place to relax and enjoy some fresh air. The park features gardens, fountains, and even a mosque. It is a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace and quiet.

5. Islamic Cairo

Islamic Cairo is a great place to experience the culture and history of Egypt. It is home to many mosques, palaces, and monuments that have been around since the 9th century. Visitors can explore the narrow streets and markets, and even take a boat ride on the Nile.

6. Coptic Cairo

Coptic Cairo is the oldest part of the city and is home to many churches and monasteries. It is a great place to explore the history of Christianity in Egypt and see how it has shaped the city. Visitors can also explore the Coptic Museum, which houses many artifacts from the Coptic era.

7. Cairo Opera House

The Cairo Opera House is one of the most beautiful theaters in the Middle East. It is home to many classical music concerts and operas, as well as dance performances and theater shows. The building itself is a work of art and worth visiting even if you don’t plan on attending a show.

8. Cairo Tower

The Cairo Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Standing at 187 meters tall, it offers amazing views of the city and the pyramids. Visitors can take the elevator to the top and enjoy a meal or a drink at the revolving restaurant.

9. Muizz Street

Muizz Street is a great place to explore the culture and history of Cairo. It is home to many shops, restaurants, and mosques and is a great place to spend an afternoon wandering and exploring.

10. Cairo Zoo

Cairo Zoo is a great place to see animals from all over the world. It is home to more than 300 species of animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and monkeys. The zoo also offers educational programs for children and adults, making it a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

Places to Avoid in Cairo

1. Tahrir Square

Tahrir Square is a popular tourist destination but it can be dangerous. It is best to avoid the square at night and during large demonstrations.

2. The Giza Necropolis

The Giza Necropolis is a great place to visit during the day but it can be dangerous at night. It is best to avoid the area after dark as there have been reports of theft and other crimes in the area.

3. Cairo Airport

Cairo Airport can be chaotic and overwhelming. It is best to avoid the area unless you are traveling, as there have been reports of pickpocketing and other crimes in the area.

4. Downtown Cairo

Downtown Cairo can be a dangerous place, especially at night. It is best to avoid the area after dark and stick to the more tourist-friendly areas of the city.

5. The Western Desert

The Western Desert is a vast and remote area that should be avoided. There are no roads or towns in the desert, making it a potential danger zone for travelers. It is best to stick to the more populated areas of the city.

Cairo is an amazing city with a wealth of attractions and experiences. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. By following this guide, you can make sure that you visit the best places in Cairo and avoid the ones that may not be as safe.