Best Activities & Things to Do in Islamic Cairo, Egypt
Islamic Cairo is one of the most historic and culturally rich districts in Egypt. This area is home to centuries-old mosques, medieval madrasas, vibrant bazaars, and stunning Islamic architecture. Whether you're interested in history, culture, shopping, or food, there’s plenty to explore. Below is a detailed guide on the top activities and things to do in Islamic Cairo.
1. Explore the Historic Mosques & Islamic Landmarks
Al-Azhar Mosque (970 AD)
Location: Al-Azhar Street
Entry Fee: Free (donations welcome)
- One of the oldest Islamic universities in the world.
- Features stunning Islamic architecture and a peaceful courtyard.
- Must-See: The five minarets and beautifully decorated prayer hall.
Sultan Hassan Mosque & Madrasa (1363 AD)
Location: Near the Citadel
Entry Fee: Around 100 EGP ($3)
- A masterpiece of Mamluk architecture.
- Known for its grand entrance, massive domes, and intricate carvings.
- Tip: Climb the minaret for panoramic views of Cairo.
Al-Rifa’i Mosque (1869 AD)
Location: Opposite Sultan Hassan Mosque
Entry Fee: Included with Sultan Hassan Mosque ticket
- Houses the tombs of King Farouk of Egypt and Shah of Iran.
- A blend of Ottoman, Mamluk, and European styles.
Ibn Tulun Mosque (879 AD) – Oldest Surviving Mosque in Cairo
Location: Sayyida Zeinab District
Entry Fee: Free
- Cairo’s largest and oldest surviving mosque.
- Features a unique spiral minaret inspired by Iraq’s Samarra Mosque.
Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Al-Mu’ayyad (1415 AD)
Location: Near Bab Zuweila Gate
Entry Fee: Around 100 EGP
- Built over an ancient prison, with stunning red-and-white striped walls.
- Offers beautiful views from its twin minarets.
2. Visit the Citadel of Saladin & Muhammad Ali Mosque
Location: Mokattam Hill
Entry Fee: Around 200 EGP ($7)
- A UNESCO-listed fortress built by Saladin in 1183 AD.
- Houses several mosques and museums.
- Muhammad Ali Mosque (also known as the Alabaster Mosque) is the highlight, offering breathtaking views of Cairo.
- Don't Miss: The National Military Museum inside the Citadel.
3. Shop at Khan El Khalili Bazaar (Cairo’s Most Famous Market)
Location: Near Al-Azhar Mosque
Entry Fee: Free
- A historic souq (market) dating back to the 14th century.
- Famous for Egyptian souvenirs, handmade crafts, jewelry, and perfumes.
- Must-Buy Items:
Egyptian spices & incense
Handmade lamps & lanterns
Papyrus paintings
Traditional clothing (Galabeya)
Travel Tip: Bargain before buying—vendors expect it!
4. Enjoy Traditional Egyptian Food in Islamic Cairo
Best Local Dishes to Try
- Koshary – Egypt’s national dish (pasta, rice, lentils, chickpeas, and tomato sauce).
- Ful Medames – Mashed fava beans with olive oil & spices.
- Feteer Meshaltet – Flaky Egyptian pastry with sweet or savory fillings.
- Hawawshi – Spiced minced meat stuffed inside Egyptian bread.
- Kunafa & Basbousa – Delicious Egyptian desserts.
Best Restaurants in Islamic Cairo
Naguib Mahfouz Café – Cozy café serving Egyptian cuisine in Khan El Khalili.
El Fishawy Café – Cairo’s oldest coffee shop, open since 1773.
Felfela Restaurant – Great for trying Egyptian street food.
5. Walk Along the Historic Gates & Streets of Old Cairo
Bab Zuweila (Medieval Gate of Cairo)
Location: Darb al-Ahmar
Entry Fee: Around 80 EGP
- The last remaining southern gate of medieval Cairo.
- Climb to the top for panoramic views of Islamic Cairo.
Bayt Al-Suhaymi (Ottoman-Era House Museum)
Location: Al-Muizz Street
Entry Fee: Around 60 EGP
- A beautiful 17th-century Islamic house with original furniture and decorations.
- Gives insight into traditional Egyptian home life during the Ottoman period.
6. Explore Al-Muizz Street – The Heart of Islamic Cairo
Location: Runs through Old Cairo
Entry Fee: Free (some sites inside require tickets)
- A UNESCO-listed street with some of Cairo’s oldest mosques, palaces, and houses.
- Must-visit landmarks:
Qalawun Complex – A beautiful Mamluk-era mosque and madrasa.
Barquq Mosque – A masterpiece of Islamic art.
Sabil-Kuttab of Katkhuda – An 18th-century public water fountain.
Travel Tip: Visit at night when the street is beautifully illuminated.
7. Watch a Traditional Tanoura Dance Performance
Location: Wekalet El-Ghouri Arts Center
Ticket Price: Around 80 EGP
Show Timings: Usually at 7:30 PM (Check availability)
- A traditional Egyptian folk dance performed by Sufi dervishes.
- Features colorful spinning skirts and live Arabic music.
8. Visit the Museum of Islamic Art
Location: Downtown Cairo
Entry Fee: Around 200 EGP ($7)
- Holds over 100,000 artifacts showcasing Islamic calligraphy, textiles, ceramics, and jewelry.
- One of the largest Islamic art collections in the world.
Summary: Best Things to Do in Islamic Cairo
Historical & Religious Sites:
Al-Azhar Mosque & University (Oldest Islamic learning center)
Sultan Hassan & Ibn Tulun Mosques (Stunning architecture)
Citadel of Saladin & Muhammad Ali Mosque (Cairo’s fortress)
Al-Rifa’i Mosque (Royal tombs)
Shopping & Local Culture:
Khan El Khalili Bazaar (Best for souvenirs & shopping)
Al-Muizz Street (Cairo’s oldest street)
Bab Zuweila & Bayt Al-Suhaymi (Ottoman-era house & city gates)
Food & Entertainment:
Eat at El Fishawy & Naguib Mahfouz Café
Watch a Tanoura Dance Show (Spinning dervishes)
Try Koshary & traditional Egyptian sweets
Travel Tips for Islamic Cairo:
Wear modest clothing when visiting mosques.
Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid heat.
Bring cash – Many small shops don’t accept credit cards.
Beware of scams – Politely decline aggressive vendors.
Islamic Cairo is one of the most exciting and culturally rich areas in Egypt, perfect for history lovers, shoppers, and food enthusiasts.
