Best things to do in Cairo that are NOT the Pyramids (2024)
You might be wondering is there much to see in Cairo other than the Pyramids of Giza? The answer is simple: ABSOLUTELY!
Of course, the main attraction drawing tourists to Cairo is the Pyramids of Giza (and you should not miss this) but you should explore the other side of Cairo; it’s a stark contrast to the Pyramids and also showcases the rich culture and deep religious roots found in Egypt.
CITADEL OF SALADIN
The Citadel is a medieval Islamic-era fortification, perched on a high hilltop in Cairo outside of the city centre. It was built by Salah ad-Din in the 12th century and further developed by subsequent Egyptian rulers. However, much of what you’ll see today is due to Muhammad Ali Pasha, who in the first half of the 19th century demolished many of the older buildings and built new palaces and monuments all across the site. For nearly 700 years the Citadel was the seat of government in Egypt and the residence of its rulers. Now it is a UNESCO world heritage site, attracting local and foreign travellers on a daily basis.
The Citadel can be divided into two areas: the Northern Enclosure (where the National Military Museum is located and which was historically reserved for military garrisons), and the Southern Enclosure (formerly the residence of the sultan, and now where the Muhammad Ali Mosque is located).
There are 4 mosques inside but the two MUST visits are the Muhammad Ali Mosque and the Mosque of Sultan AlNasir Muhammed. The Muhammad Ali Mosque was built between 1830 and 1848 and holds the tomb of Muhammad Ali Pasha. From the outside of this mosque you’ll be able to get sweeping views of Cairo and on a clear day you’ll be able to see the Pyramids! In contrast, the Mosque of Sultan AlNasir Muhammed was built in 1318 and was known as the royal mosque of the Citadel, where the sultans of Cairo performed their Friday prayers.
There are also 4 museums inside, some of which you have to pay extra to enter. If you have time and want to delve deeper into the history of the Citadel, the National Military Museum is worth a visit.
You’ll need at least 1.5hours to cover the Citadel. Entrance fee is 450EGP for adults and 230EGP for students. Opening hours are 8am-5pm.
AL-RIFA’I MOSQUE
This is one of the largest mosques in Cairo, accommodating up to 10,000 worshippers. It’s very close to the Citadel so you can make your way here after finishing off at the Citadel.
The present structure of the mosque was constructed in two phases between 1869 and 1912. The architects tried to replicate the style of the Sultan Hassan Mosque, located next door, and whilst it’s interesting to compare these two mosques side-by-side there are still notable differences that can’t be replicated due to the age difference between them.
The beauty of the mosque is obvious, where it represents the Ottoman style with intricate marble work and stained glass windows. There’s also several smaller domes, all illuminated by chandeliers, and part of the inside space is allocated for the zawiya shrine and the royal mausoleum, whilst the other part is a prayer space.
SULTAN HASSAN MOSQUE
Next door to Al-Rifa’I Mosque, you’ll find the Sultan Hassan Mosque., Your entrance fee is a combined ticket, giving you access to both mosques.
The mosque was built much before the Al-Rifa’I Mosque, between 1356 and 1363, and commissioned by Sultan an-Nasir Hasan who intended for it to be the largest and most important mosque in Cairo. As a result it is much larger in size than its neighbour, with 8000 sqm of space split into prayer rooms, courtyards, and a mausoleum. What’s even more impressive than its size is the architectural design, where it’s one of Cairo’s most significant examples of Mamluk architecture. From the wooden-covered fountain in the courtyard to the blue mosaic façade of the Qibla Iwan, the Mamluk architecture is prevalent in all corners of the mosque.
You don’t need very long to see both mosques, they can easily be done in less than 1 hour. Entrance fee is 120EGP and opening hours are 8am- 4.30pm.
EGYPTIAN MUSEUM
The Egyptian Museum is not your typical museum, and is the largest archaeological museum in the Middle East. It was built in 1901, housing the largest collection of Egyptian antiquities in the World spread over more than 100 exhibition galleries, with over 17,000 artefacts including a number of treasures buried in the royal tombs, as found in Luxor West Bank. Some of the masterpieces include the mask of Tutankhamun, the granite statute of Ramesses II child and god Horun, and the Menkaure’s triads.
Entrance fee is 450EGP and opening hours are 9am-5pm.
KHAN EL KHALILI MARKET
Khan El Khalili market is the largest and one of the most visited markets in Cairo that has been around for centuries. At the market you will find numerous shops and stalls spilling onto the narrow winding lanes, selling everything under the sun! It can be a bit of a maze, but I recommend losing yourself amongst the trinkets and soaking in the spice-infused atmosphere that engulfs the market. There are also a number of cafes and restaurants tucked away in the market, one of the most iconic being Naguib Mahfouz Café which is worth the visit. The food was delicious, and some of the best we ate in Cairo.
Tip: You will most definitely be haggled, called at, and scammed at the market so just be aware of this. If you are going to buy anything make sure to negotiate the price as it will be overpriced to start with.
EGYPT FAQs
IS IT SAFE TO VISIT CAIRO NOW?
Whilst it is currently safe the security situation can change at any point so make sure to check Government travel advice before planning a trip.
IS CAIRO A CHEAP CITY?
Cairo is a relatively cheap city. You will find a range of accommodation options but you will certainly find nice hotels for cheaper than in other large cities. The food is also cheap and portion sizes are big, even in the hotel restaurants.
HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED IN CAIRO?
I would recommend at least two full days. You’ll need one day to visit the Pyramids of Giza and a second day to explore the historical side of Cairo.
WHERE TO STAY IN CAIRO?
Downtown Cairo, Garden City, and Zamalek are centrally located, where you’ll find most of the large hotels. You may find a lot of the hotels to be quite dated in Cairo, but one I recommend is the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo.
HOW TO GET AROUND CAIRO?
Uber is the best way to navigate around Cairo and it’s very cheap. You can use local taxis as well but you may be overcharged as the taxi drivers set their own prices, so you have to negotiate. You can take local buses but you may find this to be an uncomfortable experience, especially if you’re a female – just be prepared for a lot of stares.
5 responses to “Best things to do in Cairo that are NOT the Pyramids (2024)”
I love history. Salah ad-Din was a fascinating person; I would love to visit his citadel!
Great information, thanks so much for sharing!
I’ve learned a lot about the various places to visit in Cairo other than the pyramids. Thank you so much for putting this resource together!
Putting Cairo on my travel bucket list!
Thanks for sharing all the wondering things that can be done in Cairo. My husband would love to visit here so I do want to share this info. with him.