Thing to do
1. Khan el-Khalili
Cairo's great historic bazaar, a maze of lanes selling lanterns, spices, brass and jewellery around a khan founded in the 1380s.
View details — Khan el-KhaliliSome of the best experiences in Cairo happen between the monuments, on foot and in the evening. The historic heart of the city is ideal for walking: start at Bab al-Futuh and follow Al-Muizz Street south past the Qalawun complex and the Madrasa of Barquq, then lose yourself in the lanes of Khan el-Khalili, where bargaining is part of the fun and the bazaar is at its most atmospheric after dark. A combined ticket covers many of the monuments on the street, which are generally open until 17:00.
For views, time a visit to Al-Azhar Park for late afternoon, when the sun sets behind the minarets of the old city, or ride the lift up Cairo Tower on Gezira island for a 360-degree panorama of the Nile and, on clear days, the pyramids. In the evening, the Tannoura show at Wekalet El Ghouri offers live music and whirling dance in a Mamluk courtyard a few minutes from the bazaar; tickets are usually sold at the door, so arrive early. These experiences combine easily: a typical day might begin on Al-Muizz Street, continue through Khan el-Khalili and end with sunset in Al-Azhar Park or an evening at the Tannoura show. Carry small notes, wear comfortable shoes and use ride-hailing apps for journeys home.
5 places · Updated October 23, 2026
Our top 3 things to do in Cairo
Thing to do
Cairo's great historic bazaar, a maze of lanes selling lanterns, spices, brass and jewellery around a khan founded in the 1380s.
View details — Khan el-KhaliliThing to do
The main street of Fatimid Cairo, a kilometre-long walk from Bab al-Futuh to Bab Zuweila lined with Mamluk mosques, madrasas, palaces and fountains.
View details — Al-Muizz StreetThing to do
A 30-hectare landscaped park on a former rubbish mound above Islamic Cairo, with gardens, cafés and some of the best sunset views of the old city's minarets.
View details — Al-Azhar ParkThing to do
A 187-metre lattice tower on Gezira island, completed in 1961, with an open-air observation deck giving 360-degree views over the Nile and the city.
View details — Cairo TowerThing to do
An evening performance of Egyptian Sufi-inspired whirling dance and live music in the courtyard of a restored merchants' hall from 1505.
View details — Tannoura Show at Wekalet El Ghouri