# Exploring Cairo and Giza: What’s Worth Seeing

- Link: https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/africa/egypt-what-did-we-see-in-cairo/
- Published: 2024-10-06T22:43:35+02:00
- Author: Filip Chochół

Ten wpis jest również dostępny w języku:  [⌊Switch to Polski⌉Polski](https://warsawtravelers.pl/afryka/egipt-co-zobaczylismy-w-kairze/)

 Table of contents

## Hello! 👋

A trip to Cairo and Giza is a unique experience ️🏜️. It allows you to travel back
in time to the heart of an ancient civilization 🏺 while seeing how modern Egypt
pulsates 🇪🇬. From the ancient pyramids of Giza ️🏛️ to the pulsing streets of Cairo
🌆, our trip was full of surprising moments that we will long remember. In this 
report, we share our impressions of these places, describing both the most important
sights and less obvious attractions to discover ️🗺️.

If you’re interested in the details of our Egypt trip, please read [on at this link](https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/africa/egypt-exploring-cairo-and-alexandria-independently-no-travel-agency-needed/)!
There you will find descriptions of the places we visited, as well as practical 
tips 📝. They will help you better plan your trip and avoid potential trouble.

## How did we move between attractions?

During our trip between attractions in Cairo and Giza, we mostly traveled by car,
which allowed us the flexibility and freedom to explore. We did not drive into downtown
Cairo, however, as we used Uber, which is cheap and convenient there. This avoided
the hassle of parking and navigating crowded streets. We also used the subway several
times, which is an inexpensive option and well connected to the city’s highlights.

## Cairo Citadel

The Cairo Citadel is one of the most important and impressive monuments in Cairo,
and a key point on the map of any trip through the city. Located on Mokattam Hill,
it towers over Cairo and offers breathtaking views of the entire city. The citadel
was built in the 12th century by Sultan Saladin, who wanted to fortify the city 
against the Crusaders. For centuries it was the residence of Egyptian rulers and
a strategic defense center.

The most prominent landmark of the Citadel is the Muhammad Ali Mosque, also known
as the Alabaster Mosque because of its magnificent alabaster walls. It is a monumental
building that impresses both with its exterior architecture and interior decorated
with rich details and ornaments. The mosque is distinguished by its large dome and
two slender minarets, and its courtyard and interior are ideal for moments of reflection
in the shadow of history.

The Cairo Citadel is not only a place of great historical significance, but also
a vantage point from which to view the Cairo skyline. The view of the pyramids on
the skyline brings to mind the might of centuries past, reminding us of the majesty
of ancient Egypt.

_👉 For more information, visit the official government website – [click here](https://egymonuments.gov.eg/archaeological-sites/cairo-citadel/)._

 [ ⌊Woman standing in front of the Cairo Citadel in Cairo, Egypt, with palm trees and a mosque behind her⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-003-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Cairo Citadel mosque with tall minarets and domes under a cloudy sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-002-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Interior of Cairo Citadel’s ornate mosque with gilded dome, chandeliers, and hanging lamps⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-001.jpg)

The entrance ticket to the Cairo Citadel cost us EGP 450 per person. According to
official information, the Citadel parking fee is mandatory. However, we managed 
to avoid this fee – we were a bit lucky! 😉

## National Military Museum in Egypt

**Egypt’s National Military Museum**, located within the **Cairo Citadel**, is one
of the most important museums of its kind in the country. Its exhibits show the 
history of Egypt’s armed forces from ancient times, through the Islamic and Ottoman
periods, to modern conflicts such as the Suez Crisis and the 1973 war. The museum
displays numerous artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, military decorations and
maps and battle models.

The museum’s exterior features large military equipment such as tanks, artillery
and aircraft. The interior, meanwhile, is decorated with historical paintings that
illustrate key moments in the history of Egypt’s armed forces.

The museum, which is part of the Citadel complex, is easily accessible to visitors.
You can easily combine a visit to it with other attractions. It’s an ideal place
to see both elements of Egypt’s military history and marvel at the Citadel’s impressive
architecture.

_👉 For more information, visit the official government website – [click here](https://egymonuments.gov.eg/en/museums/national-military-museum)._

 [ ⌊Cairo National Military Museum artillery display with large guns outdoors⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-004-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Bust of King Thutmose III at the Cairo National Military Museum⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-005.jpg)

 [ ⌊Sekhmet statue at Cairo National Military Museum, Egypt⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-006.jpg)

 [ ⌊Egyptian relief sculpture at Cairo National Military Museum showing ancient figures in a battle scene⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-007-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Egyptian wall painting at Cairo National Military Museum showing ancient deities and hieroglyphs⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-008.jpg)

## Bab Zuweila

**Bab Zuweila** is one of the three surviving gates of Cairo’s medieval walls. Built
in the 11th century during the Fatimid dynasty, Bab Zuweila served as both a fortress
and a symbol of the power of Islamic Cairo. The gate is adorned with imposing minarets,
which are a distinctive feature of the city’s landscape.

Bab Zuweila was also the site of executions during the Middle Ages, which adds to
its historical significance. The gate itself is an excellent example of Islamic 
defensive architecture, with thick walls and massive towers to protect the city 
from invaders.

_👉 For more information, visit the official government website – [click here](https://egymonuments.gov.eg/en/monuments/bab-zuwayla)._

 [ ⌊Bab Zuweila gate in Cairo, Egypt, with two tall minarets against a clear blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-010-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Bab Zuweila street in Cairo, with colorful hanging decorations over closed market stalls.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-009-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## Khan al-Khalili Bazaar

**Khan al-Khalili ** is a famous bazaar in Cairo that has existed since the 14th
century. It is located in the heart of the Islamic part of the city and is one of
the oldest and most vibrant markets in Egypt. The bazaar’s narrow streets are filled
with stalls selling a variety of goods, from traditional crafts, jewelry, textiles
and spices to souvenirs and brassware.

It’s also a great place to grab a bargain, which is an integral part of the shopping
experience at this bazaar. For lovers of history and culture, Khan al-Khalili is
a must-see on the Cairo map, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of Egyptians
throughout the centuries.

 [ ⌊Khan el-Khalili market street in Cairo, Egypt, with shops and pedestrians under hanging decorations⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-011-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Busy Khan el-Khalili market street in Cairo, Egypt, with shoppers and flags overhead⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-012-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 Watch out! At the bazaar, vendors sometimes set off firecrackers in the crowd to
show that they... work. The bang of firecrackers can be loud and potentially harmful
to your hearing. If you hear them from a distance, it's better to shield your ears
and use caution.

## **Qasr El Nil Bridge**

**The Qasr El Nile Bridge** is one of Cairo’s most recognizable Nile crossings. 
It connects Tahrir Square to Gezira Island, which includes the Zamalek district.
Built in 1933, it was the first bridge in Egypt made entirely of steel. Its distinctive
features include four huge bronze lion statues that stand at either end of the bridge,
symbolizing strength and majesty.

_👉 For more information, visit the official government website – [click here](https://www.cairo.gov.eg/en/Culture/Pages/Other-Landmarks-details.aspx?ID=3)._

 [ ⌊Cairo’s Qasr El Nil Bridge over the Nile with skyline and boats under a clear blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-013-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Lion statue at Qasr El Nil Bridge in Cairo, Egypt⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-014-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Qasr El Nil Bridge over the Nile in Cairo, Egypt, with city skyline under a clear blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-015-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Cairo Tower

**The Cairo Tower** is one of the most prominent landmarks in the Cairo skyline.
Located on Gezira Island, in the Zamalek district, the tower is 187 meters high 
and taller than the Great Pyramid of Giza. It was completed in 1961 and for a long
time was the tallest structure in Africa.

The tower offers panoramic views of the entire city, including the Nile, the Cairo
Citadel and the pyramids, making it a popular tourist destination. At the top is
a revolving restaurant where guests can enjoy views of Cairo while dining.

The tower was designed in a style inspired by lotuses, which were a symbol of ancient
Egypt. Its architecture, combined with modern elements, reflects both the country’s
past and present.

_👉 For more information, visit the official government website – [click here](https://www.sis.gov.eg/Story/168340/Cairo-Tower?lang=en-us)._

 [ ⌊Cairo Tower rising above its entrance building under a clear blue sky.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-016-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊View from Cairo Tower over the Nile, bridges, and Cairo skyline under a clear blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-017-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Cairo Tower overlooking the Nile River and Cairo skyline⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-018-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊View from Cairo Tower over the Nile and Cairo skyline⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-019-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Cairo’s Zamalek district

**Zamalek** is an elegant and affluent neighborhood of Cairo, located on Gezira 
Island, surrounded by the waters of the Nile. It is one of the greenest parts of
the city, full of parks, hotels, embassies and sports clubs.

The Zamalek district also offers numerous cultural attractions, including the Cairo
Opera House and many art galleries and museums. It also stands out for its more 
peaceful atmosphere compared to the crowded city center, making it an ideal place
for a relaxing stroll along the Nile.

 [ ⌊Gezira Garden gate in Cairo Zamalek, Egypt, framed by tall palm trees under a blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-020-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Shaded road lined with giant banyan trees in Cairo’s Zamalek district⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-023-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊School mural in Zamalek, Cairo, showing a child, books, and the words Toward a better future⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-022-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Colorful mural of people sharing food in Cairo’s Zamelek, Egypt⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-021-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Port Said Schools gate in Zamalek, Cairo, with colorful school-themed artwork.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-024-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Ramsis station

**Ramsis Station** is Cairo’s main train station, serving as the central transportation
hub for travelers throughout Egypt. It is located in the heart of the city and is
the most important transportation hub, from where trains depart to various corners
of the country, including Alexandria, Aswan, Luxor and other major cities.

The station was named after Pharaoh Ramses II, whose impressive statue stood for
many years in front of the building’s entrance. The statue has now been moved to
the Grand Egyptian Museum, but the station’s name remains.

The station is not only an important transportation hub, but also a bustling place
where thousands of people, both locals and tourists, pass through daily. Ramsis 
Station also offers a number of amenities, such as stores, restaurants and traveler
information desks.

The station underwent modernization in 2009, which improved its infrastructure and
aesthetics. Still, due to the crowds and heavy traffic, especially during rush hour,
it is advisable to exercise caution when using this transportation hub.

 [ ⌊Cairo Ramsis Station building with an Egyptian flag and a small kiosk outside⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-025-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Interior of Cairo Ramsis station with a large ornate ceiling and travelers in the concourse⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-026-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Cairo Ramsis Station entrance with ornate blue and white Islamic-style facade⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-027-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

## Pyramids of Giza

**The Pyramids of Giza** are one of the most important and recognizable monuments
in the world, and a symbol of ancient Egypt. The pyramid complex, located west of
Cairo, consists of three main pyramids that were built as tombs for the pharaohs:

 * **The Great Pyramid of Cheops (Chufu) **– the largest of the pyramids, originally
   measuring 146.6 meters high, built around 2560 BC. It is one of the seven wonders
   of the ancient world and the only one that has survived to this day. The construction
   of this gigantic structure, consisting of millions of limestone blocks, remains
   a mystery to archaeologists to this day.
 * **Pyramid of Chephren (Chafre) **– the second largest pyramid in Giza, belonging
   to Pharaoh Chephren, son of Cheops. It is slightly lower than the Great Pyramid,
   but appears taller due to its higher position on the plateau and the surviving
   part of the original enclosure on top.
 * **Pyramid of Mykerinos (Menkaure) **– the smallest of the three main pyramids,
   built for Pharaoh Mykerinos. It measures about 65 meters high, and its lower 
   part was originally clad in pink granite.

_👉 For more information, visit the official government website – [click here](https://egymonuments.gov.eg/archaeological-sites/giza-plateau/)._

 [ ⌊Two tourists posing in front of the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-031-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Giza Pyramids in Egypt under a clear blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-030-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Couple posing with camels at the Giza Pyramids in Egypt⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-028-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Giza Pyramids in Egypt under a clear blue sky.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-032-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Camel near the Giza Pyramids in Egypt under a clear blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-029-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

### Beware of scammers

When visiting the **Pyramids of Giza,** you should be especially careful, as scammers
and swindlers are a fairly common problem at this tourist site. Self-appointed guides
and “employees” often offer services such as taking photos, camel rides, or other
small forms of assistance – often without asking. After using their services, they
may suddenly demand exorbitant fees, despite earlier assurances that the service
is free or nominal.

Similar situations occur when selling tickets. Scammers try to trick tourists into
thinking they are official employees and offer tickets at inflated prices. Therefore,
always buy tickets only at authorized outlets and avoid those offering “exclusive”
entrances.

If you are planning a camel ride, agree on the price in advance. Sometimes tourists
have to pay more than agreed upon to get off the camel. It’s best to be firm and
clearly agree on prices and terms of service from the beginning. Being cautious 
will help you avoid unpleasant situations and fully enjoy your visit to this remarkable
place.

## Great Sphinx at Giza

**The Great Sphinx of Giza** is one of the most famous and mysterious monuments 
of ancient Egypt. It is located near the pyramids. The Sphinx combines the body 
of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, most likely Chephren (Khafre), who ruled in
the Fourth Dynasty, around 2500 BC. Carved from a single block of limestone, it 
is about 73 meters long and 20 meters high. This makes it the largest monolithic
sculpture in the world, carved directly from a single piece of rock.

The monument was probably meant to symbolize the pharaoh’s strength and power, as
well as guard the Giza necropolis. The Great Sphinx has aroused awe and curiosity
for centuries, and its enigmatic smile and damaged nose have been the subject of
much speculation and myth, adding to its mystery.

Over the centuries, the Sphinx has suffered numerous damages from both erosion and
human actions. One of the most striking features of the Sphinx is the missing nose,
which was probably destroyed by human action, although the exact cause remains a
topic of speculation.

_👉 For more information, visit the official government website – [click here](https://egymonuments.gov.eg/en/monuments/the-great-sphinx)._

 [ ⌊Great Sphinx of Giza in Egypt under a clear blue sky⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-035-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊Great Sphinx of Giza with tourists and souvenir stalls in Egypt⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-034-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

 [ ⌊The Great Sphinx of Giza in Egypt with ancient ruins in the foreground.⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-033-mfrh-original-scaled.jpg)

 [ ⌊Selfie at the Great Sphinx of Giza in Egypt with two tourists in the foreground⌉ ](https://warsawtravelers.pl/cdn-cgi/image/quality=80,format=auto,onerror=redirect,metadata=none/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/egypt-cairo-036-mfrh-original-scaled.jpeg)

## Summary

Our trip to Cairo and Giza provided us with unforgettable sights and experiences.
Although we didn’t get to visit the Grand Egyptian Museum, which is still on our
list of places to see, we spent some time exploring the area by car. This allowed
us to better feel the pulse of the city and see it from a different, more local 
perspective. Driving around Cairo provided us not only with sights, but also with
a better understanding of its unique atmosphere and daily life.

Cairo offers an unusual combination of ancient and modern, and driving in this metropolis
is an adventure in itself. Despite a few minor obstacles, our trip provided us with
many unforgettable experiences that will remain in our memories for a long time.

If you enjoyed our coverage of Cairo, [check out our article](https://warsawtravelers.pl/en/africa/egypt-what-did-we-see-in-alexandria/)
on Alexandria here 🏛️.