A city that's been around for 1,000 years has already seen its ups and downs through the Arab Spring uprisings, counter-revolutions, and the Covid pandemic. An archeology museum to be opened in Giza next month is one of the world's most anticipated new openings in 2022. These are the Cairo attractions you should not miss if you are planning a trip. Visit Egypt's bustling capital and find out where to eat, sleep, and visit.
Visit The Pyramids
There are few iconic objects in the world as recognizable as the pyramids. Egypt had more than 100 pyramids in ancient times, but the most famous are located at Giza, 30 minutes away from Cairo. This monument is the only remaining wonder from Egypt's Old Kingdom (2700 - 2200 BC), a testament to human ingenuity and one of the greatest wonders in the world. It is possible to visit Khufu's pyramid at Giza, Khafra's pyramid, and Menkaure's pyramid, as well as smaller pyramids built nearby for the queen consorts.
A highlight of Giza is the Great Sphinx, which has been hidden under desert sand for thousands of years. Possibly the oldest monumental sculpture in the world, this limestone statue represents the head of a human and a lion. The nose of the sculpture is believed to have been intentionally broken between the 3rd and 10th centuries AD (although no reasons have yet been found to explain why). It was reportedly created by the Pharaoh Khafre around 2500 BC.
Visiting Egypt soon will be even more rewarding with theupcoming opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum. Over 45,000 artifacts will be housed in the world's biggest archaeological museum, including relics from King Tutankhamun's tomb (which will move from the Egyptian Museum).
Taste Local Cuisine
There are a number of common flavors between Egyptiancuisine and its eastern and western neighbors, despite it not being as well-known as other Middle Eastern cuisines. Despite the prevalence of foods like hummus, baba ganoush, and baklava, Egypt has its own spin on traditional foods like falafel, locally known as "taameya," which is prepared with fava beans rather of chickpeas, and tagines eaten with béchamel for added taste and comfort.
Visit Zööba, a trendy restaurant with half a dozen ooutlets acrossCairo that serves the most well-liked street cuisine in Egypt (as well as franchises in New York and Saudi Arabia). We adore the quaint neighbourhood of Zamalek, which is located on an island in the Nile. The star of the show is the taameya sandwiches, which are loaded with fried bean patties, salad that has been marinated, and a creamy tahini dressing.
Koshari, a surprisingly excellent mixture with a variety of carbohydrates to keep you powered during your trips, is another Egyptian favorite. Pasta, rice, and lentils are combined with a flavorful tomato sauce, garlic vinegar, and fried onions in this straightforward yet filling mainstay.
I was dubious as an Italian food and travel writer, but the finished product is
more wonderful than it appears. At 30 EGP (less than $2), this specialty is
also unintentionally vegan and incredibly inexpensive. Try this meal at Abou
Tarek, a popular restaurant in Cairo that has been around for years and was
included in Anthony Bourdain's 2008 documentary No Reservations.
Admire Ancient Art
For millennia, Egypt has drawn tourists to its world-famous art and culture, and the Egyptian Museum is home to the finest collection of prehistoric artifacts. This 1902 neoclassical structure in Tahrir Square houses more than 120,000 artifacts that span the history of ancient Egypt, such as gilded funeral masks, elaborately painted coffins, stone sculptures, antique jewelry, and more. This museum shouldn't be confused with others in the capital, say, visitors.
20 royal mummies of kings and queens were among the highlights of the Egyptian Museum that were transported to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) in 2021. Additionally, the treasures discovered in Tutankhamun's tomb, including his renowned death mask and two coffins, will shortly be transferred to the new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM).
Wake Up To Nile Views
The Fairmont Nile City is an oasis away from the busy streets of the city, situated at the northern end of the Cairo Corniche with breathtaking views of the Nile and the opulent island of Zamalek. The hotel, a posh getaway with an art deco flair, features 542 rooms and suites and the only 360-degree pool in the city on the 25th level. Even the pyramids are visible from here if you peek behind the horizon's buildings.
Upgrade to a Fairmont Gold Room for benefits like private check-in and entry to the exclusive Fairmont Gold Lounge if you want to treat yourself. This stylish lounge offers a small number of patrons an extravagant breakfast each morning, complimentary afternoon tea, and a pre-dinner buffet that includes both local and foreign cuisine.
Although the cuisine may be wonderful, you should leave space for meals at the Fairmont Nile City's several restaurants. There are other options, including Italian food at L'Uliveto, Pan-Asian food at Saigon, and upmarket Oriental food served with live music and belly dancers from Bab El Nil. The hotel's newest restaurant, Gingko, a lush Mediterranean-Asian cafe with a terrace overlooking the Nile, is difficult to compete with, though.
Here, when the sun sets and the city is bathed in a golden glow, you may eat
sea scallops flavored with saffron and served with caramelized peaches and sip
a fiery martini.
Shop For Souvenirs
The Egyptians have developed their talents and the art of negotiating since they have been a major commercial nation for thousands of years. Visitors can practice their bargaining skills at the nation's numerous marketplaces and bazaars because it is part of the culture. Khan Al-Khalili, a well-known neighborhood in the center of Cairo's Islamic district, was founded in 1382. Explore the vibrant spice markets, woven tapestries, and marble miniature Egyptian pyramids along El-Moez Street as you stroll past mosques and minarets. Visit El Fishawy Café, which has been there for more than 200 years and serves tea and coffee, or have a seat at Umm Kalthoum Café, which is decorated with images of the adored "Voice of Egypt," a popular figure who was active during the 1920s and 1970s.
Visit Zamalek Market, a craft fair and farmer's market that is held on Zamalek Island every Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., for more up-to-date designer goods. This pop-up, which debuted in 2017, showcases local manufacturers selling seasonal food, freshly baked goods, fashion accessories, natural cosmetics, and home décor. For preparing stews and tagines at home, consider purchasing one of the Makra brand's natural clay pots, which are crafted in the manner of ancient Egyptians.
Soak In Art & Culture
The Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza is an elegant oasis situated in a prime location to explore the capital. It is situated in the charming Garden City on the banks of the river. It is only a short drive to the Egyptian Museum and the island of Zamalek, which is home to the renowned 187-year-old Cairo Tower and the 20th-century Cairo Opera House.m high and covered with 8 million mosaics.
The hotel features three pools, a top-notch spa, and 365rooms, including 100 expansive suites with private balconies. It is a chic hotel with a perfect modern design and opulent furniture that takes pride in its cultural and artistic offers. As soon as you walk into the majestic lobby, you can view the hotel's fascinating collection of original artwork, which
includes 200 pieces by abstract painter Farouk Hosny, who served as Egypt's Minister of Culture from 1987 to 2011. The local Tawasol Foundation is a non-profit organization with a performing arts and skills development program that promotes social integration and upholds Egyptian craftsmanship, and it receives assistance from the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza.
Numerous eating options are available in the resort's exquisitely designed settings. Egyptian Zitouni offers a lavish buffet of regional specialties, while 8 delivers Cantonese cuisine to the nation's capital. There are two Italian restaurants for guests to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine during their stay: Riviera, inspired by coastal cuisine, and Bullona, a sleek and sexy restaurant showcasing contemporary Italian artwork and illuminated by lamps with hundreds of candles each evening.
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