Immerse yourself in a fascinating 7-hour journey through Coptic and Islamic Cairo, starting with the iconic Saladin Citadel. Discover its impressive landmarks, such as the Muhammad Ali Mosque and Al-Gawhara Palace, home to a magnificent chandelier gifted by France’s Louis-Philippe I. Continue your exploration in Old Cairo, where you’ll visit the Hanging Church, known for its beautiful icons and historical significance as the seat of the Coptic Orthodox Pope. You’ll also explore the Ben Ezra Synagogue, a pivotal location in Egypt’s Jewish history, and the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As, Africa’s first mosque. The tour wraps up at Khan El Khalili, where you can experience the lively market and enjoy traditional local beverages. This tour offers a deep dive into Cairo’s rich and varied cultural history.

Your day begins with a comfortable departure from your Cairo hotel in a spacious, air-conditioned vehicle, where you’ll meet your knowledgeable guide. Over the course of this scenic 7-hour journey, you’ll explore the rich history of medieval Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish Cairo.

The tour’s first stop is the Saladin Citadel, an Islamic stronghold perched on El Mokattam hill near central Cairo. Built to defend the city against Crusader attacks, the citadel is home to several key landmarks, including the famous Muhammad Ali Mosque, inspired by Istanbul’s Sultan Ahmed Mosque.

You will also visit Al-Gawhara Palace, once the official audience hall of Muhammad Ali, where he received guests. The palace is known for its grand 1000-kg chandelier, a gift from France’s Louis-Philippe I, as well as Muhammad Ali’s throne, which was a gift from the King of Italy.

Next, you'll journey to Old Cairo, where you can stroll through the historic area and explore Coptic and Jewish monuments. Begin with the Roman Fortress and visit the renowned Hanging Church, one of the most exquisite churches in Christendom. Built atop the Babylon Fortress, the church served as the seat of the Coptic Orthodox Pope until 1047 and is home to over 100 holy icons dating from the 8th to the 18th century.

You will then visit the Ben Ezra Synagogue, located on the site where Moses is believed to have prayed during Egypt's plagues. The synagogue is also where the genizah, a trove revealing Egypt’s Jewish history, was discovered. Next, explore the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As, Africa’s first mosque and the center of Egypt's early Islamic capital, Fustat.

Before returning to your hotel, the tour concludes with a visit to Khan El Khalili, a bustling local market. Here, you can explore the old streets of the Al Hussein area and take the opportunity to enjoy some local beverages on your own.

All transportation by air-conditioned van.
Expert English speaking tour guide.
Entrance fees to all the mentioned sites.
All Service charges & taxes.

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