The historic area of Old Cairo, which citizens call "Masr al-Qadima," gives visitors a unique look into Egypt's past. It is one of the most important places in the country, with a mix of ancient civilizations, religious harmony, and architectural wonders. Old Cairo is located  on the eastern shore of the Nile River. Egypt has always been a place where different cultures meet. This famous quarter shows how Pharaonic, Greco-Roman, Christian, and Islamic elements all blend together.

Since ancient times, the neighborhoods of old Cairo have played a pivotal role in enhancing its strategic and historical position in the hearts of everyone. They also represent the backbone of life, including vital places, activities, and perhaps some tourist attractions that have always been and still are a major attraction in the Capital of Cairo.

Old Cairo features a plethora of unique tourist attractions that are challenging to find in other countries. The following are some of the most famous tourist attractions in Old Cairo: 

Al-Muizz Street, formally referred to as Al-Muizz li-Din Allah Street, stands as one of the oldest and most important thoroughfares in Cairo. Situated in the center of Islamic Cairo, this site serves as an open-air museum showcasing Islamic architecture and culture, providing visitors with an insight into Egypt’s medieval history.

The roadway was the primary route through the city during the Fatimid dynasty and was named for the Fatimid Caliph Al-Muizz li-Din Allah, who established Cairo in 969 CE. Throughout the centuries, Al-Muizz Street has evolved into a center for trade, religion, and governance, characterized by its palaces, mosques, madrasas, sabils (water fountains), and markets.

The significance of the street endured across multiple dynasties, such as the Ayyubids, Mamluks, and Ottomans, with each contributing their unique architectural influence. In 1979, the street and its surrounding area received recognition as part of Cairo's designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi Citadel is one of the most  distinctive places located in islamic cairo, also known as the Mountain Citadel,The castle is located in the Citadel neighborhood, as it was built on one of the separate hills of Mount Mokattam on the outskirts of Cairo.

A remarkable fortress dating back to the 12th century, the citadel provides breathtaking panoramic views of Cairo. This location is home to a variety of notable landmarks, such as:

The Mosque of Muhammad Ali, often referred to as the "Alabaster Mosque," showcases stunning Ottoman architecture and boasts a magnificent int

Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi Citadel is considered one of the most luxurious military castles built in the Middle Ages, and it also enjoys a first-class strategic location.

The castle is located in a high place, which led to complete supervision over Cairo, to the point that its garrison was able to carry out two military operations at the same time.

Saladin also built a wall around Cairo in order to defend it against any external aggression. This wall is considered one of the important military installations that completed the role of the citadel in the Middle Ages.

That wall was discovered years ago, since after Saladin took over the rule of Egypt, he took care of many urban matters related to the area located outside Fatimid Cairo between Bab Zuwayla and the Ahmed Ibn Tulun Mosque.

Salah al-Din divided that region into several lines, including the Darb al-Ahmar line, which is still known by this name to this day. 

Khan Al Khalili stands as one of Cairo’s most renowned and historic marketplaces, placed in the core of the city’s Islamic district. This lively souq, originating in the 14th century, was founded during the Mamluk era and has grown into a dynamic center for trade, craftsmanship, and cultural interaction. The narrow alleyways, full of vibrant shops and stalls, lets tourists explore Cairo’s rich heritage and handcrafted traditions.

Khan Al-Khalili is located in the Al-Hussein neighborhood, specifically in the street opposite Al-Muizz Lidin Allah Al-Fatimi Street, near the Imam Al-Hussein Mosque.

This market was also built over the tombs of the Fatimid caliphs. Then all the tombs were moved by order of Prince Jarkas Al-Khalili, and then they began building a large market in this place. Working hours in the market start at 8 am and continue until 12 pm.

The Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque is truly special, being the very first mosque constructed in Africa, and it carries a rich history and deep spiritual importance. In the charming district of Old Cairo, this iconic structure was built in 641 AD by Amr Ibn Al-As, the commander who led the Muslim conquest of Egypt. In the past, the mosque has represented the expansion of Islam in the area and was the focal point of Fustat, Egypt's first Islamic city.

The mosque holds a rich historical significance that goes beyond just its architecture. It has seen major events in Egypt's Islamic history and has been a center for education, embracing religious scholars and students from all over the Muslim world. The mosque has undergone numerous renovations, such as the installation of a minaret and a mihrab (prayer niche), yet it still has an air of timeless elegance that takes modern visitors back to the first era of Islamic Cairo.

The Fortress of Babylon, situated in Old Cairo, stands as a significant Roman landmark in Egypt and represents the nation’s rich historical heritage. The castle was built in the second century AD by the Roman Emperor Trajan to protect the entry to Egypt and navigation on the Nile River.

The castle was initially erected at a narrow spot on the Nile, enabling it to control both land and water routes. Over the years, it became a focal place for different cultures and civilizations. Today, its huge stone walls made of red and white limestone, as well as its famous circular towers, serve as enduring icons of Roman technical excellence.

The Fortress of Babylon location is also linked to Egypt's Christian history. As Christianity started to flourish in Egypt, the fortress transformed into a refuge for the nascent Christian community. It now serves as the setting for numerous renowned Coptic landmarks in Old Cairo, such as the Hanging Church, the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus (Abu Serga), and the Ben Ezra Synagogue.

Located in the heart of Old Cairo among famous landmarks such as the Hanging Church and the Fortress of Babylon. The Coptic Museum showcases Christian art and the history of Egypt's Coptic heritage. Marcus Simaika Pasha founded the coptic museum in 1908, and it now includes one of the world's biggest collections of Coptic artifacts, offering light on an important period in Egypt's cultural and religious development.

 Its building architecture is a work of art showing  beautiful woodwork, mashrabiya windows, and geometric designs that reflect the blending of Christian and Islamic artistic traditions.

The Coptic Museum includes a stunning array of artworks that depict the art, culture, and religious traditions of Egypt's Coptic Christian community from the 3rd century to the 18th century.  

Some of these depictions  are:

• Depictions of Christ, the Virgin Mary, saints, and biblical scenes, highlighting the Copts' rich tradition of religious art.
• Carved screens featuring crosses, geometric patterns, and biblical motifs, many inlaid with ivory.
• A large collection of ancient Coptic textiles, showcasing the artistry of early weavers.
• Illuminated manuscripts of biblical texts, psalms, and prayers, written in Coptic and Greek
• Many carvings display a fusion of Greco-Roman motifs with Christian symbols like the cross, fish, and vine.
• Doors, beams, and other wooden pieces adorned with religious imagery and decorative patterns.

Old Cairo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a must-see. Old Cairo Tours will be an excellent destination for those who are interested in history, architecture, or pursuing a spiritual journey.