Payment Information:
Please note that payment for the tour will be collected by the tour guide. You can pay in cash or by card. If you choose to pay by card, please be aware that a 3% bank commission will be added to your total. Thank you!
Day Tour to the Citadel and Old Cairo
overview
Visiting Old Cairo and the Citadel is a journey through the layers of Egypt’s rich and complex history—an experience that blends ancient heritage with vibrant culture. This part of Cairo feels worlds away from the city's modern sprawl, offering a peaceful, almost timeless atmosphere amid the chaos of contemporary life.
Old Cairo, known as Masr al-Qadima, is home to some of the oldest churches, mosques, and synagogues in the region. Wandering its narrow alleyways, you’ll encounter places like the Hanging Church, the Ben Ezra Synagogue, and the Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque—each telling stories that span centuries of religious coexistence and transformation. Coptic Cairo especially is tranquil and reflective, with beautifully preserved icons, frescoes, and courtyards.
Just a short drive uphill, the Citadel of Saladin dominates the skyline, offering panoramic views of the city below. Built in the 12th century, the fortress houses the stunning Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, which gleams in the sunlight and is a highlight of Islamic architecture. Inside the Citadel complex, you'll also find museums and quieter courtyards that contrast beautifully with the grand domes and minarets.
Visiting these sites is not just sightseeing—it’s stepping into a living tapestry of civilizations that have shaped Egypt over millennia. The sounds of the call to prayer, the scent of street food, and the hum of daily life create an unforgettable sensory experience.
- Starting Point: Hotel in Cairo
- Destination: Cairo
- Distance: ~ drive to your destination
- Departure from hotel in cairo
- Time: Early morning departure (around 5:00–6:00 AM)
- Mode of Travel: Air-conditioned private vehicle or minibus
- Duration: 4 hours
The Citadel of Saladin:
Stroll Through Old Cairo (Coptic Cairo)
3-Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque
Lunch Break
Khan El Khalili Bazaar (Optional Stop
Inclusion
- fluent experienced tour guide
- air conditioned car
- entrance fees
- water on tour
- lunch
- tipping
- extra expenses