Cairo
Cairo is a bustling metropolis, a cosmopolitan city, and home to 18 million people: the largest city in Africa. For many, Cairo is epitomised by the pyramids of Giza, but there are many attractions of great interest for the visitor. A stay of two to three days is enough to cover the main highlights.
The Great Pyramids of Giza are a highlight of any trip to Egypt. The only present-day survivors of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, they are among the world's greatest tourist attractions and never lose their ability to inspire and overwhelm visitors. Nearby is the mysterious Sphinx, an ancient figure shrouded in legend and mystery.
In the heart of Cairo, there are many highlights including the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities. Designed by a French architect in neo-classical style, and surrounded by gardens, it houses the world's greatest collection of Egyptian antiquities from 2700 BC to the 6th century AD. In the Islamic region of Cairo there is the beautiful Mohamed Ali Mosque and the ancient Citadel, a spectacular medieval fortress perched on a hill above the city. Also of interest is the fascinating Khan El-Khalili Bazaar which is reputed to be the largest bazaar in the Middle East. Whilst wandering through the labyrinth of narrow streets you will find workshops and stalls selling all manner of things from woodwork, glassware and leather goods to perfumes, fabrics and Pharaonic curiosities. Of Coptic Cairo there are the remains of the old Fortress of Babylon, built at the time of the Romans in Egypt to protect the country from invading enemies. The walls of the fortress enclose the Church of St. Sergius, which is built on a crypt considered to be one of the resting places of the Holy Family during their flight to Egypt.
Watch Street Food in Cairo, a YouTube video by Al Jazeera English