Cairo, Egypt
Long considered to be the jewel of the orient, Cairo is an international city overflowing with an interesting mixture of different cultures. It is a city steeped in the early civilizations of the ancient pharaohs, blended with the history of Christian and Islamic cultures. It is all brought together by the modern sights and luxuries of a sophisticated and cosmopolitan city.
Population:
City: 10,230,350
Metropolitan area: 20,439,541
Currency:
Egyptian Pound - EGP
1 EGP = 100 Piaster
Emergency Numbers:
Police: 122
Fire Service: 125
Ambulance: 123
Tourist Police: 126, +20 2 391 9144
Opening Hours:
Opening hours are generally 9am-6pm, but will vary slightly for each business or museum.
Newspapers:
Egyptian Gazette
Cairo Times
Middle East Times
Progrès Egyptien
The City
The great pyramids of Giza are the most famous attractions in Cairo. But there are many delightful places to experience and explore, from the mosques of Islamic Cairo to the churches of Cairo's Coptic population, or to the temples of the city's Jewish community. Be prepared for an expansive history lesson and cultural education of the religious and cultural blending that has taken place in this fascinating city.
Cairo also swells with markets and bazaars to explore. Drink in the flavour of everyday life of the denizens of this metropolis. And for the chic visitor, there are luxury hotels and boutiques to explore for unforgettable jewellery, clothes and antiques. The extensive array of international cuisine that marks this city provides a taste for whatever any traveller may desire, and of course the option to experience the delicious and unforgettable cuisine of Egypt.
Do & See
The Pyramids at Giza have been the longtime favourite tourist attraction of greater Cairo, but with the rich textured religious history of this city, there are many sights and areas of town worth exploring. Visit the opera house, take a ride on a camel, interact with local merchants, or even get a guided tour through the city! It's all possible, the only limits are the ones you create for yourself, whatever your choice, the city will welcome you with open arms!
Dining
There is a limitless array of international cuisine to choose from in every price range in Cairo. This is definitely not a place where you need to worry about going hungry! There are several different neighbourhoods in Cairo, hence the neighbourhood location for each restaurant is listed after the address. This will be important to know when taking a taxi.
Cafés
There are both Western style and Egyptian cafés in Cairo. Tourists might feel most comfortable at the Western style cafés, as the Egyptian cafés are very traditional and only patronized by men.
