From Cairo: Half Day Walking Tour Through Fatimid Cairo
CAIRO
Overview
Journey back to the golden age of medieval Cairo on this immersive half-day walking tour through the heart of Fatimid Cairo. From grand gates and marble-domed mosques to bustling artisan quarters and centuries-old houses, this curated experience unveils the architectural brilliance and living traditions that have shaped one of the world’s most historic Islamic cities.
Highlights
- Enter Old Cairo through the imposing Bab El-Futouh, one of the great gates of the medieval city
- Stroll along Al-Moez Street, home to one of the world’s richest concentrations of Islamic architecture
- Discover splendid Fatimid, Ayyubid, and Mamluk monuments including mosques, mausoleums, and historic sabils
- Wander through the vibrant lanes of Khan El Khalili, Cairo’s most iconic bazaar
- Option to enjoy a refreshing drink at the legendary El Fishawy Café (optional)
- Learn from a knowledgeable Egyptologist guide on a relaxed, heritage-focused walk
Detailed Itinerary
Bab El-Futouh: Gateway to the Medieval City
Your journey begins as you arrive at Bab El-Futouh, an imposing 11th-century stone gate that once guarded the northern entrance to the Fatimid capital. Here, your guide introduces the origins of Islamic Cairo — a thriving metropolis of scholars, artisans, and merchants — setting the tone for your walk through centuries of living history.
Al-Moez Street: The Spine of Cairo’s Islamic Heritage
Step onto Al-Moez Street, often regarded as an open-air museum of Islamic architecture. As you wander its beautifully restored avenues, you encounter an extraordinary array of monuments — intricately carved facades, elegant minarets, medieval houses, sabile-kuttabs, and mausoleums from the Fatimid, Ayyubid, and Mamluk eras. Your guide illuminates the cultural stories, craftsmanship, and scientific advancements that once flourished in these very streets.
Khan El Khalili & El Fishawy Café (Optional)
Your walk leads seamlessly into the lively lanes of Khan El Khalili, Cairo’s historic bazaar. Watch artisans at work, browse stalls filled with copperware, textiles, and handcrafted treasures, or simply enjoy the atmosphere that has enchanted travelers for centuries. If you wish, pause for a refreshing drink at the iconic El Fishawy Café, a gathering place for locals, artists, and visitors for over 200 years.
Bab Zuweila & The Tentmakers' Market
Continue through bustling souqs until you reach Bab Zuweila, the southern gate of the Fatimid city. Nearby lies the traditional tentmakers’ market, where skilled craftsmen still create vibrantly patterned textiles using techniques passed down through generations. It’s a final reminder of Cairo’s enduring connection to its artisanal heritage.
Return to Your Hotel
After your enriching walk through some of Cairo’s most atmospheric districts, your private vehicle awaits to return you comfortably to your hotel.
What's Included
- Private round-trip transfers to and from your hotel
- Expert Egyptologist walking guide
- Entrance fees to monuments along the route
- Bottled water
- All taxes and service charges
What's Not Included
- Meals and drinks at cafés (optional)
- Personal purchases
- Gratuities (optional)
Know before you go
- •Tour Duration: Approximately 4 hours
- •Departure Time: 9:00 AM
- •Walking Level: Moderate; suitable for travelers who enjoy historic walking tours
- •Dress Code: Comfortable clothing recommended; modest attire preferred for religious sites
- •Guide Language: English (other languages available on request)
- •Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes highly recommended
- •Transport: Private vehicle drop-off and pick-up at start and end points
What to bring
- •Passport or ID
- •Comfortable walking shoes
- •Light clothing and sun protection
- •Camera or smartphone
- •Small cash for drinks or purchases
Cancellation Policy
We strive to provide the best service to our customers and understand that circumstances may arise requiring a cancellation. The following conditions apply upon cancellation:
- Cancellation 72 hours or more before the scheduled trip/service time: The client is entitled to a full refund of the amount paid.
- Cancellation less than 72 hours before the scheduled trip/service time: In this case, no part of the amount paid will be refunded.
Important Notes:
- The cancellation period is calculated based on the date and time the formal cancellation request is received.
- The refund process may take a few business days to reflect in the client's account, depending on the bank or payment method used.
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