This 6-day Cairo art tour is a journey into the city’s medieval and cultural heritage. American travelers will visit the Coptic Quarter, Al Muizz Street, Islamic art treasures, and royal palaces. Highlights include the Hanging Church, Coptic Museum, Ibn Tulun, Sultan Hassan, Rifaie Mosque, Gayer Anderson Museum, Khan El Khalili, and the Museum of Islamic Art. With expert guides, comfortable stays, and smooth transport, this tour is both educational and enchanting. Book today and uncover Cairo’s artistic legacy.
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Experience Cairo’s treasures with top accommodations, transport, and dining.
Visit sites like the Hanging Church, Coptic Museum, St. Sergius, Virgin Mary Church, Gayer Anderson Museum, Ibn Tulun, Sultan Hassan, Muizz Street, Khan El-Khalili, and more.
Discover Cairo’s artistic, cultural, and historical heritage.
Explore Islamic and Coptic marvels that shaped Egypt’s capital.
Travel through time on this magical adventure.
Upon your arrival at Cairo Airport, our representative will greet you and escort you in a private air-conditioned vehicle, allowing you to experience the vibrant energy of this dynamic city.
Once you have settled into your 5-star hotel, get ready for a captivating evening on a dinner cruise along the magnificent Nile River. Savor a lavish feast as you glide over the sparkling waters of the sacred Nile, enjoying views of the beautifully lit landmarks along the riverbanks while hearing fascinating stories. Let the enchantment of Cairo embrace you from the start and experience your dream come to life.
You will return to your hotel to unwind and get ready for your upcoming adventure.
Meals: Dinner
Overnight: Cairo Hotel
After breakfast, you will join your tour guide to explore the hidden treasures of the Coptic Quarter, where you will discover:
The Hanging Church is a revered sanctuary known for its peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. It is named for its position above the gatehouse of the Babylon Fortress, the Roman stronghold that once defended the city. As one of Egypt’s oldest churches, it dates back to the 3rd century and was constructed around 690 AD. Over the centuries, it has undergone numerous restorations and renovations. The church boasts impressive architecture and interior design, including a wooden roof shaped like Noah's Ark, thirteen exquisite marble columns symbolizing Christ and his apostles, an ornately decorated altar screen adorned with icons and paintings, and a crypt believed to have provided refuge to the Holy Family during their journey through Egypt.
The Coptic Museum offers a captivating exploration of the history, culture, and artistic heritage of the Coptic community, showcasing a valuable collection of ancient artifacts and religious treasures. Established in 1910, it houses an impressive array of Coptic art, featuring detailed textiles, exquisitely carved wooden items, Coptic antiquities, diverse architectural elements, and striking icons.
St. Sergius Church, also known as Saints Sergius and Bacchus Church, is among the oldest churches in Cairo. Rich in history and spiritual importance, this historic sanctuary is believed to have provided refuge to the Holy Family during their flight into Egypt. The church honors two Roman soldiers, Sergius and Bacchus, who were martyred in the 4th century. Its tranquil environment and architectural elegance offer a peaceful setting for contemplation and worship.
The Virgin Mary Church in Maadi functions as a spiritual center for the local Coptic Orthodox community and possesses significant historical and religious value within the Coptic Christian tradition. It is believed that the church was founded in the 4th century AD in this historic capital. Its extensive history and ties to the early Christian period render it a place of considerable importance. The architecture of the Virgin Mary Church in Maadi is striking, showcasing traditional Coptic design elements, notably its distinctive cross-shaped layout and elegant domes.
Enjoy a delightful lunch at a prestigious restaurant in Cairo, experiencing the rich tastes of Egyptian cuisine. Savor a variety of flavorful dishes made with traditional spices and fresh ingredients. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as you delight in the culinary experience.
After a day full of activities, you will be escorted to your hotel in Cairo, providing a comfortable and convenient transfer so you can relax and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Cairo Hotel
After breakfast, you will continue your tour with your guide leading the way to:
The Ibn Tulun Mosque is a magnificent architectural masterpiece that significantly influenced global architecture. It is one of the oldest and largest mosques in Cairo and Africa, completed around 879 AD by Ahmad ibn Tulun, the Tulunid dynasty ruler during the Abbasid period. The mosque showcases the splendor of Islamic architecture with its towering minaret, expansive courtyard, and intricately decorated arches. Many believe it is the site where Noah's Ark came to rest. Its historical importance and architectural elegance make it a must-visit landmark, featuring an open courtyard filled with natural sunlight and adorned with elaborate stucco and wooden decorations.
The Gayer-Anderson Museum is a remarkable attraction situated in Cairo's historic Islamic district, displaying the personal collection of Major Gayer-Anderson, a British army officer and art enthusiast. Established in the mid-1940s, the museum is adjacent to the Ahmad ibn Tulun Mosque and features an extensive range of artifacts, including antique furniture, carpets, textiles, Islamic art, and various items from across the Middle East. Visiting the museum's rooms and courtyards offers an immersive insight into traditional Egyptian architecture and the diverse interests of the collector.
The Mosque-Madrasa of Sultan Hassan is a magnificent edifice crafted from exquisite materials, renowned for its impressive scale and architectural brilliance. Constructed in 1363 AD, this remarkable monument showcases detailed stone carvings, soaring arches, and a spacious central courtyard adorned with striking minarets both inside and out. The mosque exemplifies the grandeur of Islamic architecture during the Mamluk era and stands as one of the most well-preserved architectural masterpieces. Its expansive halls and intricate designs vividly reflect the rich history and skilled craftsmanship of that historic period.
The Mosque of Sultan Rifai is an impressive example of modern Mamluk-style architecture in Cairo, constructed in the early 20th century to serve as the burial site for members of the Egyptian royal family from the Muhammad Ali Dynasty. Its majestic domes, intricate ornamentation, and tranquil ambiance evoke a sense of reverence and balance, intentionally reflecting the grandeur of the Mosque-Madrasa of Sultan Hasan.
Enjoy a culinary experience at a delightful restaurant in Cairo, where enticing aromas and exceptional flavors await you. Indulge in rich Egyptian cuisine, tasting authentic dishes that highlight the region's culinary traditions.
After a day of exploration and discovery, you will be transported to your hotel in Cairo, guaranteeing a safe and comfortable trip. Take time to rest, recharge, and reflect on the memorable experiences of the day, preparing yourself for the exciting adventures ahead tomorrow.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Cairo Hotel
You will enjoy breakfast before joining your tour guide to explore the historic landmarks of Old Cairo, including:
The magnificent Al-Muizz li-Din Allah Street serves as a remarkable open-air museum of Islamic architecture, renowned for its collection of well-preserved buildings from various periods. Established in 969 AD during the Fatimid era as a principal thoroughfare of the capital, it is lined with impressive mosques, madrasas, cafes, art exhibits, mausoleums, and palaces. This street exemplifies the architectural splendor and rich historical heritage of this revered city.
Khan El-Khalili is a lively and bustling market located in the heart of the magnificent city of Cairo, established between 1382 and 1389. It has served as a hub of trade and commerce for centuries, providing a rich sensory experience filled with diverse sights, sounds, and aromas. The bazaar features a complex network of narrow alleys bordered by shops offering a wide range of products, including jewelry, textiles, spices, and traditional handicrafts.
Bab El-Futuh, known as the "Gate of Conquests," is an ancient military gate and one of the historic entrances to Cairo's old city. It stands as a remarkable architectural monument offering insight into the city's historical fortifications. Constructed in 1092 AD to connect to Bab Zuwayla, it was built by the Vizier Badr al-Jamali during the Fatimid dynasty. The gate showcases impressive architectural features, including defensive elements like battlements and watchtowers.
The Sultan Qalawun Complex is an exceptional architectural masterpiece constructed by Sultan al-Mansur Qalawun between 1284 and 1285 AD. It includes a hospital, a mosque, a madrasa, and a mausoleum. The complex features detailed ornamentation, graceful domes, and exquisite examples of Islamic art. It provides an opportunity to admire the grandeur and sophistication of Mamluk architecture while immersing oneself in the spiritual ambiance of historic Cairo.
The Sultan Barquq Mosque is a prime example of Mamluk architecture, constructed between 1384 and 1386 AD by Sultan al-Zahir Barquq as a center for religious education encompassing the four main Islamic schools of thought. It boasts striking minarets, elegant arches, an impressive mausoleum, and lovely courtyards. Both the interior and exterior display detailed patterns, ornamental designs, and a tranquil prayer hall.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local Cairo restaurant, featuring a blend of flavors and warm Egyptian hospitality. Delight in appetizing dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients that highlight the true spirit of Egyptian cuisine.
After a day of sightseeing, relax and enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel in Cairo, where you can unwind and contemplate the memorable experiences of the day.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Cairo Hotel
After enjoying your breakfast, embark on a cultural journey visiting the following sites:
The magnificent Museum of Islamic Art, founded in 1903, serves as a precious time capsule showcasing an exceptional collection of artifacts that highlight the rich artistic heritage of the Islamic world. The museum features 4,500 items displayed across 25 galleries, along with over 100,000 pieces of Islamic art in its storage, including ceramics, textiles, metalwork, woodwork, and rare illuminated manuscripts of the Qur'an.
The Manial Palace is a luxurious royal residence situated on an island in the Nile River. Built between 1900 and 1929 AD, it was the palace of Prince Muhammad Ali Tawfik. The palace exhibits a blend of architectural styles, incorporating Ottoman, Persian, and European elements. Its remarkable interiors display detailed woodwork, vibrant tiles, and elegant furnishings. The palace contains numerous magnificent rooms adorned with extraordinary decorations and designs.
The Medieval Manuscripts Museum, also referred to as the Museum of Islamic Calligraphy, is located within the Manial Palace and focuses on preserving and displaying valuable medieval manuscripts. The museum's collection includes exquisitely illuminated Qur’ans, scientific works, poetry, and historical documents adorned with detailed calligraphy.
Enjoy a delightful culinary experience at a charming restaurant in Cairo during lunch. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere while savoring a carefully crafted selection of Egyptian dishes designed to excite your palate.
At the end of the day, experience a smooth transfer to your hotel in Cairo, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s experiences, creating unforgettable memories of your visit to this fascinating city.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Overnight: Cairo Hotel
You will leave Cairo with unforgettable memories to cherish forever. After checking out of your accommodation, you will safely travel back to your destination.
Meals: Breakfast
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