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5 (2 Reviews)
Old Cairo and The Citadel of Saladin
Old Cairo and The Citadel of Saladin: Day Tour Old Cairo and The Citadel of Saladin: Day Tour Old Cairo and The Citadel of Saladin: Day Tour Old Cairo and The Citadel of Saladin: Day Tour Old Cairo and The Citadel of Saladin: Day Tour Old Cairo and The Citadel of Saladin: Day Tour Old Cairo and The Citadel of Saladin: Day Tour
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From: $90
5
(2 reviews)
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Duration

8 Hours

Cancellation

No Cancel

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

English, Espanol, Francais, Italian, Português

About this activity

Embark on a journey through Egypt’s rich history with Solo Travel Egypt as you explore the fascinating streets of Old Cairo and the majestic Citadel of Saladin. This tour offers a unique blend of Islamic, Coptic, and medieval architecture, taking you deep into the heart of Cairo’s cultural heritage.

Highlights

  • Old Cairo (Coptic Cairo): The Hanging Church: Visit this ancient Coptic church, Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus: Discover the significance of this historic church, believed to be built over the cave where the Holy Family stayed during their flight into Egypt, Ben Ezra Synagogue: Explore the oldest synagogue in Egypt.
  • The Citadel of Saladin: Mosque of Muhammad Ali: Marvel at the iconic Alabaster Mosque, Historical Insight: Learn about the Citadel’s role as a stronghold and the seat of power for Egyptian rulers for centuries.
  • The Mosque of Ibn Tulun: Architectural Marvel: Admire the 9th-century Mosque of Ibn Tulun, with its vast courtyard, elegant arches, and unique spiral minaret, one of the oldest and best-preserved mosques in Cairo.
  • Optional Visit to Khan El Khalili Bazaar: Vibrant Market Experience: If time permits, wander through the bustling Khan El Khalili Bazaar, where you can shop for traditional Egyptian goods, souvenirs, and more.
  • Traditional Egyptian Lunch: Authentic Dining: Enjoy a delicious traditional Egyptian meal at a local restaurant, savoring flavors like koshari, grilled meats, and other local specialties, offering a taste of Egypt’s rich culinary heritage.
  • Convenient Hotel Pickup and Drop-off: Hassle-Free Experience: Start and end your day with ease, thanks to our door-to-door service from your hotel in Cairo or Giza, making your exploration of Cairo’s historical sites as seamless as possible.

Included/Excluded

  • Private, air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers with Solo Travel Egypt.
  • Private Tour guide.
  • Entrance fees to the Citadel of Saladin, Old Cairo churches, and the Mosque of Ibn Tulun.
  • Traditional Egyptian lunch at a local restaurant.
  • Bottled water during the tour.
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off.
  • Personal expenses and gratuities.
  • Beverages during lunch.
  • Any optional activities or site entries not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Any item not specifically mentioned as included.

Itinerary

8:00 AM: Hotel Pickup

  • Begin your day with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Cairo or Giza in a private air-conditioned vehicle provided by Solo Travel Egypt.
  • Meet your professional Egyptologist guide who will accompany you throughout the tour, providing historical insights and personalized commentary.

9:00 AM: The Citadel of Saladin

  • Arrive at the Citadel of Saladin, a medieval Islamic fortification perched on a hill overlooking Cairo.
  • Explore the stunning Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also known as the Alabaster Mosque, with its towering minarets and intricate interior design.
  • Learn about the history of the Citadel, which served as the seat of Egyptian rulers for over 700 years.
  • Visit the National Military Museum or the Police Museum, both located within the Citadel complex, to gain further insights into Egypt’s military history.

11:00 AM: Old Cairo (Coptic Cairo)

  • Travel to Old Cairo, known for its rich Coptic Christian heritage and historic churches.
  • Visit the Hanging Church (Saint Virgin Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church), one of the oldest churches in Egypt, famous for its stunning architecture and suspended nave.
  • Explore the Church of St. Sergius and Bacchus, believed to be built over a cave where the Holy Family sought refuge during their flight to Egypt.
  • Discover the Ben Ezra Synagogue, the oldest Jewish synagogue in Egypt, and learn about its significance in Jewish history.

1:00 PM: Lunch

  • Enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch at a local restaurant, carefully selected by Solo Travel Egypt to provide an authentic dining experience.
  • Savor dishes like koshari, grilled meats, and Egyptian bread, while soaking in the atmosphere of the historic surroundings.

2:30 PM: The Mosque of Ibn Tulun

  • Continue your exploration with a visit to the Mosque of Ibn Tulun, one of Cairo’s oldest and largest mosques, known for its unique spiral minaret and vast courtyard.
  • Learn about the history and architectural significance of this 9th-century mosque, which remains one of the best-preserved examples of Islamic architecture in Cairo.

4:00 PM: Khan El Khalili Bazaar (Optional)

  • If time permits, enjoy a visit to the bustling Khan El Khalili Bazaar, Cairo’s famous market district, where you can shop for souvenirs, jewelry, spices, and more.
  • Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the market, with its narrow alleys, lively vendors, and traditional Egyptian goods.

5:00 PM: Return to Hotel

  • After a day of exploration and cultural immersion, relax as Solo Travel Egypt transfers you back to your hotel.
  • Reflect on the day’s discoveries and enjoy the rest of your evening in Cairo.

Language

English
Espanol
Francais
Italian
Português

Frequently asked questions

Yes, this tour is family-friendly and suitable for children. The sites are fascinating for all ages, and our guides are experienced in tailoring the experience to engage younger travelers.

The tour involves a fair amount of walking, especially at the Old Cairo and the Citadel. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes.

 

Yes, Solo Travel Egypt offers customization options to suit your interests and schedule. You can add or omit certain sites, or even extend the tour to include additional attractions.

  • Comfortable clothing and shoes for walking.
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
  • A reusable water bottle.
  • A camera or smartphone for photos.
  • Cash for optional activities and souvenirs.

There are no mandatory additional fees, but optional activities or site entries not included in the standard itinerary may incur extra costs.

Please inform us at the time of booking if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies. Solo Travel Egypt will do its best to accommodate your needs during meals.

Solo Travel Egypt prioritizes the safety of all travelers. Our vehicles are regularly sanitized, and our guides follow health and safety protocols. We also encourage travelers to follow local health guidelines and remain vigilant during their travels.

Activity's Location

Old Cairo and The Citadel of Saladin

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2 reviews on this Activity - Showing 1 to 2
Old Cairo and The Citadel of Saladin: Day Tour
Sherri Drake
11/01/2024

A Incredibles Journey Through Cairo’s Historical Heart

This tour was the perfect way to dive into Cairo’s rich cultural history. The Citadel of Saladin was an absolute highlight – the views over Cairo were stunning, and the architecture of the Mosque of Muhammad Ali was breathtaking. Our guide explained the significance of the citadel in Egyptian history, and we even learned about the unique details behind its construction and design. Exploring Old Cairo was like stepping back in time. Visiting Coptic Cairo, including the Hanging Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue, was a powerful experience that gave us insight into Cairo’s multi-faith heritage. Our guide was fantastic, sharing stories about the area’s history and its role in Cairo’s culture. This tour was truly memorable and gave us a wonderful glimpse into Cairo’s past!
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Old Cairo and The Citadel of Saladin: Day Tour
Donald D. Adams
10/08/2024

A Cultural Gem in Cairo!

Old Cairo was a magical experience. From the moment we entered the Hanging Church, I was captivated by the charm of the area. Our guide gave us incredible insight into the Coptic Christian history of Egypt, and we explored beautiful sites like the Ben Ezra Synagogue and Saint Sergius Church, where we learned about its connection to the Holy Family’s journey through Egypt. The Citadel of Saladin was equally impressive, especially the iconic Mohamed Ali Mosque. The mosque was one of the most beautiful buildings I’ve seen, with its towering domes and elegant design. The Citadel itself offers stunning views over Cairo, and our guide’s stories about the history of the place made it even more special. I highly recommend this tour for anyone wanting to explore Cairo’s rich religious and architectural history.
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From: $90
5 (2 Reviews)

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Solo Travel Egypt

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