Question
I'll be going to Cairo with my family (wife, kids 11 and 13). What are the must see places there? Can you also find 2 places which the kids will enjoy?
Answer
Hi,
So you must be all pepped up for a trip to Cairo – who wouldn't if it’s anywhere in Egypt, the seat to great Pyramids, Sphinx, ancient architectures/fortifications, and indeed the ever-mystical mummies. Well, your enthusiasm is obvious, but before abruptly planning out your itinerary let me tell you the basic facts you should know about Cairo.
Cairo, seemingly a historical city, unfolds unconventional charms that have made it an ultimate holiday destination for tourists. The word Cairo – an Arabic term – means “The Vanquisher” or “The Conqueror”. Also known as ‘The City of Thousand Minarets’ for the presence of multiple Islamic architectures, it is the largest city among all Muslim, Arabian and African cities. You can’t deny the fact that Cairo is one of the oldest cities in history founded by the Fatima Dynasty during the 10th century. The rich heritage, culture and the historic semblance of the city are pretty obvious as you walk towards Old Cairo where you can still find remnants of ancient mosques, cobbled pathways, and typical Egyptian artifices. Being once a centre of culture, politics and religion for years, Cairo is synonymous to Ancient Egypt, because of the city’s proximity to Giza, Fustat and Memphis (ancient cities).
To answer your questions, here’s a list below that will give you a fair idea about family and kids destinations in Cairo.
Family Destinations:
A family trip to Cairo is like a dream come true. You might have already planned your trip or may have made a list of places you wish to visit. Well, before giving the final nod to your plan, don’t miss out the following.
Tahrir Square (Recommended) is one of the best places to grasp the true aura of Cairo. The city is not all about history and culture only, but has a vibrant modern city life as well. This mix-match between urbanization and heritage makes Tahrir Square a must visit. Being the Centre of the city, the square is surrounded by the Mogamma government Building, The American University in Cairo's down-town campus, the headquarters of the National Democratic Party, the Arab League, and many more. A stroll along the square to grasp the buoyant city life is a brilliant idea. Further, a visit to “The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities” would be awesome if you are keen to know more about Egypt as a whole.
Old Cairo (Recommended): As said earlier, Old Cairo is a place you shouldn't miss, if you are thinking otherwise. The part here displays the true ethnicity, the art and heritage of Egypt. Famous architectures here - some you must have often come across in history books – like Coptic Museum, Babylon Fortress, Hanging Church, Ben Ezra Synagogue, etc take you into the core of Egyptian Civilization. Miss none of these.
Cairo Tower: Millions flock to this site every year only to gaze at the unique construction. A 187 meters high free-standing TV tower made of concrete, Cairo Tower is 43 meters higher than the Pyramid of Giza. Located at the Gezira Island, the surrounding is picturesque as you can even see the Pyramid of Giza just 15 Kms southwest. Stunning view!
IKhan-el Khalili: To come to Cairo and not try out one of the most ancient markets would be foolish. The Khan el-Khalili started by Emir Djaharks el-Khalili in the year 1382 is a store house of almost all types of Egyptian artifacts, traditional clothing etc. Also take a tour of the caravanserai – an ethnically styled resting place for travelers.
Pyramid of Giza (Recommended): Though not in Cairo, this Egyptian wonder at Giza is a must-watch even for Cairo travelers. At 146 ft, The Pyramid of Giza is the most marvelous sightseeing for any traveler; not only for its unfathomable size, but also for the history it unfolds. The oldest among the ‘Seven Wonders of the World’, the Pyramid of Giza stands stalwart amidst acreages of barren desert land.
Nile Cruise (Recommended): I would also suggest you to fly to Luxor or Aswan to join the Nile Cruise, a fun trip for all ages. The cruise takes you to Danderah where you can see the temple of God Hathor. Indeed, the other sightseeings on the way are obvious add-ons. An awesome getaway you can’t miss – not if you are so close to it.
Kids Destinations
A trip to Cairo is incomplete unless you have taken your kids to some of the fun places in the city. Trust me: Your kids will have a blast!
Fagnoon Art School (Recommended): While Art schools and fun activities in Cairo are galore, Fagnoon is the place you can’t miss a chance. Nestled amidst the barren fields of Giza and Saqqara, Fagnoon is a dream place for all kids to slosh around colorful paints, play with clay models or create bouquets of art out of wrought iron, wood etc. Situated under the shadow of the Saqqara Step pyramid, Fagnoon is your hearts destination. Either get your own food or nibble onto pizzas and pancakes on sale. Best way to reach here is to get a micro bus from Pyramids Rd going towards Saqqara, and get down at Sabil Um Hashim.
Pharonic Village: Well, it’s not that Pharonic Village will be fun for kids only, but the place indeed has myriad artifacts and historical sites that your child will enjoy throughout the day. Interestingly, Pharonic Island Village is a replica of Ancient Egypt with real men and women dressed in traditional Egyptian costumes, ancient houses/architectures – excellent for your kids to get face-to-face with the tradition and culture of the Egyptian Civilization. The entire village is surrounded by trees like weeping willows, sycamores, and date palms (trees commonly depicted in ancient Egyptian paintings) to block the view of the modern city from the island. While ‘The Tomb of Tutatkhamon’ – a replica of the great King Tutatkhamon – is a must see, there are as many as 27 other sites that awaits your visit as well. Further, a restaurant, a playground, a children’s amusement park, Cleopatra Photo studio are awesome places you shouldn't miss. Awesome Getaway!
The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities: If you are really planning to chill out in Cairo as your kids are getting weary of art lessons, The Egyptian Museum (or The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities) is one place you must check out. With 107 halls, huge statues, and ethnically set interiors, the Museum is primarily known for its hall of Royal mummies. Starting from The Tutankhamon treasures, the Old and Middle Kingdom Monuments, to the coins and papyrus, everything will be like a fantasy journey for kids. The seventh section that houses sarcophagi and scrubs are awesome to see, and the fifth section tours you through the majestic Greek and Roman era.
Though this answer seems quite short compared to what Cairo has in offer for you, but frankly, even a book is not enough if you are really interested to know the true essence of the city – and it’s a fact!
So, while in Cairo – just soak in art, history and heritage.
Enjoy. Chao!!!!
I'll be going to Cairo with my family (wife, kids 11 and 13). What are the must see places there? Can you also find 2 places which the kids will enjoy?
Answer
Hi,
So you must be all pepped up for a trip to Cairo – who wouldn't if it’s anywhere in Egypt, the seat to great Pyramids, Sphinx, ancient architectures/fortifications, and indeed the ever-mystical mummies. Well, your enthusiasm is obvious, but before abruptly planning out your itinerary let me tell you the basic facts you should know about Cairo.
Cairo, seemingly a historical city, unfolds unconventional charms that have made it an ultimate holiday destination for tourists. The word Cairo – an Arabic term – means “The Vanquisher” or “The Conqueror”. Also known as ‘The City of Thousand Minarets’ for the presence of multiple Islamic architectures, it is the largest city among all Muslim, Arabian and African cities. You can’t deny the fact that Cairo is one of the oldest cities in history founded by the Fatima Dynasty during the 10th century. The rich heritage, culture and the historic semblance of the city are pretty obvious as you walk towards Old Cairo where you can still find remnants of ancient mosques, cobbled pathways, and typical Egyptian artifices. Being once a centre of culture, politics and religion for years, Cairo is synonymous to Ancient Egypt, because of the city’s proximity to Giza, Fustat and Memphis (ancient cities).
To answer your questions, here’s a list below that will give you a fair idea about family and kids destinations in Cairo.
Family Destinations:
A family trip to Cairo is like a dream come true. You might have already planned your trip or may have made a list of places you wish to visit. Well, before giving the final nod to your plan, don’t miss out the following.
Tahrir Square (Recommended) is one of the best places to grasp the true aura of Cairo. The city is not all about history and culture only, but has a vibrant modern city life as well. This mix-match between urbanization and heritage makes Tahrir Square a must visit. Being the Centre of the city, the square is surrounded by the Mogamma government Building, The American University in Cairo's down-town campus, the headquarters of the National Democratic Party, the Arab League, and many more. A stroll along the square to grasp the buoyant city life is a brilliant idea. Further, a visit to “The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities” would be awesome if you are keen to know more about Egypt as a whole.
Old Cairo (Recommended): As said earlier, Old Cairo is a place you shouldn't miss, if you are thinking otherwise. The part here displays the true ethnicity, the art and heritage of Egypt. Famous architectures here - some you must have often come across in history books – like Coptic Museum, Babylon Fortress, Hanging Church, Ben Ezra Synagogue, etc take you into the core of Egyptian Civilization. Miss none of these.
Cairo Tower: Millions flock to this site every year only to gaze at the unique construction. A 187 meters high free-standing TV tower made of concrete, Cairo Tower is 43 meters higher than the Pyramid of Giza. Located at the Gezira Island, the surrounding is picturesque as you can even see the Pyramid of Giza just 15 Kms southwest. Stunning view!
IKhan-el Khalili: To come to Cairo and not try out one of the most ancient markets would be foolish. The Khan el-Khalili started by Emir Djaharks el-Khalili in the year 1382 is a store house of almost all types of Egyptian artifacts, traditional clothing etc. Also take a tour of the caravanserai – an ethnically styled resting place for travelers.
Pyramid of Giza (Recommended): Though not in Cairo, this Egyptian wonder at Giza is a must-watch even for Cairo travelers. At 146 ft, The Pyramid of Giza is the most marvelous sightseeing for any traveler; not only for its unfathomable size, but also for the history it unfolds. The oldest among the ‘Seven Wonders of the World’, the Pyramid of Giza stands stalwart amidst acreages of barren desert land.
Nile Cruise (Recommended): I would also suggest you to fly to Luxor or Aswan to join the Nile Cruise, a fun trip for all ages. The cruise takes you to Danderah where you can see the temple of God Hathor. Indeed, the other sightseeings on the way are obvious add-ons. An awesome getaway you can’t miss – not if you are so close to it.
Kids Destinations
A trip to Cairo is incomplete unless you have taken your kids to some of the fun places in the city. Trust me: Your kids will have a blast!
Fagnoon Art School (Recommended): While Art schools and fun activities in Cairo are galore, Fagnoon is the place you can’t miss a chance. Nestled amidst the barren fields of Giza and Saqqara, Fagnoon is a dream place for all kids to slosh around colorful paints, play with clay models or create bouquets of art out of wrought iron, wood etc. Situated under the shadow of the Saqqara Step pyramid, Fagnoon is your hearts destination. Either get your own food or nibble onto pizzas and pancakes on sale. Best way to reach here is to get a micro bus from Pyramids Rd going towards Saqqara, and get down at Sabil Um Hashim.
Pharonic Village: Well, it’s not that Pharonic Village will be fun for kids only, but the place indeed has myriad artifacts and historical sites that your child will enjoy throughout the day. Interestingly, Pharonic Island Village is a replica of Ancient Egypt with real men and women dressed in traditional Egyptian costumes, ancient houses/architectures – excellent for your kids to get face-to-face with the tradition and culture of the Egyptian Civilization. The entire village is surrounded by trees like weeping willows, sycamores, and date palms (trees commonly depicted in ancient Egyptian paintings) to block the view of the modern city from the island. While ‘The Tomb of Tutatkhamon’ – a replica of the great King Tutatkhamon – is a must see, there are as many as 27 other sites that awaits your visit as well. Further, a restaurant, a playground, a children’s amusement park, Cleopatra Photo studio are awesome places you shouldn't miss. Awesome Getaway!
The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities: If you are really planning to chill out in Cairo as your kids are getting weary of art lessons, The Egyptian Museum (or The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities) is one place you must check out. With 107 halls, huge statues, and ethnically set interiors, the Museum is primarily known for its hall of Royal mummies. Starting from The Tutankhamon treasures, the Old and Middle Kingdom Monuments, to the coins and papyrus, everything will be like a fantasy journey for kids. The seventh section that houses sarcophagi and scrubs are awesome to see, and the fifth section tours you through the majestic Greek and Roman era.
Though this answer seems quite short compared to what Cairo has in offer for you, but frankly, even a book is not enough if you are really interested to know the true essence of the city – and it’s a fact!
So, while in Cairo – just soak in art, history and heritage.
Enjoy. Chao!!!!
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