7 Worthwhile Things to See in Cairo that Aren’t the Pyramids, Cairo, Egypt

What is the first thing you think of when someone says the word ‘Egypt’ or ‘Cairo’? If it’s the pyramids, you certainly wouldn’t be alone (yes, the pyramids are technically in Giza, but that’s still greater Cairo). After all, they are the only remaining ancient wonder of the world, built 4500 years ago to a degree of nearly 100% precision; iconic triangular structures that are instantly recognisable and have inspired countless architects.

If you do one thing in Cairo, it obviously has to be the pyramids, and I will be writing a separate blog post on my personal experience there in due course. BUT, if you have more time after ticking the pyramids off your bucket list, here are a few other things I saw, and recommend, in the gritty, chaotic yet endearing megapolis that is Al-Qahirah.

I know we always talk about saving the best until last but, in case you read no further than this paragraph (though I hope you will), I will just say that if you only do one non-pyramid thing while in Cairo, definitely make it the Egyptian Museum - even if you’re not a ‘museum person’.

The iconic rose-coloured building has stood at Tahrir Square since 1902. Stepping through the giant doors really does feel like being transported back in time. It has that old-school museum feel: a huge, echoey atrium-like hall with imposing columns and arches, and pharaonic statues and mummies at every turn. Indeed, its more than 170,000 artefacts make it the largest archaeological museum in the Middle East and the largest museum in Africa. It is not one of those ‘musty’ museums though; I noticed many windows were open that allowed for a nice breeze to come in and provided good aeration. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).