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Last updated: 19 August, 2023

The mile-long road between the city’s two medieval gates cuts through medieval Cairo along a street still referred to as ‘Between the Palaces’.

The palaces have gone, but a walk along this thousand-year-old street takes in grand mansions, royal tombs, lively souks, spice traders, perfume distillers, a hospital that dates to the time of the Crusades, and some of the world’s finest Islamic monuments. It’s real Cairo – away from the tourist masses.

Don’t miss

Of all the monuments along the walk, none are as magnificent as the three massive tomb-mosques belonging to the 13th-century rulers Qalawun, Al-Nasir and Barquq.

The mosque beside the Bab al Futuh was built by the 11th-century ruler Al Hakim. Hakim was an Imam of the Ismaili sect, who still revere him today.

While you’re there

Opposite these tomb complexes is, the Egyptian Textile Museum, tracing the development of textiles from antiquity to the Ottoman era. Look out for pharaonic linen nappies.

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around
Duration: 1-3 hours

Getting there & doing it

Islamic Cairo is easily accessible and is best visited independently. Taxis and buses head from downtown to Al Azhar, at the centre of the walk, while the metro can get you close, at Ataba.

The complete gate-to-gate walk is demanding, but there is the option of just walking part of the route. If you start in the middle, the walk to Bab Zuweila takes in less spectacular monuments, but more of the Egyptian souk.

The road towards Bab al Futuh passes the tourist souk, some magnificent mosques and a restored Ottoman mansion.

When to do it

Souks and shops usually start to open mid-morning and will still be doing business mid-evening. Souks and shops are closed on Mondays.

Avoid Friday midday and early afternoon, when the mosques are busy. It’s also roasting hot in July and August – too hot for walking.

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Half Day Tour to Khan Elkhalili & Islamic Cairo

Cairo

Half Day Tour to Khan Elkhalili & Islamic Cairo
Pick up from Cairo/Giza hotel. Transfer with private guide to old Al Qahira to start the Islamic medieval city tour. Tour Khan El khalili tourist bazaar. Transfer back to hotel and drop off. More details: After breakfast, lunch, or dinner, pick up by private tour guide from the lobby of the hotel and start the tour to Islamic Cairo. Tour Islamic Cairo starting from the ancient gate of the city and Al Hakim mosque, walk in El Moez street and watch the old medieval mosques and houses. Tour Khan El khalili tourist bazaar and enjoy Egyptian tea on El Fishawy cafe.

Price: $17

Min age: 0

Rating 4.71 / 5 [52 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Private Islamic and Christian Cairo Day Tour

Cairo

Private Islamic and Christian Cairo Day Tour
Explore Islamic and Coptic Cairo with certified tour guide.where you visit the oldest churches in Old Cairo and historical mosques The tour includes 5 options, you can choose between them as you like 1_ All inclusive+Lunch On The Nile 2_ Car+ Guide+ Entry fees+ Lunch at Local restaurant 3_ Car+ Guide+ Entry fees 4_ Car + Tour Guide Only 5_ Only Car With Driver Note: Visits start at 9 am

Price: $20

Min age: 0

Rating 4.64 / 5 [168 ratings]

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Private Guided Tour around Islamic Cairo Mosques Gates & Bazaar

Cairo

Private Guided Tour around Islamic Cairo Mosques Gates & Bazaar
Start your tour from your hotel by your private tour guide (licensed with a degree in Egyptology) in a private, modern a/c van with free WiFi, and explore the history of Islamic Cairo since its foundation. Start by visiting the Citadel of Saladin with its massive walls and towers. The complex includes mosque of Mohamed Ali (Alabaster Mosque), representing the Ottoman style of architecture, and the mosque of Ibn Qalaoun, representing the Mameluk style of architecture. Then move to the mosque of Sultan Hassan with its beautiful minarets and decorations along with the Mausoleum of the Sultan.Then visit the oldest mosque still intact in Egypt, the mosque of Ibn Tulun with its unique minaret Next, you can enjoy your lunch of local Egyptian food (koshary). Afterwards, move on to see the original walls and gates of Cairo dating back to the 10th century, namely Bab el Fotouh and Bab el Nasr (Gate of Victory), and visit the beautiful Fatimid mosque of Al Hakim.

Price: $20

Min age: 1

Rating 4.66 / 5 [6 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Day Tour To Islamic And Christian Cairo

Cairo

Day Tour To Islamic And Christian Cairo
Day Tour to Islamic and Christian Cairo - Embrace the Blend of Cultures Relish a day of historical exploration and cultural enrichment on our day tour to Islamic and Christian Cairo. This mesmerising excursion allows you to observe the beauty of Cairo's Islamic roots as well as its Christian influences. Wander around ancient mosques and charming churches, absorbing the reverence and tranquillity that pervade these spiritual hubs. Our expert guides will take you through a captivating journey, explaining the intriguing history and artistry behind these religious landmarks. This tour goes beyond sightseeing and invites you to truly experience the harmonic blend of Islamic and Christian cultures that define Cairo.

Price: $20

Min age: 0

Rating 4.73 / 5 [46 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Cairo Day Trip Coptic Orthodox Church Islamic Cairo old mosques

Cairo

Cairo Day Trip Coptic Orthodox Church Islamic Cairo old mosques
Ancient Egypt tours representative will pick you from your hotel, enjoy Excursion in Cairo, Start your Islamic and Coptic day tour to visit Citadel of Salah El Din, visit Mohamed Ali marvelous Mosque (The Alabaster Mosque), then proceed to Islamic Cairo, Visit Amr Ibn El-Ass Mosque, Ibn Tulun Mosque, Next tour to Coptic Cairo, visit the hanging Church, (El Moaalaqa church), Abu Sirga Church and Ben Ezra Synagogue, at the end of your Cairo Day Trip, transfer back to your hotel in Cairo.

Price: $22

Min age: 1

Rating 4.63 / 5 [19 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Islamic and Coptic Cairo Day Tour

Cairo

Islamic and Coptic Cairo Day Tour
Embark on a remarkable journey through the rich history and culture of Egypt with our Islamic and Coptic Cairo Day Tour. This comprehensive day tour offers you an opportunity to discover the harmonious blend of ancient Islamic and Coptic traditions in Cairo. In the company of a professional guide, you will explore the awe-inspiring architecture of mosques and churches, delve into the local lifestyle, and uncover the captivating history that shapes the city's uniquely diverse identity. Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding of Cairo's multifaceted culture and history on this immersive full-day tour.

Price: $25

Min age: 0

Rating 4.76 / 5 [68 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Full Day Tour Visiting Coptic and Islamic Cairo

Cairo

Full Day Tour Visiting Coptic and Islamic Cairo
Dive into the historically-rich neighborhoods of Coptic and Islamic Cairo with our Full Day Tour. This tour starts with an organized hotel pickup that whisks you away in the comfort of private transportation. Witness the significant landmarks of Coptic Cairo, including churches and monuments that radiate ancient charm. Then, move on to Islamic Cairo, where stunning mosques and architectural wonders will leave you awe-struck. After a day filled with exploration, relax as you're safely dropped back at your hotel. Enjoy convenient access to bottled water during your tour, facilitating a worry-free sightseeing expedition.

Price: $35

Min age: 0

Rating 4.56 / 5 [127 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Half Day Trip To Islamic Cairo

Cairo

Half Day Trip To Islamic Cairo
Embark on an exciting, cultural journey into the heart of Egypt with this Half Day Trip to Islamic Cairo. A bustling hub of enchanting mosques, fascinating museums, and captivating historic sites, Islamic Cairo is truly a treasure trove for history enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. From stunning architectural marvels to the intricate artwork adorning its walls, Islamic Cairo offers a profound insight into Egypt's rich Islamic heritage. Join us in this half-day trip to explore its enigmatic beauty, learn about its remarkable history, and create unforgettable memories.

Price: $45

Min age: 0

Rating 4.71 / 5 [32 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Cairo

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