After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a fantastic experience visiting Cairo’s main attractions. Start your luxury Egypt tours with a visit to one of the largest museums in the world. Your Egyptologist guide will explain the masterpieces of the Egyptian Museum. You will be captivated by the most famous and largest art collection globally. Some artifacts date back over five millennia and are on display. The treasures from King Tutankhamen’s tomb are among the top attractions. Your private guide will also give you some free time to explore more of the museum, including a visit to the Royal Mummy Room upon request for an extra cost.
Next, upon arrival at the Citadel of Saladin, marvel at the alabaster Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Listen to your guide explain the basic facts of Islam and the function of each part of the mosque. Learn how the entire area served as a fortress since the Middle Ages and the story of Arabs and Crusaders. The mosque was built by a Turkish architect, influenced by Istanbul’s Blue Mosque, commissioned by the founder of the royal family. It sits on a mountain cliff, with both inner and outer walls covered in alabaster. The construction took 18 years (1830-1848). Before leaving, enjoy a panoramic view of the city and, on clear days, see the Giza pyramids.
Christianity in Egypt is as old as Christianity itself. Your private guide will explain this phrase when visiting Coptic churches. Start with the Hanging Church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, one of Cairo’s most beautiful and important churches. Next, visit the Cavern Church, named because a cave beneath it housed baby Jesus and the Virgin Mary for three months escaping King Herod. Descend to see the place where baby Jesus slept. This is one of 15 locations visited by the Holy Family during their 3.5-year journey in Egypt. Then, visit the oldest synagogue in Egypt, the Ben Ezra Temple, dating back to the 9th century and open to tourists. Your Egyptologist will fully explain the history of all the sites.
Finally, visit Cairo’s largest and oldest market. Follow your guide through narrow alleys and lanes. Experience the warmth and hospitality of locals while sitting with your guide enjoying a drink at Cairo’s oldest coffeehouse (1710). Although the market was historically the best place for authentic Egyptian souvenirs, nowadays they are rare, but your guide will advise you on what to do. Ask your guide about bargaining techniques in the market to get the best prices.