For centuries, Cairo has played a central role in religious and cultural developments in Egypt. Today, the city is home to the only Wonder of the Ancient World still intact—the Great Pyramids of Giza. And the city’s historic district, Old Cairo, boasts the world’s highest concentration of Islamic architecture. In addition to these monuments, Cairo has been making efforts as a member of the UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art to preserve its traditional craftwork heritage including glassblowing, coppersmithing, pottery, ceramics and jewelry.

Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.

Enjoy a fascinating overview of Egypt’s capital city and vast history. Drive to the Citadel of Salah el Din (Citadel of the Mountain), perched on a rocky hill. Its great dome and towering minarets dominate the Cairo skyline. Home to 60 mosques spanning the centuries, its most notable is the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, sometimes called the Alabaster Mosque for its gleaming interiors. Later, take a short drive with your guide to the remarkable Museum of Egyptian Antiquities. Built in 1897 and opened in 1902, the museum’s 107 exhibit halls hold over 120,000 items dating from the prehistoric to Greco-Roman periods. Its most celebrated collection, in the Tutankhamen Gallery, contains the famous gold mask and other artifacts. Please note: There is an additional fee for entry to the Mummy Room. Photography is not permitted in the Egyptian Museum. At the mosque, shoes must be removed, modest dress is required, and only non-flash photography is permitted.

Experience the energy and centuries-old tradition of shopping in Cairo, followed by a traditional dinner. Join your guide for a drive to Khan el-Khalili, the sprawling outdoor marketplace where Old Cairo comes to life. Its narrow warrens are teeming with all manner of goods. After an orientation, you will have time to browse its stalls selling brassware, lanterns and jewelry. The infinite wares tell only part of Khan el-Khalili’s story; this was a terminus on ancient trade routes and its rich atmosphere has changed little since Berbers, Turks and others converged here on camelback. After time to explore, and perhaps join in the long and good-natured tradition of haggling, you will continue to a local restaurant and enjoy a typical Egyptian dinner.