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Full Day Islamic and Coptic Cairo Tour

Day Tours and Excursions

Full Day Islamic and Coptic Cairo Tour

Discover the churches, mosques and bazaars of old Cairo on a full-day Islamic and Coptic Cairo tour with a private guide and lunch.

Duration

8 Hours

Tour Category

Cairo Day Tour

Max travelers

10 people

Languages

English, German, French, Italian, Spanish

About this tour

Step into a living sanctuary where history, faith, and legend intertwine on our exclusive Coptic Cairo Tour. Have you ever wondered what it feels like to walk the exact paths where the Holy Family once sought refuge? Escape the modern bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the quiet, spiritual heart of Old Cairo, a place where centuries of Christian and Jewish heritage are preserved in stunning architectural harmony. Your journey begins at the magnificent Hanging Church, an architectural marvel beautifully suspended above the ancient bastions of a Babylon Roman fortress. From there, wander through the serene, cobblestone alleyways to the revered Church of Abu Serga, home to the legendary crypt that is believed to have sheltered Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus. You will also discover the Ben Ezra Synagogue, a testament to the diverse, multi-layered religious history that defines this remarkable district. With a private, expert Egyptologist as your guide, this tour goes beyond the surface, bringing the profound stories of these sacred sites to life. Enjoy seamless, air-conditioned transport as you uncover the spiritual roots, ancient art, and timeless tranquility of one of Egypt’s most historically significant and enchanting neighborhoods.

Highlights

  • - The Hanging Church and the Church of Abu Serga, refuge of the Holy Family
  • - The Ben Ezra Synagogue and the Roman Fortress of Babylon in Coptic Cairo
  • - The Saladin Citadel and the alabaster Mosque of Mohamed Ali
  • - The grand Mamluk Mosque of Sultan Hassan
  • - The Mosque of Amr Ibn El-As, the first mosque in Africa
  • - The Khan El Khalili bazaar, the oldest market in the Middle East

Included / Excluded

Included

  • - Transfers by a private air-conditioned vehicle.
  • - Entrance fees to all the mentioned sites.
  • - Private Egyptologist guide
  • - Bottled water during your trip.
  • - Lunch meal will be served in a local restaurant.
  • - All taxes and service charge
  • - Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cairo or Giza

Excluded

  • - Any extras not mentioned in the itinerary
  • - Tipping

Itinerary

  1. Full Day Islamic and Coptic Cairo

    Your day begins around 9:00 am with a private pickup from your Cairo or Giza hotel. You start in Coptic Cairo, the ancient Christian heart of the city, where you explore the Roman Fortress of Babylon, the beautiful Hanging Church suspended above its gate, the Church of Abu Serga built over the cave that sheltered the Holy Family, and the historic Ben Ezra Synagogue, one of the oldest in Egypt. After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Old Cairo, you continue to Islamic Cairo to visit the Mosque of Amr Ibn El-As, the first mosque built in Africa, and the towering Mamluk Mosque of Sultan Hassan. You then climb to the Saladin Citadel for the alabaster Mosque of Mohamed Ali and panoramic views over the city. Finally you wander the lantern-lit lanes of the Khan El Khalili bazaar, the oldest market in the Middle East, with time to shop for souvenirs before you are dropped off at your hotel.

Prices & Accommodation

Tour Prices

Base Accommodation (Standard)

Standard

$1

Per Person in Double Room

Imported base package. Calendar dates without overrides use this price.

Tour categories

Day Tours and ExcursionsEgyptCairo Day TourCairo

Frequently asked questions

What is the dress code for visiting Coptic and Islamic sites?

Since this tour visits active places of worship, modest dress is required. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees. Women are also advised to bring a light scarf to cover their hair when entering the Alabaster Mosque and Sultan Hassan Mosque.

Is the Coptic Cairo Tour suitable for children?

Absolutely. This tour is a fantastic educational experience for children to learn about the diverse religious history of Egypt. Our private guides are experts at making the history of the Hanging Church and the Citadel engaging for all ages.

How much walking is involved in this tour?

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking. Some areas, like the historic Fort of Babylon and the Citadel, have uneven stone paths and some stairs, so we recommend comfortable walking shoes. As this is a private tour, we can adjust the pace to suit your comfort level.

Can I visit the Holy Family's crypt at Abu Serga Church?

Yes, visiting the Church of Abu Serga (St. Sergius and Bacchus) is a highlight of the tour. You will be able to see the area where the Holy Family is believed to have stayed during their flight to Egypt.

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