Cairo is a city that truly captures every sense. The noise, the colors, the chaos, the charm — everything about it feels alive and deeply rooted in history. After arriving in the capital, I checked into Paradise Hotel City Stars, a comfortable and convenient choice for travelers looking to stay close to modern comforts while exploring Egypt’s ancient heart. I booked my stay through Agoda — if you’re planning a trip, you can click here to experience the same hotel. The hotel is located within walking distance of the famous City Stars Mall, making it easy to grab food, shop, or simply enjoy a short evening stroll. The room was clean and spacious, with breakfast included and even a small pool to unwind after a long day out exploring.
🏛️ The Egyptian Museum – A Glimpse Into Ancient Civilizations
One of my first stops in Cairo was the Egyptian Museum, home to some of the oldest and most fascinating artifacts from the time of the pharaohs. The entrance fee for foreigners was around EGP [insert latest price], and it’s worth every pound. Walking through the museum felt like stepping back thousands of years into ancient Egypt’s golden era. From the intricate jewelry of the queens to the massive stone statues and preserved mummies, every corner tells a story. It’s one of those places where you can spend hours and still feel like you’ve only scratched the surface of Egyptian history.
🏜️ The Great Pyramids of Giza – A Wonder That Never Gets Old
No trip to Cairo is complete without seeing the Great Pyramids of Giza, and finally standing in front of them was an unforgettable experience. The entrance fee for foreigners was EGP [insert latest price], and once inside, you can take the official tourist shuttle bus that stops at various viewpoints around the complex. At each stop, you can hop off, take photos, and walk closer to the pyramids. The view of the three main pyramids — standing strong for thousands of years — is breathtaking. You’ll also get to see the Great Sphinx of Giza, one of the most iconic landmarks in the world.
There are optional experiences too, such as camel rides or horse carriage tours, available for an additional small fee. It’s best to bring cash in small denominations, as card payments are not always accepted. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water — the heat and dust can be intense even in the cooler months.
🍽️ Tasting Cairo – My First Experience with Local Egyptian Food
Exploring Cairo wouldn’t be complete without trying local dishes. Egyptian cuisine is rich, flavorful, and full of surprises. One of the most unique meals I tried was hamam mahshi — stuffed pigeon. It’s a traditional Egyptian delicacy where the pigeon is filled with seasoned rice or bulgur and roasted to perfection. The flavor was unlike anything I’d had before — crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and aromatic with local spices.
Other must-try Egyptian dishes include koshari, a mix of pasta, lentils, rice, and fried onions topped with spicy tomato sauce; falafel made from fava beans; and molokhia, a green soup often served with rice and meat. Food is an essential part of understanding Cairo’s culture, and locals are always happy to recommend their favorite spots.
🌇 Culture Shock and Hidden Gems
Cairo can be overwhelming at first — the traffic, the sounds, and the energy are unlike anywhere else. Yet, there’s beauty in the chaos. The city blends ancient heritage with modern life so effortlessly that you can visit a 5,000-year-old pyramid in the morning and enjoy a latte in a trendy café by the afternoon. One of the most surprising things was how warm and welcoming Egyptians are toward visitors. Even when language was a barrier, smiles and simple Arabic greetings like “shukran” (thank you) went a long way.
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