InterContinental Cairo Citystars

With buildings dating from 639 AD, this area of Cairo is relatively modern – if you’re comparing it to the pyramids. But this historic district marks Cairo out as one of the world’s oldest Islamic cities. You could spend days wandering the narrow streets, discovering ancient architectural gems around every corner. There’s the al-Azhar Mosque, which has towered over the neighbourhood for a thousand years, and the Citadel of Cairo, where the Egyptian government ruled through the middle ages. Be sure not to miss the bustling Khan Al-Khalili market, where traders have been coming to sell their wares for centuries. In a taxi, it takes about 20 minutes to get there from the hotel.

Just a 10-minute drive from the hotel, Baron Empain Palace is a fascinating Hindu-style temple, which was renovated and opened to the public in 2020. As well as an interesting façade embellished with elephants and serpents, the temple offers sweeping views of Cairo from its rooftop. Be sure to have your camera ready. 

With buildings dating from 639 AD, this area of Cairo is relatively modern – if you’re comparing it to the pyramids. But this historic district marks Cairo out as one of the world’s oldest Islamic cities. You could spend days wandering the narrow streets, discovering ancient architectural gems around every corner. There’s the al-Azhar Mosque, which has towered over the neighbourhood for a thousand years, and the Citadel of Cairo, where the Egyptian government ruled through the middle ages. Be sure not to miss the bustling Khan Al-Khalili market, where traders have been coming to sell their wares for centuries. In a taxi, it takes about 20 minutes to get there from the hotel.

Just a 10-minute drive from the hotel, Baron Empain Palace is a fascinating Hindu-style temple, which was renovated and opened to the public in 2020. As well as an interesting façade embellished with elephants and serpents, the temple offers sweeping views of Cairo from its rooftop. Be sure to have your camera ready.