Downtown Cairo & Tahrir Square

Downtown Cairo (Wust el-Balad) is the heart of modern Cairo — a district with wide boulevards, Belle Époque architecture, and the legendary Tahrir Square, which became a symbol of the Arab Spring during the 2011 revolution.

Tahrir Square (Midan at-Tahrir)

The "Square of Liberation" is Cairo's central traffic hub and historical focal point. Today, it is a roundabout with the restored Obelisk of Ramses II. (relocated here from Tanis), surrounded by the pink building of the Egyptian Museum (the old museum, now partially moved to the GEM), the Mogamma administrative building, and the Nile Ritz-Carlton.

Egyptian Museum (old museum)

The Museum at Tahrir Square (opened in 1902, built by Marcel Dourgnon) is still worth visiting even after the opening of the GEM. Many artifacts remain here, and the building itself — with its dusty showcases and the charm of another era — offers something the modern GEM cannot: atmosphere. Entrance 200 LE.

Corniche & Nile

The Corniche el-Nil — the promenade along the Nile — is especially atmospheric at sunset. Feluccas offer short sailing tours (from 100–200 LE for 30 min., negotiate the price!). The island of Gezira with the Cairo Tower (187 m, observation deck 100 LE) offers one of the best views over the city.

Zamalek

The upscale district on the Nile island of Gezira is Cairo's most cosmopolitan corner: galleries, boutiques, rooftop bars, international restaurants. The 26 July Street is the main artery with cafés and bookstores. Zamalek feels like another city — quieter, greener, more Western. Many of the better hotels and restaurants are also located here.