Old Cairo and Citadel of Saladin Tour in Egypt
Active
6h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the heart of historic Cairo on a full-day private tour combining the wonders of Islamic and Coptic heritage.
Begin at the Citadel of Saladin, one of Cairo’s most impressive landmarks, where you’ll visit the stunning Mosque of Muhammad Ali with its grand Ottoman architecture and panoramic city views.
Continue to Old Cairo, where history and spirituality blend together. Visit the Hanging Church, one of Egypt’s oldest and most beautiful Christian churches, and explore other significant Coptic sites that hold centuries of religious and cultural significance.
Travel in comfort in a private air-conditioned vehicle, with entry tickets included, plus bottled water and light snacks to keep you refreshed.
Available options
Old Cairo and Citadel of Saladin Tour in Egypt
Pickup included
What's included
Light snacks
Bottled water
Private air-conditioned vehicle
Entry tickets to all listed attractions
Detailed itinerary
1
Begin your tour with a visit to one of Cairo’s most iconic landmarks – the **Citadel of Saladin**, built in the 12th century as a defensive stronghold.
* Walk through the massive stone gates and walls of this ancient fortress.
* Learn how Saladin built the citadel to protect Cairo from Crusader attacks.
* Enjoy **panoramic views over the city**, with photo-perfect spots of the Cairo skyline.
2
Stop 2
Inside the citadel lies the dazzling **Mosque of Muhammad Ali**, with its Ottoman-style domes and grand interior.
* Admire its gleaming alabaster walls and soaring ceilings.
* Learn about Muhammad Ali Pasha and his influence on modern Egypt.
* Capture stunning photos of the mosque’s unique silhouette, visible from across Cairo.
3
Stop 3
Next, head to **Coptic Cairo**, home to some of Egypt’s oldest Christian sites.
* Visit the famous **Hanging Church**, suspended above an ancient Roman gate.
* Step inside the peaceful **Church of St. Sergius**, said to have sheltered the Holy Family.
* Stroll through narrow alleys lined with centuries-old churches, monasteries, and synagogues.
* Optionally visit **Ben Ezra Synagogue**, a symbol of Egypt’s Jewish heritage.
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Giza
Giza, home to the iconic Great Pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx, is a city steeped in ancient history and modern intrigue. Just a short distance from Cairo, Giza offers a blend of ancient wonders and bustling urban life, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.
Top Attractions
Great Pyramids of Giza
The iconic Great Pyramids, including the Pyramid of Khufu, Pyramid of Khafre, and Pyramid of Menkaure, are the last standing wonders of the ancient world.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Great Sphinx of Giza
The enigmatic Sphinx, with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, is a symbol of ancient Egypt and a must-see attraction.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Solar Boat Museum
This museum houses the reconstructed solar boat of Pharaoh Khufu, discovered near the Great Pyramid.
Historical
1 hour
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Saqqara
Saqqara is an ancient burial ground and home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Dahshur
Dahshur is an ancient royal necropolis featuring the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, both built by Pharaoh Sneferu.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Camel Market
The Camel Market is a unique and bustling market where you can see and buy camels, as well as experience traditional Egyptian commerce.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free (Purchases extra)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Koshari
A hearty dish made with lentils, rice, pasta, chickpeas, and fried onions, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and garlic vinegar.
Dinner
Vegetarian
Ful Medames
A traditional breakfast dish made from slow-cooked fava beans, often served with tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil.
Breakfast
Vegan
Grilled Kofta
Spiced minced meat (usually lamb or beef) shaped into sausages and grilled to perfection.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat
Molokhia
A green leafy vegetable soup, often served with chicken or rabbit and eaten with bread.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian (if made without meat)
Popular Activities
Hot air balloon rides over the pyramids
Quad biking in the desert
Spa treatments
Beach visits in Alexandria
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending traditional Egyptian performances
Boat tours on the Nile
Visiting historical sites during the cooler months
Best Time to Visit
October to April
This period offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperatures are mild, making it ideal for exploring the ancient sites.
15-28°C
59-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Giza is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
- • Avoid accepting help from strangers, especially at tourist sites.
- • Use reputable tour companies and guides.
Getting there
By air
- Cairo International Airport • 25 km from Giza
By train
Giza Station
By bus
Giza Bus Station, Downtown Cairo Terminals
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Giza. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Careem
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Pyramids Road
Downtown Giza
Haram
Day trips
Cairo
20 km • Half day to full day
Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a vibrant city with a rich history and numerous attractions, including the Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo, and Coptic Cairo.
Saqqara
20 km • Half day to full day
Saqqara is an ancient burial ground and home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt.
Dahshur
30 km • Half day to full day
Dahshur is an ancient royal necropolis featuring the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, both built by Pharaoh Sneferu.
Festivals
Cairo International Film Festival • November (dates vary)
Eid al-Fitr • End of Ramadan (dates vary)
Coptic Christmas • January 7
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the ancient sites and their significance.
- Visit the pyramids early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the intense heat.
- Bargain politely but firmly when shopping at markets and souks.
- Carry small bills and coins for easier transactions, as change can be hard to come by.
- Learn a few basic Arabic phrases to enhance your interaction with locals and show respect for their culture.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
