The fifth-century BCE Greek historian Herodotus famously said, “Egypt is the gift of the Nile,” and it’s true. Its capital city, Cairo, is the embodiment of what makes the North African country so special. The city, that survived and thrived through empires and revolutions, welcomes millions of tourists each year, keen to explore its rich history and culture. From its chaotically charming streets and the bustling sounds of mahraganat echoing from tuk-tuks to the warmth and hospitality of its people, there’s always something new to see, hear, and experience. Although most visitors come for the iconic pyramids, Cairo offers so much more. In this guide, Palestinian-Egyptian musician Ma-Beyn shares her favorite spots around Cairo, with a few of our own recommendations sprinkled in for good measure.
Where to Hang Out
Ma-Beyn recommends:
Nady El Gezira
“Any day of the week, you’ll find me here,” says Ma-Beyn. This club offers a mix of sports, greenery, affordable eats, and a laid-back social vibe with familiar faces always around.
Our recommendations:
Horeya, Downtown Cairo or Heliopolis
A cultural landmark since the 1930s, Horeya has long been a meeting place for Egyptian artists, intellectuals, poets, and loyal locals. Located in Bab al-Louq, just a stone’s throw from Tahrir Square, this high-ceilinged space buzzes with powerful conversations over tea, coffee, and an endless stream of Egypt’s local beer, Stella. Even after a recent renovation, Horeya holds onto its legacy, welcoming a lively, diverse crowd.
Café Riche
Dating back to 1908, Café Riche has hosted generations of Egypt’s revolutionaries, intellectuals, and prominent figures. Though modern cafes have sprung up around it, Café Riche remains a nostalgic cornerstone of downtown Cairo, rich in history and ambiance.
The Greek Club
The Greek Club opened to the public in the 1950s though it was founded in 1906 for Cairo’s Greek community. Offering breathtaking views, vaulted ceilings, and an authentic taste of Greece, it’s still a popular spot in downtown Cairo for enjoying food, drinks, and live music.
Where to Eat
Ma-Beyn Recommends:
Estoril
Estoril is a vintage downtown restaurant and bar with a storied past as a haven for Egypt’s intellectuals, political activists, and artists. Tucked between two buildings, it may not have the same culinary brilliance it once did, but its ambiance and charm remain timeless.
Fatatry el Hussein
Apart from being located in one of Cairo’s unique locations, Khan el Khalili, Fatatry el Hussein possibly makes some of the best fatayer known to mankind. They come in a stuffing of your choice, but we would recommend to keep it simple and get the cheese fatayer. For those with a sweet tooth, a fatayer bel sukar (sugar) will never disappoint. Be sure to also try their hibiscus juice for an extra sugar rush.
Mille Recommends:
Ratios Bakery
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For fresh pastries and breakfast, Ratios Underground in Maadi has become a local favorite, drawing people from all over Cairo for its buttery croissants and delightful breakfast offerings.
Abo Haider
If you’re anywhere near Korba, Abo Haider is a must for authentic Egyptian shawarma. Their signature meat shawarma served in kaiser bread is an explosion of flavor and a quintessential street food experience you won’t want to miss.
Kokio
Also nestled in a corner in Maadi, Kokio serves up your freshest and crunchiest Korean fried chicken in Egypt. For any fried chicken lover, this spot will not disappoint, from the crunch to the ranch of sauces, Kokio is definitely one of Maadi’s hidden gems.
Zoal
Nestled in the busy streets of Madinat Nasr, is a culinary delight. Zoal is home to exquisite Sudanese cuisine, from your chicken and beef agashe’s, to Sudan’s one-of-a-kind eggplant salad, salatat dakwa.
Villa Sumatra
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For your caffeine fix, Villa Sumatra in Maadi serves up cozy vibes along with great coffee, breakfast pastries, and desserts, making it an ideal spot for a remote workday or a leisurely coffee break.
Where to Shop:
Mille Recommends:
Cairopolitan
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Located in Garden City, Cairopolitan is the go-to place for unique trinkets, artwork, posters, graphic tees, and Egyptian-made goods. This shop champions local artists and is perfect for those seeking one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Cairo Flea Market
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Founded in 2012, Cairo Flea Market is dubbed as Egypt’s very first community flea market. Aimed to create a unique shopping experience, thrifters all over Cairo wait around for their date announcements to head to the market located in Zamalek’s picturesque Fish Garden filled with a plethora of unique products by local artisans.
El Wakala
The chaotic outdoor marketplace is located in one of Cairo’s most charming areas, Zamalek. The market captures the city’s chaotic energy through a retail experience that you are bound to come out of with a one-of-a-kind piece at an extremely affordable price point. The seemingly endless rows and racks of items might seem overwhelming, but trust me, the reward is worth the effort. In the labyrinthine aisles of El Wakela, you’re likely to stumble upon a hidden designer gem that makes the entire experience worthwhile. As the saying goes, old is gold, and El Wakela offers a treasure trove where you can uncover pieces that are truly timeless.
