Visiting Cairo is one of the most exquisite holidays you can imagine. It is for anyone who wants to mix a beautiful culture with thousands of years of history. Not only are there many places where you can immerse yourself in Egyptian lore, but you can create once in a lifetime memories during your trip to Egypt.
However, when it comes to planning your holiday around Ramadan, there are a few places that definitely need to be on your itinerary. So whether this is your first time planning a family holiday abroad, or you simply want to experience Cairo during Ramadan, we have put together the best locations just for you!
Check out our top five locations to visit in Cairo during Ramadan for your holiday planning!
What is Ramadan?
For those who don’t know, Ramadan is a holy month in Islam. Muslims fast during the day for a whole month. That means they don’t eat, drink, smoke, or put anything in their bodies from sunrise to sunset. It’s a wonderful time for spending quiet hours of reflection with your family, and being more in tune with your spirituality.
However, that also means that there aren’t as many shops open during the day. Not to mention a lot of restaurants open during typical dining hours. Not only that, but those who are fasting may seem a bit more grumpy than usual.
With that in mind, it’s easy to see how planning out your holiday to coincide with Ramadan hours is extremely important. This will help your vacation go as smoothly as possible, while showing respect for the locals while they are going through their fast.
Pyramids of Giza
A trip into Cairo wouldn’t be complete without a tour of the Pyramids of Giza. Whether you fly in from Europe or the Gulf, you can’t miss these incredible pyramids on your way into the city. There are many flight options for travelers from important cities like Dubai and Sharjah. Eg. There are 116 flights from Dubai to Cairo per week and 18 flights from Sharjah to Cairo per week.
There are a number of tours to choose from that allow you private and all inclusive experiences. However, if you are visiting Cairo during Ramadan, it’s best to book your tour as early in the morning as you can. This way your local guides are still rested and full from their early, early morning meal.
If you can, we highly recommend booking a tour that includes all of the following:
- The Great Pyramids
- The smaller pyramids
- The Sphinx
- A visit to Memphis
- Saqqara
- Camel Rides
- ATV rides
- Full Meals
There are, of course, tours that offer less. As well as tours that offer more things to do. Keep your family in mind as you book, because the more you include, the longer you will be in the hot Egyptian sun. No matter what kind of tour you choose, your visit to the great pyramids of Giza will be spectacular!
The Egyptian Museum
Home to the oldest archaeological museum in the Middle East, the Egyptian Museum is a great way to spend a day in Cairo. Not only does it house one of the largest collections of Pharaonic antiquities, but it also has incredible collections for the whole family to enjoy.
This is a great place to not only learn about Egyptian history, but it’s an excellent place to visit during Ramadan. The hours are from 9am until 3pm, which is great for accommodating a fasting staff. Not to mention it is indoors during the hot spring months.
Walk these amazing corridors to see extensive papyri collections, sarcophagi and jewelry from thousands of years of Egyptian history.
The Maze of Khan el-Khalili
The Maze of Khan el-Khalili is a great place in Cairo to visit during the month of Ramadan. This market district is home to twisting alleyways filled with shops, merchants, artists, street performers, and so much more. It is an excellent place to purchase one of a kind Egyptian items. As well as experience an impressive bazaar!
The marketplace of Khan el-Khalili is a great place to shop because it is normally less busy during the holy month. Typically, the streets are packed with tourists and visitors from all over the world. But if you can make your way here in the morning hours during Ramadan, you may get to shop for long periods without feeling too cramped!
Nile Island District of Zamalek
Whether you have planned an Egyptian Nile cruise, or simply want to experience the true tranquility of Cairo, Zamalek is an excellent choice. This Nile Island district is packed with incredible shops, restaurants, and picturesque architecture. Not to mention a lot of activities for the whole family!
You can book a kayaking trip down the Nile, spend a morning in one of the beautiful island parks and gardens, or stay in one of the island’s many upscale hotels. Nestled between downtown Cairo and Giza, in the heart of the Nile River, it really is a great place to visit during Ramadan.
Al-Azhar Park
Located in the middle of Old Cairo, Al-Azhar Park is a great location for enjoying a safe family outing in the heart of Cairo. With 30-hectares of greenery, stunning water features, and incredible leisure spots, it’s a great place to visit during Ramadan.
You can choose to meander through the many walkways and fountains, or you can plan a park tour. There are many workshops and events for all ages that are put on throughout the park all year long. Be sure to check on any musical events or kids programs before you go.
We highly recommend visiting the park in the early evening hours before sunset. This way you are spending the last hour or so of the fast enjoying the serenity of Cairo. While not being bombarded by millions of locals heading out to breakfast after the sun goes down.
The Best Places to Visit in Cairo During Ramadan for Your Holiday!
No matter when you visit Cairo, there are so many wonderful and unique places to see. However, during the holy month of Ramadan, it’s best to plan ahead. This way you get to see places like the Pyramids of Giza, the Island District of Zamalek, and the Egyptian Museum when it is most convenient and kind to locals.
Plan your holiday to Cairo during Ramadan so that you can experience the incredible culture and history, while being as respectful as possible to fasting locals. Use these top five places to make your trip to Cairo one you’ll never forget!
