Strolling through Cairo is like diving into a universe where Egypt’s ancient past coexists intensely with the vibrant energy of a modern metropolis. Between personalized sunset tours on the Nile, local markets, visits to museums that house pharaonic treasures, this is the birthplace of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Cairo reveals itself not only through its monuments and history, but also in the friendliness of its people, the cultural richness of its daily life and the chaotic yet captivating lifestyle that makes this capital one of the most unforgettable destinations in the world.
From a balcony in the Zamalek neighborhood, the setting sun paints the Cairo sky in shades of amber and crimson. The Nile serenely reflects the last rays of the day while the feluccas glide slowly along the current. It’s a typical late afternoon in the Egyptian capital — at once chaotic and magical— where ancient history and modern life intertwine at every corner.
Arriving in Cairo is like stepping into a living timeline. The city, with more than 20 million inhabitants, pulsates with a unique energy: insistent honking of horns, vendors on the streets, the persistent aroma of intense coffee and fresh bread blend together in a sensory symphony that accompanies us at every step. The urban chaos is part of the charm, but there is also a surprising informal order that, although it may seem strange to us, can only be understood by living in the city.
Gastronomy is something that is part of all our itineraries and in this case it is, in itself, a trip. From what we could tell on the streets of the city center, koshary — a dish of rice, lentils, pasta, chickpeas and spicy tomato sauce — is the king of local flavors. Simple, filling and surprisingly tasty. On the banks of the Nile, mezzé (a variety of starters such as hummus, baba ganoush and falafel) prepares the palate for the main courses, which include roast lamb or fresh Mediterranean fish. Between conversations with locals and homemade dishes, we discovered that food here is more than just flavor: it is sharing, hospitality and identity.
People who welcome
Egyptians have a warm way of welcoming. They are smiling, curious and incredibly hospitable. Even with some language barriers, especially since not everyone speaks English, a “welcome to Egypt” echoes everywhere — whether from a taxi driver or a vendor in the Khan El-Khalili market.
Cairo goes far beyond what we are used to seeing. There is something deeply enchanting about the contrast between ancient mosques and modern cafes; between the sound of the call to prayer and the laughter of young people happily relaxing on one of the many rooftops. Cairo is a city of encounters — between cultures, eras and lifestyles. In the Maadi neighborhood, for example, young creatives mix tradition and modernity in art galleries and craft fairs, while in Garden City, colonial mansions house bookstores and bohemian cafes.
Unhurriedly, to the sound of the water and the warm afternoon breeze, Cairo seems suspended in time. Exploring Cairo is more than just visiting monuments: it’s about listening to stories, tasting spices, talking to people who live and breathe this unique city, especially because it’s not an easy city — it’s intense, unpredictable and, at times, overwhelming. But it is precisely in this intensity that its charm lies, a gateway to one of humanity’s most fascinating cultures. And when you see the sun disappear behind the pyramids, in a golden explosion on the horizon, it is impossible not to feel that Egypt transforms us — and that, in some way, we take with us a little of the eternity of this ancient land.
By Carla Branco
INFO: www.experienceegypt.eg