Downtown Cairo serves as the thriving commercial heart of the city of Cairo, nestled along Midan Talaat Harb to the east of Tahrir Square. The area is oozing with cultural charm and offers expansive retail and dining opportunities, attracting visitors from all walks of life.

Things to do

Interested in architectural immersion? Be sure to check out the collections featured at the Abdeen Palace Museum. Cultural artefacts are displayed by the Museum of Islamic Art and the Egyptian Museum, where for an additional fee you can view King Tutankhamun’s treasure.

The Downtown District of Cairo offers a range of shopping opportunities, from the Midan Ataba area with bookseller markets to the shoe stores that line Talaat Harb Street. If you need rejuvenating after shopping, grab a coffee from one of the plentiful corner cafes.

A major metropolis, there are dining options for every budget in Downtown Cairo, ranging from fast food to upscale cuisine. For the best mid-range local grub, grab a bite at Felfela or a drink at the Greek Club. Those who want to splurge can join the other tourists at the popular Cafe Riche.

If you want a rest from the bustling urban life, retreat indoors and catch a show at the Townhouse Gallery and Theatre located off Mahmoud Bassiouny Street.

Getting around

The Abdel Monem Riyad Station is a major transport hub where both local and intercity coaches route. Downtown Cairo is a 10-minute walk from the Sadat metro station, from which you can connect to the major railway station. Renting a taxi for the day is the most advantageous way for taking in all of the sights.