Full Day: Journey Through Coptic Cairo, the Coptic Museum, St. Simon Cave Church & Khan El Khalili Bazaar

Your full-day adventure begins with a journey to Coptic Cairo, a historic area nestled within the Babylon Fortress. Here, you'll explore some of Egypt's most significant Christian sites. Visit the renowned Hanging Church (Church of the Virgin Mary), a marvel of Coptic architecture suspended above two Roman towers, and delve into the serenity of St. Sergius and Bacchus Church, believed to be a resting place for the Holy Family. You'll also see the Ben Ezra Synagogue, a testament to Egypt's once-thriving Jewish community. Next, you'll be transported to the nearby Coptic Museum, where over 16,000 artifacts narrate the story of Coptic Christianity from its earliest days. Admire a vast collection of icons, ancient texts including the renowned Nag Hammadi Manuscripts, textiles, and woodwork that blend Pharaonic, Greco-Roman, and Islamic influences. The tour continues to the awe-inspiring St. Simon the Tanner Cave Church (also known as the Cave Church in Mokattam), a hidden gem carved directly into the Mokattam Hills. This monumental complex, a spiritual center for Cairo's Zabbaleen community, offers breathtaking views and a profound sense of devotion. You'll be amazed by the sheer scale of the chapels and the intricate carvings adorning the rock walls. Finally, we'll head to the legendary Khan El Khalili Bazaar. Lose yourself in its labyrinthine alleyways, filled with a kaleidoscope of shops selling everything from exquisite jewelry and hand-blown glass to aromatic spices and traditional clothing. Engage in the lively art of bargaining and perhaps enjoy a refreshing mint tea at one of the historic coffeehouses, like El-Fishawi, soaking in the timeless ambiance of this bustling marketplace.