- Home
- > Family & Novotel
- > Family outings
- > Cairo
Cairo
Cairo is a spell-binding city – which is the very reason Egyptians call it ‘Oum el-Dounia’ (the Mother of the World). The biggest city in Africa and the Arab world is certainly legendary because of the amazing wealth of its cultural heritage. From the treasures of the pharaohs, symbolised by the famous pyramids on the Giza plateau, to the city’s Islamic mosques, from trips on feluccas on the legendary Nile to the alleys of the souk in Khan el-Khalili, Cairo is a true crossroads of civilisations and history. Even though the city is huge, you’ll soon get to know it and take it to your heart, the best way of discover its treasures being to get lost in it.
To discover, to understand, to wonder, and enjoy oneself, to marvel…So many entertaining opportunities to be enjoyed by the WHOLE FAMILY and which can be reached from your hotel in Cairo.
Novotel Cairo 6th Of October
2
Two million is the number of blocks of stone thought to have gone into the building of the Great Pyramid of Cheops, the first of the seven wonders of the ancient world.
187
187 metres high, Cairo Tower in the Gezira district, boasts a unique panoramic view of the Egyptian capital.
150
17 million inhabitants are spread over nearly 150 districts. Cairo is more than a city: it’s a megalopolis.
Museums and exhibitions
Egyptian Museum
An excellent starting point to discover Egypt’s fabulous history, this museum, located right in the centre of Cairo, is the largest in the world for Pharaonic antiquities. Take the whole family on a journey through over 5,000 years of history. The famous hall that houses the treasures of the young pharaoh Tutankhamen will certainly impress the children. For thrills, the mummy gallery has a decidedly eerie atmosphere. A must for families!
Midan El-Tahrir – Tel: (+20) 2 578 2448
Open every day from 9am to 6.30pm
Papyrus Institute
Learn all there is to know about papyrus! Doctor Ragab’s Papyrus Institute is a fantastic way to get to know all about the plant that’s so closely linked to Egyptian history. From its cultivation to drying and painting, you’ll witness a traditional and unique form of art that will fascinate young and old alike.
El-Nil Street – Tel: (+20) 2 336 7212
Open Tuesday to Sunday, from 8am to 2pm
Agricultural Museum
One of the museums children love best in Cairo! Explore the animal and vegetable kingdoms, and see well-staged scenes showing farmers working the fields, as well as tools, cereals, breads, festivals and beliefs linked to agriculture in ancient Egypt. Particularly designed for family visits, it’s as educational as it’s entertaining for both children and parents.
Al-Sawra Street – Tel: (+20) 2 360 8682
Open every day from 9am to 6pm
Zoos, aquariums, parks and gardens
Zoological Park
Cairo’s Zoological Park, one of the oldest in the world, is a maze of pleasant green paths. From hippos to giraffes, from lions to camels, this is the place for young and old to spend some time with animals from all over the world. Reptiles and numerous birds – including pelicans and pink flamingos – are also well represented. Continue your trip in the botanic garden which is just round the corner.
Suare El-Gamaa – Tel: (+20) 2 570 8895
Open every day from 7.30am to 6pm
Ezbekiya Garden
This superb park which has recently undergone a programme of improvements, is an ideal place for a family outing. With wide green spaces, interspersed with shady spots, it’s perfect for picnics right in the heart of Cairo. Find the booksellers’ souk, and the puppet shows which tell children all about the history of Egypt.
26 Youlyou – Tel: (+20) 2 591 0953
Open every day, with shows on Saturdays and Sundays (call for showtimes)
Gabalaya Park and the Aquarium
At the heart of the picturesque Zamalek quarter, you’ll find the most pleasant park in Cairo. Great for quiet walks just a short distance from the bustle of the city centre, and children will love exploring the weird tunnels to see the wonderful fish in the Aquarium. A family outing that combines relaxation and exploration. Don’t miss it!
Hassan Sabri Street – Tel: (+20) 2 285 4509
Open every day
Kids’voyage’s special treats
The Pharaonic Village
A real trip back to ancient Egypt! Located on Jacob Island, opposite Giza, the Pharaonic Village is a magnificent experience for children and parents. A boat takes you on a journey of discovery of Egyptian treasures and you can watch superbly staged scenes describing agricultural activities, fishing, art and industry of people in ancient times, or discover the story of Moses. Then you’ll reach the village itself and a mummification chamber where you’ll see a high priest in action. Children can even dress up as Egyptians for a photo session!
3 El Bahr El Aazam, Giza – Tel: (+20) 3 571 8675
Open every day from 9am to 6pm
Son et Lumière Show
Khephren, Mykérinos, the majestic Cheops pyramid, the Sphinx… all names which symbolise Egypt and its history. Discovering the Giza plateau and its pyramids is something you must do when visiting Cairo. The extraordinary Son et Lumière Show, which plays every night, will delight children and parents and will give the whole family some unforgettable memories. It’s another way to understand this unique city and its treasures. Magical and impressive!
Giza Plateau – Tel: (+20) 3 385 2880
Shows at 6.30pm, 7.30pm and 8.30pm in winter and at 8.30pm, 9.30pm, 10.30pm in summer (call to confirm showtimes)
Sindbad Amusement Park
Children can follow the adventures of Sindbad the sailor in this amusement park, on the outskirts of Cairo. They’ll go on huge water-slides and carousels of every kind, visit a spooky haunted house – and even ride a flying carpet! A great variety of entertainment for a day of laughter and thrills!
Underground train El-Nozha, Heliopolis, Le Caire – Tel: (+20) 2 296 9550
Open every day
Some good places for a family meal
Cairo 40
This restaurant serves up excellent and typically Egyptian cuisine right in the centre of the Zamalek quarter – and the atmosphere is just as traditional.
17 Hassan Sabri – Tel: (+20) 2 735 5226
Open every day from 9am to 2am
Mandarine
As you enter this irresistible oriental patisserie, prepare to be spoilt for choice with so many sweet temptations – plus ice creams, the other speciality of the house. Children love it!
17 Chagaret el-Dor – Tel: (+20) 2 735 5010
Open every day from 9am to 11pm
Felfela Village
The Felfela chain specialises in Egyptian cuisine, and has opened a village close to the pyramids. After a good meal children can enjoy many different activities such as puppet shows, animals and camel rides. More than a restaurant and truly geared towards the family.
East bank of the Marioutiya canal, Giza
Open every day from noon
KIDS' VOYAGE travel guides and NOVOTEL hotels in Cairo wish you an excellent stay.