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Private Half-Day Tour to Old Cairo Churches & St. Simon Monastery

Location Cairo, Egypt
Location Giza, Egypt
$99.99
This is an experience gift voucher. The recipient will book the experience after they redeem the gift voucher.

Overview

Step back in time and explore the spiritual heart of Cairo on this unforgettable Half-Day Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery. Travel with your expert guide through Coptic Cairo, home to some of the oldest Christian churches in Egypt. Visit the iconic Hanging Church, suspended above a Roman fortress gate, and the sacred Abu Serga Church, believed to have sheltered the Holy Family. Admire the rich history and stunning architecture of the Ben Ezra Synagogue, a treasure of Jewish heritage. Then, venture to Mokattam Mountain to discover the extraordinary St. Simon the Tanner Monastery, carved into the rock with breathtaking biblical carvings and home to one of Cairo’s largest churches. Along the way, immerse yourself in fascinating stories, cultural insights, and hidden gems that most tourists never see. This is more than sightseeing—it’s a journey through faith, history, and local life that you’ll never forget.
Half-day Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery
Pickup included
Tour guide
Language: English
Human tour guide
Duration: 7 hours

  • Entry/ admission of St. Barbara Church
  • Egyptologist guide
  • Hotel Pickup & drop-off
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Entry/ admission of St. Simon Monastery
  • Entry/Admission- Ben Ezra Synagogue
  • Entry/Admission- Hanging Church
  • Entry/Admission- Cave Church
  • Bottled Water
  • Entry/Admission-St. Sergius and Bacchus
  • Private transportation
  • Lunch
  • Gratuities

  • St Simon the Tanner Monastery
    Embark on a unique journey to the St. Simon Monastery, a hidden gem in Cairo’s Mokattam Hills. Your drive takes you through Garbage City, a bustling, labyrinthine community where the Zabbaleen, Cairo’s informal garbage collectors, live and work. The streets are lined with stacks of recycled materials, vividly showcasing their remarkable recycling system. Though unconventional, the scene is one of resilience, ingenuity, and industry, offering a glimpse into a way of life unlike any other. As the road ascends the Mokattam cliffs,the transformation is striking. Upon reaching the Monastery of St. Simon the Tanner, you’ll be greeted by its awe-inspiring amphitheater, carved into the mountain, capable of hosting over 20,000 worshippers. The monastery is adorned with intricate carvings of biblical scenes etched into the rock, and its serene ambiance contrasts sharply with the lively chaos of Garbage City below. This tour offers a profound blend of human perseverance and spiritual tranquility.
  • Coptic Cairo
    Your guide will take you to the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, known as Abu Serga, one of the oldest and most revered churches in Egypt. Located in the heart of Coptic Cairo, this sacred site dates back to the 4th century and is famously believed to have sheltered the Holy Family—Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus—during their flight into Egypt. Step inside to admire its simple yet beautiful basilica design, wooden ceiling, marble columns, and ancient icons. Descend into the crypt, where tradition says the Holy Family rested, and feel the spiritual atmosphere that draws pilgrims from around the world. Your guide will share captivating stories about the church’s history, its role in early Christianity, and the Coptic heritage of Egypt. This visit offers a rare opportunity to walk in the footsteps of history in one of Cairo’s most peaceful and meaningful landmarks.
  • The Hanging Church
    Your guide will take you on an unforgettable journey to The Hanging Church (El Muallaqa), one of the most famous and oldest Coptic Christian churches in Cairo. Built above the southern gate of the Roman Babylon Fortress, this iconic landmark seems to “hang” over the passage below, giving it its unique name. Admire the stunning wooden ceiling shaped like Noah’s Ark, beautiful icons, intricate carvings, and ancient marble pulpit. Learn about its rich history dating back to the 3rd century AD and its significance as the seat of the Coptic Patriarch for centuries. Your guide will share fascinating stories of saints, miracles, and religious traditions that shaped Egypt’s Christian heritage. Explore the church’s peaceful atmosphere, discover hidden details in its artwork, and capture stunning photos of this spiritual treasure in the heart of Old Cairo. This visit offers culture, history, and inspiration all in one.
  • Synagogue Ben Ezra
    Your guide will lead you to the historic Ben Ezra Synagogue, a remarkable landmark nestled in the heart of Old Cairo. Steeped in legend and dating back to the 9th century, it is believed to be built on the spot where baby Moses was found in the Nile reeds. Admire its beautiful architecture featuring wooden carvings, marble columns, and intricate geometric designs. Inside, discover the site where the famous Geniza documents—ancient Jewish manuscripts—were uncovered, offering a priceless glimpse into centuries of Middle Eastern Jewish life. Your guide will share captivating stories of the Jewish community’s presence in Egypt and the synagogue’s role in religious harmony through the ages. Stroll the surrounding narrow lanes of Coptic Cairo, absorbing the blend of cultures and history that make this destination a must-visit for travelers seeking deeper insight into Egypt’s diverse heritage.

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
  • How it works?
    01 You choose from 10,000+ experience gifts
    02 We deliver the eVoucher or the Physical box to the recipient
    03 Recipient books the experience and creates unforgettable memories!

    Private Half-Day Tour to Old Cairo Churches & St. Simon Monastery

    Location Cairo, Egypt
    Location Giza, Egypt
    $99.99
    This is an experience gift voucher. The recipient will book the experience after they redeem the gift voucher.
    How it works?
    01 You choose from 10,000+ experience gifts
    02 We deliver the eVoucher or the Physical box to the recipient
    03 Recipient books the experience and creates unforgettable memories!
    Delivery options
    eVoucher
    • Free
    • Instant delivery
    • Environmentally friendly
    Physical Gift Box
    • $10.00 fee
    • 2-5 business days
    • Shipping Worldwide

    No expiration date
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