Historic bazaar and souk in Islamic Cairo dating back to the 14th century. Cairo's most famous market.

About Khan el-Khalili Bazaar (Islamic Cairo)

Khan el-Khalili has been a bustling marketplace since the 14th century, when Mamluk sultan Barquq\'s master of horses, Jarkas el-Khalili, built a large caravanserai on the site. Today its narrow labyrinthine alleys overflow with brass lanterns, spices, perfumes, alabaster, papyrus art, and gold jewelry. Haggling is expected and part of the experience.

Surrounding the bazaar, Islamic Cairo contains the densest collection of medieval Islamic architecture in the world—over 600 listed monuments including Al-Azhar Mosque (founded 970 AD), the Citadel of Saladin, and the hauntingly beautiful Sultan Hassan Mosque. The atmospheric El-Fishawi café, operating since 1773, serves mint tea amid ornate mirrors and is a must-visit. Al-Muizz Street, the old city\'s spine, has been beautifully restored and is pedestrian-friendly.

Nearby Landmarks

Al-Azhar Mosque Bab Zuweila Sultan Hassan Mosque Al-Muizz Street El-Fishawi Café

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost EGP 150-300 (~\$3-\$6)
Time 25-50 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost EGP 100-250 (~\$2-\$5)
Time 25-50 minutes

Outside arrivals

Step-by-Step Directions

Take airport bus to Ramses Square, then taxi to Khan el-Khalili. Or Metro to Ataba and walk through Islamic Cairo.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi EGP 150-300 (~\$3-\$6) 25-50 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare EGP 100-250 (~\$2-\$5) 25-50 minutes Budget-conscious, app users

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Khan el-Khalili and Islamic Cairo are lively well into the night—many shops stay open until 11:00 PM and cafés like El-Fishawi operate until 2:00 AM or later. Taxis and Uber are available nearby on Al-Azhar Street at all hours. Walking in the bazaar area after midnight is generally safe due to ongoing activity, though stay on main streets.

Luggage Tips

The bazaar's narrow, uneven alleyways are not suitable for wheeled luggage. Leave suitcases at your hotel or use airport luggage storage before visiting. A small crossbody bag or backpack is ideal for navigating the crowded lanes. Watch for pickpockets in the busiest sections.

Accessibility

Islamic Cairo's medieval streets are narrow, uneven, and often stepped—wheelchair access is extremely limited in the bazaar itself. Al-Muizz Street (restored section) is the most accessible pedestrian route. Taxis can drop you at the Al-Azhar Street entrance, the flattest approach. The Citadel has a paved ramp to some areas.