Are you looking for a unique and memorable experience in Cairo, Egypt? Do you want to see the city from a different perspective and learn about its history and culture? If yes, then you should not miss visiting the Cairo Tower, one of the most iconic landmarks and tourist attractions in Cairo.
The Cairo Tower is a 187-meter tall tower that stands on the Gezira Island in the Nile River. It offers spectacular panoramic views of the city, the river, and the pyramids. It also has a fascinating history and symbolism, as well as a variety of attractions and activities to enjoy. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about the Cairo Tower, including its architecture, history, features, practical information, location, directions, and tips for visiting. Read on to discover why the Cairo Tower is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Cairo, Egypt.
Architecture & History
The Cairo Tower was designed by the Egyptian architect Naoum Shebib, who was inspired by the ancient Egyptian lotus plant. The tower has a circular shape that widens at the top and narrows at the base, resembling a lotus flower. The tower is made of reinforced concrete and covered with granite, giving it a distinctive appearance and texture.
The construction of the tower began in 1956 and was completed in 1961. The tower was inaugurated by President Gamal Abdel Nasser, who used it as a symbol of Arab resistance and independence. The tower was also used as a surveillance tool to monitor the activities of the British and American embassies in Cairo.
The tower underwent a major restoration project in 2009, which involved repairing the exterior, installing new elevators, lighting, and security systems, and renovating the interior. The tower reopened to the public in 2011, coinciding with its 50th anniversary.
Things to Do
The Cairo Tower has a lot to offer to its visitors, from the entrance lobby to the observation deck. Here are some of the attractions and activities that you can enjoy at the tower:
- Entrance Lobby:
The entrance lobby is where you can buy your tickets and access the elevators. The lobby also has a museum that displays the history and development of the tower, as well as some artifacts and models of the tower and its surroundings.
- Observation Deck:
The observation deck is the main attraction of the tower, as it offers a 360-degree view of Cairo and its landmarks. You can see the Nile River, the pyramids, the citadel, the mosques, the bridges, and the skyscrapers. You can also use the telescopes and binoculars to get a closer look at the details. The observation deck is open from 9 am to midnight, and the best time to visit is during sunset or at night, when the city lights up.
- Revolving Restaurant:
The revolving restaurant is located above the observation deck, and it rotates slowly to give you a different view every few minutes. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, from Egyptian to international cuisine. You can also enjoy a drink or a dessert at the bar or the cafe. The restaurant is open from noon to midnight, and it requires a reservation and a dress code.
- Souvenir Shop:
The souvenir shop is located on the ground floor of the tower, and it sells a range of products and gifts related to the tower and Egypt. You can find postcards, magnets, keychains, mugs, t-shirts, books, and more. The souvenir shop is open from 9 am to midnight, and it accepts cash and credit cards.
Practical Information
Before you visit the Cairo Tower, here are some of the practical information that you need to know:
Entrance Fee: The entrance fee for the tower is 200 EGP (about 13 USD) for foreigners and 20 EGP (about 1.3 USD) for Egyptians. The fee includes access to the observation deck and the museum. The fee for the restaurant is separate and depends on the menu and the time of the day.
Opening Hours: The tower is open every day from 9 am to midnight. The last entry is at 11 pm.
Accessibility: The tower is accessible by wheelchair and has ramps and elevators. However, the revolving restaurant is not accessible by wheelchair and requires climbing a few stairs.
Location & Directions
The Cairo Tower is located on the Gezira Island in the Zamalek district of Cairo. The address and coordinates of the tower are:
Address: 1 El-Gezira St., Zamalek, Cairo, Egypt
There are several ways to get to the tower, depending on your preference and budget. Here are some of the options:
Public Transport: The easiest and cheapest way to get to the tower is by using the Cairo Metro. You can take the Line 2 (red line) and get off at the Opera station. From there, you can walk for about 15 minutes or take a taxi or a microbus to the tower. The metro fare is 5 EGP (about 0.3 USD) per ride.
Taxi: Another option is to take a taxi from anywhere in the city. The taxi fare depends on the distance and the traffic, but it should not exceed 50 EGP (about 3 USD) from downtown Cairo. You can use the white metered taxis or the yellow or white Uber or Careem cars. Make sure to agree on the fare or use the meter before you start the ride.
Car: If you have your own car or rent one, you can also drive to the tower. However, be aware that the traffic in Cairo can be very congested and chaotic, and finding a parking spot near the tower can be challenging. You can use the Google Maps or Waze apps to navigate your way to the tower.
Tips for Visiting
To make the most of your visit to the Cairo Tower, here are some tips and recommendations that you should follow:
1. Plan your visit in advance and book your tickets and reservations online to avoid the queues and secure your spot.
2. Check the weather and the visibility before you go, as the view can be affected by the smog, dust, or fog.
3. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as you will be walking and standing for a long time. Also, bring a jacket or a sweater, as it can get chilly at the top of the tower.
4. Respect the local culture and customs, and dress modestly and appropriately, especially if you are visiting the restaurant.
5. Do not take photos or videos of the military or security personnel or facilities near the tower, as this is prohibited and can get you in trouble.
6. Enjoy the view and the experience, and share your feedback and photos with us on social media using the hashtag #CairoTower.
We hope that this article has given you a comprehensive and useful guide for visiting the Cairo Tower in Cairo, Egypt. The Cairo Tower is a remarkable attraction that showcases the beauty, history, and culture of Cairo and Egypt. It is a must-see for anyone who wants to have a memorable and enjoyable time in Cairo. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us or leave a comment below.
We would love to hear from you and help you plan your trip to Cairo. Thank you for reading and happy travels!
