If you are looking for a place to immerse yourself in the history, culture, and vibrancy of Cairo, look no further than Khan el Khalili. This sprawling market is one of the oldest and largest in the world, dating back to the 14th century. It is a treasure trove of sights, sounds, smells, and tastes that will delight your senses and make you feel like a part of the city.
Whether you want to shop for souvenirs, sample local cuisine, admire historic architecture, or just soak up the atmosphere, Khan el Khalili has something for everyone. In this article, we will guide you through the best ways to enjoy this iconic market like a local, and share some tips and tricks to make the most of your visit.
What to See and Do in Khan el Khalili
Khan el Khalili is not just a market, it is a living museum of Cairo’s rich and diverse heritage. As you wander through its maze of alleys and stalls, you will encounter many cultural and historic landmarks that showcase the market’s importance and influence over the centuries. Here are some of the must-see attractions and activities in Khan el Khalili:
Visit the historic mosques, tombs, and madrasas:
Khan el Khalili is home to some of the most beautiful and impressive Islamic monuments in Cairo, such as the Al-Hussein Mosque, the Al-Azhar Mosque, the Sultan al-Ghuri Complex, and the Qalawun Complex. These structures date back to the Mamluk and Ottoman eras, and feature stunning architecture, intricate decorations, and sacred relics. You can enter some of these buildings for free or for a small fee, but make sure to dress modestly and respectfully.
Explore the different sections and alleys of the market:
Khan el Khalili is divided into several areas, each specializing in a different type of product or service. You can find everything from gold and silver jewelry, to carpets and textiles, to spices and perfumes, to antiques and handicrafts, and more. Some of the most famous and popular sections are the Gold Street, the Tentmakers’ Alley, the Spice Market, and the Antiques Market. Each section has its own charm and character, and you can spend hours browsing and admiring the variety and quality of the goods on display.
Watch the street performers and artisans:
Khan el Khalili is not only a place to shop, but also a place to enjoy the local culture and entertainment. As you walk around the market, you will encounter many street performers and artisans who showcase their talents and skills. You can watch puppet shows, storytellers, musicians, dancers, magicians, and more. You can also see craftsmen and women who make and sell their products on the spot, such as glass blowers, metal workers, wood carvers, and embroiderers. You can interact with them and learn more about their crafts and traditions.
Join a guided tour or a walking tour:
If you want to learn more about the history, culture, and secrets of Khan el Khalili, you can join a guided tour or a walking tour that will take you to the most interesting and hidden spots in the market. You can choose from different themes and durations, depending on your interests and preferences. Some of the tours also include visits to nearby attractions, such as the Citadel of Saladin, the Egyptian Museum, or the Coptic Quarter. You can book a tour online or through your hotel, or find a local guide at the market entrance.
What to Buy and How to Haggle in Khan el Khalili
Khan el Khalili is a shopper’s paradise, where you can find anything and everything you can imagine. Whether you are looking for souvenirs, gifts, or personal items, you will be spoilt for choice in this market. Here are some of the best things to buy and how to haggle in Khan el Khalili:
Jewelry, antiques, carpets, lamps, spices, perfumes, etc -
These are some of the most popular and distinctive products that you can find in Khan el Khalili. You can find jewelry made of gold, silver, copper, or brass, with various designs and motifs. You can find antiques that range from coins and statues, to weapons and musical instruments. You can find carpets and textiles that feature colorful patterns and embroidery. You can find lamps and lanterns that create a magical ambiance with their shapes and colors. You can find spices and perfumes that fill the air with exotic and enticing aromas. You can find unique and rare items that reflect the history and culture of Egypt and the region.
Handmade and authentic items -
If you want to buy something that is truly original and special, look for items that are handmade and authentic. These items are usually made by local artisans who use traditional methods and materials. They are often more expensive than mass-produced items, but they are worth the price for their quality and uniqueness. You can find handmade and authentic items in all categories, but some of the most common ones are pottery, leather, wood, glass, and metal.
Tips and tricks for bargaining with the vendors -
Bargaining is an essential part of shopping in Khan el Khalili, and it can be a fun and rewarding experience if you know how to do it right. Here are some tips and tricks for bargaining with the vendors:
1. Start by asking the vendor for the price of the item you are interested in. The vendor will usually quote a high price, expecting you to negotiate.
2. Offer a lower price, about half or less of the original price. The vendor will likely refuse and counteroffer with a slightly lower price.
3. Continue to haggle until you reach a price that you are happy with. You can use various tactics, such as walking away, comparing prices with other vendors, showing interest in other items, or asking for a discount for buying multiple items.
4. Be polite and friendly, but firm and confident. Use humor and compliments, but avoid insults and threats. Smile and maintain eye contact, but do not show too much enthusiasm or desperation.
5. Do not feel pressured or obligated to buy anything. If you are not satisfied with the price or the quality of the item, you can always say no and walk away. There are plenty of other vendors and options in the market.
What to Eat and Drink in Khan el Khalili
Khan el Khalili is not only a place to shop, but also a place to eat and drink. The market offers a variety of local cuisine and snacks that will satisfy your hunger and thirst, and give you a taste of the Egyptian culture and lifestyle. Here are some of the best things to eat and drink in Khan el Khalili:
Koshary, falafel, shawarma, kebab:
These are some of the most common and delicious street foods that you can find in Khan el Khalili. Koshary is a dish of rice, pasta, lentils, chickpeas, fried onions, and tomato sauce. Falafel is a deep-fried ball of mashed fava beans or chickpeas, mixed with herbs and spices. Shawarma is a sandwich of sliced meat, usually chicken or beef, cooked on a rotating spit, and wrapped in bread with salad and sauce. Kebab is a skewer of grilled meat, usually lamb or beef, marinated and seasoned with spices. You can find these foods in many stalls and carts around the market, and they are usually cheap and filling.
Kunafa, baklava, halawa:
These are some of the most popular and decadent desserts that you can find in Khan el Khalili. Kunafa is a pastry made of thin noodles, soaked in sugar syrup, and filled with cheese or cream. Baklava is a pastry made of layers of filo dough, stuffed with nuts and honey. Halawa is a sweet confection made of sesame paste, sugar, and nuts. You can find these desserts in many bakeries and sweet shops in the market, and they are usually rich and indulgent.
Tea, coffee, juice, etc:
These are some of the most refreshing and energizing drinks that you can find in Khan el Khalili. Tea is the most popular drink in Egypt, and you can find many varieties and flavors, such as mint, lemon, ginger, hibiscus, and more. Coffee is also widely consumed, and you can find different types, such as Turkish, Arabic, or espresso. Juice is another common drink, and you can find fresh and natural juices, such as orange, mango, guava, and more. You can find these drinks in many cafes and juice bars in the market, and they are usually cheap and tasty.
Mention some of the old and famous cafes and restaurants in the market, such as:
El Fishawy:
This is the oldest and most famous cafe in Khan el Khalili, and it has been operating since 1773. It is known for its traditional atmosphere, decorated with mirrors, chandeliers, and paintings. It is also known for its shisha, or water pipe, which comes in various flavors, such as apple, mint, or grape. It is a popular hangout for locals and tourists alike, and it is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Naguib Mahfouz:
This is a restaurant named after the Nobel Prize-winning Egyptian novelist, who used to frequent the cafe. It is located in a historic building, and it serves authentic Egyptian cuisine.
Al-Hussein:
This is a restaurant located near the Al-Hussein Mosque, and it offers a panoramic view of the market and the mosque. It serves a variety of dishes, such as grilled meats, salads, soups, and desserts. It is also known for its live music and entertainment, featuring traditional instruments and singers.
Nagat Salon de Thé:
This is a cafe that specializes in tea and pastries, and it is located in a charming courtyard. It offers a cozy and relaxing atmosphere, where you can enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of cake, or a sandwich and a salad. It also has a small library and a gift shop, where you can find books and souvenirs.
When to Visit and How to Get to Khan el Khalili
Khan el Khalili is open every day, from early morning until late night. However, the best time to visit the market depends on what you want to see and do, and how you want to experience the market. Here are some suggestions for when to visit and how to get to Khan el Khalili:
Festivals and events - If you want to witness the market at its most festive and lively, you should visit during one of the religious or cultural celebrations, such as Ramadan, Eid, Moulid, or Christmas. During these times, the market is decorated with lights, flags, and banners, and the streets are filled with people, music, and activities. You can join the locals in their prayers, rituals, and festivities, and enjoy the special food and drinks that are prepared for the occasion. However, be prepared for large crowds, traffic jams, and higher prices.
Nighttime - If you want to see the market at its most magical and romantic, you should visit at night, when the market is illuminated by the lamps and lanterns, and the air is cooler and calmer. You can enjoy the nightlife and entertainment, such as the shisha cafes, the live music, and the puppet shows. You can also admire the views of the historic buildings and the mosque, which are lit up by the moon and the stars. However, be aware of your safety and security, and avoid wandering into dark and isolated areas.
Weekends - If you want to see the market at its most busy and bustling, you should visit on the weekends, especially on Fridays, which is the holy day for Muslims. You can mingle with the locals and tourists, and experience the diversity and vibrancy of the market. You can also participate in the Friday prayers, which are held in the mosques and the squares. However, be ready for long lines, loud noises, and limited space.
Weekdays - If you want to see the market at its most quiet and peaceful, you should visit on the weekdays, especially in the mornings, when the market is less crowded and more relaxed. You can explore the market at your own pace, and enjoy the sights and sounds without the hassle and stress. You can also find better deals and bargains, as the vendors are more willing to negotiate and lower their prices. However, be mindful of the opening and closing hours, as some shops and attractions may not be open or available.
To get to Khan el Khalili, you have several options, depending on your budget and convenience. The market is located in the heart of Cairo, near the Al-Azhar University and the Citadel of Saladin. You can reach the market by:
Metro
This is the cheapest and fastest way to get to the market, as the metro system is modern and efficient. You can take the metro line 1, and get off at the Attaba station, which is the closest station to the market. From there, you can walk for about 15 minutes, or take a taxi or a rickshaw for a short ride. The metro fare is 5 EGP (0.3 USD) per ride, and the metro operates from 6 am to 11 pm.
Bus
This is another cheap and convenient way to get to the market, as the bus network is extensive and frequent. You can take any bus that goes to the Al-Azhar area, which is the main entrance to the market. You can find the bus stops and routes on the maps and signs, or ask the locals or the drivers for directions. The bus fare is 2 EGP (0.1 USD) per ride, and the buses operate from 6 am to 10 pm.
Taxi
This is the most comfortable and flexible way to get to the market, as the taxis are available and accessible. You can hail a taxi from anywhere in the city, or book one online or through your hotel. You can negotiate the price and the route with the driver, or use the meter if available. The taxi fare depends on the distance and the traffic, but it usually ranges from 20 to 50 EGP (1 to 3 USD) per ride, and the taxis operate 24 hours a day.
Khan el Khalili is more than just a market, it is a destination that offers a unique and unforgettable experience of Cairo’s history, culture, and lifestyle. Whether you are a shopper, a foodie, a history buff, or a culture lover, you will find something that suits your taste and interest in this market. You will also find something that surprises and delights you, as the market is full of hidden gems and secrets that await your discovery.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Cairo today, and don’t miss the chance to visit Khan el Khalili, the most famous market in the world.
