Cairo is a land where time folds into itself, an eternal conversation between the ancient and the contemporary. It is a place of golden deserts and chaotic cities, one that shines with the gift of immortality. Ancient temples melt into the horizon, their silence broken by the pulse of youth: street poets, digital rebels, and indie beats echoing in underground cafés.
This week, KHAMSA takes the trip to Egypt with a detailed travel guide by Gannah Anwar (@gannahanwar on Instagram). Gannah is a digital creator and stylist who is currently working with Dior. She is closely associated with Cairo, with the city serving as the perfect muse for all her creative imaginations.
Egypt is eternal, restless, and unapologetically alive. Gannah will affirm its appeal, with its perfect blend of history and modernity serving as the ultimate tourist destination.
Top must-visit food spots?
Authentic Egyptian lunch or breakfast by the pyramids. 10/10.
Your go-to for Korean fine dining with a great Nile view.
Asian food.
Your go-to Egyptian fast food place.
Open in Egypt, tastes as good as Paris, and zero crowd, so you have to enjoy that too.
Casual tiny Italian spot.
Cool spot.
Turkish cuisine, fine dining.
Cosy vibes and you can shop local designers there too
“Riviera, Italiano, and Scalini are my favourite Italian spots. Em Sherif and Babel are my go-to Lebanese restaurants. You also shouldn’t miss out on a traditional Egyptian seafood dinner – “aklet samak” as we call it. My favourite spots are Asmak by the Nile & Aklet Samak New Cairo.
“Definitely try Arabica Uvenues Mall and Brown Nose 5A Mall for the best coffee in town, Daily Dose, El Kababgy for authentic Egyptian cuisine, El Abd and Sedra for sweets, and Elkoubasy for local juice.
Best places for sundowners/rooftop places?
Esca Cueva
Best places for shopping?
“Souq Diana (Aka Saint Ouen), a market full of everything and anything vintage, is a must-visit. It has antiques, one-of-one pieces, French tableware, vintage watches and sunglasses, film cameras, and old grannies phone.
“Go to Nozha St., a fun and endless street full of accessories, shops, and more.
“Zamalek St. is an area filled with vintage shops, including the OG shops from years and years ago. It has everything from antique shops to jewellery shops. You’ll also find a few concept stores featuring Egyptian brands as well.
“Maadi has a few shops where you can find luxury vintage designer pieces.”
Must-visit cultural spots?
Khan Khalili
“All the Egyptian vibes that you don’t wanna miss out are there. Love the people, the music, the live shows. A mix of everything.
“Grab a fetera, from Fatatry Elhussein, walk around the area, and shop – you’ll find hidden gems. This is where most of our known craftsmanship is located. There are many jewellers and many artists working with brass and silver to make unique home decors, tableware, and much more.
The Grand Egyptian Museum
“Laduree is now open there too, so you can eat your macarons while touring the museum.”
Cairo Marriott Hotel
“Outdoor breakfast, indoor dinner, for the royalty dining experience.”
“Also visit Aisha Fahmy Palace and Wissa Wasouf Centre.”
Best boutique hotels to stay in?
“5th Tahrirsquare located in downtown, Houseboat65 literally in the Nile, The House of Kheops by the Pyramids, and Maadi Villa Bella Epoque.”
What should you avoid?
“Public transportation. Pre-book your London cabs or hire a personal chauffeur. Avoid street vendors and revealing clothes while walking around the streets.”
Any tips and tricks to tackle the city?
“While shopping at any public markets, make sure to haggle. The prices and people are always flexible.”
