Khan el-Khalili is Cairo’s great bazaar, a maze of narrow lanes in the heart of Islamic Cairo where merchants have traded for more than 600 years. It is noisy, crowded and full of character, and it is the best place in Egypt to shop for souvenirs, spices, lamps and silver, or just to sit with a mint tea and watch the city go by.
History
The market takes its name from Emir Jarkas al-Khalili, a Mamluk official who built a large caravanserai here in 1382 on the site of an old Fatimid palace cemetery. Traders from across the Middle East, Africa and Asia stayed and sold their goods, and the area grew into a network of workshops and covered streets. Some of the old stone gates, such as Bab al-Ghuri, still stand.
What to buy
Look for brass and copper lanterns, inlaid wooden boxes, cotton scarves and galabeyas, silver and gold jewelry with your name in hieroglyphs, perfumes and essential oils, spices, and handmade glass. Quality varies a lot, so check the item closely and buy from shops that let you take your time.
Bargaining tips
Bargaining is expected and done with a smile. Ask the price, offer about half, and meet somewhere in the middle. If you are not sure, walk away politely: the seller will often call you back. Your guide can point you to honest shops, but you never have to buy anything.
Coffee at El Fishawy
Take a break at El Fishawy, a café in a narrow alley that has been open for more than 200 years, with old mirrors and brass tables. Order a mint tea or a Turkish coffee. From here it is a short walk to Al-Muizz Street, the Al-Azhar Mosque and the Mosque of al-Hussein.
Visiting
The bazaar is busiest and most atmospheric in the evening. Keep an eye on your bag in the crowds. Khan el-Khalili is part of many of our Cairo day tours.
