Cairo - just the name alone evokes images of ancient pyramids, bustling souks, and the mighty Nile flowing through a city that never seems to sleep. Our four-day stay in this incredible metropolis is a whirlwind of history, adventure, and cultural discoveries, made all the more memorable by our apartment with a stunning view of the Nile. Finding the perfect family-friendly place to stay takes some effort, but the Boho Chic Loft proves to be a great base for exploring the city. With a spacious layout, a heater / air conditioning (a must in Cairo!), and 24/7 security at the entrance, we feel comfortable and safe throughout our stay.

Of course, no place is perfect. The charming and nicely decorated apartment shows some signs of wear and tear, and while the kitchen is fully equipped, it’s not exactly a design masterpiece. But honestly, we aren’t in Cairo to sit inside. The real excitement awaits outside, in the streets and alleys of this endlessly fascinating city.

Cairo is intense, chaotic, and utterly captivating. Just outside our building, workers are ‘busy’ constructing a new boulevard along the Nile. Rather than being an inconvenience, it gives us a fascinating insight into how things are built here—let’s just say the process is quite different from what we’re used to!

As we walk through the streets, we get a glimpse of daily life unfolding around us. Mothers gather on the sidewalks in front of their homes, chatting while children play nearby along the pavement. There’s a vibrancy to the street life here, that makes the city feel alive at every moment of the day. Meanwhile, the traffic is an adventure in itself. There seem to be no real rules, just a symphony of honking horns. We’re relieved to have chosen taxis over renting a car; navigating these streets is an art form best left to the locals. The sounds of Cairo don’t stop at traffic. Outside our building, stray dogs make their presence known, their barking echoing through the night. A neighbor feeds them, and while we hope they find a peaceful place to settle once the construction is finished, their presence is just another reminder that Cairo has a rhythm of its own.

Despite the hustle and bustle, Cairo has an undeniable magic—especially when we step into its incredible history. Cairo isn’t just a city of history—it is history. One of the most fascinating stories about its origins dates back to 969 AD when the Fatimids founded their new capital. They name it Al-Qāhirah, meaning "The Victorious". According to legend, astrologers carefully choose the exact moment to begin construction, believing the stars will ensure the city’s success. However, just as the first stone is about to be laid, a raven caws unexpectedly, throwing off the timing. The workers begin anyway, and Cairo is born—not by the stars’ design, but by a bird that unknowingly reshaped history.

Even today, Cairo feels like a city that never waits for permission to grow, change, or reinvent itself. It moves forward with its own unique energy, much like it did over a thousand years ago.

With two daughters (13 and 16 now), we want to explore Cairo’s history in a way that captures their imagination. Museums can sometimes be hit or miss for teens, but these two are recommended.

Stepping into the Egyptian Museum (EMC), also known as the Cairo Museum, feels like entering a treasure trove of ancient wonders. This historic building in Tahrir Square houses thousands of artifacts, from colossal statues to delicate jewelry worn by pharaohs. One of the highlights of the museum is its incredible collection of artifacts from Tutankhamun’s tomb. While many treasures are gradually being moved to the Grand Egyptian Museum (the GEM), the collection here remains breathtaking, offering a glimpse into the wealth and artistry of ancient Egypt.

A gilded sarcophagus, likely belonging to an ancient Egyptian noble or high-ranking official

For teens who love adventure movies, it’s fun to point out how some of these relics inspired scenes in Indiana Jones or The Mummy. Seeing real mummies up close adds a slightly eerie but thrilling touch to the visit - especially when we learn about the ancient embalming process. It’s a museum where every corner holds something extraordinary.

For a completely different side of Egyptian history, we visit the Coptic Museum, located in the heart of Old Cairo. Housed in a beautifully preserved building, this museum tells the story of Egypt’s Christian heritage through stunning mosaics, ancient manuscripts, and intricate textiles. It’s refreshing to see a different chapter of Egypt’s past, proving that this country is not just about pyramids and pharaohs but a place of deep and diverse history.

Of course, the Pyramids of Giza are a must-see. You might want to read our review of our stay close to the pyramids. But we also want to point out lesser-known pyramids that offer a more adventurous experience.

Just outside Cairo, Saqqara is home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest pyramid in Egypt and the blueprint for all those that followed. Unlike Giza, where crowds can be overwhelming, Saqqara is much quieter, allowing us to truly take in the ancient atmosphere. The underground tombs and detailed hieroglyphs make it feel like we’ve stumbled into a secret world.

Further away, less than an hour driving, in Dahshur, the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid can be found. What makes these unique? You can actually climb inside the Red Pyramid. Crawling through a narrow tunnel, we descend into the heart of the structure, where the air is thick with history. It’s a bit claustrophobic, but for our thrill-seeking teens, it’s an unforgettable adventure—like being in an actual Indiana Jones movie.

The Bent Pyramid (credits: Pixabay)

After a day full of discoveries, there’s no better way to unwind than with a dinner by the Nile. At the Sofitel’s riverside restaurant, La Palmeraie, we indulge in traditional Egyptian dishes like koshari (a delicious mix of rice, lentils, and pasta with a spicy tomato sauce) and molokhia (a rich green stew). Don’t worry if your children might not know and try it; they also have a lot of pizza’s on the menu.

Waiting for our tangine and the live music to start

As we eat, felucca boats glide by, their colorful lights reflecting on the water. The city’s energy doesn’t fade at night; instead, it transforms into a dazzling display of movement and sound. Some boats blast music so loud it’s impossible not to notice, but honestly, that’s Cairo—it’s never quiet, never dull, and always full of life.

Cairo isn’t just for history buffs—it has plenty of excitement for families and teens. You can spend an evening at Al-Azhar Park, a lush green oasis with breathtaking views of the city skyline. Or get lost in the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, a vibrant maze of shops selling everything from spices, lights, shoes to handcrafted jewelry. And a hidden gem? The Cave Church (Saint Simon Monastery), a massive church carved into the cliffs of Mokattam, offering a unique and peaceful retreat from the city's chaos.

Cairo is a city of contrasts—where ancient wonders stand beside modern skyscrapers, where luxury hotels sit next to bustling markets, and where history is never just in the past but woven into everyday life. From its ancient treasures to its unstoppable energy, Cairo is a city that stays with you long after you’ve left. Would we return? Ideally at the same time of year, when the temperatures are mild enough to explore comfortably. There’s still so much more to discover. And our loft? It provides us with a comfortable, safe place to retreat after long days of adventure.

WOW

# Waking up to the sight of the Nile River each morning is an unforgettable experience.
# A spacious & family-friendly apartment, with plenty of room to relax and plan our next excursions.
# It’s central location and easy access to all the major attractions, making exploration effortless.