Cairo's Coptic quarter holds Christianity's oldest relics in Africa — the Hanging Church, the Crypt of the Holy Family, and the Ben Ezra Synagogue — while the extraordinary Cave Church of St. Simon, carved into a cliff face above Mokattam, seats 20,000 worshippers in a living rock cathedral.
What to expect
Your guide leads you through the Roman Babylon Fortress gate into Old Coptic Cairo, where the 5th-century Hanging Church (Al-Muallaqah) suspends its nave over a Roman watchtower. The crypt beneath the Church of St. Sergius marks the traditional resting place of the Holy Family during their flight into Egypt. The Cave Church of St. Simon on the Mokattam cliffs — an amphitheatre carved for 20,000 — stuns with its scale and raw spiritual power. Modest dress is required at all sites.
Good to know
Coptic Cairo is a 20-minute drive from Islamic Cairo — combine both for a full-day cultural immersion. Modest dress (covered shoulders and knees) is mandatory at every site. Entry to most Coptic churches is free; the Cave Church requires a short uphill walk.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Cairo — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Cairo
- Giza Pyramids, Sphinx & Solar Boat: Private Egyptologist Day
- Grand Egyptian Museum: Private VIP Tour with Egyptologist
- Islamic Cairo & Citadel of Saladin: Private Walking Immersion
- Khan el-Khalili Bazaar: Private Connoisseur Shopping & Spice Tour
- Nile Sunset Felucca & Private Dinner Cruise: Cairo After Dark