Khan el-Khalili (خان الخليلي) Cairo Bazaar

About Khan El-Khalili Bazaar

Nestled in the heart of Islamic Cairo, Khan El-Khalili Bazaar is one of the world's oldest and most vibrant markets, established in 1382 by Emir Djaharks el-Khalili during the Mamluk era. Built on the site of a former Fatimid mausoleum, this sprawling souk—spanning narrow, labyrinthine alleys lined with over 4,000 shops—serves as a living tapestry of Egypt's trading heritage.

Once a caravanserai for merchants hauling spices, silks, and precious metals, it evolved into a bustling hub of commerce and culture, blending medieval architecture with modern haggling energy.

Today, it's a UNESCO-recognized gem where tourists and locals alike immerse themselves in the chaos of street vendors, aromatic spices, and historic mosques like Al-Hussein nearby, offering an authentic slice of Cairo's soul.

Visitor Guide

Gold Market

At the bazaar's core lies the gold souq, a glittering district where artisans have hammered precious metals since Mamluk times—vital for locals buying wedding jewelry. Rows of shops overflow with 21- or 22-karat gold treasures: intricate pharaoh-inspired necklaces, emerald-encrusted rings, ruby bracelets, and sapphire earrings, often blending ancient Egyptian motifs with Ottoman flair. Prices start high (expect to bargain down by 50%), but authenticity is key—look for certified hallmarks to avoid fakes amid the dazzling displays that echo Cairo's opulent past.

Al-Fishawi Café

Tucked within the bazaar's winding paths, Al-Fishawi Café—founded in 1773—stands as one of the oldest coffeehouses in the Arab world. Known as "The Mirror Café" for its ornate, reflective walls that create an illusion of endless space, this dimly lit haven buzzes with locals and visitors savoring strong Arabic coffee, mint tea, and shisha under hanging lanterns. Its cultural allure draws everyone from Nobel laureate Naguib Mahfouz, who penned stories here, to modern wanderers seeking respite from the market's frenzy. Open nearly 24/7, it's a timeless ritual spot where conversations flow as freely as the steam from brass pots.

Handmade Crafts

Khan El-Khalili pulses with Egypt's creative spirit through its handcraft workshops, hidden in courtyards and upper floors where coppersmiths, jewelers, and weavers preserve centuries-old techniques. Hunt for mosaic lanterns in vibrant stained glass, hand-carved wooden boxes inlaid with mother-of-pearl, papyrus scrolls painted with hieroglyphs, and khayamiya appliqué cushions bursting in geometric patterns. Brass trays, alabaster vases, and leather sandals add practical flair, while scarab amulets and pyramid figurines nod to pharaonic roots. These aren't mass-produced trinkets—many are bespoke, supporting local guilds and making ideal, story-rich souvenirs that capture the bazaar's enduring artistry.