Khan el-Khalili
El-Gamaleya, Cairo, Egypt, 4331302
Khan el-Khalili bazaar is Old Cairo’s signature shopping destination; it spans a warren of stone alleys and historic courtyards. Thanks to the wafts of incense and the glow of lanterns, it’s an atmospheric place to shop or browse—although bargaining is essential and the quality of goods can vary widely.
The basics
With everything from cheap clothing and perfume to silverwork and leatherwork available—plus atmosphere by the truckload—Khan el-Khalili is a popular stop on Cairo tours; almost all Old Cairo trips visit it. Exploring with a private guide can help you find good quality products and bargain for them. Cairo’s touts and street hustlers are generally much less persistent if you have a guide.
Things to know before you go
Khan el-Khalili is great for history buffs, photographers, shoppers, people watchers, and the culturally curious.
Like so many busy tourist destinations, Khan el-Khalili is prone to pickpockets. Keep bags shut and hold them close to your body.
It’s not uncommon for vendors to open negotiations at five times the price they’ll actually accept, or even higher. Research prices online before you come if you’re planning a significant purchase.
Uneven surfaces, steps, and stairs mean Khan el-Khalili is not wheelchair-accessible or stroller-friendly.
How to get there
Khan el-Khalili is in Old Cairo, opposite the Al-Azhar Mosque to the east of Sharia Al Mu'izz Li-Din Allah (El-Moez Street). It’s more than a mile (1.5 kilometers) from the nearest metro station, Attaba (Line 2 and Line 3), so most travelers find it easier to join a tour, book a driver, or use rideshare apps such as Uber and Careem.
When to get there
Khan el-Khalili is a collection of independent stores rather than a centralized mall, so it doesn’t have set opening hours. Souvenir vendors operate seven days a week, from morning until well into the evening. More authentic stores also stay open late but usually close on Sundays and Friday mornings until after Friday’s noon prayers.
El Fishawi—a historic Khan el-Khalili café
Cairenes love to eat, so there are plenty of food options around Khan el-Khalili. One of the most popular is El Fishawi, a café that opened its doors in 1797 and is still family-owned seven generations later. Popular with intellectuals during the 20th century—including Nobel Prize-winning author Naguib Mahfouz—dark wood, mirrors, and shisha smoke create a mesmerizing atmosphere. Opt for the café’s signature sweet tea with mint, or try karkade, a scarlet, sweet-and-sour hibiscus infusion.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!