Cairo Private Shopping Tour: Local Markets & Crafts Experience

Summary

Explore Cairo’s Traditional Markets & Handicraft Shops

If you want to see Cairo beyond the usual sights, this private shopping tour takes you deep into its markets and workshops. You’ll meet real artisans, try your hand at ancient crafts, and bring home something truly unique—not just souvenirs, but stories.

What’s the experience like?

Stepping into Khan Al-Khalili feels like entering another world—lanterns hanging overhead, the scent of spices in the air, and shopkeepers calling out greetings in Arabic. Our guide, Ahmed, knew every shortcut through the maze of alleys. He pointed out a tiny stall selling handmade copper trays—said the owner’s family had worked here for three generations. I picked up a small one, still warm from the sun.

We ducked into an old papyrus museum next. The room was cool and quiet compared to the busy street outside. A woman showed us how they press and paint the papyrus sheets by hand—she let me try painting a lotus flower myself (it wasn’t great, but she smiled anyway). Later, at an Egyptian cotton store, I ran my fingers over pillowcases so soft they almost slipped away. The shopkeeper insisted on brewing us mint tea while we browsed.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Shopping at Khan Al-Khalili Market

• Explore Khan Al-Khalili Market

Top questions

Is this shopping tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes! The pace is relaxed and there are plenty of places to sit or grab a drink along the way. Our guide made sure everyone felt comfortable.

Can I bargain at Khan Al-Khalili?

Absolutely—you’re encouraged to! Our guide even gave us tips on how to negotiate politely with vendors.

Are purchases included in the tour price?

No, but there’s no pressure to buy anything. You can browse as much or as little as you like.

What’s included

You’ll get hotel pickup in an air-conditioned car, bottled water for the walk, an English-speaking guide who really knows Cairo’s hidden corners, plus visits to a papyrus museum, essential oils factory, gold & gift shop, Egyptian cotton store, and a handmade carpets school.