Gayer Anderson Museum, is a 16th-century Islamic house which was restored in the 1930s by the British civil servant, Robert Gayer Anderson Pasha who worked as a military doctor and lived there between 1935-1942. It is a treasure trove of antiquities, ancient literary works and textiles and tiles. But above all, it’s a fascinating insight into domestic living and oddities of the time, such as the covered portal from which women were allowed to observe what men got up to in the salon below.

Ibn Tulun Mosque, built in 876 AD, is the oldest and most beautiful mosque in Egypt which you might recognise as its scenes from the Bond movie The Spy Who Loved Me were shot. Built between 876 and 878, it’s the oldest mosque in Egypt and one of the standout monuments dedicated to Islamic architecture. Wander through its vast open courtyard towards the minaret and climb up its narrow winding staircase, and imagine living in another time.

Just left of Al-Azhar Park’s entrance, a grand palm-lined avenue leads to Al Khan by Granita, where Egypt’s once-cosmopolitan spirit meets Islamic-inspired interiors. The picture-perfect setting pairs classic Egyptian dishes with flavours from further afield, while the park’s entry fee keeps the crowds at bay. 

Near historic Cairo, Al-Azhar Park sits close to the unmissable Saladin Citadel. Families gather here to celebrate birthdays beneath the trees, while the park’s elevated position opens up panoramic views across the city. Come in the late afternoon, when the greenery offers a welcome breather from Cairo’s heat and the city begins to glow.