Cairo Shopping Guide

Cairo boasts some of the most jaw-dropping sights in the world, but it’s also home to a unique shopping scene. With a major focus on antiques, glass products, and artisan goods, Cairo is home to a plethora of souks and bazaars, world-class shopping malls, and street markets. Whether you’re on the hunt for an exciting vintage piece or a traditional Egyptian hookah, Egypt’s capital is a shopper’s paradise. To help satisfy your wildest desires, we’ve put together the ultimate Cairo shopping guide for your next visit.

Zamalek

If you’re on the hunt for good quality, unique products in Cairo, consider a trip to Zamalek. Offering a great selection of charming boutiques and antique stores, it’s one of the best places to pick up artisan handicrafts or locally made garments. Regarded as Egypt’s cosmopolitan center, shoppers flock from far and wide to peruse the charming, shaded streets. From art galleries to fair-trade and eclectic homeware stores, Zamalek is an oasis for shoppers who are after something different.

Khan-El-Khalili

Loved by tourists and locals alike, this lively 14th-century market is a great first glimpse into Cairo’s shopping scene. Known as the ‘king of souks’, the labyrinth of alleyways is renowned worldwide for its selection of authentic Egyptian goods, featuring entire streets dedicated to specific trades. From the Gold Market to the Spice Market, browsing through Egypt’s most beloved shopping spot is the perfect activity. 

Tentmakers Bazaar (Souk Al Khiyyamia)

As Cairo’s only remaining traditional covered market, Souk Al Khayamiya is the best place to find affordable, authentic Egyptian-produced textile crafts. Named after the artisan makers who produce the fabrics used to make ceremonial tents, the market is a portal to the medieval world. Boldly colored carpets, tapestries, pillowcases, and wall hangings, have been sold along this street, in fact, for centuries.

Citystars Mall

Located in the illustrious Heliopolis, Citystars Mall is home to some of Cairo’s best upscale shopping. With over 750 stores, the retail complex is well-known for its diverse offerings in shopping, dining, and entertainment. From H&M to Versace and everything in between, the range of goods available is incomparable to any other retail complex, making it the best one-stop-shop for your Cairo vacation.

El Azbakeya Wall

One of Cairo’s more unique shopping havens is Egypt’s most famous second-hand book store, El Azbakeya Wall. It’s an oasis for all types of book-lovers, from children to comic book enthusiasts and antique collectors. There are over 130 stalls selling books dating back to the 1800s, so if you’re on the hunt for a rare piece of literature, this book haven is your best bet. Located in the heart of Downtown, the market is only reachable by foot. The narrow street is tightly packed with merchants, showcasing Egypt’s dedicated and ancient relationship with literature. 

Wekalet El Balah

Since the 19th century, Wekalet El Balah has been providing Cairo’s locals with second-hand imported clothing, shoes, bags and furniture. While the products aren’t always renowned for their quality, the market is famous for providing an exciting shopping experience. If you’re on the hunt for an authentic cultural experience, this is a fantastic place to soak up the buzz of a modern Egyptian market. Plus, the affordable prices make it all the more tempting.

Discover More of Cairo

The city of Cairo is teeming with wonders including souks, spectacular restaurants, ancient history, and hidden treasures. For inspiration, read about the 10 best things to do in Cairo, our Cairo city guide and browse our Cairo day tours to discover your next adventure!

Discover all of Cairo’s fascinating landmarks, including the ancient pyramids, on one of our expertly guided Cairo Tours. If you’re eager to extend your getaway, our Egypt Package Tours, such as our 4 Day Cairo Tour Package, are ideal. In addition, we organize all your smooth transfers, devoted guides, spectacular activities, and comfortable accommodations, ensuring a dream vacation that is both seamless and exciting.