The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Cover by Assmaa Rady

When having trouble deciding what to do on a quiet Saturday or where to go out and unwind from the stress, check out this guide on spending a whole day in Zamalek with minimal effort and tons of fun.

Get Your Coffee from L’Aroma

Nothing beats starting your day with a good walk and strong coffee, which can be accomplished in the southern part of Zamalek. This part is usually way quieter than the other areas, making it better for a morning walk. As for the coffee and breakfast part, there are several options to choose from.

Image via L’Aroma

We recommend hitting up L’Aroma Gourmet Coffee for a huge cup of your favourite coffee order and a delicious sweet or savoury breakfast. With its impeccable music taste, super comfortable setting, quality, and affordability, L’Aroma perfectly creates a peaceful morning atmosphere. 

Spend Some Time Visiting These Art Spots

Image via Ubuntu Art Gallery

After enjoying breakfast and chatting with friends, kick off your artistic journey by exploring the many free and easily accessible galleries in Zamalek. Just a quick 3-minute walk from L’Aroma, you can visit Gallery Misr and Ubuntu. Another 3-minute walk will take you to Safrakhana. If you head east from there, you’ll discover a plethora of galleries within a short walking distance, including Art Corner, Fine Arts Gallery, The Loft, Passion, and many more. To capture some beautiful photographs, make sure to stop by Maison 69, known for its stunning decorations. You can conclude your gallery tour at Azad Art Gallery, which is located on Mohammed Anis Street.

Kayak Ride in Zamalek

Image via Zamalek Kayak

Now, it’s time to escape Zamalek’s traffic and noise. Take advantage of this beautiful weather and indulge in a sunset experience by booking a kayak ride at 4:30 PM, the last time slot. A must-do is booking the kayak ride in advance, as places are limited and may be hard to book on the spot. Bookings can be made through their page. The ride lasts for an hour, and you’ll be accompanied by your group and coaches, ensuring a very safe experience.

End Your Day on a Delicious Note at No Big Deal Cafe

Image via No Big Deal Cafe

When it’s time to eat again, and you’re too tired to go far, there are many places near the kayak spot. An excellent recommendation is the No Big Deal Cafe. No Big Deal serves numerous Eastern and Western dishes, which are all of good quality, moderate prices, and exceptional tastiness. A must-try there is their beef burger. Finally, to end the day on a happy note, you can drink some tea in their outdoor area or any of the next-door cafes and enjoy a refreshing evening.