📌 1. Geographic Location and the Grand Capital
Cairo is located in northern Egypt, on the eastern bank of the Nile River, just south of the Nile Delta.
The city extends across several governorates within “Greater Cairo,” including Giza and Shubra El-Kheima, with a population of approximately 20 million in the metropolitan area.

🏙️ 2. Urban Division and Key Districts
- Cairo includes various areas: “Downtown” at the heart of the capital, Gezira (Zamalek and Maadi Island), Giza on the western bank, and newer districts like Heliopolis and Nasr City.
- Historic Cairo – “Islamic Cairo”: Features important Islamic and Coptic landmarks such as Fustat, the Citadel, and the old city, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979.
🏞️ 3. The Nile and Corniche
- The Nile River runs through the center of the city and is a defining element of Cairo’s identity and transport. The Corniche El Nil (Nile Promenade) stretches from north to south and includes the newly developed “Ahl Misr Walkway,” designed to encourage pedestrian activity and leisure.
- The corniche was first fully constructed in 1955 during the era of President Gamal Abdel Nasser and has since undergone major improvements, including walking paths and bike lanes.
🚇 4. Public Transportation
- Cairo Metro is the first subway system in Africa and the Middle East, covering three lines with a total length of about 107 km and 84 stations, serving over 2.2 million passengers daily.
- In addition to the metro, buses, trains, and taxis serve different population segments, with ongoing projects aimed at improving urban connectivity.
🎯 5. Tourist Landmarks
- Maps highlight the locations of key attractions such as:
- The Egyptian Museum, the Sphinx, and the Giza Pyramids to the west
- Khan El Khalili bazaar, the Citadel, and historic Islamic quarters in central Cairo
- Greater Cairo and Zamalek Island in the middle of the Nile
- Walking maps include tourist routes covering Islamic, Coptic, and Jewish quarters, such as the Coptic District and the Hanging Church, with recommended walking tours.
🗺️ How to Use the Map Practically
- Identify your district: Downtown, Heliopolis, Giza, etc.
- Review transport options: use the metro to avoid congestion, and enjoy Nile views along the Corniche.
- Plan your route based on your interests: ancient landmarks, walking tours, museums, or Nile activities.