Silk Walls & Sweet Stops: An Artful Zamalek Day

Hours and openings change often — double-check each spot is still open before you head out.

The day, stop by stop

1. 1
   10:00 AM 75 min

   Aisha Fahmy Palace — Al Gezira Arts Center

   Silk-lined rooms, stained glass and elaborate woodwork make an atmospheric setting for changing art exhibitions. Public admission depends on the exhibition calendar; confirm access beforehand.

   1 Aziz Abaza Street, Zamalek, Cairo 11561, Egypt

   Directions
2. 2
   11:30 AM 45 min

   Diwan Bookstore — Zamalek

   A beloved bookshop where Arabic fiction, English-language reads and handsome art books invite an unhurried browse.

   159 26th of July Street, Zamalek, Cairo 11561, Egypt

   Directions
3. 3
   12:30 PM 90 min

   Abou El Sid — Zamalek

   Ornate lamps and richly patterned interiors set the scene for molokheya and other Egyptian classics. Reserve a lunch table rather than relying on a walk-in.

   157 26th of July Street, Zamalek, Cairo 11561, Egypt

   Directions
4. 4
   2:15 PM 30 min

   Mandarine Koueider — Zamalek

   Glass counters gleam with syrup-soaked pastries at this established confectioner. Pick a small selection of konafa or basbousa for a gloriously sweet interlude.

   17 Shagaret El Dorr Street, Zamalek, Cairo 11561, Egypt

   Directions