Shopping Guide in Cairo

Shopping in Cairo

What to Buy:

• Papyrus Art: Hand-painted scenes on authentic papyrus. Ensure you're buying real papyrus (flexible, doesn't crack) not banana leaf imitations. Expect 50-300 EGP for quality pieces.
• Spices: Saffron, cumin, hibiscus tea (karkade), and spice blends. Khan el-Khalili spice vendors offer aromatic selections.
• Perfume Oils: Egyptian perfume oils (attar) including jasmine, lotus, and musk. Buy from reputable shops; test quality.
• Brass & Copper Items: Hand-punched metal lanterns, trays, coffee pots. Look for intricate handwork.
• Jewelry: Gold (sold by weight), silver, and cartouche pendants with hieroglyphic names.
• Egyptian Cotton: World-famous for quality. Galabiyyas (traditional robes), towels, and textiles.
• Shisha Pipes: Decorative water pipes in various sizes and designs.
• Alabaster & Stone Carvings: Statues, pyramids, scarabs. Check for quality; avoid cheap painted plaster.

Where to Shop:

• Khan el-Khalili Bazaar: Best for traditional souvenirs, spices, lanterns, jewelry. Haggling essential.
• Tentmakers Street (Khayamiya): Beautiful appliqué textiles, cushions, and wall hangings. Near Khan el-Khalili.
• Coppersmith Street: Traditional metalwork including lanterns and trays.
• Modern Malls: City Stars (largest in Egypt), Mall of Egypt, Cairo Festival City for international brands and air-conditioned shopping.

Bargaining Tips:

1. Initial Price Rule: Expect initial prices 3-5x the final price. Start offering 30-40% of asking price.
2. Stay Friendly: Bargaining is a social interaction; remain cheerful and patient.
3. Walk Away: If the price doesn't meet expectations, politely walk away. Sellers often call you back with better offers.
4. Buy Multiple Items: Purchase several items from one vendor for better discounts.
5. Cash is King: Bring Egyptian pounds; credit cards rare in traditional markets.
6. Know Market Prices: Visit several shops to gauge price ranges before committing.
7. Fixed Prices: Museums, malls, and some upscale shops have non-negotiable prices.

Scam awareness: Beware of shops offering 'special factory tours' or 'brother's shop' often high-pressure sales tactics. Stick to your itinerary.