Khan el-Khalili at Sunset: A Magical Summer Evening in Cairo’s Timeless Bazaar

#summervacay **Why Visit in Summer?** As daytime temperatures cool, the **700-year-old market** comes alive with twinkling lanterns, storytellers, and the scent of hibiscus tea. Perfect for families who want the bazaar experience *without* the midday heat! --- ### **🌙 Your Perfect Evening Itinerary** #### **5:00 PM - Golden Hour Exploration** - **Start at El-Fishawi Café** (since 1773): Sip *mint lemonade* while kids watch artisans hand-paint glass lamps. - **Treasure Hunt:** Challenge kids to find: - The **"hidden lion"** carving near the gold souk - The **oldest spice shop** (look for the giant saffron scales!) #### **7:00 PM - Dinner Like a Local** - **Naguib Mahfouz Café:** Try *koshari* (Egypt’s national dish) in a courtyard lit by lanterns. - **Sweet Stop:** *Umm Ali* bread pudding at **El Abd Patisserie**—best shared! #### **8:30 PM - Night Market Magic** - **Watch:** Coppersmiths hammering under fairy lights - **Bargain For:** - Glow-in-the-dark pyramids (50 EGP) - Personalized cartouche necklaces (start at 200 EGP) --- ### **💡 Pro Tips for Summer Nights** - **Best Days:** Tuesday/Thursday (fewer crowds) - **Dress:** Light cotton + comfy sandals (stone floors stay warm) - **Safety:** Stay in the main alleys; the market is well-lit until 11 PM **Why Families Love It?** ✅ **Cooler temps** after 6 PM ✅ **No pressure buying** (shopkeepers are night-owl friendly!) ✅ **Free entertainment** from henna artists & oud players **Tag your adventure #caironights!** 🪔🌆 *(Pair with a **moonlit Al-Azhar Park visit**—just 10 mins by taxi!)*