Souk el Fustat
Across the road from the security checkpoint at the northern end of Old Cairo
About
This is a great shopping opportunity next to Old Cairo that brings together an excellent selection of the best handicrafts from around the country. It's named for the old city that once occupied the site. Smooth sandstone arches and shaded courtyards make browsing the 40 shops a civil, and even tranquil, experience. Shops offer everything from traditional khameya needlework, handmade lanterns (ask for Mohamed Amin -- his work is famous), and furniture to Fayum pottery, soap, and rugs. Prices are more or less fixed, so don't expect to find the kind of cut-throat haggling here that you'll be subject to in Khan al Khalili, but there should be a little "wiggle room" in the price, especially if you're buying a number of different items. There is also a little cafeteria that's a great place to take a break on a hot day of sightseeing in Old Cairo. Daily 10am to 10pm.
