A Complete Guide to Exploring Cairo and Giza

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A Complete Guide to Exploring Cairo and Giza

Cairo and Giza are two of Egypt’s most iconic destinations, offering a mix of ancient wonders, vibrant culture, and modern attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or just looking for an unforgettable adventure, this guide will help you plan your perfect Cairo and Giza city tour. Here’s what to expect, the best times to visit, ticket prices, and suggested durations for each attraction.

Giza Attractions

1-Giza Plateau (Pyramids and Sphinx):

The iconic Pyramids of Giza (Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure) and the Sphinx are among the most famous landmarks in the world. These ancient wonders date back over 4,500 years and are a must-see for any visitor to Egypt.

  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning (7–10 AM) to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
  • Ticket Prices:
  • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 60, Student EGP 30.
  • Other Nationality: Adult EGP 700 (14$),StudentEGP350(7$)
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  •  Suggested Duration: 2–3 hours.

2-Grand Egyptian Museum

A world-class museum showcasing ancient Egyptian artifacts, including treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb.

  • Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning (10 AM–12 PM).
  • Ticket Prices:
  • Egyptian: Adult EGP 200, Student EGP 100.
  • Other Nationality: Adult 1200 EGP(24$) Child 600 EGP(12$)
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 2–3 hours.

3-Dahshur:

Known for the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, Dahshur offers a quieter and less crowded alternative to Giza. It’s a great place to explore early pyramid architecture.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (8–10 AM).
  • Ticket Prices: 
  • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 10, Student EGP 5.
  • Other Nationality: Adult EGP200(4$) Student EGP100(2$)
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  •  Suggested Duration: 1–2 hours.

4-Saqqara Complex:

Home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone structure in the world. Saqqara is a vast necropolis with tombs, temples, and pyramids.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (8–10 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
  • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 30, Student EGP 10.
  • Other Nationality: Adult EGP 600 (12$) Student EGP300(6$)
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1–2 hours.

5-Memphis:

The ancient capital of Egypt, Memphis features the colossal statue of Ramses II and other artifacts from the Pharaonic era.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (8–10 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
  • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 10, Student EGP 5.
  • Other Nationality: Adult  EGP200(4$) Student EGP100(2$)
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1 hour.
giza pyramids

Cairo Attractions

1- The Egyptian Museum (Tahrir Square):

Houses over 120,000 artifacts, including royal mummies, Tutankhamun’s treasures, and ancient Egyptian art.

  • Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning (10 AM–12 PM).
  • Ticket Prices:
  • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 30, Student EGP 10.
  • Other Nationality Adult EGP550(11$)Student EGP275(5.50$)
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 2–3 hours.

2- El-Moez Street and Khan El-Khalili:

A historic street filled with Islamic architecture, shops, and cultural landmarks. Khan El-Khalili is a bustling market perfect for souvenirs.

  • Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or evening (4–8 PM).
  • Ticket Prices: Free entry.
  • Opening Hours: Open 24/7..
  • Suggested Duration: 1–2 hours.

3- National Museum of Egyptian Civilization:

Highlights Egypt’s cultural heritage, with exhibits on ancient and modern Egyptian life, including the Royal Mummies Hall.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–11 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
  • Egyptian: Adult EGP 80, Student EGP 40.
  • Arab/Other Nationality Adult EGP500(10$) Student EGP250(5$)
  • Opening Hours: Saturday–Thursday, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM; Friday, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM and 6:00 PM–9:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 2 hours.

4- Al-Azhar Park:

A beautiful green space in the heart of Cairo, offering panoramic views, restaurants, and a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–12 AM).
  • Ticket Prices: Adult EGP 40(,80$),, Student EGP 30(,60$)..
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–10:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1–3 hours.

5- Mohamed Ali Palace (Manial Palace):

A stunning palace with lush gardens, showcasing Islamic architecture and royal artifacts from the 19th century.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–11 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
  • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 20, Student EGP 5.
  • Other Nationality Adult EGP220(4.50$) Student EGP110(2.25$)
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1–2 hours.

6- Royal Chariots Museum:

Displays a collection of royal carriages and equestrian equipment used by Egyptian royalty.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–11 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
  • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 30, Student EGP 10.
  • Other Nationality: Adult EGP 300 (6$) Student EGP150(3$)
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1 hour.

7- Baron Empain Palace:

A unique Hindu-inspired palace in Heliopolis, known for its fascinating architecture and history.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–11 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
  • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 60, Student EGP 30.
  • Other Nationality: Adult EGP 220(4.40$) Student EGP110(2.20$)
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1 hour.

8- Cairo Tower:

Offers panoramic views of Cairo and the Nile, especially stunning at sunset or night.

  • Best Time to Visit: dunset.
  • Ticket Prices:
  • Egyptian/Arab:  EGP 100
  • Other Nationality:  EGP 350 (7$) children under 6 free
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–12:00 AM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1 hour.

9- Mamsha Ahl Misr (The Walk of the People of Egypt):

A modern waterfront promenade along the Nile, perfect for walking, dining, and enjoying the view.

  • Best Time to Visit: Evening (6–10 PM).
  • Ticket Prices: Free entry.
  • Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
  • Suggested Duration: 1–2 hours.

10- Nile Cruise and Dinner:

Enjoy a luxurious dinner cruise with live entertainment, traditional music, and belly dancing.

  • Best Time to Visit: Evening (7–10 PM).
  • Opening Hours: Evening cruises typically start at 7:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 2–3 hours.

11- Felucca on the Nile:

A traditional wooden sailboat ride, offering a peaceful and scenic experience on the Nile.

  • Best Time to Visit: Sunset (5–7 PM).
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–sunset.
  • Suggested Duration: 1–2 hours.

12- Cave Church (St. Simon’s Monastery):

A unique church carved into the Moqattam Hills, known for its stunning architecture and religious significance.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–11 AM).
  • Ticket Prices: Free entry.
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1–2 hours.

13- Rawda Island Nilometer:

An ancient device used to measure the Nile’s water levels, located on Rawda Island.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–11 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
  • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 20, Student EGP 10.
  •  Other Nationality: Adult EGP 120 (2.40$)Student EGP 60(1.20$).
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1 hour.
cairo

Old Cairo Attractions

1- Coptic Museum: A Journey Through Egypt’s Christian Heritage

a treasure trove of Christian artifacts, showcasing the rich history of Egypt’s Coptic community. The museum houses over 16,000 items, including ancient manuscripts, textiles, icons, and architectural fragments.

  • Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning (10 AM–12 PM) to avoid crowds.
  • Ticket Prices:
    • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 20, Student EGP 10.
    • Other Nationality: Adult EGP 280 (5.60$), Student EGP140 (2.80$).
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1–2 hours.

2- Museum of Islamic Art: A Glimpse into Islamic Civilization

One of the world’s largest collections of Islamic artifacts, featuring over 100,000 items. From intricate ceramics and textiles to rare manuscripts and metalwork, the museum offers a fascinating insight into Islamic art and culture.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–11 AM) for a quieter experience.
  • Ticket Prices:
    • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 20, Student EGP 10.
    • Other Nationality: Adult EGP 340 (7$) Student EGP170(3.50$).
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1–2 hours.

3- Salah Al-Din Citadel:

A historic fortress offering stunning views of Cairo. It’s home to the Alabaster Mosque and other historic structures.

  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning (8–10 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
    • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 60, Student EGP 30.
    • Other Nationality: Adult EGP 550 (11$),Student EGP275(5.50$).
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM (summer), 8:00 AM–4:00 PM (winter).
  • Suggested Duration: 1–2 hours.

4- El-Suhaymy House:

A beautifully preserved Ottoman-era house showcasing traditional Islamic architecture and design.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–11 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
  • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 10, Student EGP 5.
  • Other Nationality: Adult EGP 220 (4.50$), Student EGP110 (2.25$).
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1 hour.

5- Bab Zuweila:

One of Cairo’s historic gates, offering panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into medieval Cairo.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–11 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
    • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 10, Student EGP 5.
    • Other Nationality: Adult EGP 100 (2$),StudentEGP50(1$).
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1 hour.

6- Wikalet Al-Guri:

A historic caravanserai (merchant’s inn) with beautiful Islamic architecture and a lively atmosphere.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–11 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
    • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 10, Student EGP 5.
    • Other Nationality: Adult EGP 100 (2$), Student EGP50(1$).
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1 hour.

7- El Set Wasila House:

A historic house showcasing traditional Egyptian architecture and design.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–11 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
    • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 10, Student EGP 5.
    • Other Nationality: Adult EGP 100 (2$), Student EGP50(1$).
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1 hour.

8- Al-Guri Dome:

A historic mausoleum with stunning Islamic architecture and intricate designs.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–11 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
    • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 10, Student EGP 5.
    • Other Nationality: Adult EGP 150 (3$), Student EGP75(1.50$).
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1 hour.

9- Gamal Eldin ElZahaby House:

A historic house showcasing traditional Egyptian architecture and design.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–11 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
    • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 10, Student EGP 5.
    • Other Nationality: Adult EGP 30 (0.60$), Student EGP15(0.30$).
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1 hour.

10- Harawy House:

A historic house with beautiful Islamic architecture and design, offering a glimpse into Cairo’s past.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–11 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
    • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 10, Student EGP 5.
    • Other Nationality: Adult EGP 100 (2$), Student EGP50(1$).
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1 hour.

11- Sabiel Nafesa Al-Bayda’:

A historic water fountain (sabil) with beautiful Islamic architecture and design.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–11 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
    • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 10, Student EGP 5.
    • Other Nationality: Adult EGP 60 (1.20$), Student EGP30(0.60$).
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1 hour.

12- Gaber Anderson Museum:

A historic house turned museum showcasing Islamic art and architecture.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–11 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
    • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 10, Student EGP 5.
    • Other Nationality: Adult EGP 100 (2$), Student EGP50(1$).
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1 hour.

13- Mosque-Madrassa of Sultan Hassan:

A stunning example of Mamluk architecture, known for its massive size and intricate design.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–11 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
    • Other Nationality: Adult EGP 220 (4.40$), Student EGP110(2.20$).
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1–2 hours.

14- Mary’s Tree (Matariya):

A historic tree believed to be where the Holy Family rested during their journey in Egypt.

  • Best Time to Visit: Morning (9–11 AM).
  • Ticket Prices:
    • Egyptian/Arab: Adult EGP 10, Student EGP 5.
    • Other Nationality: Adult EGP 120 (2.40$), Student EGP60(1.20$).
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  • Suggested Duration: 1 hour.
Browse the best activities in Cairo  Activities in Cairo
old cairo

Conclusion

Cairo and Giza are treasure troves of history, culture, and adventure. With this guide, you can explore the best attractions, plan your time efficiently, and make the most of your visit. Whether you’re marveling at the Pyramids, wandering through ancient mosques, or cruising the Nile, Cairo and Giza promise an unforgettable experience.
Start planning your trip today and get ready to explore the heart of Egypt! 🌍

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