Welcome to Giza, one of the most popular destinations in Egypt. Known for its outstanding historical heritage and remarkable landmarks, it remains a must-visit place for those interested in exploring the ancient world. And what better way to do so than by taking a day trip? If you’re looking for a break from the bustling city of Cairo or just want to immerse yourself in Egypt’s rich culture, Giza has plenty of options for you. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the best day trips in Giza that are guaranteed to take your breath away. From the famous pyramid complex to local markets and museums, get ready for an adventure like no other.

The 3 Best Days Out in Giza

1. Downtown Cairo Half Day Tour With Egyptian Dinner
2. Half Day Saqqara Pyramids and Memphis Tour from Cairo
3. Private Day Tour to Cairo from Hurghada

The 3 Best Days Out in Giza

1. Downtown Cairo Half Day Tour With Egyptian Dinner

Looking to explore the best of downtown Cairo? Look no further than this half-day walking tour with an expert English-speaking guide. You’ll start in the late afternoon and make your way to Zamalek Island, where you’ll see the contrast of old and new in this metropolis. Along the way, you’ll visit Liberation Square (Midan Tahrir), the site of Egypt’s 2011 revolution, and take in street theater amid 19th-century architecture. Your guide will highlight all the important sites and provide context for what you’re seeing. The tour concludes with a delicious and authentic Egyptian dinner at a local restaurant, where you can try Koshary and ice cream. This tour is designed to travel like a local, utilizing the metro system, so you can truly immerse yourself in the city. Transportation to and from downtown Cairo is included, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy.

2. Half Day Saqqara Pyramids and Memphis Tour from Cairo

The half-day Saqqara Pyramids and Memphis Tour from Cairo offers a unique opportunity to travel back in time to ancient Egypt. Led by a knowledgeable guide, visitors will explore Saqqara, the world’s oldest large-scale stone monument, and see the famous Step Pyramid of Zoser, the oldest complete stone structure. The tour also includes a visit to Memphis, the ancient capital of Lower Egypt, where visitors can see relics from the city’s heyday in the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC at the open-air museum, including a colossal statue of Ramses II. Throughout the tour, the guide provides fascinating insights into ancient Egypt. This 4-hour tour is an immersive and educational experience for anyone interested in history and culture.

3. Private Day Tour to Cairo from Hurghada

Discover ancient Egyptian sites and icons on a full-day private trip to Cairo and Giza. With an Egyptologist guide, explore the pyramids and Great Sphinx of the Giza Plateau before uncovering the treasures in the Egyptian Museum. Visit the heart of historic Cairo to find a Roman fortress and the 7th-century Hanging Church. This tour is perfect for all ages and skill levels and is an ideal choice for families. Bottled water and lunch are included, along with additional entrance fees. Gratuities and drinks are not included. Your personal driver will pick you up at your Hurghada hotel at 1am to make an early start on the 6-hour drive to Cairo in an air-conditioned van.

The Top Frequently Asked Questions About Giza

Giza, Egypt, is one of the world’s most famous tourist destinations. Year after year, thousands of travelers flock to Giza to explore its ancient pyramids, tombs, temples, and more. However, visitors often have several questions and concerns before visiting Giza. Here are the top frequently asked questions about Giza:

1. What Are the Pyramids of Giza?

The Pyramids of Giza are a complex of ancient Egyptian monuments located on the Giza plateau. This complex consists of three main pyramids: the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure. These pyramids were built during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom of Ancient Egypt, and they were constructed as tombs for the pharaohs and their queens.

2. How Old Are the Pyramids of Giza?

The Great Pyramid of Khufu was built around 2560 BCE, making it over 4,500 years old. The Pyramid of Khafre and the Pyramid of Menkaure followed shortly after and were built during the reigns of their respective pharaohs.

3. How Were the Pyramids of Giza Built?

The construction of the Pyramids of Giza remains a mystery, but historians and archaeologists believe that the pyramids were built using a combination of ramps, pulleys, and sledges to transport heavy stone blocks from nearby quarries. The workers then placed the blocks on top of each other, forming the pyramid’s shape.

4. Can You Go Inside the Pyramids of Giza?

Yes, visitors can go inside the Pyramids of Giza, but only the Great Pyramid of Khufu and the Pyramid of Khafre are open to the public. However, there is an additional fee to enter the pyramids’ chambers. It’s essential to note that people who suffer from claustrophobia or a fear of enclosed spaces may not want to enter the pyramids.

5. What is the Sphinx?

The Sphinx is a massive limestone statue that has a human head and a lion’s body. It stands approximately 66 feet tall and is located on the Giza plateau. The Sphinx was constructed during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre and is believed to have been built as his guardian.

6. Can You Take Photos at Giza?

Yes, visitors are allowed to take photos at Giza. However, there is an additional fee to take photos and videos inside the pyramids. Be cautious of touts or unofficial tour guides at the site that may offer to take your photograph but may expect a fee.

7. What is the Best Time to Visit Giza?

The best time to visit Giza is from October to April due to the milder weather conditions. The summer months (May to September) can be sweltering, making it challenging to explore the site. It’s essential to note that the significant influx of visitors occurs from December to February, so expect crowds during these months.

8. How Can I Get to Giza?

Giza is approximately 18 kilometers southwest of Cairo, Egypt. Visitors can take taxis or buses from Cairo to Giza, or they can opt for organized day tours that include transportation and a guide.

9. Are There Any Medical Concerns When Visiting Giza?

It’s essential to bring sufficient water and stay hydrated when visiting Giza, especially during hot weather conditions. Visitors should also be aware of their surroundings and avoid ingesting contaminated food and water to prevent illnesses such as food poisoning.

10. Are There Any Rules for Visiting Giza?

Yes, there are regulations when visiting Giza. Visitors are not allowed to touch or climb on the monuments, and entering restricted areas can lead to fines and arrest by the local authorities. Visitors should also dress appropriately when visiting the site, wear comfortable and sturdy footwear, and respect the local customs and traditions.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Giza

Are you planning a trip to Giza and wondering how to make the most of your time there? Giza is a city on the west bank of the Nile river, just south of Cairo, and is famous for the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. In this guide, we will provide you with a detailed itinerary that will help you explore the best of Giza in a limited amount of time.

Day 1: Explore the Pyramids of Giza

The Great Pyramids of Giza are undoubtedly the primary attraction in Giza. The Pyramids are one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a massive monument, made up of three pyramids, the Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre and the Pyramid of Menkaure. Follow this itinerary to make the most of your time visiting the pyramids:

8:00 am – Arrive at the Pyramids of Giza

It is a good idea to arrive early to avoid the crowds and the heat. Tickets are available at the entrance of the complex. If you can, try to purchase the tickets online in advance to avoid the queues.

8:30 am – Pyramid of Khufu

Start your tour at the Pyramid of Khufu, the largest of the pyramids. You can enter the pyramid and climb the narrow passages to reach the burial chamber. It might be a bit claustrophobic, but it is an unforgettable experience to see the massive stones that make up the pyramid from the inside.

10:00 am – Pyramid of Khafre

The Pyramid of Khafre is the second-largest of the pyramids and is located just next to the Pyramid of Khufu. The Pyramid of Khafre has a slightly different design, with a smaller angle, and is surrounded by a wall of limestone.

11:30 am – The Sphinx

After exploring the Pyramids, head to the Sphinx, which is located just a short walk away. The Great Sphinx is a limestone statue of a mythical creature with the head of a human and the body of a lion. It is an impressive sight and is well worth a visit.

12:30 pm – Lunch break

After spending a morning in the hot sun, it’s time to take a lunch break. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in the area where you can try authentic Egyptian cuisine.

2:00 pm – Solar Boat Museum

The Solar Boat Museum is located just next to the Pyramid of Khufu, and it houses an ancient boat that was discovered in 1954. The boat was used to carry the Pharaoh’s body during his journey to the afterlife. It is a fascinating museum, and you can see the intricate details of the boat up close.

3:30 pm – Sound and Light Show

End your first day at the Sound and Light Show, which is held in the Pyramids of Giza complex. The show is an incredible experience, with the pyramids lit up in different colours while a narrated story of ancient Egyptian history is played. It is a great way to end your first day in Giza.

Day 2: Visit the Museums

Giza is not only about the Pyramids; it’s also home to some excellent museums that will give you an insight into the history and culture of ancient Egypt. Here is a list of the best museums to visit:

8:00 am – Egyptian Museum of Antiquities

Start your day at the Egyptian Museum, which is located in Cairo but is just a short drive away from Giza. The museum houses a vast collection of ancient Egyptian artefacts, including jewels, mummies, and statues.

11:00 am – Grand Egyptian Museum

The Grand Egyptian Museum is a massive new museum that is set to open in 2021, and it will be the largest archaeological museum in the world. It is located near the Pyramids of Giza and will house a vast collection of artefacts, including the treasures of King Tutankhamun.

1:00 pm – Lunch Break

Take a lunch break and try some traditional Egyptian food at a local restaurant.

2:30 pm – Imhotep Museum

The Imhotep Museum located on the Saqqara Necropolis, just a short drive from Giza, is home to a collection of artefacts from the Old Kingdom of Egypt. It is a smaller museum but is worth a visit.

4:00 pm – Papyrus Museum

The Papyrus Museum is located in Giza and is home to a collection of ancient Egyptian papyri. The museum offers a demonstration of how papyrus was made in ancient times, and you can also buy papyrus souvenirs.

6:00 pm – Nile River Cruise

End your day with a relaxing Nile River cruise. There are plenty of operators that offer sunset cruises that include a dinner buffet and entertainment.

Day 3: Relaxation and Shopping

After two busy days of exploring the Pyramids and the museums, it’s time to relax and do some shopping. Here are some things you can do on your last day in Giza:

10:00 am – Khan El-Khalili Bazaar

Start your day with a visit to the Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, which is located in the Islamic quarter of Cairo. The bazaar is a labyrinth of narrow alleys, and you can find a wide variety of goods, including silverware, textiles, spices, and souvenirs.

12:00 pm – Spa Day

After the crowded and busy market, it’s time to treat yourself with a relaxing spa day. There are plenty of spas in Giza that offer massages, facials, and other treatments.

2:00 pm – Giza Mall

If you’re in the mood for some shopping, head to the Giza Mall, which is a modern shopping centre that houses international brands and local shops.

6:00 pm – Dinner at Sequoia

End your trip to Giza with a spectacular dinner at Sequoia, a restaurant that offers stunning views of the Nile river and the city skyline. The restaurant serves a mix of Egyptian and international cuisine.

Conclusion

Giza is a city that is full of surprises and history. Whether you’re interested in exploring the Pyramids, learning about the history of ancient Egypt or just relaxing and shopping, Giza has something for everyone. We hope that this guide has helped you plan your trip to Giza and make the most of your time there.