How to Plan Your Cairo Top Day Tour: Giza Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, Felucca, and Elkhalili Bazaar

When you think of Cairo, the pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum are likely among the first things that come to mind. This tour takes you to both of these iconic sites, as well as providing a chance to take a leisurely boat ride on a traditional Nile felucca and explore the bustling Elkhalili bazaar. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your Cairo top day tour.

Overview

The full-day tour begins at 7:30 am, with pickup from your hotel or a convenient central location. You’ll travel in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle with a private tour guide who speaks your language. The tour includes tickets to the pyramids of Giza, as well as the Egyptian Museum in downtown Cairo. You’ll also have the opportunity to see the solar boat at the Giza site with an extra ticket. After exploring the ancient sites, you’ll take a relaxing boat ride along the Nile River on a traditional felucca. Finally, the tour will finish with a visit to Elkhalili bazaar, one of the oldest and largest markets in Cairo.

What’s Included

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Private transportation
• Expert Egyptology tour guide speaks your language
• Extra ticket-like pyramids inside and solar boat
• Personal needs
• Tipping – recommended

Meeting and Pickup

You’ll be picked up from your hotel or a central location in a private transportation vehicle. The tour starts promptly at 7:30 am, so be sure to arrive at the pickup point at least 15 minutes early.

Pickup points

There are several pickup points throughout Cairo, so choose the one that’s most convenient for you when you book the tour.

Select a pickup point

• Hotels in downtown Cairo or Giza.
• Cairo International Airport.
• Address or intersection within Cairo or Giza.

Start time

The tour starts promptly at 7:30 am, so be sure to arrive at the pickup point at least 15 minutes early.

What to Expect

During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to see some of the most iconic sites in Cairo, including:

1. Pyramids of Giza
   • Duration: 3 hours
   • Admission Ticket Included
2. The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities
   • Duration: 3 hours
   • Admission Ticket Included
   • See treasured artifacts including the golden mask of King Tutankhamen, statues, and mummies.
3. The Solar Boat
   • With an extra ticket, you’ll have the opportunity to see this remarkable artifact that was buried with Pharaoh Khufu to transport him to the afterlife
4. Nile felucca boat ride
   • Take a leisurely boat ride on traditional Nile felucca and relax while enjoying the views of the Nile River and Cairo skyline.
5. Elkhalili bazaar
   • Duration: 2 hours
   • Explore one of the oldest and largest markets in Cairo, with its maze of shops offering everything from souvenirs to spices to clothing and jewelry.

Additional Info

• Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.
• Wheelchair accessible.
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible.
• Most travelers can participate.
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate.
• Operated by Egypt Tours Experience.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

Book Your Tour Here

If you’re ready to book your Cairo top day tour, you can do so online at the following link: book the tour here.

Book Your Tour Now

Visiting Cairo’s many attractions in one day may sound daunting, but this guided tour with a knowledgeable Egyptology tour guide makes it easy and enjoyable. From the ancient pyramids and museum to the peaceful felucca ride and colorful bazaar, the Cairo top day tour offers something for everyone. Have a great time exploring Cairo!

FAQs About Cairo

Cairo, the capital city of Egypt, is a hub of rich history and culture, bustling markets, ancient architect and modern skyscrapers. Visitors travel from all over the world to witness the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the world-famous Egyptian Museum. In this guide, we will answer some frequently asked questions about Cairo.

1. What is Cairo famous for?

Cairo is famous for many things, but the most popular ones include:

The Great Pyramids of Giza

One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Great Pyramids of Giza, is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Cairo. The pyramids, built-in 2560 BC, include the only remaining wonder from the original list of Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

The Sphinx

Located in Giza, the Great Sphinx is another popular attraction in Cairo. The Sphinx is a limestone statue with the head of a human and the body of a lion. It is one of the largest and oldest monolithic statues in the world.

The Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum located at Tahrir Square, houses one of the world’s most extensive collections of ancient artifacts. With over 120,000 artifacts on display, visitors can witness the treasures of the pharaohs, including the infamous King Tutankhamun exhibit.

Khan el-Khalili Market

Khan el-Khalili is an open-air market in the heart of Islamic Cairo. It is a perfect place to shop for traditional Egyptian souvenirs, clothes, spices, and gold jewelry.

2. What is the weather like in Cairo?

Cairo has a desert climate, and the weather is mainly hot and dry all year round, especially during the summer months. The temperature in Cairo can reach up to 40°C (104°F) during the day in summer and drop to 20°C (68°F) at night. Winter months temperatures range from 10-20°C (50-68°F).

3. What is the best time to visit Cairo?

The best time to visit Cairo is from November to February when the temperature is cooler and comfortable to explore the various attractions in the city. During December, visitors can experience the Coptic Christmas celebrations and the Islamic New Year’s Eve.

4. How do I get to Cairo?

Cairo International Airport is the primary gateway to Egypt, located around 15 miles (24 km) northeast of Cairo’s city center. Major international airlines operate daily flights to Cairo from various destinations worldwide.

5. What are the means of transportation in Cairo?

Cairo has various modes of transportation, including:

Metro

The Cairo Metro is the fastest and most efficient way to move around the city. It has two lines that cover most of the city’s main attractions, and the fare is relatively cheap.

Bus

Cairo has an extensive public bus system that operates throughout the city. The buses are cheap, but the routes can be confusing for the first-time visitor.

Taxis

Taxis are also readily available in Cairo but make sure to negotiate the fare beforehand to avoid any overcharging issues. Beware of unlicensed taxis and ensure that the driver uses the meter.

6. What are the must-try local delicacies in Cairo?

Cairo has a vast culinary heritage with unique dishes that reflect Egyptian culture. The must-try local delicacies include:

Koshary

Koshary is a popular Egyptian street food made of lentils, pasta, cooked chickpeas, and crispy fried onions topped with tomato sauce and garlic vinegar.

Fatteh

Fatteh is a traditional Egyptian breakfast dish made of layers of crispy flatbread, boiled chickpeas, and a garlicy yogurt sauce.

Shawarma

Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish made of marinated meat, chicken or beef, layered on a spit and slowly roasted until it’s juicy and tender.

Tahini and Molokhia

Tahini and Molokhia are rich traditional Egyptian dishes made of green leafy vegetables and sesame paste.

7. How safe is Cairo?

Cairo is generally a safe place to visit. However, it is advisable to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and to avoid any political gatherings or protests.

8. What should I wear when visiting Cairo?

Egypt is a conservative country, and it’s best to dress modestly when visiting Cairo. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid wearing shorts. Comfortable loose clothing and walking shoes are recommended due to the heat and the amount of walking required to explore the city.

9. What is the currency used in Cairo?

The currency used in Cairo is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Visitors can exchange their currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and hotels. It’s advisable to carry small denominations of cash for small purchases at shops or street vendors who might not accept credit cards.

10. Can I drink tap water in Cairo?

It is not advisable to drink tap water in Cairo due to the high mineral content, which might lead to stomach problems for visitors. It’s advisable to drink bottled water, which is readily available at most shops and supermarkets.

Book Your Tour Now

Cairo is a vibrant and multicultural city with a rich history and a vast array of attractions to explore. While there are some challenges, such as the scorching heat during summer and the conservative societal norms, with good planning and preparation, you can have an enjoyable and memorable experience visiting Cairo.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Cairo

Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is one of the oldest cities in the world, with a rich history, culture, and unique attractions that will leave any tourist spellbound. From historical landmarks to bustling markets, there are a plethora of things that you can do and see in this vibrant city. In this guide, we will explore some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Cairo.

1. Visit the Pyramids of Giza

The Pyramids of Giza is undoubtedly one of the most iconic landmarks in the world and is a must-visit when in Cairo. These ancient structures are the only surviving wonder of the seven wonders of the ancient world and offer an opportunity to explore and learn about ancient Egyptian culture and history. At the Pyramids of Giza, you can take a guided tour or explore the area on your own. It is highly recommended that you visit the pyramids early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat during the day.

2. Explore the Egyptian Museum

The Egyptian Museum is home to one of the largest collections of ancient Egyptian artifacts in the world. This museum boasts over 120,000 pieces, including mummies, statues, and other historical items that provide a glimpse into ancient Egyptian life and culture. The museum is divided into several sections, including the Tutankhamun Gallery, the Royal Mummy Room, and the Animal Mummies Room. A guided tour is highly recommended to navigate this massive museum and get the most out of your visit.

3. Wander through Khan el-Khalili

Khan el-Khalili is one of the largest and oldest bazaars in the world, dating back to the 14th century. This market offers everything from souvenirs, spices, and traditional crafts to local foods and drinks. Walking through Khan el-Khalili is a sensory experience, with the smells of spices and incense filling the air and the colorful displays of goods at every turn. Be prepared to haggle with vendors, as it is part of the experience.

4. Take a Nile River Cruise

A Nile River Cruise is a great way to get a different perspective of Cairo and see some of the city’s landmarks from a unique vantage point. Many cruises offer dinner and entertainment, making it a great way to spend an evening in Cairo. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can also take a felucca ride on the Nile. A felucca is a traditional sailing boat that can provide a more authentic experience.

5. Visit the Citadel of Cairo

The Citadel of Cairo is a medieval fortress that was built in the 12th century. This structure is not only an impressive sight, but it also offers panoramic views of the city. The Citadel is home to several museums, mosques, and other attractions, including the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, which is one of the most famous mosques in Cairo.

6. Enjoy Egyptian Cuisine

Egyptian cuisine is a rich fusion of Middle Eastern, African, and Mediterranean flavors. From traditional dishes like Kushari, Ful Medames, and Shawarma to modern street foods like Ta’ameya and Hawawshi, there are plenty of options to try. Some recommended restaurants to visit include Felfela, Abou El Sid, and Koshari Tahrir. Be sure to sample some traditional drinks like Hibiscus tea and Sugar Cane Juice as well.

Book Your Tour Now

Cairo is a city that has something to offer for everyone. From its ancient history to its modern culture, there are plenty of activities to enjoy and sights to see. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie or simply looking for a fun experience, Cairo will not disappoint. So, pack your bags and head to this spectacular city for an incredible adventure.