Gisa

Things To Do

If you’re looking for an unforgettable travel experience, Giza is an absolute must. From the moment I arrived, I was awestruck by the sheer scale and majesty of the ancient pyramids. Standing before the Great Pyramids of Giza, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of wonder at the history that these massive structures represent. The combination of the Sphinx and the pyramids against the backdrop of the desert landscape felt almost surreal, like something straight out of a dream.

What truly made my visit special was the way the ancient and modern worlds coexist in Giza. You can explore ancient tombs and the Solar Boat Museum while being surrounded by bustling streets and modern Cairo in the distance. I was completely captivated by the blend of history and culture. The local vendors and camel rides also added a sense of authenticity to the experience.

One of my favorite moments was watching the sunset over the pyramids—the way the golden light bathed the structures in warm tones was breathtaking. The sound and light show at the pyramids was an unforgettable evening, bringing the ancient stories to life with lights, music, and narration.

Whether you’re exploring the famous Bent Pyramid in Dahshur, wandering through the ancient tombs of Saqqara, or taking in the view from the Giza Plateau, Giza will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. It’s a place where history comes alive in the most magical way.

Need To Know

Situated: Just outside Cairo, on the west bank of the Nile River

Accommodation: There are plenty of hotels with views of the Giza Pyramids, especially in the nearby Giza district. It’s recommended to book in advance, particularly during peak tourist season.

Activities:

Visit the Great Pyramids of Giza, including the Pyramid of Khufu (Cheops), the largest of the three pyramids
Stand in awe before the Sphinx, one of Egypt’s most iconic monuments
Explore the Solar Boat Museum, showcasing the ancient boat of Pharaoh Khufu
Take a camel ride around the pyramids for an unforgettable experience
Visit the Giza Plateau and marvel at the ancient wonders that have stood the test of time

Best season: From October to April, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for sightseeing

Cheap season: From May to September, although it can get extremely hot during the summer months

Things To Remember

Recommended Time to Visit Giza (Egypt)

1-2 days: Visit the Great Pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Grand Egyptian Museum.
3-4 days: Explore Saqqara, Dahshur, and take a felucca ride on the Nile.
5+ days: Discover Islamic Cairo, visit the Egyptian Museum, and take a day trip to Alexandria.

Giza 3-Day Itinerary (Highlights Trip)

Day 1: The Pyramids & Ancient Wonders

Morning:

Start at the Great Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Explore the pyramids of Khufu (Cheops), Khafre, and Menkaure.
Walk to the Great Sphinx, the iconic limestone statue with a lion’s body and a pharaoh’s face.
Visit the Panoramic Viewpoint, the best spot for capturing all three pyramids in one photo.

Afternoon:

Have lunch at 9 Pyramids Lounge, offering breathtaking pyramid views.
Explore the Grand Egyptian Museum (if open), home to thousands of ancient artifacts, including Tutankhamun’s treasures.
Visit the Solar Boat Museum, where you can see an ancient wooden ship buried near the pyramids.

Evening:

Enjoy dinner at Felfela, a popular Egyptian restaurant known for its traditional dishes.
Watch the Sound and Light Show at the pyramids, a spectacular nighttime experience.

Day 2: Saqqara, Dahshur & Memphis

Morning:

Visit Saqqara, home to Egypt’s first pyramid, the Step Pyramid of Djoser, designed by Imhotep.
Explore Teti’s Pyramid, where you can see some of the earliest pyramid texts.
Visit the Tomb of Kagemni, known for its detailed carvings depicting daily life in ancient Egypt.

Afternoon:

Have lunch at Andrea Mariouteya, famous for its grilled chicken and garden setting.
Head to Dahshur to see the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, two of Egypt’s oldest true pyramids.
Explore Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt, and see the massive statue of Ramses II.

Evening:

Dine at Abou El Sid, a stylish restaurant serving classic Egyptian cuisine.
Stroll along the Nile Corniche and enjoy the city lights.

Day 3: Nile Experience or Cairo’s Hidden Gems

Option 1: Nile & Relaxation
Morning:

Take a felucca boat ride on the Nile for a peaceful morning cruise.
Visit Pharaonic Village, an interactive museum where actors recreate ancient Egyptian life.

Afternoon:

Enjoy lunch at Sequoia, a chic Nile-side restaurant with Mediterranean and Egyptian cuisine.
Relax at your hotel or explore a local café for some Egyptian tea and shisha.

Evening:

Have dinner at Le Pacha 1901, a floating restaurant with a variety of international cuisines.
End your trip with a sunset view of the pyramids from a rooftop café like The Cake Café.

Option 2: More Ancient Sites & Local Culture
Morning:

Visit the Egyptian Museum in downtown Cairo, home to an extensive collection of ancient artifacts.
Stop by Tahrir Square, the heart of modern Egyptian history.

Afternoon:

Have lunch at Koshary Abou Tarek, the best place to try Egypt’s national dish, koshary.
Explore Islamic Cairo, including the Citadel of Saladin and the Mosque of Muhammad Ali.
Visit the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, a vibrant market for souvenirs, spices, and handmade crafts.

Evening:

Enjoy dinner at Naguib Mahfouz Café, a historic spot in the heart of Khan el-Khalili.
Take a night walk along Al-Muizz Street, where historic mosques and madrasas are beautifully illuminated.

Giza 5-Day Itinerary (More In-Depth)

Day 4: Take a day trip to Alexandria, visiting the Catacombs, Qaitbay Citadel, and Bibliotheca Alexandrina.
Day 5: Discover Coptic Cairo, including the Hanging Church, Ben Ezra Synagogue, and the Cave Church.