The Egyptian Museum
Explore millennia of ancient Egyptian history, from pharaohs to Tutankhamun's treasures, in Cairo's iconic museums.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
The Egyptian Museum
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore millennia of ancient Egyptian history, from pharaohs to Tutankhamun's treasures, in Cairo's iconic museums.
"An unforgettable journey through ancient history, a must-visit for anyone in Cairo!"
Book Tickets Online
Highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for the GEM, to secure your entry .
Follow the Suggested Route
Inside the Egyptian Museum, follow the arrows for a logical flow, then explore the middle sections and upper floors .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tutankhamun's Treasures
Egyptian Museum (Tahrir Square) / Grand Egyptian Museum (Giza)
Witness the iconic golden mask and other artifacts from the boy king's tomb. A truly breathtaking collection .
Colossal Statue of Ramesses II
Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) Entrance Hall
An 11-meter tall, 83-ton statue of the great pharaoh, a stunning welcome to the GEM .
The Grand Staircase
Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
Ascend this magnificent staircase adorned with monumental statues and artifacts, offering a grand introduction to ancient Egypt .
Royal Mummies
National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC)
See the remarkably preserved mummies of pharaohs and queens in a dedicated, modern exhibition hall .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigate the GEM vs. Old Museum Debate
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tickets Online
Highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for the GEM, to secure your entry.
Follow the Suggested Route
Inside the Egyptian Museum, follow the arrows for a logical flow, then explore the middle sections and upper floors.
Prepare for the Heat
Bring water and wear light clothing, as the older museum can get very hot. AC is available at the GEM.
Consider a Guided Tour
Enhance your understanding with a knowledgeable guide, especially at the GEM where tours are available.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tickets Online
Highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for the GEM, to secure your entry.
Follow the Suggested Route
Inside the Egyptian Museum, follow the arrows for a logical flow, then explore the middle sections and upper floors.
Prepare for the Heat
Bring water and wear light clothing, as the older museum can get very hot. AC is available at the GEM.
Consider a Guided Tour
Enhance your understanding with a knowledgeable guide, especially at the GEM where tours are available.
Check Exhibit Status
Confirm which artifacts are at the GEM vs. the old museum, as collections are still being moved.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the incredible collections and historical significance of both the Egyptian Museum and the Grand Egyptian Museum, calling them absolute must-visits in Cairo. However, the older museum's lack of air conditioning can be a significant drawback, making the heat overwhelming for some. Crowding is also a common concern, with some wishing for better segregation of exhibits.
"An absolute must-visit in Cairo! The collection is incredible. So much to see, discover, and learn about Egypt’s rich history. Definitely one of my highlights in the city.
Tip: when you enter, head left (you’ll see an arrow showing the suggested route). Follow it around the entire ground floor until you return to the starting point, then explore the middle section. After that, head up to the first floor, that’s where many of the most fascinating exhibits are!"
Jean Blans
"The treasures are beautiful but it NEEDS AC.
Two people in our group almost fainted.
I would've loved to stay longer, but the heat inside was overwhelming.
King Tut's mask is still here tho. That was gorgeous."
meoshie
"Fantastic museum with an absolute wealth of exhibits. Tons of tourists. The only reason I’d take off a star is that everything’s a little too packed and tourists are always touching exhibits. Hope they can spread things out a bit more and segregate the exhibits properly."
Saikhnaa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The GEM is located in Giza, near the pyramids. You can take a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber from central Cairo. The journey can take 30-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Yes, the Egyptian Museum is centrally located in Tahrir Square and is accessible by Cairo's metro system. It's also a short Uber or taxi ride from many hotels.
Using ride-sharing apps like Uber or Careem is the most convenient and affordable way to travel between the two museums, offering transparent pricing.
Both the Grand Egyptian Museum and the Egyptian Museum have parking facilities available for visitors arriving by car or taxi. However, using ride-sharing services is often more practical for tourists.
Yes, taxis are readily available outside both museums. However, using ride-sharing apps is recommended for a more reliable and pre-priced experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the GEM can be purchased online in advance through their official website or at the ticket counter upon arrival. Booking online is highly recommended to avoid queues.
Admission prices for the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square are generally affordable, with different rates for locals and foreigners. Check the official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, the GEM may offer different ticket options depending on which galleries are open. It's advisable to check their website for the latest information on ticket inclusions and pricing.
The Cairo Pass may offer entry to various attractions, including museums. It's worth checking if it covers the Egyptian Museum or the GEM for potential cost savings if you plan to visit multiple sites.
The Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's best to verify the exact hours on their official website before your visit, as they can vary.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Egyptian Museum is famous for Tutankhamun's treasures, including his golden mask, as well as the Narmer Palette, Merenptah's Stelae, and statues of pharaohs like Khafre and Khufu.
The GEM showcases a vast collection, including the colossal statue of Ramesses II, the Grand Staircase, and galleries covering different historical periods. Many of Tutankhamun's artifacts are being moved here.+1
The GEM has been undergoing a phased opening. While many galleries and facilities are accessible, the full opening, including the complete Tutankhamun collection, is ongoing. Check their official announcements for the latest status.+1
Photography policies can vary. In the Egyptian Museum, photography might be restricted in certain areas, especially for specific artifacts like Tutankhamun's mask. The GEM may have more lenient policies, but it's always best to check signage or ask staff.
For the Egyptian Museum, allow at least 3-4 hours to see the highlights. The GEM, being larger, might require a full day if all galleries are open. If you have limited time, prioritize key exhibits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The historic Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square has limited dining facilities, typically a small cafe. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit.
The GEM offers a range of dining options, including restaurants and cafes, providing a more modern and comfortable experience for visitors.
Generally, bringing outside food and drinks into the main exhibition halls is not permitted in most museums. There might be designated areas for consumption.
Yes, the area around Tahrir Square and downtown Cairo has numerous restaurants offering local Egyptian cuisine and international options. Ask your hotel for recommendations.
The GEM's restaurants are likely to offer a mix of Egyptian and international dishes, catering to a diverse range of visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic statues, sarcophagi, and the sheer volume of artifacts offer numerous photo opportunities. The Tutankhamun gallery, if accessible, is a highlight.
The colossal statue of Ramesses II, the Grand Staircase, and the museum's modern architecture are prime photo spots. Many galleries also offer stunning visuals.+1
Professional photography or videography often requires special permits and may incur additional fees. It's best to inquire with the museum administration beforehand.
Yes, drone photography is strictly prohibited in and around most historical sites and museums in Egypt due to security regulations.
Mornings are generally better for fewer crowds, allowing for clearer shots. However, the lighting inside can be controlled, so any time can be good for capturing artifacts.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Plan your visit for the morning to avoid the worst of the heat and crowds. Consider focusing on specific galleries or highlights to keep children engaged. The GEM's air-conditioning is a significant plus for comfort. Ensure you have plenty of water and snacks, though food options are more readily available at the GEM.
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) represents the future of museum display, housing a vast collection with cutting-edge presentation. Its sheer scale and the ongoing transfer of major artifacts, especially Tutankhamun's complete collection, make it a must-visit for understanding the latest in Egyptian archaeology and conservation.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
The Egyptian Museum, while older, still presents unique photographic challenges and rewards. The density of artifacts, the atmospheric lighting, and the historical context create a different kind of visual appeal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) vs. The Egyptian Museum (Tahrir Square)
The Egyptian Museum, situated in Tahrir Square, is the historic original museum, established in 1902.
When planning your visit, it's crucial to check the current status of artifact transfers.
Navigating Tutankhamun's Treasures
However, with the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), a significant portion of Tutankhamun's collection is being meticulously transferred. The GEM is designed to house these priceless artifacts in a dedicated, state-of-the-art environment, allowing for better preservation and display.
Travelers interested in seeing Tutankhamun's artifacts should confirm the latest exhibit information before their visit. Some Reddit users suggest that while the GEM is the future home, the Tahrir Square museum may still hold key pieces until the GEM's full opening is complete.
The Experience of Visiting
The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) offers a starkly different, more modern experience. Visitors are greeted by impressive architecture and vast, open spaces.
While still in its phased opening, the GEM promises to be a world-class destination for exploring ancient Egypt.Regardless of which museum you choose, or if you visit both, the common thread is the unforgettable journey through ancient Egyptian civilization.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit