Welcome to The Travel Tinker! If you’re planning a trip to Egypt, the NEW Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Giza is a must-see destination as it is now partially open and will soon be fully open! Housing over 100,000 artefacts (That’s a lot!), including the complete Tutankhamun collection, it’s the world’s largest archaeological museum dedicated to a single civilisation. Before you go, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to the museum. 🇪🇬
First Things First: Getting There and Getting In
Nestled just a stone’s throw (about 2 km) from the Giza Pyramids, the GEM is a breeze to reach. Hail a taxi from downtown Cairo—they’re cheap and everywhere—or cruise along the Cairo Ring Road if you’re driving. Good news for future travellers: a metro line is in the works to link the city directly to the museum.
Pro tip: Pair your GEM ticket with the pyramids for a double dose of awe.
Related Article: Top 10 Places to Visit in Egypt: Ancient Wonders
Opening Hours and Ticketing Information
Visitors will appreciate the flexible opening hours at the Grand Egyptian Museum. Currently, the schedule is as follows:
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday:
- GEM Complex: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Galleries: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Last ticket purchase: 5:00 PM
Saturday and Wednesday:
- GEM Complex: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Galleries: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Last ticket purchase: 8:00 PM
Tickets: Don’t Get Left in the Sand
Tickets run between $35 to $150, depending on group size or add-ons like guided tours. Why the range? Private tours and VIP access can bump up the cost. Snag yours online at the official GEM website early—this place is hot, and spots vanish faster than shade in the desert. Psst… Get Your Guide offers handy booking options if you’re overwhelmed.
Exhibits You Can’t Miss
The Grand Egyptian Museum offers an immersive journey through millennia of Egyptian history. Here are some highlights that should be on your radar:
King Tut’s Bling: For the first time ever, all 5,000 treasures from his tomb are on display. Think golden masks, jeweled daggers, and chariots fit for a pharaoh. (National Geographic called it “stunning”—they’re not wrong.)
The Grand Staircase: Walk past towering statues of Egypt’s legendary rulers, including a 3,200-year-old Ramses II. Perfect for your Instagram “I’m here!” shot.
Khufu’s Solar Boat: This ancient vessel, built to ferry a pharaoh’s soul to the afterlife, has been painstakingly restored. It’s a jaw-dropper—don’t skip it!
*Current trial runs do not yet display the complete Tutankhamun collection, so you might need to return when the museum is fully open (anticipated by some experts on 3 July 2025).
Other Guides: Best Months to Discover the Ancient Wonders of Egypt
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Visitor Amenities and Facilities
The Grand Egyptian Museum is designed with your comfort in mind. Here’s what you can expect:
- Food & Shopping: Craving koshary or a latte? The museum’s cafes have you covered. Gift shops sell everything from papyrus art to mini sphinx souvenirs—great for gifts (or treating yourself).
- Kid-Friendly Fun: The children’s museum and interactive exhibits keep young explorers entertained.
- Photo Rules: Snap away (no flash!), but watch for “no photo” zones. Those artefacts are delicate!
This attention to detail makes the museum more than just a cultural experience—it’s a full-day adventure for visitors of all ages.
Hotels in Cairo
Security & Logistics
Expect airport-style checks at the entrance. Leave bulky bags at your hotel if possible—they’ll slow you down (and not needed most of the time!).
Pro tip: Pack light, wear comfy shoes (you’ll walk miles), and carry a water bottle. Cairo’s heat is no joke!
Pro Tips for a Hassle-Free Visit
- Beat the Crowds: Arrive at opening time. Trust me, the calm before the tourist storm is golden.
- Comfy Shoes = Happy Feet: You’ll walk miles. Leave the heels at the hotel.
- Hydrate Like a Camel: Cairo’s heat is no joke. Bring a refillable bottle—there are water stations.
- Plan Your Itinerary: Since the museum is enormous, plan which sections you most want to see. A guided tour can be very insightful if you’re short on time.
- Check Updates: Given that the museum is in a soft opening phase, keep an eye on official announcements regarding new exhibits or changes in access.
What to know How to Plan or Save for a Trip? Here are our best:
Nearby Attractions: The Pyramids and Beyond
No trip to Egypt is complete without exploring its legendary monuments. Luckily, the Grand Egyptian Museum is located just a stone’s throw from the Giza pyramid complex, making it easy to combine your visit with a tour of the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. Here are a few ideas:
- Pyramids of Giza: Marvel at the Great Pyramid, the Sphinx, and the surrounding structures.
- Sphinx: Take a moment to appreciate this enigmatic guardian of the pyramids.
- Local Markets: Explore nearby bazaars for a taste of local culture and souvenirs.
- Cultural Tours: Consider booking a guided tour that covers both the museum and the ancient sites.
These attractions complement your museum visit, offering a look at ancient and modern Egypt.
Recommended Tours and Tickets
The Full Official Opening: What’s Next?
While the museum is currently welcoming visitors in a trial run, the full official opening is eagerly anticipated. Reports suggest that key exhibits, inluding the complete King Tutankhamun collection and Khufu’s Solar Boat—will be unveiled when the museum is fully operational. Some sources even hint at an official grand opening date of 3 July 2025. Until then, the soft opening provides a unique opportunity to experience the museum’s modern facilities and vast collection, even if a few star exhibits remain off-limits for now.
Official Website: Grand Egyptian Museum
Quote from an industry expert:
“The Grand Egyptian Museum is set to revolutionise Egypt travel by combining state-of-the-art design with centuries of history. Even in its soft opening phase, it’s a must-visit for anyone fascinated by ancient Egyptian culture.”
— Travel Insider, Reuters (Reuters)
The Grand Egyptian Museum is more than just a repository of ancient artefacts—it’s an immersive journey into Egypt’s rich past. Even in its current soft opening phase, the museum offers a glimpse into what promises to be one of the world’s most spectacular cultural institutions. With modern amenities, flexible visiting hours, and a location that’s second to none, this museum is a must-visit for anyone fascinated by ancient Egyptian history. As the final unveiling of star exhibits looms on the horizon, now is the perfect time to experience the museum’s impressive blend of past and present.
Your turn…
Have you explored the GEM? Share your favourite moment below or tag us in your pyramid selfies on intsagram! 🌍✨
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- Pros and Cons of Visiting Egypt: A Comprehensive Guide
- Visit the Pyramids of Giza: A Comprehensive Guide
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Your Questions, Answered
What exhibits are currently open at the Grand Egyptian Museum?
Right now, you can explore the 12 main galleries, the grand hall, the impressive staircase, and the commercial areas. Key sections such as the full King Tutankhamun collection and Khufu’s Solar Boat remain off-limits until the full official opening.
When is the museum expected to fully open?
While the museum is operating on a soft opening basis, many sources hint at a full official opening around 3 July 2025. However, it’s best to check the latest updates on the official website.
How do I get to the museum from central Cairo?
The museum is located approximately 2 kilometres from the Giza pyramids. Taxis, rideshares, and soon a new metro line will provide easy access. Private car hires and shuttle services are also available.
Are guided tours available at the museum?
Yes, guided tours are offered in multiple languages including English and Arabic. A guided tour can help you appreciate the historical context of the exhibits and is highly recommended if you’re short on time.
What facilities are available for families and children?
The museum boasts a dedicated children’s museum, interactive educational spaces, numerous dining options, and ample rest areas, making it an excellent choice for family visits.
Travel Planning Resources
Ready to book your next trip? These trusted resources have been personally vetted to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Book Your Flights: Kick off your travel planning by finding the best flight deals on Trip.com. Our years of experience with them confirm they offer the most competitive prices.
Book Your Hotel: For the best hotel rates, use Booking.com . For the best and safest hostels, HostelWorld.com is your go-to resource.
Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, check out VRBO. They consistently offer the best prices.
Car Rentals: For affordable car rentals, check out RentalCars.com. They offer the best cars, mostly brand new.
Travel Insurance: Never travel without insurance. Here are our top recommendations:
- EKTA for Travel Insurance for all areas!
- Use AirHelp for compensation claims against flight delays etc.
Book Your Activities: Discover walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more on Get Your Guide. They have a vast selection of activities to enhance your trip. There is also Tiqets.com for instant mobile tickets.
Book The Best Trains: Use Trainline to find the most affordable trains or Rail Europe for rail passes!
Need More Help Planning Your Trip? Visit our Resources Page to see all the companies we trust and use for our travels.
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