The Tailor-Made Guide of Things to See in Cairo - The Grand Egyptian Museum
- Barry Pickard
- Nov 15, 2025
- 12 min read
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. Regardless of this, please be advised that all opinions expressed in this blog post are genuine and authentically my own.
Author: Barry Pickard
Hi, I'm Barry, the owner of Tailor-Made Itineraries and I have been designing bespoke self-guided tours for adventurous and curious travellers since 2015. I am a history graduate with a passion for travel.
I created this blog to show, through my own adventures, how you can have an incredible travel experience as an independent traveller, giving you the information to navigate the world with confidence.
Contents
Where to Stay in Cairo
What's it like to stand face-to-face with treasures that have been locked away for a century?
The echo of footsteps on polished stone. The sharp tang of air conditioning cutting through Cairo's dusty heat. The impossible sight of an 11-meter statue of Ramses II looming before you, bathed in shafts of geometric sunlight. This is the Grand Egyptian Museum—and after decades of anticipation, it's finally open.
I'm Barry, owner of Tailor-Made Itineraries, and I've been crafting bespoke self-guided tours for independent travellers since 2015. As a history graduate with a passion for exploration, I've spent years helping curious adventurers navigate the world's most compelling destinations. This September, I had the privilege of visiting Egypt during the soft opening of the new Cairo museum—and trust me, the wait was worth it.
If you're searching for things to see in Cairo, wondering whether the Grand Egyptian Museum lives up to the hype, or trying to decide between the old and new museums in Cairo, you've found the right place. I've visited both the iconic Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square and the brand-new GEM, and in this guide, I'll share everything you need to know based on my own experience.
This isn't just another list of Cairo attractions—it's a practical, tip-based narrative drawn from my real visit, designed specifically for independent travellers who want to explore Egypt's treasures on their own terms. I'll walk you through what to expect at both museums, how to make the most of your time, and why the GEM represents a stunning leap forward in how Egypt tells its story.
Whether you're planning your first Egyptian adventure or returning to discover the latest must sees in Cairo, this guide will give you the confidence to navigate these world-class institutions like a pro. Because visiting the Grand Egyptian Museum isn't just about ticking off tourist attractions in Cairo—it's about witnessing history brought to life in a space that's bold, beautiful, and built to inspire.
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if visiting either of these museums appeals to you, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided tour around your requirements incorporating the Grand Egyptian Museum, or indeed, a general tour of Cairo itself.
Ready to discover why the GEM is one of the most exciting things to do in Cairo right now? Let's dive in.
Things to See in Cairo - The Grand Egyptian Museum
A Tale of Two Museums: Old vs. New
The Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square is a dusty treasure trove, a place where artefacts spill from every corner, and the scent of history hangs in the air. It’s chaotic, charming, and utterly authentic. But it’s also showing its age—dim lighting, minimal signage, no air conditioning and a layout that feels more like a warehouse than a curated experience.
Enter the Grand Egyptian Museum: sleek, spacious, and designed to awe. From the moment you step into its vast atrium and lock eyes with the colossal statue of Ramses II, you know you’re in for something special. The GEM is not just a museum—it’s a statement of intent. Egypt is ready to showcase its heritage on a world-class stage.
What to Expect at the Grand Egyptian Museum
During the soft opening, the majority of galleries were accessible, and what I saw was impressive. The first thing that hits you is the scale. The atrium alone is vast, with natural light pouring in through geometric skylights. The statue of Ramses II, standing 11 meters tall and weighing 83 tonnes, dominates the space—a fitting guardian for the treasures that lie beyond.
From there, a grand staircase lined with 87 statues and architectural fragments leads you through Egypt’s dynastic timeline. The museum’s layout is both chronological and thematic, with 12 main galleries now open to the public. These galleries span from prehistoric times (700,000 B.C.) to the Greco-Roman era, and are divided as follows:
Galleries 1–3: Prehistoric Egypt to the Old Kingdom (think pyramid builders).
Galleries 4–6: Middle Kingdom and Second Intermediate Period.
Galleries 7–9: New Kingdom (excluding Tutankhamun’s treasures).
Galleries 10–12: Post-New Kingdom through the Roman era.
Each gallery is a masterclass in curation, with interactive displays, multimedia storytelling, and immersive lighting that brings the artefacts to life. You’ll find sarcophagi, statues, stelae, and jewellery, all arranged to tell the story of Egyptian society, kingship, and beliefs. I am glad to report, however, that the museum doesn’t depend on hi-tec trickery to tell its story, rather, the museum primarily lets the stunning artifacts represent thousands of years of history.
It should also be mentioned that at the top of the staircase, there is a marvellous view of the Giza Plateau and its pyramids, which really brings into focus just how close the museum is to this wonder of the world. It is interesting to note that in the not too distant future, a wide walkway will be completed, which will connect the museum to the Giza Plateau.
I was expecting to be wowed by this museum, but it was the many small details that also left a lasting impression. For example, there were toilets around every corner of the galleries, ample benches available to allow you to sit and take in the impressive sights, and travelators and ramps to make each gallery easily accessible. These well-planned touches were even more evident to me considering I was visiting with elderly family members.
If you are enjoying this list, remember and subscribe to my mailing list to receive my latest blog posts.
The Tutankhamun Galleries
The crown jewel of the museum is undoubtedly the Tutankhamun collection—now displayed in full for the first time since the tomb’s discovery in 1922. Over 5,000 artefacts from the boy king’s tomb are showcased in a sprawling 7,000-square-meter space, including:
His golden death mask
Gilded chariots
Funeral beds
Jewelled sandals
Golden throne
Sarcophagi and coffins
Unfortunately, this gallery was not accessible during my visit. Perhaps this can be a great excuse for me to visit Egypt again soon! In the meantime, here is a little taster – the Golden Throne of Tutankhamun – when I saw it in the Tahrir museum before being moved to GEM.
Dining and Shopping at GEM
If all that the museum had to offer was its exhibits and design features, then it would still be world class – but there is more! After wandering through millennia of history, the Grand Egyptian Museum offers plenty of ways to rest, refuel, and indulge—all without leaving the museum grounds. Just off the main atrium, you’ll find a thoughtfully curated selection of cafés, restaurants, and boutiques that reflect both Egypt’s heritage and its modern flair.
We enjoyed a lunch at Bitter Sweet - a full-service eatery offering everything from mana’eesh to homemade pasta and desserts – but there were other restaurants, such as Zooba (Egyptian street food) and Ladurée (French cuisine), as well as three other cafes and an ice-cream parlour. Meanwhile there were shops selling, not only gifts, but everything from handbags and silverwork to handwoven rugs and handmade soaps.
It was so refreshing to visit a museum that had more than the passable café/restaurant and tourist-tacky gift shop. GEM’s range of eateries and stores really give the museum an extra dimension.
Read on the uncover the story behind GEM and whether you should visit the old Egyptian Museum!
The Story Behind the Grand Egyptian Museum: From Vision to Reality
The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is not just a museum—it’s a monumental achievement over two decades in the making. Its story is one of ambition, resilience, and a deep reverence for Egypt’s unparallelThe idea for the GEM was conceived in the late 1990s, as Egypt sought to address the limitations of the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square. That beloved institution, while iconic, had become overcrowded and outdated, unable to accommodate the ever-growing collection of ancient artefacts or the increasing number of visitors.
In 2002, an international architectural competition was launched, and the winning design—by Irish firm Heneghan Peng Architects—envisioned a structure that would echo the geometry of the nearby pyramids. Construction officially began in 2005, with the museum strategically located just 2 km from the Giza Plateau.
Despite its promising start, the GEM’s journey was far from smooth. The project faced numerous delays due to funding challenges, political instability following the 2011 Arab Spring and the COVID-19 pandemic among other issues.
In late 2024, the museum began its soft opening phase, however, the crown jewel—the Tutankhamun Gallery—remained under wraps, building anticipation for the full reveal. On 1 November 2025, the GEM was officially inaugurated in a lavish ceremony attended by over 70 world leaders, royals, and dignitaries. The museum opened to the public on 4 November 2025, coinciding with the 103rd anniversary of the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb. The GEM is expected to attract 5–8 million visitors annually, cementing its place as a global cultural destination.
If you are enjoying this list, remember and subscribe to my mailing list to receive my latest blog posts.
Where is the Grand Egyptian Museum & How to Get There
The GEM is located in Giza, just a stone’s throw from the Pyramids. In fact, you can see the tips of the pyramids from the museum’s upper levels—a surreal juxtaposition of ancient and modern.
Getting there is straightforward:
By taxi or Uber: The most convenient option from central Cairo (we visited using Uber and found the process smooth).
By tour group: Many operators now include GEM in their itineraries.
By public transport: Still a bit tricky, especially during the soft opening phase.
At the time of my visit, tickets were available online and at the gate. During September, the museum was not too busy, but now, after the grand opening and anticipated crowds, I would recommend booking in advance and checking the official website for the latest updates.
Tailor-Made Top Tips
Visit early: Beat the crowds and the heat.
Bring ID: Required for ticket purchase and entry.
Photography: Allowed in most areas, but flash is prohibited.
Facilities: Excellent toilets, cafés, and gift shops.
Accessibility: Ramps, lifts, and wide walkways make it easy to navigate.
The Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square: Still Worth a Visit?
Absolutely. While many artefacts are being relocated, the Tahrir museum still houses thousands of pieces, including mummies, sarcophagi, and Greco-Roman relics. There’s a rawness to it that the GEM, for all its polish, can’t replicate.
It’s also a piece of history in its own right—opened in 1902, it has witnessed revolutions, discoveries, and decades of tourism. If you’re a history buff, it’s worth seeing both museums to appreciate the evolution of Egyptology.
The Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square is not scheduled to close entirely to the public at this time. While the Tutankhamun Hall was officially closed on October 20, 2025, the rest of the museum remains open for visitors. The museum may continue to function as a complementary museum or be repurposed in the future, so it would be best to check online when planning a visit.
How Long Should You Stay?
GEM: 3–4 hours minimum, more if you’re a museum lover or if you wish to enjoy a meal here.
Tahrir Museum: 1-2 hours is plenty, especially if you’ve already seen highlights at GEM.
Although we visited both museums on the same day, I’d recommend visiting them on separate days to avoid museum fatigue and to give each its due.
If you are enjoying this list, remember and subscribe to my mailing list to receive my latest blog posts.
Quick Questions Answered
How do you purchase Grand Egyptian Museum tickets? Tickets can be bought online and at the museum entrance.
What is the Grand Egyptian Museum ticket price? Adult tickets are EGP 1,450 (approximately GBP £23 or USD $30), with child and student tickets costing EGP 730. Tickets are significantly lower if you are an Egyptian national.
What are the Grand Egyptian Museum opening hours?
Opening Hours:
Daily except Saturdays and Wednesdays
GEM Complex: 8:30 AM – 7 PM
Galleries: 9 AM – 6 PM
Last ticket purchase: 5 PM
Saturdays and Wednesdays
GEM Complex: 8:30 AM – 10 PM
Galleries: 9 AM – 9 PM
Last ticket purchase: 8 PM
Which museum is Tutankhamun in? The treasures of Tutankhamun are now in GEM.
Is the old Egyptian Museum in Cairo closing? The Tutankhamun gallery is now closed, but the museum itself is still open to the public while authorities decide what to do with the building.
Is the Grand Egyptian Museum bigger than the Louvre? The Louvre complex is bigger in total area, but the exhibition space of GEM is larger than the Louvre’s (81,000m2 to 72,735m2)
Is there a dress code for the Grand Egyptian Museum? No
Conclusion: Why the Grand Egyptian Museum is a Must-Visit
The Grand Egyptian Museum isn't just a new attraction—it's a reimagining of how Egypt tells its story to the world. After exploring both the cutting-edge GEM and the atmospheric Tahrir museum, I can say with confidence that Egypt now offers two complementary experiences that together paint a complete picture of this extraordinary civilization. The GEM is bold, beautiful, and meticulously designed to inspire, representing one of the most significant Cairo tourist destinations to open in decades.
Whether you're a first-time visitor discovering the things to do and see in Cairo or a returning traveller like me, the GEM deserves a prime spot on your itinerary—but don't skip the old museum either. Together, they offer a fascinating contrast: two sides of the same ancient coin, showing you the evolution of Egyptology itself. If you're planning your trip and wondering what to do in Cairo, my advice is simple: visit both museums, give each the time it deserves, and prepare to be amazed. These must visit in Cairo experiences will stay with you long after you've left Egypt's shores.
So, pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready to walk through 5,000 years of history at one of the world's most anticipated museum openings.
Where to Stay in Cairo
Cairo offers a rich tapestry of accommodation options to suit every traveller’s style and budget. Whether you're seeking luxury by the Nile, a mid-range boutique experience, or a budget-friendly base near the city’s iconic attractions, the Egyptian capital has something for everyone.
From the bustling heart of Downtown Cairo to the serene banks of the Nile River, and the historic charm of Giza, Cairo hotels blend ancient atmosphere with modern comfort. Many are within easy reach of the Egyptian Museum, Tahrir Square, and the Grand Egyptian Museum, making them ideal for culture-focused travellers.
Here are a few standout options to consider for your stay:
Luxury: Sofitel Cairo Downtown Nile
This hotel blends French elegance with Egyptian charm, offering sweeping views of the Nile from stylish rooms and suites. Located in the heart of Cairo near Tahrir Square and the Egyptian Museum, this 5-star hotel features world-class dining, a serene spa, and an outdoor pool overlooking the river—perfect for travellers seeking luxury and culture in one unforgettable stay.
👉 I stayed here during my trip and can personally recommend it for its comfort, service, and unbeatable location.
Mid-Range: Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir
Located just steps from Tahrir Square and the Egyptian Museum, this stylish hotel offers excellent value with modern rooms, a rooftop pool, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s ideal for travellers who want convenience without compromising on comfort.
Budget: Paradise Boutique Hotel
A charming, well-rated budget option in Downtown Cairo, Paradise Boutique offers clean rooms, friendly service, and a central location that puts you close to Cairo’s vibrant street life and key attractions.
Related Blog Posts
This post is the first in a tailor-made series exploring Egypt’s most iconic sites and experiences. Stay tuned for upcoming entries covering the Pyramids of Giza, Luxor’s temples, Nile cruises, and more. Links to each post will be added here as they’re published—so check back soon or subscribe to be the first to know!
Have you visited the Grand Egyptian Museum or the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, or are you planning a trip to explore these incredible Cairo tourist sites—I'd love to hear about your experience or answer any questions in the comments below!
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if visiting either of these museums appeals to you, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided tour around your requirements incorporating the Grand Egyptian Museum, or indeed, a general tour of Cairo itself.
Tailor-Made Itineraries posts every two weeks, and you can subscribe to the latest blog and newsletter here. Until then, happy reading and safe travels.
Barry
Contact Me: tailoritineraries@gmail.com
Tailor-Made Itineraries create one-of-a-kind bespoke self-guided travel itineraries for adventurous and curious travellers.
These self-guided tours deliver a personalised and exciting holiday experience that takes the effort out of trip planning.
Comments