Grand Egyptian Museum: A Complete Visitor's Guide
How to visit the Grand Egyptian Museum near the Pyramids: tickets, how long to stay, Tutankhamun's treasures, Khufu's boat and how to combine it with Giza.
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After two decades in the making, the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) beside the Giza Pyramids is the largest museum in the world devoted to a single civilisation. Its vast galleries, with views of the pyramids through the glass, bring together treasures that were scattered across Egypt – above all, the complete collection of Tutankhamun. Here's how to make the most of your visit.
Highlights
1. The Grand Staircase
A six-storey staircase lined with dozens of colossal statues of kings and gods leads up to the main galleries. At the top, a huge window frames the Pyramids of Giza.
2. The statue of Ramesses II
The 3,200-year-old, 11-metre statue of Ramesses II, which once stood in a Cairo square, greets visitors in the soaring atrium.
3. The Tutankhamun galleries
For the first time, the boy king's entire burial treasure – more than 5,000 objects – is displayed together, including his golden mask, chariots, thrones, jewellery and shrines. Expect queues at the busiest times.
4. The main galleries
Twelve chronological galleries tell the story of ancient Egypt from prehistory to the Roman period through themes of society, kingship and belief.
5. Khufu's solar boat
The 4,500-year-old cedarwood boat buried beside the Great Pyramid has been moved to the museum and is displayed in its own dedicated hall.
6. The children's museum
An interactive children's museum introduces younger visitors to ancient Egypt through games and hands-on activities.
Practical tips
- Book timed tickets online on the official ticketing website, and check which galleries are included.
- Combine it with the Pyramids: visit Giza at opening time, then retreat to the museum's cool galleries for the afternoon.
- Getting there: the museum is on the Cairo–Alexandria desert road near Giza. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are the easiest option from central Cairo; allow plenty of time for traffic.
- Eat on site: cafés and restaurants inside the museum have views towards the pyramids.
Cairo's other great museums
The historic Egyptian Museum on Tahrir Square remains open with thousands of objects, and the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization in Fustat is home to the Royal Mummies Hall, where the mummies of famous pharaohs are displayed.
Plan the rest of your trip with our 10-day Egypt itinerary and our guide to Cairo's quieter side.
Frequently asked questions
How long do you need at the Grand Egyptian Museum?
Allow at least three to four hours for the Grand Staircase, the Tutankhamun galleries and a selection of the main galleries. Enthusiasts can easily spend a full day.
How do I buy tickets for the Grand Egyptian Museum?
Buy timed tickets on the museum's official ticketing website. Some galleries and experiences need separate tickets, so check what's included when you book.
Can I visit the Pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum on the same day?
Yes. They're only a couple of kilometres apart. Visit the Pyramids early in the morning, then spend the hot afternoon inside the museum.
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