Cairo, Egypt’s sprawling capital, holds the key to unlocking millennia of history. Each corner, each stone, whispers tales of ancient civilizations, monumental achievements, and the vibrant pulse of modern Egyptian life. For those eager to dive into the heart of the world’s oldest metropolis, Cairo offers a variety of day tours, each offering a glimpse into a different facet of the city’s remarkable past and present.
In this guide, we’ll take you through some of Cairo’s most iconic tours. From the awe-inspiring pyramids of Giza to the bustling bazaars of Khan El Khalili, and from the ancient tombs of Saqqara to the treasures of the Egyptian Museum, there’s something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re here for a brief layover or a deep dive into Egypt’s cultural heritage, these day tours will leave you awe-struck and inspired.
Table of Contents
- 1. Day Tour to Giza Pyramids, Panoramic Viewpoint, Valley Temple, Sphinx, and Lunch Break
- 2. Day Tour to Giza Pyramids, Panoramic Viewpoint, Valley Temple, Sphinx, Lunch Break, Saqqara & Memphis
- 3. Day Tour to Giza Pyramids, Panoramic Viewpoint, Valley Temple, Sphinx, Lunch Break, Egyptian Museum, Old Cairo & Khan El Khalili
- 4. Day Tour to Egyptian Museum, Old Cairo & Khan El Khalili
- 5. Day Tour to The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, Citadel & Khan El Khalili
- 6. Day Tour to Giza Pyramids and Sphinx
- 7. Day Tour to Giza Pyramids and Saqqara
- 8. Stopover Tour of Cairo
- 9. El Minya Day Tour from Cairo by Car
- 10. Tour to Fayoum Oasis From Cairo
- 11. Overnight Safari Trip to Bahariya and White Desert from Cairo
- 12. Half-Day Tour to the Grand Egyptian Museum
- 13. Grand Egyptian Museum VIP Trip
- 14. Cairo Museums, Citadel & Khan El Khalili Tour from Cairo Airport
- 15. Pyramids Tour from Cairo Airport
- 16. Wadi El Hitan & Desert Safari Tour From Cairo
- 17. Coptic Cairo Day Tour
- 18. Day Tour to Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, Pompey’s Pillar, Fort Qaitbey, Mosque of Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi & Bibliotheca Alexandrina from Cairo
1. Day Tour to Giza Pyramids, Panoramic Viewpoint, Valley Temple, Sphinx, and Lunch Break
Begin your day with a visit to the Pyramids of Giza, where the awe-inspiring structures of the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure await. These pyramids are considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and their sheer scale will leave you breathless.
Next, head to the Panoramic Viewpoint, an ideal spot for a picture-perfect view of all three pyramids. The Valley Temple, where ancient Egyptians performed mummification rituals, and the Sphinx, an enigmatic statue that has stood the test of time, are also part of the visit. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch at a local restaurant, sampling dishes such as koshari, falafel, and grilled kebabs.
2. Day Tour to Giza Pyramids, Panoramic Viewpoint, Valley Temple, Sphinx, Lunch Break, Saqqara & Memphis
This extended tour includes the iconic Pyramids of Giza and introduces you to the Step Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara. The step pyramid, built during the 3rd Dynasty, is the world’s oldest monumental stone structure.
Also visit Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt, where you can see the colossal statue of Ramses II and other fascinating ruins that speak to the grandeur of Egypt’s ancient civilization.
3. Day Tour to Giza Pyramids, Panoramic Viewpoint, Valley Temple, Sphinx, Lunch Break, Egyptian Museum, Old Cairo & Khan El Khalili
After touring the Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx, head to the world-famous Egyptian Museum, home to over 120,000 ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the treasure of King Tutankhamun. Explore its exhibits and see the famed gold mask of Tutankhamun.
Your journey continues through the historic streets of Old Cairo, where you’ll see the Hanging Church and ancient synagogues. End your day at the vibrant Khan El Khalili Bazaar, one of the oldest markets in Cairo, where you can shop for souvenirs and traditional Egyptian crafts.
4. Day Tour to Egyptian Museum, Old Cairo & Khan El Khalili
This tour focuses on Cairo’s rich cultural heritage. The Egyptian Museum showcases Egypt’s pharaonic past, while Old Cairo reveals the coexistence of Coptic, Islamic, and Jewish traditions in Egypt. Wander the cobblestone streets and visit the ancient **Hanging Church** and **Ben Ezra Synagogue**.
The tour concludes with a visit to the bustling Khan El Khalili, where the market’s narrow lanes are filled with traditional handicrafts, spices, perfumes, and more.
5. Day Tour to The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, Citadel & Khan El Khalili
Visit the new National Museum of Egyptian Civilization to explore the wonders of Egypt’s ancient civilizations. With its impressive collection, including mummies of pharaohs like Ramses II, this museum is a must-see.
Your tour continues with a visit to the Citadel of Saladin, home to the stunning Mohammad Ali Mosque. From here, enjoy panoramic views of Cairo before heading to the Khan El Khalili Bazaar for shopping and local experiences.
6. Day Tour to Giza Pyramids and Sphinx
If time is limited, this shorter tour focuses on the Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx. Explore the grandeur of the ancient pyramids, learn about the history of the Pharaohs, and take in the breathtaking view from the Panoramic Viewpoint.
7. Day Tour to Giza Pyramids and Saqqara
This tour includes both the **Giza Pyramids** and the **Step Pyramid of Djoser** at Saqqara, the world’s first pyramid and a groundbreaking step in Egypt’s architectural history. Learn about the evolution of pyramid design and ancient burial practices.
8. Stopover Tour of Cairo
If you have a short layover in Cairo, this tour lets you explore the key highlights of the city, including the Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx, in a brief but fulfilling visit.
9. El Minya Day Tour from Cairo by Car
Venture outside Cairo with a day trip to El Minya, located approximately 3 hours away. Visit the **Beni Hassan Tombs**, known for their beautifully painted walls, and the **Tell El Amarna** ruins, the ancient city built by the pharaoh Akhenaten.
10. Tour to Fayoum Oasis From Cairo
Escape the bustle of Cairo with a day trip to the tranquil **Fayoum Oasis**. Known for its beautiful lakes, the Fayoum is home to ancient Egyptian ruins, including the **Karanis Temple** and the natural beauty of **Wadi El Rayan**.
11. Overnight Safari Trip to Bahariya and White Desert from Cairo
Embark on an adventure to the **White Desert** and **Bahariya Oasis**. This overnight trip offers a unique opportunity to camp under the stars and witness the surreal landscapes of the desert, including the famous **Crystal Mountain** and the **Black Desert**.
12. Half-Day Tour to the Grand Egyptian Museum
Visit the new **Grand Egyptian Museum**, which houses over 100,000 artifacts. This half-day tour is perfect for those who want to dive into Egypt’s ancient treasures, including the largest collection of Tutankhamun’s treasures ever assembled.
13. Grand Egyptian Museum VIP Trip
For a more exclusive experience, opt for the **VIP Trip** to the **Grand Egyptian Museum**, where you’ll receive a private tour and access to exhibits usually off-limits to the general public.
14. Cairo Museums, Citadel & Khan El Khalili Tour from Cairo Airport
If you’re arriving at Cairo Airport, this tour is designed to give you a comprehensive overview of Cairo’s history. Visit the **Egyptian Museum**, the **Citadel**, and the bustling **Khan El Khalili Bazaar** in a convenient, all-in-one tour.
15. Pyramids Tour from Cairo Airport
Take advantage of a layover by visiting the **Pyramids of Giza** straight from the airport. This efficient tour lets you experience one of the world’s greatest wonders without missing your flight.
16. Wadi El Hitan & Desert Safari Tour From Cairo
Experience Egypt’s desert landscapes and prehistoric fossils on a trip to **Wadi El Hitan**. Known as the “Valley of the Whales,” this site offers a unique glimpse into ancient marine life and stunning desert views.
17. Coptic Cairo Day Tour
Explore the rich Christian heritage of Cairo with a visit to **Coptic Cairo**, home to some of the oldest Christian churches in the world, including the **Hanging Church** and the **Coptic Museum**.
18. Day Tour to Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, Pompey’s Pillar, Fort Qaitbey, Mosque of Abu al-Abbas al-Mursi & Bibliotheca Alexandrina from Cairo
This comprehensive tour from Cairo takes you to **Alexandria**, where you’ll explore the **Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa**, **Pompey’s Pillar**, the **Fort Qaitbey**, and the stunning **Bibliotheca Alexandrina**.