10 Exciting Things to Do in Giza for Amazing Travel Experience

Giza, located southwest of Cairo, is the synonym for all the wonders of ancient Egypt. From ancient tombs to camel rides in the desert, Giza offers visitors yet another range of experiences that make it a must-visit destination for anyone with a passion for Egypt's rich cultural heritage. While crowds mark the Pyramids, the surrounding region is quiet and gives intimate insight into local life and ancient history. If you’re planning a trip, exploring things to do in Giza will reveal countless treasures that are both ancient and modern, making this city a timeless gem.

10 Things to Do in Giza That Will Make Your Trip Unforgettable

Giza is one of the most historical cities in the world that is nestled along the west bank of the Nile. Though its pyramids are iconic in some ways, there's more about Giza than those ancient wonders. Being close to Cairo, Giza acts like a gateway toward Egypt's history and heritage as the past and present blend in seamlessly. The best time to visit Giza is during the cooler months, from October to April, when the weather is more comfortable for exploring the pyramids and archaeological sites. The temperatures are milder, making outdoor activities more enjoyable. From ancient tombs to bustling bazaars and tranquil banks of the Nile, the city offers a range of experiences. Whether it is to marvel at the Pyramids, visit the archaeological sites nearby, or soak up the vibrant local culture, Giza is indeed a place where the ancient world still hangs over modern life. Below is a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Giza!

• Visit the Great Pyramids of Giza
• Admire the Sphinx
• Explore the Giza Necropolis
• Camel Ride through the Desert
• Visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities
• Explore the Giza Plateau and the Giza Pyramids Panorama
• Take a Boat Ride on the Nile River
• Visit the Pyramid of Djoser
• Shop at the Giza Souq (Market)
• Dining with a View of the Pyramids in Giza

1. Visit the Great Pyramids of Giza

Among the main attractions in Giza for tourists, there are the Great Pyramids of Giza, three of which happen to be all that is left from the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: Khufu (Cheops), Khafre (Chephren), and Menkaure (Mykerinos). The most impressive of these monolithic structure's dates back more than 4,500 years ago. The largest and oldest of the group is the Great Pyramid of Khufu. The Pyramid of Khafre is slightly smaller but known for the iconic Sphinx that guards its entrance and also offers terrific views from the plateau above. The smallest is the Pyramid of Menkaure, a nice quieter place for those interested in seeing and not the crowds. Not to be missed is the Solar Boat Museum alongside the Great Pyramid, home to an original 4,500-year-old boat for the Pharaoh's journey into the afterlife. These are some of the best things to do in Giza, Egypt for anyone looking to explore ancient history.

Address: Al Haram, Nazlet El-Semman, Al Haram, Giza Governorate 3512201, Egypt

Timings: 08:00 A.M. – 04:30 P.M.

Nearby Attractions:

• The Sphinx
• The Solar Boat Museum
• The Giza Necropolis
• The Pyramid of Khafre
• The Pyramid of Menkaure
• The Giza Plateau
• The Pyramids Panorama
• Tomb of the Workers

Nearby Hotels:

• Marriott Mena House
• Pyramids View Inn
• Hilton Pyramids Golf Resort
• Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel & Spa
• Giza Pyramids View Inn
• Oasis Hotel
• Pyramids Park Resort
• The Three Pyramids Hotel

Nearby Restaurants:

• Pyramids Restaurant
• BBQ Mawlana
• Restaurant El Dar Darak
• The Moghul Room
• Alfred Restaurant
• 39 Restaurant
• Felfela Restaurant
• Koshary Abou Tarek

2. Admire the Sphinx

One of the most famous monuments in the world, this is a huge creation, the body of a lion and the face of a Pharaoh, made to guard the Pyramids and characterize ancient Egypt. The mysterious expression of this colossal masterpiece has fascinated man for thousands of years since its making, for it measures 73 meters long and 20 meters high. You can come down towards the bottom of the statue and then get close-up and see several photo opportunities at the Sphinx Viewing Area. Even at night, they come alive, and the Sound and Light Show changes this complex of lights laced with narration into life amidst stars as history unfolds in ancient Egypt, magically viewing this timeless monument. There are many places to visit in Giza to experience the magic of this ancient site.

Address: Al Haram, Giza Governorate 3512201, Egypt

Timings: 08:00 A.M. – 05:00 P.M.

Nearby Attractions:

• The Great Pyramids
• The Valley Temple
• The Pyramids of Giza
• The Giza Plateau
• The Sphinx Viewpoint
• The Solar Boat Museum
• The Giza Necropolis
• The Tomb of Queen Hetepheres

Nearby Hotels:

• Marriott Mena House
• Giza Pyramids View Inn
• Pyramids Park Resort
• Mena House Hotel
• Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel
• Hilton Pyramids Golf Resort
• Grand Pyramids Hotel
• Mercure Cairo Le Sphinx

Nearby Restaurants:

• Pyramids Restaurant
• BBQ Mawlana
• The Moghul Room
• Koshary Abou Tarek
• El Dar Darak
• The Roof Restaurant
• The 9 Pyramids Lounge
• Felfela Restaurant

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3. Explore the Giza Necropolis

However, there are lesser-known tombs and smaller pyramids in the Giza Necropolis that house the Pyramids and the Sphinx. Yet another place to visit is the Tomb of the Worker's Village, which acquaints the visitor with the lives of laborers responsible for building these palaces of stone-the Pyramids. The mere simplicity of these evocative tombs speaks to another side of ancient Egypt's pyramid construction. Another remarkable site is the Mastaba Tombs, flat-roofed constructions used for officials and priests. Though not monumental in construction like pyramids, the detailed decoration within these tombs does speak of the artistic flavor and social life of the period. Together, these lesser-known sites within the necropolis provide further insights into ancient Egyptian society, beyond iconic structures, for a most intimate view of life during the age of the Pyramids. These are among the hidden things to see in Giza, offering a deeper understanding of the region's ancient culture.

Address: Al Haram, Giza Governorate 3512201, Egypt

Timings: 06:00 A.M. – 04:00 P.M.

Nearby Attractions:

• The Great Pyramids of Giza
• The Sphinx
• The Valley Temple
• The Mastaba Tombs
• The Tomb of Queen Hetepheres
• The Tomb of the Worker’s Village
• The Pyramid of Menkaure
• The Tomb of the Pharaoh’s Engineers

Nearby Hotels:

• Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel
• Marriott Mena House
• Pyramids View Inn
• Oasis Hotel
• Giza Pyramids View Inn
• Hilton Pyramids Golf Resort
• The Three Pyramids Hotel
• Grand Pyramids Hotel

Nearby Restaurants:

• BBQ Mawlana
• The Moghul Room
• Restaurant El Dar Darak
• 39 Restaurant
• Pyramids Restaurant
• Felfela Restaurant
• Alfredo Restaurant
• Koshary Abou Tarek

Suggested Read: Best Restaurants in Giza for a Taste of Egypt

4. Camel Ride through the Desert

One of the most surreal experiences is taking a camel ride through the desert around the Pyramids of Giza. This is one of the more convincing ways to enjoy the vast expanse of the desert and the enormous size of these ancient monuments. From the desert safari in Egypt, you can view the Pyramids from the sides, hence giving you a totally different view of these monuments of wonder. Some operators offer camel rides, which range from a quick 30-minute dune bash to longer treks that take you further into the desert. Whether you're looking for something you can grab very fast, such as a photographic shot or for an experience, one thing you can't avoid is a camel ride. This is undoubtedly one of the must do things in Giza for any visitor looking to experience the essence of ancient Egypt.

Suggested Read: Your Essential Giza Pyramids Guide: Discovering Egypt's Ancient Wonders

5. Visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities

Egyptian Museum of Antiquities is in Cairo, but only a few minutes in the car from Giza, and it is one of the world's greatest museums because of its excellent collection of the artifacts of ancient Egypt, with deep insight into the culture and history of this civilization. The main attractions of this museum are the treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun, including his golden mask, jewelry, and personal items. But one will be a witness to a lifetime when viewing these treasures. The museum houses an extensive collection of mummies, statues, and other material that throw light on daily life, religion, and funerary practices prevalent in ancient Egypt. This museum is certainly one of the places to visit in Egypt for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in the country's fascinating history.

Address: El-Tahrir Square, Ismailia, Qasr El Nil, Cairo Governorate 4272083, Egypt

Timings: 09:00 A.M. – 05:00 P.M.

Nearby Attractions:

• Tahrir Square
• Cairo Opera House
• Cairo Citadel
• Egyptian Museum of Modern Art
• The Hanging Church
• Mosque of Muhammad Ali
• The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization
• The Coptic Museum

Nearby Hotels:

• The Nile Ritz-Carlton
• Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah
• Marriott Mena House
• Hilton Cairo Zamalek Residences
• Kempinski Nile Hotel
• Four Seasons Hotel Cairo
• InterContinental Cairo Semiramis
• Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir

Nearby Restaurants:

• Felfela Restaurant
• Sequoia Restaurant
• Zooba Restaurant
• Abou El Sid Restaurant
• Cairo Kitchen
• Taboula Restaurant
• Birdcage Restaurant
• The Terrace at The Nile Ritz-Carlton

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6. Explore the Giza Plateau and the Giza Pyramids Panorama

The Giza Plateau offers views of the Pyramids as well as the desert bordering them from many viewpoints. One of the best viewpoints from which all the three pyramids can be captured in one shot is the Pyramid Panorama Viewpoint situated a little apart from the pyramids. South of the main pyramids, you'll find the Queen's Pyramids. In these smaller structures located less crowded but with equal power and magnificence. Another key spot located on the plateau is the Giza Plateau Visitor Center, which helps visitors absorb the history and importance of the pyramids and other monuments on the site. If you're looking for free things to do in Giza, Egypt, visiting these viewpoints and exploring the plateau's surrounding areas offers a wonderful and cost-effective way to appreciate the ancient wonders.

Address: Al Haram, Giza Governorate 3512201, Egypt

Timings: 08:00 A.M. – 05:00 P.M.

Nearby Attractions:

• The Great Pyramids of Giza
• The Sphinx
• The Valley Temple
• The Solar Boat Museum
• The Pyramid of Khufu
• The Pyramid of Khafre
• The Queen's Pyramids
• The Tomb of the Pharaoh's Engineers

Nearby Hotels:

• Marriott Mena House
• Hilton Pyramids Golf Resort
• Pyramids View Inn
• Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel & Spa
• Giza Pyramids View Inn
• Oasis Hotel
• Pyramids Park Resort
• The Three Pyramids Hotel

Nearby Restaurants:

• BBQ Mawlana
• The Moghul Room
• Pyramids Restaurant
• El Dar Darak
• 39 Restaurant
• Felfela Restaurant
• Alfredo Restaurant
• Koshary Abou Tarek

Suggested Read: Honeymoon in Egypt: 8 Destinations for an Intimate Fairy-Tale Like Getaway

7. Take a Boat Ride on the Nile River

A Nile River cruise is a very peaceful as well as scenic way of getting familiar with the region. While in Giza, take a short boat ride along the Nile and enjoy beautiful views in the surrounding areas with the Pyramids visible in the distance. Since time immemorial, the river has been the lifeblood of Egypt, and a cruise along its banks gives an extremely interesting insight into this culture and history. It's a chance to relax while enjoying the views around. It makes it an ideal companion to your journey around the pyramids. Enjoy daylight or enjoy the changing colors while the sun catches your eye. It is always a memory of the cruise in Giza on the Nile. For those looking for things to do in Giza at night, a sunset or an evening Nile cruise offers a magical experience as the Pyramids and the river glow under the stars.

Nearby Attractions:

• Cairo Tower
• The Egyptian Museum
• The Citadel
• The Nile Corniche
• Tahrir Square
• Al-Azhar Park

Nearby Hotels:

• Four Seasons Hotel Cairo
• Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah
• The Nile Ritz-Carlton
• Marriott Mena House
• InterContinental Cairo Semiramis
• Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir
• Kempinski Nile Hotel
• Hilton Cairo Zamalek Residences

Nearby Restaurants:

• Sequoia Restaurant
• Birdcage Restaurant
• Taboula Restaurant
• The Terrace at The Nile Ritz-Carlton
• 8 Restaurant
• Felfela Restaurant
• Zooba Restaurant

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8. Visit the Pyramid of Djoser

No visit to Giza would be considered satisfactory if not supplemented with a stop at the Saqqara Step Pyramid of Djoser. Dating back to the Third Dynasty (around 2670 BCE), the structure was built for Pharaoh Djoser, and it is both the first Egyptian colossal stone structure and a significant milestone in architectural history. Unlike its slick-sided successors, the Step Pyramid is six mastaba-like layers stacked on top of one another, giving it its characteristic stepped look. This pyramid complex is huge with courtyards, temples, and a ceremonial walkway surrounded by a huge wall of stone. This is certainly one of the best things to do in Egypt for anyone interested in the rich history and architectural marvels of the country.

Address: Pyramid of Djoser, Badrshein, Giza Governorate 3352001, Egypt

Timing: 08:00 A.M. – 05:00 P.M.

Nearby Attractions:  

• The Pyramid of Unas
• The Serapeum of Saqqara
• The Mastaba of Ti
• The Pyramid of Teti
• The Tomb of Mereruka
• The Step Pyramid Complex
• The Imhotep Museum
• The Serapeum of Saqqara

Nearby Hotels:

• Mena House Hotel
• Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel & Spa
• Pyramids View Inn
• Giza Pyramids View Inn
• Cairo Marriott Hotel
• Hilton Cairo Zamalek
• Novotel Cairo El Borg
• Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir

Nearby Restaurants:

• Abou El Sid Restaurant
• El Dar Darak
• Pyramids Restaurant
• Koshary Abou Tarek
• 39 Restaurant
• Al-Wahy Restaurant
• The Moghul Room
• El-Fishawy Restaurant

Suggested Read: Restaurants in Egypt: To Savor Flavorsome Cuisines for a Soul Feeding Experience

9. Shop at the Giza Souq (Market)

If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, a trip to Giza Souq is a must. The market is considered really overcrowded and offers all that ranges from traditional Egyptian clothing, jewelry, souvenirs, and spices. These crowded stalls provide such an enthusiastic atmosphere when trying to do some wide negotiations for great, unique items. Handwoven scarves go hand in hand with some beautiful brass lanterns and local handicrafts. It's a great destination to indulge in mouth-watering local delights – from fresh falafel to grilled meats, sweet temptations, and seasonal fruits. If you're planning to visit, be sure to book Egypt flights three months prior to make your trip even more unforgettable.

Address: 20 El Nahda St., Dokki 12611, Giza, Egypt

Timings: 08:00 A.M. – 04:00 P.M.

Nearby Attractions:

• The Giza Pyramids
• The Sphinx
• The Valley Temple
• The Giza Plateau
• The Solar Boat Museum
• The Tomb of Queen Hetepheres
• The Pyramids of Saqqara
• The Egyptian Museum

Nearby Hotels:  

• Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel & Spa
• Pyramids View Inn
• Marriott Mena House
• Hilton Pyramids Golf Resort
• Giza Pyramids View Inn
• Oasis Hotel
• Pyramids Park Resort
• The Three Pyramids Hotel

Nearby Restaurants:

• BBQ Mawlana
• The Moghul Room
• Restaurant El Dar Darak
• Pyramids Restaurant
• 39 Restaurant
• Felfela Restaurant
• Alfredo Restaurant
• Koshary Abou Tarek

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10. Dining with a View of the Pyramids in Giza

Spend a warm day sightseeing and then relax in one of the restaurants with views of the Pyramids at Giza. Restaurants with terraces over the Pyramids can be spectacular at night, especially when photographed, because of the illuminations. Favorites include koshari-a mixture of rice and lentils-cooked with pasta-as well as moussaka-the mouth-watering casserole prepared from eggplant. These are full of flavors that really give you the most authentic Egyptian food. Other dining halls have grilled meats, salads, and juices. Dining back and looking at the Pyramids while feasting is the ultimate way to wind up your day in Giza by combining delicious food with one of the most amazing views on Earth.

Best Restaurants

• BBQ Mawlana
• Pyramids Restaurant
• Restaurant El Dar Darak
• The Moghul Room
• Alfredo Restaurant
• 39 Restaurant

A city that captures the imagination of the world, Giza is the heart of old history. Among the most awe-inspiring landmarks on earth are the ancient wonders of the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. Giza, however, has much more in store than the tourist icons of the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. Endless desert camel rides to ancient tombs to simply immerse oneself in the local culture, there's really no limit to things to do in Giza. The overall blend of ancient monuments and modern vibrancy sets the tone for what surely will be an enriching and unforgettable experience. To make the most of your trip, consider exploring Egypt tour packages, which offer curated experiences that bring all of Giza’s wonders to life.

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