Half-Day Private NMEC, Citadel & Khan El Khalili Tour With Fees

Giza , Egypt

Half-Day Private NMEC, Citadel & Khan El Khalili Tour With Fees

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About this experience

Experience the magic of Cairo on this half-day tour, perfect for families and curious explorers. Begin at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, exploring royal mummies and ancient artifacts. Next, visit the Citadel of Saladin, with its breathtaking views and stunning architecture. Finally, dive into the vibrant Khan El Khalili Bazaar, where the sights, sounds, and smells create a lively and memorable atmosphere. Benefit from the expert knowledge of your guide, who will enrich your understanding of Egypt's rich history and culture. This tour offers a unique and immersive experience, making it a day to remember.

Available options

Cairo Day Tour: Explore NMEC, Citadel & Vibrant Khan El Khalili

Pickup included

Car and Guide only

Sedan<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Lunch

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Qualified Egyptologist guide In-person: English, Arabic

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This museum is a treasure trove of Egypt's extensive history, showcasing artifacts from prehistoric times to the present day.
Highlights:
1. Main Exhibition Hall: Begin your exploration in the Main Exhibition Hall, which features a broad range of artifacts spanning various periods of Egyptian history. Highlights include the stunning collection of royal mummies and a diverse array of ancient relics.
2. Royal Mummies Hall: A major attraction of NMEC is the Royal Mummies Hall, where you can witness the final resting places of Egypt's most famous pharaohs, including Ramses II and Hatshepsut. The mummies are displayed in a way that respects their dignity while providing an educational experience.
3. Thematic Galleries: Explore galleries dedicated to different themes such as "Dawn of Civilization," "The Nile," and "Writing and Scribes." Each gallery offers a unique perspective on ancient Egyptian culture and achievements.

The Citadel of Saladin, also known as the Cairo Citadel, is a medieval Islamic fortification. Built by Salah ad-Din (Saladin) in the late 12th century, it has been a symbol of Cairo's defense and a seat of power for centuries.
Highlights:
1. Mosque of Muhammad Ali: Also known as the Alabaster Mosque, this stunning structure dominates the skyline of Cairo. Its impressive domes and minarets are visible from miles around. Inside, marvel at the intricate decorations and spacious prayer hall.
2. Panoramic Views: Don’t miss the chance to take in the breathtaking panoramic views of Cairo from the Citadel. On a clear day, you can see the Giza Pyramids in the distance.

Stop 3

Khan El Khalili is one of Cairo's oldest and most famous markets, dating back to the 14th century. It is a bustling hub of activity, filled with shops, stalls, and vendors selling everything from souvenirs to spices.
Highlights:
1. Historic Souks: Wander through the narrow alleys of the market, where you’ll find a variety of traditional goods, including jewelry, textiles, and antiques. Each shop is a treasure trove of unique items.
2. Al-Hussein Mosque: Located at the edge of the bazaar, Al-Hussein Mosque is one of Cairo's most revered Islamic sites. The mosque is believed to house the head of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad.
3. El-Fishawi Café: Take a break at El-Fishawi Café, one of Cairo's oldest and most famous coffeehouses. Enjoy a cup of traditional Egyptian tea or coffee and soak in the lively atmosphere of the bazaar.

What's not included

Gratuities (for tour guide, and driver)

Available languages

Guide guide

AR EN

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your hotel. A comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle awaits to transport you to your first destination.

About Giza

Giza, home to the iconic Great Pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx, is a city steeped in ancient history and modern intrigue. Just a short distance from Cairo, Giza offers a blend of ancient wonders and bustling urban life, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.

Top Attractions

Great Pyramids of Giza

The iconic Great Pyramids, including the Pyramid of Khufu, Pyramid of Khafre, and Pyramid of Menkaure, are the last standing wonders of the ancient world.

Historical Half day to full day Moderate (Entrance fees apply)

Great Sphinx of Giza

The enigmatic Sphinx, with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, is a symbol of ancient Egypt and a must-see attraction.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (Entrance fees apply)

Solar Boat Museum

This museum houses the reconstructed solar boat of Pharaoh Khufu, discovered near the Great Pyramid.

Historical 1 hour Moderate (Entrance fees apply)

Saqqara

Saqqara is an ancient burial ground and home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt.

Historical Half day to full day Moderate (Entrance fees apply)

Dahshur

Dahshur is an ancient royal necropolis featuring the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, both built by Pharaoh Sneferu.

Historical Half day to full day Moderate (Entrance fees apply)

Camel Market

The Camel Market is a unique and bustling market where you can see and buy camels, as well as experience traditional Egyptian commerce.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (Purchases extra)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Koshari

A hearty dish made with lentils, rice, pasta, chickpeas, and fried onions, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and garlic vinegar.

Dinner Vegetarian

Ful Medames

A traditional breakfast dish made from slow-cooked fava beans, often served with tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil.

Breakfast Vegan

Grilled Kofta

Spiced minced meat (usually lamb or beef) shaped into sausages and grilled to perfection.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat

Molokhia

A green leafy vegetable soup, often served with chicken or rabbit and eaten with bread.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian (if made without meat)

Popular Activities

Hot air balloon rides over the pyramids Quad biking in the desert Spa treatments Beach visits in Alexandria Visiting museums and historical sites Attending traditional Egyptian performances Boat tours on the Nile Visiting historical sites during the cooler months

Best Time to Visit

October to April

This period offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperatures are mild, making it ideal for exploring the ancient sites.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Egyptian Pound (EGP)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Giza is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Avoid accepting help from strangers, especially at tourist sites.
• Use reputable tour companies and guides.

Getting there

By air

Cairo International Airport • 25 km from Giza

By train

Giza Station

By bus

Giza Bus Station, Downtown Cairo Terminals

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Giza. They are affordable but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Careem

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Pyramids Road Downtown Giza Haram

Day trips

Cairo

20 km • Half day to full day

Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a vibrant city with a rich history and numerous attractions, including the Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo, and Coptic Cairo.

Saqqara

20 km • Half day to full day

Saqqara is an ancient burial ground and home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt.

Dahshur

30 km • Half day to full day

Dahshur is an ancient royal necropolis featuring the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, both built by Pharaoh Sneferu.

Festivals

Cairo International Film Festival • November (dates vary) Eid al-Fitr • End of Ramadan (dates vary) Coptic Christmas • January 7

Pro tips

Hire a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the ancient sites and their significance.
Visit the pyramids early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the intense heat.
Bargain politely but firmly when shopping at markets and souks.
Carry small bills and coins for easier transactions, as change can be hard to come by.
Learn a few basic Arabic phrases to enhance your interaction with locals and show respect for their culture.