Temporary Notice:
The Grand Egyptian Museum will be closed from 15 October – 4 November 2025 to prepare for its official ceremonial opening on 1 November 2025.
From 5 November 2025 onward, the GEM will feature the Tutankhamun collection and expanded exhibits.
Until then, our tours remain available as half-day visits (3–4 hours). From November onwards, we will offer full-day GEM tours for the complete experience.
Covering 100,000 square meters, designed by Dublin architects – Heneghan Peng– the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Giza is Egypt’s newest, most spectacular cultural destination. As the largest archaeological museum in the world, it showcases treasures spanning over 5,000 years of history, including (from 1 Nov 2025) the entire Tutankhamun collection, now displayed together for the first time.
Whether you are a first-time visitor to Egypt, a family travelling with children, or a history enthusiast, the GEM offers a modern, accessible, and inspiring introduction to the wonders of ancient Egypt — all with breathtaking views of the Pyramids of Giza.
A Personal Story from My First Visit
I visited the GEM for the first time in November 2024 with one of my small groups — and my nine-year-old grandson came along. He absolutely loved it. With a snack or two to keep him going, he could happily have spent all day there. Armed with his tablet, he made little videos and took photos — not the most polished technically, but wonderful because he was making his own unique record of his Egyptian adventure, which he would later use to validate his time off school – as the trip to Egypt was educational for him and not a mere sun holdiay. And it truly was eye-opening and educational for him in so many, many ways.
One of my favourite moments was watching him explain the stone oil lamps (Aladdin-style lamps) in his own words.
For me, that day confirmed that the GEM is family-friendly, immersive, and inspiring for visitors of all ages.
Why the GEM is the Perfect First Day in Egypt
Unlike temples, tombs, or the busy streets of Cairo, the GEM is modern, spacious, and welcoming. It offers:
- International-standard facilities including coffee shops and restaurants (yes, even Starbucks!)
- Plenty of seating throughout the galleries and wide open areas to rest
- A relaxed environment to acclimatize, enjoy your first coffee in Egypt, and ease into the culture
That’s why I recommend the GEM as the ideal first day in Egypt. After your journey, you can:
- Immerse yourself in Egypt’s history without the overwhelm
- Get to know your Egyptologist guide in comfort
- Rest, eat, and prepare for more intense temple and tomb visits
With our tour, you experience the GEM without rushing, giving you time to absorb the stories, artifacts, and grandeur of Egypt at your own pace.
What to Expect on Our GEM Tour
- Expert Egyptologist guide: Learn the stories behind each artifact and statue in engaging detail
- The Tutankhamun collection: Opening 1 November 2025 — all treasures from his tomb together for the first time
- Highlights of ancient Egypt: Statues, papyri, mummies, sarcophagi, and newly restored treasures
- Time to explore: Designed for relaxed wandering, reflection, and photography
Practical Details
- Location: Giza, adjacent to the Pyramids
- Tour Duration:
- Until 4 November 2025: Half-day (3–4 hours)
- From 5 November 2025: Full-day tours
- Family-Friendly: Perfect for children and multi-generational groups
- Availability: Daily, subject to museum opening times and ticket availability
Combine Your GEM Visit With Other Tours
Enhance your Cairo itinerary by combining the GEM tour with other experiences. Explore our Egypt Tours with Mara House Luxor to see options that include Cairo, Luxor, and beyond.
For practical advice on travelling in Egypt, check out our Travel Advice page.
⚜️ The Grand Egyptian Museum is more than a museum — it’s a gentle, inspiring introduction to Egypt. Let us guide you there, stress-free, with insight, comfort, and a sense of wonder.