Grand Egyptian Museum, Old Cairo and Khan El Khalili Day Tour

Today, we’re visiting the Grand Egyptian Museum, the most opulent museum in history! Officially will be opened in July 2024, it’s one of the world’s largest and most awe-inspiring archaeological museums, filled with a vast array of treasures. Located near the Giza Pyramids, this architectural wonder is a monumental tribute to Egypt’s rich and storied history.

Following your visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum, you will tour the Alabaster Mosque at the Citadel of Salah el-Din, which sits on top of a limestone hill overlooking Cairo and is the most important mosque in the city. The lower part of the Mosque is clad inside and out with Alabaster, while the top part is constructed from the limestone cladding removed from the Pyramids of Giza. Inside the mosque, your guide will introduce you to the fundamental beliefs of Islam, including a translation of the most common prayers.

Then you will discover the ancient sites and culture of Coptic Christians and learn about Christian life in Egypt, a country where Christianity is a minority. You will first visit the Hanging Church, built into the walls of the Roman fortress's watergate and possibly the oldest Christian church in Egypt. It is one of Cairo's most beautiful churches dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Continue to the Monastery and Church of Saint George. It is one of the few remaining circular churches in the Middle East.

Your next stop is the Abu Serga, where The Holy Family rested after fleeing Israel from King Herod. At the turn of the century, this little church, which dates from the 10th century, was the most important pilgrimage spot in Old Cairo for visiting Christian tourists. Twenty-four marble columns line the central court, and a series of 12th-century icons depict the 12 apostles. You will then tour Ben Ezra Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogues in Egypt. Set in a shady garden, it was built on the site of the 4th-century Christian church. After that, you will visit the Khan el Khalili bazaar, where your guide will introduce you to the famous bazaar, which is said to have inspired Christopher Columbus to discover the New World. Here you will enjoy free time to stroll through the maze of streets and shops and try your luck bargaining with the shop owners for a souvenir of your trip to Egypt or have a cup of tea at the famous coffee shop “El Fishawy.”