Giza
Giza Travel Guide
Giza is a prominent city in Egypt, located on the west bank of the Nile River, just southwest of Cairo. It serves as the capital of the Giza Governorate and is known for its significant historical and archaeological importance, particularly as the site of the Giza Plateau. Giza is the third-largest city in Egypt by area and has a population of nearly 5 million people, making it a bustling urban center.
Tips About Traveling to Giza
- Giza has been a melting pot of cultures throughout history, influenced by ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and later Islamic civilizations, each leaving their mark on the city.
- Giza experiences a hot desert climate, with summer temperatures often exceeding 40C (104°F), making sun protection and hydration essential for anyone outdoors.
- Giza has layers of history, with evidence of settlement dating back to prehistoric times, making it a rich site for understanding human civilization’s evolution.
- Giza offers a variety of local Egyptian cuisine, with street food and traditional dishes that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage.
Where To Stay In Giza?
Here are some recommended places to stay in Giza, offering various options from budget to luxury accommodations:
District | Best For | Best Attractions | Average Trip Cost |
Giza | Budget-friendly stays | Giza Pyramids, Great Sphinx | $10 - $40 per night |
Al Haram | Luxury accommodations | Giza Pyramid Complex, Sound & Light Show | $165 - $189 per night |
Sheikh Zayed | Family-friendly options | Grand Egyptian Museum, Shopping Malls | $50 - $100 per night |
6th of October | Modern amenities | MUST Opera House, Parks | $30 - $70 per night |
Ezbet Abd el-Hamid | Cozy guesthouses | Local markets, Cultural experiences | $20 - $60 per night |
Best Hotels In Giza
Hotel | District | Affordability | Why To Stay There? |
Pyramids View Inn | Giza | Budget ($10 - $40) | Offers stunning views of the pyramids and a cozy atmosphere. |
Marriott Mena House, Cairo | Giza | Mid-luxury ($165 - $250) | Luxurious amenities, excellent dining, and proximity to the pyramids. |
Hayat Pyramids View Hotel | Al Haram | Affordable ($50 - $100) | It is a great location with pyramid views and a rooftop terrace. |
Pyramids Overlook Inn | Giza | Budget ($20 - $60) | Provides unique experiences like horseback riding and board games. |
Giza Pyramids Inn | Giza | Budget ($30 - $70) | Cozy accommodations with a designated smoking area. |
Great Pyramid Inn | Giza | Mid-range ($50 - $100) | Close to the Giza Plateau with comfortable rooms and good service. |
Amarante Pyramids Hotel | Giza | Affordable ($42 - $80) | It offers currency exchange services and is near local attractions. |
Sahara Pyramids Inn | Giza | Budget ($20 - $50) | The hotel has friendly staff and free breakfast, and it is located near the pyramids. |
Best Giza Attractions
Here are some of the top attractions:
- Pyramids of Giza: the Great Pyramid of Giza, the largest of the three pyramids, is a marvel of ancient engineering.
- Great Sphinx of Giza: this iconic statue, with a lion’s body and a human head, is a symbol of Egypt.
- Solar Boat Museum: this museum houses a resorted cedar barge found buried near the Great Pyramid.
- Pharaonic Village: This open-air museum recreates ancient Egyptian life and culture.
- Orman Garden: This botanical garden is a peaceful oasis in the city, with a variety of plants and flowers.
- Valley of the Whales: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this desert valley is home to fossilized whale bones.
- Memphis: The ancient capital of Egypt, Memphis is home to the statue of Ramses II.
- Saqqara: This ancient necropolis is home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the world's oldest stone pyramid.
Is Giza Safe For Tourists?
Giza is generally safe for tourists, but it’s important to take some precautions:
- Crime rates are generally low, but there have been some reported incidents of armed robberies, muggings, sexual assaults, and break-ins to accommodation
- Tourists at popular sites like the Giza Pyramids may be confronted aggressively for money or business, even while traveling by car or taxi
- Use pre-booked guides or organized tours to visit the Giza Pyramids to minimize difficulties
- Keep copies of your passport, visa, and flight ticket separately from the originals when traveling
- Be cautious in tourist areas where scammers and touts target foreigners
Is Giza Expensive To Visit?
Giza is not expensive to visit, especially when considering the unique historical and cultural experiences it offers. The overall affordability makes it an attractive destination for travelers from various financial backgrounds.
Currency of Giza, Egypt
The currency of Giza, Egypt, is the Egyptian pound (EGP). it is subdivided into 100 piastres (or qirsh). The Egyptian pound is represented by various symbols, including £, E£, and LE
Language Spoken in Giza
In Giza, the primary language spoken is Egyptian Arabic, which is a colloquial dialect derived from Arabic and is widely used in daily communication. Many people, especially those in the tourism sector, speak English to varying degrees, making it relatively easy for tourists to communicate. Other languages such as French and German are also spoken, particularly in business and educational contexts.
How Many Days Are Enough To Visit Giza?
By dedicating 2-3 days to Giza, you'll have enough time to see the main attractions, explore at a leisurely pace, and experience the site at different times of the day. This will allow you to appreciate the grandeur and significance of these ancient wonders fully.
The Best Time To Stay in Giza
The best time to visit Gaza is generally during the spring (April to May) and autumn (October). These months offer mild temperatures and lower chances of rain, making them ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Season | Temperature (°C/°F) | Activities | Rates | Crowd | Clothing |
Winter | 13-19°C (55-66°F) | Indoor sightseeing, cultural events | Lower rates | Moderate | Warm layers, raincoat |
Spring | 15-27°C (59-81°F) | Outdoor activities, festivals | Moderate rates | Increasing | Light layers, comfortable shoes |
Summer | 24-35°C (75-95°F) | Beach activities, water sports | Higher rates | High | Light, breathable clothing |
Autumn | 20-27°C (68-81°F) | Sightseeing, local markets | Moderate rates | Decreasing | Light layers, comfortable shoes |
What To Pack For Giza Trip?
Here is a comprehensive packing list based on various recommendations:
- Modest clothing like long trousers or skirts and tops
- Light layers include light sweaters or cardigans for cooler evenings.
- Comfortable shoes
- A long wide scarf for women to cover their hair in religious places
- Prescription Medications
- Over-the-counter medicines
- Hand sanitizer
- Reusable water bottle
Giza Cusine
Here is a bullet list of the best foods to try in Giza:
- Koshari: A popular Egyptian dish made with rice, macaroni, lentils, and chickpeas, and topped with fried onions and a spicy tomato sauce.
- Ful Medames: A classic dish of mashed fava beans seasoned with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and cumin, often served with bread.
- Musakhan: Roasted chicken seasoned with sumac and served on flatbread, garnished with caramelized onions and pine nuts.
- Maqluba: An upside-down rice dish layered with vegetables and meat (usually chicken or lamb), flipped over before serving.
- Molokheya: A green soup made from jute leaves, often served with rice and meat.
- Sayadiya: A fish and rice dish cooked with caramelized onions and spices, showcasing the coastal influence on Giza's cuisine.
- Kebda Iskandarani: A liver sandwich seasoned with spices and served in pita bread, popular as street food.
- Sambousak: Pastry filled with meat or cheese, often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.
- Baklava: A sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough filled with nuts and honey syrup, commonly found in local bakeries.
- Knafeh: A dessert made from shredded pastry filled with cheese or cream and soaked in syrup, often topped with pistachios.
Nightlife In Giza
- Cairo Jazz Club: A popular venue featuring live jazz music and a vibrant atmosphere. Open from 7 PM to 1 AM on weekdays and until midnight on Saturdays.
- Disco Khalijy: A lively nightclub known for its energetic atmosphere and late-night parties, open from 12 AM to 6 AM daily.
- Heat Club & Lounge: Offers a mix of music and lounge vibes, open from 7 PM to 5 AM every day.
- بيت النيل (Bayt El Nile): A 24-hour café and lounge along the Nile, perfect for late-night gatherings and enjoying the river views.
- Club West Elbalad: A newly established club with a modern vibe, offering a unique nightlife experience.
- Pub 28: A casual bar atmosphere with drinks and snacks, ideal for socializing with friends.
- Amici: A cozy spot known for its friendly ambiance and good food, often hosting live music events.
- Khan el-Khalili: While primarily a market during the day, it transforms into a lively area at night with cafés and street food vendors.
- Nile River Cruises: Enjoy dinner cruises that offer live entertainment and stunning views of the city skyline at night.
- Live Music Venues: Check for venues that might feature live music or performances, although options may be limited.