Family-Friendly 4-Days in Egypt Itinerary in Cairo

A 4-day trip to Cairo will give you enough time to experience the best of the Egyptian capital. This includes the iconic Giza Plateau, world-class museums and fascinating medieval markets. You can also take an exciting day trip to historical pyramids or coastal forts. Using this detailed itinerary you can create a perfect balance to your Egyptian adventure.

Day One – The Ancient Wonders of Giza

Your first stop will be the Giza Plateau.

A) The Great Pyramids of Giza

As you arrive early you'll avoid the midday sun and explore the three large pyramids of Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. Kids will love the huge stones used to construct these incredible buildings. Adventurous family members can also choose to go inside one of the ancient corridors. Take a short guided camel or horse ride across the sandy plateau to get a stunning view of the pyramids.

B) The Great Sphinx & Lunch with a View

Head to the bottom of the Great Sphinx to learn some fascinating stories about this wonderful creature that has a lions body and a kings face. It was carved from a limestone hill. To finish off your morning, have an easy lunch at one of the restaurants near the plateaus. Enjoy warming flatbreads, grizzly kebabs and mild dips such as hummus and sesame.

C) Felucca Nile Cruise

To finish the day relax by the hotel pool during the afternoon. In the evening head to the banks of the river to board a traditional wooden boat. As the wind gently blows you'll glide along the Nile. Parents and children can relax, enjoy some music and watch the skyline light up.

Day Two – Discover Tutankhamun & Medieval Markets

Today you'll travel from the desert to discover some amazing Tutankhamun treasures and bustling markets.

A) Grand Egyptian Museum / Tahrir Museum

Your morning will begin with exploring Cairo's most impressive archaeology collection. See the legendary golden mask and riches belonging to King Tutankhamun. You can also see ancient board games that were played by the royal children, preserved mummies and even jewellery designed for children. Friendly guides will bring the exhibits to life with stories about young Pharaohs, holy animals and secret riches hidden in tombs.

B) Islamic Cairo & Khan el-Khalili Market

Head to medieval Cairo in the afternoon. Walk along the ancient street of Al-Muizz which contains giant stone gates, ancient schools and beautiful fountains. You'll find yourself walking straight into the famous Khan el-Khalili market. Kids will love this place. Explore the twisting narrow alleyways full of shining glass lanterns, scented spices and traditional trinkets. Children can try their hand at some friendly haggling whilst picking up some lovely souvenirs such as alabaster statues, small wooden boxes or brightly coloured lanterns. Enjoy a refreshing juice made from fruits at a local cafe.

Day Three – Day trip to Saqqara & Dahshur (or Alexandria)

On your fourth day you can embark on an exciting day trip to see some older unique pyramids or head to the breezy coast.

A) Saqqara & Dahshur (The evolution of Pyramids)

Drive south through the desert to Saqqara. Here you'll see the world's oldest stone monument, the Step Pyramid of Djoser. Kids can explore the tomb chapels around the area which have colourful low relief carvings that show what life was like in ancient times. Continue south to Dahshur to see the Bent Pyramid. Enter the Red Pyramid and learn how the ancient builders mastered the art of building pyramids before they were built in Giza.

B) Private Day Trip to Alexandria

You can also take a private day trip to Alexandria. Explore the underground Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa. See Pompey's Pillar and explore the beautiful seaside Citadel of Qaitbay. This was built on the location of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse. Enjoy a fresh seafood meal with a view over the Mediterranean Sea.

Day Four – Coptic History, Citadel & Goodbye

Today you'll enjoy a mixture of historical forts, religious history and shopping.

A) Citadel of Saladin & Coptic Cairo

Head to the Citadel of Saladin. This is a beautiful stone fortress that sits on top of a hill overlooking the whole city skyline. Kids love exploring the fortress walls, defence towers and the amazing Mosque of Muhammad Ali. The beautiful domes and large central courtyard are a must see! Continue to Coptic Cairo. This is a peaceful place to explore as it is pedestrian only. Highlights include the Hanging Church which was built over ancient Roman gate towers. You can also visit the Church of St. Sergius which has an underground crypt where the Holy Family lived.

B) Visit Local Workshops & Goodbye Dinner

Before you leave head to local workshops to see ancient paper making techniques or pick up some personalised Cartouche necklaces with your name written in hieroglyphics. End your trip with a celebration meal. Enjoy a range of national dishes including koshary (delicious lentils, rice, pasta and spiced tomato sauce), sizzling kofta and sweet treats such as basbousa and kunafa.