Family-Friendly 3-Days in Egypt Itinerary in Cairo

A 3-day family holiday in Cairo gives you the opportunity to see some of the most famous ancient attractions in the world, plus lots of interactive and exciting things to see. Families can experience the iconic Giza Plateau, museum highlights, bustling historic markets and relaxing river activities. See below to discover how you can maximise your 3 days in Cairo.

Day 1: Ancient Wonders of Giza & Sphinx

Start your day early and explore some of the most iconic ancient wonders.

A. Great Pyramids of Giza

Get to the Giza Plateau early so you avoid any crowds and the heat. Your kids will be in awe of the massive stone blocks that make up the impressive Great Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. Adventurous family members can purchase a ticket to enter an ancient corridor whilst everyone can take part in a short camel/horse carriage ride (with supervision) across the plateau.

B. Great Sphinx & Picnic

Take some awesome family photos with the desert scenery behind you and head to the bottom of the Great Sphinx. Kids will love to hear the legends surrounding this amazing creature made from limestone. The morning finishes off with a relaxed picnic at a local restaurant overlooking the plateau. Try some freshly baked flat bread, grilled skewers and mild dips such as hummus and sesame paste.

C. Sound & Light Show / Restaurant

Head back to your hotel for a relaxing time by the pool. In the evening you can see the amazing Giza Pyramids Sound & Light Show. This uses bright lighting and tells an amazing story of the pharaohs. Alternatively you can have a relaxing meal at a rooftop restaurant.

Day 2: Royal Treasures, Mummies & Medieval Markets

Enjoy some of Cairo's most dazzling treasures and busy markets.

A. Grand Egyptian Museum / Tahrir Museum

In the morning explore Cairo's best Archaeological collections. Admire the famous golden mask & treasures of King Tutankhamun, ancient board games, mummies and kid sized jewellery. With a specialist family guide, your kids will learn interesting stories about the young pharaohs, sacred animals and treasure found in tombs.

B. Islamic Cairo & Khan el-Khalili

Head to medieval Cairo to walk along the busy Al-Muizz Street. This has amazing architecture with huge stone doors, medieval schools and beautiful fountains. This leads you straight into the famous Khan el-Khalili Market. Kids will absolutely love this! Explore the twisting lanes with beautiful stained glass lanterns, fragrant spices and traditional items. Kids can try their hand at being polite hagglers and purchase some souvenirs such as alabaster figures, small wooden boxes or colourful lanterns. Have some freshly squeezed fruit juice at a local cafe.

Day 3: Coptic Culture, Citadel & Nile Felucca Cruise

Visit some amazing historical castles, some holy culture and enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Nile.

A. Citadel of Saladin & Coptic Cairo

Start your day visiting the Citadel of Saladin. This is a stunning medieval castle made out of stone on a hill overlooking the whole city. Kids love exploring the walls, towers and the impressive Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Next visit Coptic Cairo. This is a peaceful area with no cars. Some highlights include the Hanging Church which was built on top of ancient Roman gate towers and the Church of St Sergius which has an underground crypt where it is believed the Holy Family stayed.

B. Felucca Cruise on Nile

As the sun begins to cool in the late afternoon, head down to the river banks and board a traditional wooden boat called a felucca. With the light breeze, the boat glides along the Nile. Parents and kids can relax, listen to music and enjoy watching the skyline come to life.

C. Final Meal

Finish your 3 day itinerary with a lovely family meal. Enjoy some national dishes such as koshary (delicious lentils, rice, pasta & spiced tomato sauce), mouth watering kofta and sweet Egyptian desserts such as basbousa & kunafa.