Tour Facts
Discover Cairo's history on a private tour combining the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, Saladin Citadel and historic Old Cairo. Explore royal mummies, Islamic architecture and centuries of Egyptian heritage.
- Tour Name
- Museum of Civilization, Citadel & Old Cairo Tour
- Duration
- 1 day
- Tour Type
- History
- Start Location
- Hotel
- End Location
- Hotel
- Main Attractions
- Old Cairo & Ben Ezra Synagogue (opens in a new tab)
- Guide Type
- English speaking Guide
- Transportation
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver
- Accommodation Category
- See the accommodation details for each pricing option
- Price from
- 110 USD per person
Destinations
Package starting prices
- Essentials
- 110 USD per person
- Signature
- 140 USD per person
- Luxury
- 185 USD per person
Tour Overview
Egypt
1 days
Hotel
Hotel
6+
Yes
Yes
English speaking Guide
Optional Lunch
Tour Style
History
Private
Fully Guided
Best For
- Families & Couples
- Museum enthusiasts & Architecture lovers
- Religious and cultural travelers
- Travelers interested in medieval Cairo
- Travelers who want to explore beyond the Pyramids
- Families, Couples & Photographers
Explore the Journey
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Itinerary stops
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Tour Highlights
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Museum of Civilization, Citadel & Old Cairo — Seven Thousand Years, One Day
Tour OverviewYour private Egyptologist guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Cairo or Giza. Travel to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization and begin your journey through thousands of years of Egyptian history. Continue to the Citadel of Saladin, one of Cairo's most important medieval fortifications, before exploring the historic district of Old Cairo. Depending on your interests and available time, the Old Cairo portion can include Coptic Cairo, historic Islamic monuments and the famous Khan El-Khalili market. Enjoy an optional traditional Egyptian lunch during the tour before returning to your hotel.Tour Details• Duration: Full Day • Location: Cairo • Tour Type: Private • Guide: Private English-speaking Egyptologist • Transportation: Private air-conditioned vehicle • Pickup: Cairo or Giza hotel • Walking: Moderate walking • Meals: Optional lunch • Return: Cairo or Giza hotel • Suitable For: Families, couples, history lovers, photographers and culture travelersDetailed ItineraryPickup from Your Cairo or Giza Hotel Your private driver and Egyptologist will meet you at your hotel at the agreed departure time. Travel comfortably through Cairo toward your first destination, the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. During the drive, your guide can introduce you to the history and development of Cairo and explain how the city became one of the most important cultural centers in the Middle East.National Museum of Egyptian Civilization Discover Egypt's History Under One Roof Begin your tour at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, located in the historic area of Fustat. Unlike museums dedicated exclusively to ancient Egypt, NMEC presents Egyptian civilization across different historical periods. The museum provides an opportunity to understand Egypt as a continuously evolving civilization. Your guide will explain how Egyptian culture developed through: • Prehistoric periods • Ancient Egypt • Greco-Roman Egypt • Coptic Egypt • Medieval Islamic Egypt • Modern EgyptThe Royal Mummies Meet the Kings and Queens of Ancient Egypt One of the museum's most famous attractions is the Royal Mummies Gallery. The collection includes royal mummies from ancient Egypt, offering visitors an extraordinary opportunity to learn about the rulers of the New Kingdom and other periods. Among the famous royal figures associated with the collection are: • Ramesses II • Seti I • Thutmose III • Hatshepsut • Seqenenre Tao • Amenhotep II Your Egyptologist will explain the significance of royal mummification, burial traditions and ancient Egyptian beliefs about the afterlife. Access to individual galleries may be subject to museum operating arrangements and ticket availability.Understanding Ancient Egyptian Civilization The museum's collections help explain that ancient Egypt was much more than pyramids and temples. Learn about: • Daily life • Religion • Royal power • Burial traditions • Agriculture • Writing • Art • Crafts • Architecture • Trade • Medicine • Ancient Egyptian beliefs The museum provides useful context for travelers visiting Egypt's archaeological sites.From Ancient Egypt to Modern Egypt One of the most interesting features of NMEC is its broad chronological approach. Instead of focusing on one period, the museum demonstrates how Egyptian civilization continued to develop over thousands of years. This makes it particularly useful for travelers who want to understand the connections between the ancient, Coptic, Islamic and modern periods of Egyptian history.Optional Museum Exploration Depending on your interests, your guide can focus your museum visit on specific areas. History lovers may prefer a deeper discussion of ancient Egypt and royal mummification, while families may enjoy a broader introduction to Egyptian civilization. Because this is a private tour, the pace can be adapted to your group.Citadel of Saladin Discover Medieval Cairo's Great Fortress After the museum, continue to the Citadel of Cairo, also known as the Citadel of Saladin. The fortress occupies a strategic position on the Mokattam Hills overlooking Cairo. Construction began under Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi, better known in the West as Saladin, during the medieval period. The Citadel was developed as an important defensive and political center and remained closely associated with Egypt's rulers for centuries.The Citadel of Cairo A Fortress Above the City The Citadel offers a fascinating combination of military history, architecture and panoramic views. As you explore the complex, your guide will explain: • Why Saladin built the fortress • The role of Cairo's medieval defenses • The development of the Citadel • The Mamluk period • Ottoman-era additions • The role of the Citadel in Egypt's political historyMosque of Muhammad Ali The Alabaster Mosque One of the Citadel's most recognizable landmarks is the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, often called the Alabaster Mosque. The mosque was commissioned by Muhammad Ali Pasha during the 19th century and became one of Cairo's most recognizable architectural landmarks. Its enormous central dome, surrounding smaller domes and tall minarets dominate the Cairo skyline.Inside the Mosque of Muhammad Ali Step inside to admire the mosque's monumental interior. Your guide will explain the architectural design and historical background of the building. Look for: • The enormous central dome • Decorative smaller domes • Large chandeliers • Ottoman-inspired architectural elements • Marble surfaces • Ornamental details • Spacious prayer area The mosque provides a fascinating contrast to the ancient Egyptian monuments you may have visited elsewhere in Cairo.Cairo Panorama One of the highlights of the Citadel is the panoramic view over Cairo. From elevated viewpoints, you can appreciate the scale of the Egyptian capital. On a clear day, you may see: • Historic Cairo • Downtown Cairo • Mosques and minarets • Dense residential districts • Mokattam Hills • The modern Cairo skyline Your guide can help identify important landmarks visible from the viewpoint.Old Cairo Explore the Historic Heart of the City Continue toward Old Cairo, one of the most fascinating parts of the Egyptian capital. The area preserves monuments and neighborhoods representing different chapters of Cairo's religious and cultural history. Depending on your selected itinerary, your private tour may include: • Coptic Cairo • Historic churches • Ben Ezra Synagogue • Islamic Cairo • Historic mosques • Traditional streets • Khan El-KhaliliCoptic Cairo Discover Egypt's Christian Heritage Explore the historic Christian quarter of Old Cairo. The district contains some of Egypt's most important Coptic monuments. Depending on opening hours, you may visit sites such as: The Hanging Church The Church of the Virgin Mary is one of the most famous Coptic churches in Cairo. Its distinctive elevated position and traditional interior architecture make it one of the highlights of Coptic Cairo. Church of Saints Sergius and BacchusAlso known as Abu Serga, this historic church is traditionally associated with the Holy Family's journey through Egypt. Saint Barbara Church Another important Coptic church, offering insight into Egypt's long Christian tradition.Ben Ezra Synagogue Depending on your selected route and current site access, visit the historic Ben Ezra Synagogue. The synagogue is particularly famous for its connection with the Cairo Geniza, a remarkable collection of Jewish manuscripts and documents discovered in the synagogue's repository. Your guide will explain the importance of the Jewish community in Egypt and the historical significance of the Geniza.Islamic Cairo Discover Medieval Cairo Continue into the historic Islamic district and explore the remarkable architectural heritage of medieval Cairo. Depending on the itinerary, your guide can introduce you to historic mosques, madrassas, mausoleums and traditional buildings. This section of the tour helps demonstrate how Cairo developed into one of the major intellectual, religious and commercial centers of the medieval Islamic world.Traditional Café Experience For travelers who want a more authentic local experience, stop at a traditional café for Egyptian tea, coffee or fresh juice. You can relax and watch the activity of the market while your guide explains local customs and traditions.Optional Egyptian Lunch Enjoy an optional lunch at a local restaurant during the tour. Possible Egyptian dishes include: • Koshari • Ful • Falafel • Grilled meats • Egyptian rice • Mixed Egyptian dishes • Vegetarian specialties Your guide can recommend a restaurant based on your preferences.Optional ServicesEnhance your Cairo experience with: • Coptic Museum • Hanging Church • Abu Serga Church • Ben Ezra Synagogue • Al-Muizz Street • Additional Islamic Cairo monuments • Traditional Egyptian lunch • Nile dinner cruise • Grand Egyptian Museum • Giza Pyramids • Egyptian Museum • Professional photography • Guide in another languageReturn to Your Hotel After completing the Museum of Civilization, Citadel and Old Cairo experience, your private driver will return you to your hotel in Cairo or Giza. If you have an evening flight, Nile dinner cruise or other activity, the itinerary can be adjusted around your schedule.Suggested Tour ScheduleA typical schedule may look like: 08:15 — Hotel pickup 09:00 — National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) 11:15 — Drive to the Citadel 11:40 — Citadel of Salah al-Din 14:00 — Lunch 15:00 — Coptic Cairo 18:30 — Return to hotel- Overnight:
- Your Hotel
- Meals:
- Optional Lunch
- Visit:
- Pyramids of Giza Grand Museum GEM
Arrival flight for Day 1
Book to land in time for the first day of the tour.
→ CAI · pick your date
Skyscanner: https://www.skyscanner.net/transport/flights//cai//?adults=2&cabinclass=economy&rtn=0&cabinbags=1&sortby=bestKayak: https://www.kayak.com/flights/-CAI/2adults?sort=bestflight_a&fs=cfc%3D1
Your Daily Details
Request your personalized itinerary for all 1 day of Museum of Civilization, Citadel & Old Cairo Tour, a downloadable PDF brochure and a private My Egypt Journey page to contact your Explore Plus travel expert.
Pricing
Choose the package you want — the price updates and you can pay for it right away.
Essentials
$110 / per person
$70 per child
- Group departure
Signature
$140 / per person
$90 per child
- Small group (max 8)
Luxury
$185 / per person
$120 per child
- Private Guide & Driver
How much pay for Entrance Fees
Cost & Entrance Fees
- NMEC National MuseumEGP550US$11
- Citadel of SaladinEGP550US$11
- Coptic CairoEGP00US$0
Guest Brief
Important Entrance Fee Information
Prices and update date
Prices shown were last checked on 1 October 2026. Entrance fees are subject to change; please confirm current rates before your visit.
Visitor categories
Fees may differ for Egyptian and foreign visitors. Reduced rates may be available for children, students, or other eligible visitors.
Student discounts
Discounts are not available at every site. Eligibility and accepted student ID vary, so students should bring valid identification and confirm requirements with the ticket office.
Optional tombs and attractions
Some sites require separate tickets for special tombs or areas. These tickets may have limited availability and additional fees.
What the fee covers
Unless stated otherwise, listed prices cover site admission only. They do not include transportation, guide services, meals, or optional activities.
Payment and currency
Payment options vary by site. Bring a payment method accepted locally, and check whether card payment is available.
USD conversions
Dollar amounts are estimates for reference only. The amount charged in EGP may differ because exchange rates change.
Opening hours and access
Opening times, visitor routes, and access to individual areas may change without notice. Check with the site or your tour provider before travelling.
Best Time to Visit
Average weather in the places this tour visits — pick the month that suits you best.
Cairo & Giza
Best: October to AprilTap any month to see its day / night temperature, rainfall and verdict (°C and °F).
| Place | Daily max temperature (°C) | Monthly rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| Cairo & Giza | 24°C (75°F) | 3.4 |
Averages across the recommended months for each place.
Before You Travel to Egypt
A quick checklist for a smoother arrival and more comfortable sightseeing.
Choose the season that suits you
October to April is usually more comfortable for long sightseeing days. Summer can be very hot, especially in Luxor and Aswan, so plan lighter schedules, shade and water breaks.
Check entry rules before you fly
Visa eligibility depends on your passport and can change. Confirm your requirements through Egypt’s official e-Visa portal or the nearest Egyptian embassy before travel.
Carry Egyptian Pounds
Cards are useful at many hotels and larger businesses, but small EGP notes are practical for tips, small purchases and everyday services.
Use sealed bottled water
Drink sealed bottled water and keep extra water with you during sightseeing, particularly on warm days and longer excursions.
Dress for heat and local customs
Light, breathable clothing, comfortable shoes, sun protection and a light layer are useful. Modest clothing is respectful at mosques, churches and traditional communities.
Know when to bargain
Friendly bargaining is common in bazaars and souks. Prices in fixed-price shops, hotels, restaurants and official ticket offices are generally not negotiated.
Distances from Cairo
How far the main destinations are from Cairo — road distance with typical drive time. Internal flights are shown where they save hours on the road.
| Destination | Km |
|---|---|
| Cairo | 0 km / 0 mi |
| Giza Pyramids | 25 km / 16 mi |
Approximate road distances and times in normal traffic. Longer journeys may be reached by a short internal flight.
Select a city
Cairo
Cairo is the starting point for these distances.
Approximate distances and normal travel times from central Cairo.
Visa Requirements for Egypt
Type your nationality to see what you need, then follow the steps below.
No visa needed (7)
Enter with a valid passport (6+ months validity).
Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Hong Kong, Macau
e-Visa or visa on arrival (61)
Apply online in advance (recommended) or obtain a visa on arrival if eligible. Current fees are shown on the official portal visa2egypt.gov.eg.
United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Poland, Czech Republic, Greece, Cyprus, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Georgia, Armenia, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Peru, Colombia, India, China, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, South Africa, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkey, Serbia, Albania
Special rules (1)
Israeli passport holders: free 15-day entry stamp for South Sinai only (Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, St Catherine) via Taba. For Cairo, Luxor, Aswan or the Nile, a visa from an Egyptian embassy/consulate is required before travel.
UK, US and EU passport holders visiting only Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba or Taba receive a free entry stamp valid up to 15 days. Travel outside the permitted South Sinai area or a longer stay requires a visa.
Israel
Embassy visa required (17)
Apply at the nearest Egyptian embassy or consulate before travel; allow 2–4 weeks.
Travellers holding a valid (and in some cases previously used) visa from the Schengen area, UK, USA, Japan, Australia, New Zealand or Canada may obtain a tourist visa on arrival. Confirm with the official portal or your airline before travel.
Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Libya, Sudan, Somalia, Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Philippines, Vietnam
How to apply for an e-Visa
- Check that your passport is valid for at least 6 months after arrival.
- Apply on the official portal visa2egypt.gov.eg (about 7 business days) — or buy on arrival if eligible.
- Print your approved e-Visa and carry it with your passport and return ticket.
- Show it at passport control on arrival in Egypt.
Rules can change — always confirm with the official portal or your Egyptian embassy before travel.
Daily Budget
Typical personal spending per person per day, on top of what the tour includes. Converted at today's rate (1 USD ≈ 48.5 EGP).
| Expense | USD | EGP |
|---|---|---|
| Street food meal (koshary, falafel) | $2–$4 | 95–195 EGP |
| Sit-down restaurant meal | $8–$20 | 390–970 EGP |
| Bottled water & soft drinks (per day) | $2–$4 | 95–195 EGP |
| Coffee or fresh juice | $1.5–$4 | 75–195 EGP |
| Uber / taxi within the city | $3–$8 | 145–390 EGP |
| Tips for guides, drivers & staff (per day) | $5–$10 | 245–485 EGP |
| Souvenirs & small extras | $5–$20 | 245–970 EGP |
| Estimated daily total | $26.5–$70 | 1,285–3,395 EGP |
Tips for saving money
- Carry small Egyptian pound notes (5–50 EGP) for tips and toilets.
- Use Uber or Careem in Cairo and Alexandria — fixed prices, no haggling.
- Eat where locals eat: koshary and ta'ameya are tasty and cost little.
- Pay in EGP rather than USD — prices quoted in dollars are usually higher.
- Haggle politely in markets; start around half the first price.
- Buy water in supermarkets, not at monuments or hotels.
- Withdraw from bank ATMs (CIB, NBE, Banque Misr) for the best exchange rate.
Prices are typical estimates and vary by city and season.
Nights You Will Stay
Meals
Included
- Lunch: Optional on request
Why Choose This Tour?
Top Attractions
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What's included & what's not
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Included (3/3)
What's Not Included
Additional Extras
Sound and light show
A Nile River dinner cruise
An optional lunch buffet
Good To Know
What can I see at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization?+
What is the Citadel of Saladin famous for?+
What can I see in Old Cairo?+
Can these attractions be visited in one day?+
Is a private guide included?+
Can I add Khan El-Khalili?+
What does this NMEC, Citadel & Old Cairo Day Tour include?+
What makes this different from other full-day tours from Cairo?+
What sites or experiences does this tour cover?+
Is this tour suitable for kids and families?+
How long is this tour and when does it start?+
What is the best time of year for this tour?+
Do I need an ISIC Student Card in Egypt?+
Book Now — Pay Now
Signature package
$140 / per person · $90 / Children Under 12
$140 per adult
Offset your trip's carbon footprint and directly support Red Sea coral conservation & local Nubian artisan communities in Aswan.
Secure payment via PayPal
$140 / adults · $90 / children
Children aged 2–11. Max 2 per adult (4 for 2).
Send Inquiry
About this tour
Additional information
Confirmation
You receive written confirmation by email once your booking is accepted, usually within 24 hours.
Documents
A valid passport with at least 6 months' validity is required. We advise on visas for Egypt and Jordan before travel.
Pick-up
Hotel pick-up and drop-off in the tour city is included; we confirm your exact pick-up time the evening before.
Group size
Private departures run for your party only. Small-group departures are capped so everyone hears the guide.
Accessibility
Some archaeological sites involve uneven ground, steps and heat. Tell us about mobility needs and we adapt the pace.
Children
Family friendly. Child rates and car seats are available on request; infants usually travel free.
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, modest clothing for religious sites and cash for tips.
Insurance
Travel insurance covering medical care and cancellation is strongly recommended and is not included in the tour price.
Cancellation & refund policy
30 days or more before departure
100% refund
15 – 29 days before departure
50% refund
14 days or less before departure
No refund
- • Cancellations must be sent in writing to explore@exploreplus.net; the date we receive your email is the cancellation date.
- • Approved refunds are returned to the original payment method within 14 working days.
- • Third-party costs already paid on your behalf (domestic flights, Nile cruise cabins, special-event tickets, visas) are non-refundable once issued.
- • Date changes requested 15 days or more before departure are free of charge, subject to availability; inside 14 days they are treated as a cancellation.
- • If we have to cancel your tour for reasons within our control, you receive a full refund or a free date change — your choice.
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