The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) is the world's largest museum dedicated to a single civilisation, and it is now fully open to visitors. It stands about 2 km from the Pyramids of Giza. If you are staying in Hurghada, a day trip to Cairo lets you see both the pyramids and the museum's famous treasures in one unforgettable day.

A New Landmark Next to the Pyramids

After years of construction, the Grand Egyptian Museum officially opened on 1 November 2025. The museum holds more than 100,000 artefacts from ancient Egypt, with tens of thousands on display across its galleries. Many of these objects have never been shown to the public before.

The building itself is part of the experience. Its huge glass façade and giant entrance hall were designed with views towards the pyramids, linking the museum to the site it celebrates.

Highlights You Should Not Miss

  • The Tutankhamun galleries: for the first time, the young pharaoh's complete treasure collection is shown together in one place. It includes more than 5,000 objects, from his golden funerary items to jewellery, chariots and everyday objects.
  • The statue of Ramesses II: an 11-metre-tall colossal statue that welcomes visitors in the main atrium.
  • The Grand Staircase: a monumental staircase lined with statues of kings and gods, rising towards a view of the pyramids.
  • King Khufu's solar boats: the ancient wooden boats found beside the Great Pyramid, about 4,600 years old.
  • The main galleries: they take you from prehistoric Egypt through the age of the pharaohs to the Greek and Roman periods.

How to Visit the Grand Egyptian Museum From Hurghada

Cairo is roughly 450 km from Hurghada, about 5–6 hours by road. There are two main ways to make the trip.

Combine the Museum With the Pyramids and Sphinx

The museum and the pyramids are so close together that visiting both on the same day is easy. A typical plan is to see the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure and the Great Sphinx first. After that, you spend a few hours in the museum's cool galleries. With a professional Egyptologist guide, you will understand much more of what you see at both sites.

Tips for Your Visit

  • Plan at least 2–3 hours in the museum. The Tutankhamun galleries alone deserve a good hour.
  • Wear comfortable shoes. The museum and the Giza plateau involve a lot of walking.
  • Check opening hours and ticket prices on the museum's official channels before you go, because they can change.
  • Bring your passport or ID. It may be needed for tickets and security checks.
  • Carry water, sunglasses and a hat for the pyramids, especially in summer.
  • Book a guide. An Egyptologist brings the stories behind the objects to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Grand Egyptian Museum fully open?

Yes. The museum officially opened to the public on 1 November 2025, including the Tutankhamun galleries.

Can I visit the museum and the pyramids in one day from Hurghada?

Yes. The museum is about 2 km from the pyramids, and many day trips from Hurghada combine both.

How long is the drive from Hurghada to Cairo?

Around 5–6 hours each way, depending on traffic and stops. A flight is the faster option.

Is the Grand Egyptian Museum the same as the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square?

No. The historic Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, in central Cairo, is a different museum. The GEM is the new museum in Giza.

Book Your Cairo Trip From Hurghada

Ready to see the treasures of Tutankhamun and the last surviving wonder of the ancient world? Book the Cairo & Grand Egyptian Museum day trip with Hurghada Transfer, or contact us to plan a private trip.