Although staying in the port city of Alexandria comes with many perks, such as being near the sea and away from the hustle and bustle of Cairo, it may sometimes feel as though you’re missing out on some of Egypt’s most iconic attractions.

Giza Pyramids day trips from Alexandria solve this problem, as you get to see the world-famous pyramids without straying too far from your coastal hotel. Led by a local guide, you’ll get to learn more about this mystifying wonder of the ancient world.

Here's all you need to know about the Giza Pyramids, one of the most exciting day trips from Alexandria.

How to get to the Giza Pyramids from Alexandria?

The Giza Pyramids are located within the Giza Necropolis, just outside the capital city of Cairo and roughly 220 kilometers southeast of Alexandria.

From Alexandria to the Giza Pyramids by car

If you are comfortable with renting a car, you could easily drive from Alexandria to the Giza Pyramids. The drive is around 2.5 hours long, and the most direct route to take would be along Route 75, which takes you almost all the way to the pyramids.

From Alexandria to the Giza Pyramids by bus

Buses provide an affordable and convenient way to visit the Pyramids of Giza from Alexandria. Buses depart from Alexandria Moharam Bek station multiple times a day and drop you at the Tahrir station in Cairo. From here you can take a taxi or a local bus to the pyramids.

Guided tour to the Giza Pyramids from Alexandria

Alternatively, consider booking a guided tour to the Giza Pyramids from Alexandria and let someone else take care of the details for you. These excursions typically include the services of a local guide and roundtrip transportation in air-conditioned vehicles for greater convenience.

How much does the entrance ticket to the Giza Pyramids cost?

The cost to enter the Giza Plateau is EGP360 (US$12) per person, with students receiving a discounted rate of EGP180 (US$6) per person. If you want to see inside any of the pyramids, you’ll need to pay an additional entrance fee for each pyramid you enter.

What is the typical itinerary?

Giza Pyramid day trips typically begin with a convenient hotel pickup from your accommodation in Alexandria. Once you have boarded the comfortable vehicle and met your tour guide, you’ll make your way toward the Pyramids of Giza.

You’ll get to explore the Giza Necropolis and its many attractions for a few hours with your guide, who will offer valuable insight into the history of the pyramids and the Ancient Egyptian way of life.

There will be plenty of time for taking photos, asking questions and simply relaxing. Some tours also include time for some sightseeing in Cairo, before heading back to Alexandria.

What kinds of tours are available to go to the Giza Pyramids?

Guided Tours to Giza Pyramids from Alexandria

Not only are guided group tours the most affordable option if you are looking to visit the Giza Pyramids from Alexandria with a local guide, but they also provide you with the opportunity to meet new people as there will be other participants on the tour.

Private Tour to Giza Pyramids from Alexandria

Private tours offer a more personalized experience as your tour guide will cater solely to you and your travel companions. There will be more opportunities for asking questions and you may even have the option to customize parts of your itinerary.

Day Trip to Giza Pyramids plus Sakkara from Alexandria

The Sakkara Necropolis is located on the outskirts of Cairo, not far from the Pyramids of Giza. Visiting this additional complex gives you further insight into Egyptian history and culture and adds value to your day trip from Alexandria.

Day Tour to Giza Pyramids plus Cairo from Alexandria

Many Giza Pyramids day trips from Alexandria also visit Cairo and some of the capital city’s other attractions, including museums and bazaars, thus allowing you to make the most of your time in Egypt’s capital.

How much does a day trip to the Giza Pyramids from Alexandria cost?

A basic guided day trip to the Giza Pyramids from Alexandria usually costs US$100 to US$180, depending on the tour operator and the inclusions. If you’re interested in a private trip, you can expect to pay around US$200 per person.

A day trip to the Giza Pyramids with additional stops, such as Sakkara or other Cairo attractions, typically costs US$200 and US$260 depending on whether you choose a group tour or private excursion among other factors.

What will you see and do?

The Pyramids of Giza in Cairo are one of the Seven Wonders of the World and have been visited by millions of history lovers and architecture enthusiasts from around the world. The complex is made up of pyramids, temples, burial tombs and more.

The three main pyramids—the Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre and the Pyramid of Menkaure—are filled with galleries and chambers for visitors to explore. These incredible structures were each dedicated to a specific pharaoh.

There are also three smaller pyramids, known as the Queen’s Pyramids, which were dedicated to the wives and daughters of the Ancient Egyptian Pharaohs. Another major attraction is the Great Sphinx of Giza, which is a massive statue of a mythical creature that is half-man, half-lion.

While there are several different temples in the complex, the most visited is the Valley Temple of Khafre, which was built specifically for mummification and provides valuable insight into the Ancient Egyptian way of life and the rituals surrounding death.

You may also visit other attractions in Cairo, such as the Khan El Khalili Bazaar and the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities. It is also likely that you will stop for lunch at a traditional Egyptian eatery, where you’ll enjoy a local meal.

What are the opening times?

The Pyramids of Giza are open daily between 8 AM and 5 PM during the summer months (April to September) and between 7 AM and 6 PM during the winter months (October to March).

When is the best time to visit the Giza Pyramids?

The best time to visit the Giza Pyramids is during Egypt's cooler months, from November to March, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing. Mornings are ideal to experience the pyramids before the midday sun intensifies. The peak tourist season is December and January, so visiting just before or after these months can help avoid the largest crowds.

Are there any tours to the Giza Pyramids from other cities in Egypt?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Egypt:

Travel tips

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces. Dress modestly in light, breathable fabrics to respect local customs and cope with the heat.
The desert in Egypt can be hot, so carry plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Some guided tours may include lunch. If not, there are many local eateries around Giza, but packing snacks or lunch might be a good option.
Even if the temperature feels mild, the desert sun can be intense. Apply sunscreen generously.

Giza Pyramids: Day Trips and Tours from Alexandria