Giza

Giza is a world-renowned city in Egypt, where majestic pyramids and the Sphinx stand side by side with lively modern districts. If you dream of visiting this unique corner of history, you will be pleased to know that the transport infrastructure here is excellently developed: you can reach the city by plane, train, intercity bus, or car. We have prepared a detailed guide on how to get to Giza so that your journey to the wonders of the world begins as comfortably as possible.

For travellers planning a visit to Giza, the most convenient option may be arriving at Sphinx International Airport (Sphinx International Airport, SPX). This modern air hub is located west of Cairo and is in immediate proximity to the city and the famous pyramids, allowing you to reach your hotel or the attractions in literally 30–40 minutes, avoiding the capital's central traffic.

The traditional and most popular route remains flying into Cairo International Airport (CAI), which serves as the country's main gateway and receives flights from all over the world. However, logistics should be considered: the airport is located on the eastern outskirts of the agglomeration, approximately 45–50 kilometres from Giza. A car journey across the busy metropolis can take from an hour to an hour and a half, depending on traffic conditions.

Both airports provide excellent connections to the region, so the choice depends on flight schedules and your budget. Arriving at either of these aviation hubs is a reliable way to start your journey to Egypt and touch ancient history.

Rail transport in the region is excellently developed, and Giza boasts its own major railway station. This is an important transport hub where almost all long-distance trains travelling from Cairo to the south (to Luxor and Aswan) stop, as well as many trains arriving from the northern coast, for example, from Alexandria.

Disembarking specifically at this station often saves time for travellers: it is located much closer to the pyramids zone and the majority of tourist hotels than the main station of the neighbouring capital. From here, you can reach your accommodation or head straight to the ancient monuments of Egypt by taxi or metro, avoiding the dense traffic in the metropolis centre.

Bus services connect the region with many corners of the country, offering tourists an inexpensive and accessible transfer option. The shortest route leads from neighbouring Cairo: covering 15–20 kilometres in dense capital traffic usually takes from 30 minutes to an hour. The journey from Alexandria, located 220 kilometres to the north, takes much longer, about 3 hours, from where comfortable coaches depart regularly to Giza.

Another option for those travelling from the northern resorts is a trip from the city of El Dabaa. Buses cover the distance of approximately 340 kilometres in an average of 4–5 hours, travelling along modern highways. Most intercity services arrive at stations located not far from the metro line or the ring road, allowing you to quickly get to your hotel or straight to the foot of the pyramids.

A trip to Giza by car is an excellent option for those who value independence, especially when starting from neighbouring Cairo. Although the distance is only 15–20 kilometres, due to the heavy traffic of the metropolis, travel time varies from 30 minutes to an hour; it is most convenient to use ride-hailing apps (Uber or Careem), where the trip will be inexpensive and save you from parking difficulties at the pyramids.

Guests arriving from the Mediterranean coast can appreciate the quality of the expressways: the drive from Alexandria (about 220 km) will take around 2.5–3 hours along a desert highway. The journey from the city of El Dabaa, located 340 kilometres away, will last about 4 hours, allowing you to enjoy the changing landscapes of Egypt from the car window.

To ensure your trip to Giza goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant memories, it is worth preparing for local specifics in advance. We have collected useful recommendations to help you comfortably organise your holiday in this ancient city.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate here is hot and dry, so opt for loose clothing made of natural fabrics (cotton, linen). Out of respect for local traditions, choose items that cover your shoulders and knees. Be sure to bring comfortable closed shoes for walking on the sand and stones of the plateau, as well as a hat and sunglasses.
2. Transport: The most convenient way to move around the city is via ride-hailing apps (such as Uber or Careem). This eliminates the need to haggle and avoids language barriers. For trips to the centre of Cairo, you can use the metro — it is cheap and allows you to avoid traffic jams.
3. Finances: The national currency is the Egyptian Pound. It is best to exchange dollars or euros at official banks or ATMs. Although cards are accepted in hotels and major restaurants, always keep a supply of cash in small denominations for souvenirs, transport, and tips (baksheesh), which are expected everywhere here.
4. Health and Safety: It is strictly not recommended to drink tap water — use only bottled water, even for brushing your teeth. Pharmacies are common in the city and well-stocked, but it is better to bring specific medications with you.
5. Communication: The official language is Arabic, but in tourist areas, hotel staff, guides, and vendors speak English reasonably well. Learn a few basic words in Arabic, for example, "shukran" (thank you) — this always brings a smile and builds rapport with the locals.
6. Local Etiquette: Egyptians are very emotional and hospitable. Greetings are often accompanied by a handshake, but remember that offering the left hand is considered impolite. If you are invited for tea in a shop, it is part of the trading ritual — do not hesitate to accept or politely decline.
7. What to Avoid: Be cautious with street vendors and unofficial "guides" near the attractions. Always clearly negotiate the price of a service (for example, a camel ride) before the trip begins and clarify that the amount is for all participants, not per person.
8. Extra Tip: Plan your visit to the pyramids for the early morning, right when the complex opens. At this time, the air is still fresh, there are significantly fewer tourists, and you can take stunning photos in soft light without strangers in the frame.

By following these simple rules, you can feel confident and safe. May your journey to Egypt bring you many bright impressions and new discoveries!