#23🏺 Archaeology & AntiquityCairo, Egypt

Egyptian Museum

120,000 Pharaonic treasures on Tahrir Square

About Egyptian Museum

The historic 1902 home of Egyptian antiquities still holds extraordinary highlights even as the Grand Egyptian Museum opens in Giza.

Founded in 1902, Egyptian Museum has been welcoming visitors for over 124 years. Today it draws approximately 1,500,000 visitors annually, making it one of the most-visited archaeology & antiquity museums in the world. Located in Cairo, Egypt, the museum holds a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 22,000 traveller reviews, reflecting its enduring appeal to both first-time visitors and returning enthusiasts.

Why Egyptian Museum ranks #23

Our editorial ranking blends data from TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice awards, AECOM/TEA annual attendance figures, and coverage in leading travel publications including Condé Nast Traveler, Time Out, National Geographic and The Times. Ranking at #23, Egyptian Museum is one of the fifty most acclaimed museums on our composite index — a destination that serious museum-goers and casual visitors alike should have on their list. Key recognitions include: UNESCO Cairo.

Must-see highlights

With a recommended visit time of 2–4 hours, planning your route through Egyptian Museum is essential. Here are the standout works and spaces that should be at the top of your list:

◆Tutankhamun gold mask (transitioning to GEM)
◆Royal Mummies Hall
◆Narmer Palette
◆Khufu artefacts
◆Yuya and Tjuyu treasures

Recognition & awards

Egyptian Museum has received recognition from multiple authoritative sources in the museum and travel industry:

UNESCO Cairo

Planning your visit

Opening hours: Daily 9:00–17:00.

How long to spend: Most visitors recommend setting aside 2–4 hours for a thorough visit. If you are short on time, focus on the highlights listed above and consider purchasing a skip-the-line ticket to maximise your time inside.

Getting there: Egyptian Museum is located in Cairo, Egypt at coordinates 30.0478°N, 31.2336°E. View on Google Maps →

Visitor tips: Given the size of this museum, comfortable shoes are essential. Consider splitting your visit across two days if your schedule allows. Check the official website for any temporary closures, special exhibitions and advance booking requirements.

History of Egyptian Museum

Egyptian Museum was established in 1902, making it a well-established institution with over a century of history. Over the centuries, it has grown from its original collection to become a major cultural landmark in Cairo. With 1,500,000 annual visitors, it plays a vital role in Egypt's cultural tourism economy and stands as one of the most important archaeology & antiquity museums in the Africa region.

Other top archaeology & antiquity museums

If you enjoy archaeology & antiquity museums like Egyptian Museum, you may also want to explore these highly-ranked institutions in the same category:

#10Acropolis MuseumAthens, Greece
#24Grand Egyptian MuseumGiza, Egypt
#31Pergamon MuseumBerlin, Germany
#32Israel MuseumJerusalem, Israel
#52Museo Nacional de AntropologíaMexico City, Mexico

Frequently asked questions

What are the opening hours of Egyptian Museum?

Daily 9:00–17:00. We recommend checking the official website before your visit as hours may change on public holidays or during special events.

How long should I spend at Egyptian Museum?

Most visitors recommend spending 2–4 hours for a comprehensive visit. If you are short on time, prioritise the must-see highlights listed above.

Where is Egyptian Museum located?

Egyptian Museum is located in Cairo, Egypt. The exact coordinates are 30.0478°, 31.2336°. You can find directions via Google Maps.

What is Egyptian Museum known for?

120,000 Pharaonic treasures on Tahrir Square. Key highlights include Tutankhamun gold mask (transitioning to GEM), Royal Mummies Hall, Narmer Palette. The museum holds a 4.5/5 rating from 22,000 reviews.