Egypt’s museums and archaeological sites are run by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, and they share a set of visitor rules — on tickets, photography, bags and behaviour — that are worth knowing before you go. This guide summarises the official rules, using the Egyptian Museum in Cairo as the example, so there are no surprises at the entrance.
Important: Prices and hours change from time to time. Check the official site of the Ministry, egymonuments.gov.eg, before your visit. On our tours, entrance fees are included wherever the tour page says so.
Egyptian Museum (Tahrir) at a Glance
| Official information | |
|---|---|
| Opening hours | Daily 09:00–17:00; last ticket 16:00 |
| During Ramadan | 09:00–16:00; ticket window closes 15:00 |
| Foreign adult ticket | EGP 550 |
| Foreign student ticket | EGP 275 |
| Children under 6 | Free, always accompanied by an adult |
| Audio guide (foreigners) | EGP 75 |
| Photography | Mobile phone photos free; no flash |
Prices as published by the Ministry at the time of writing (November 2026).
Photography Rules
- Taking photos with your mobile phone is free.
- Flash photography is not allowed.
- Do not photograph other visitors or staff.
- Professional cameras require a camera ticket; commercial filming needs a permit and a daily fee.
Tip: Rules inside tombs can be stricter than in museums — in some tombs photography is not allowed or needs a separate ticket. Your guide will tell you on the day.
What You Cannot Bring In
- Large bags, backpacks and luggage over 40 × 40 cm.
- Sharp objects and umbrellas (leave them in the cloakroom).
- Food and drinks in the galleries — small water bottles are allowed.
- Laser pointers, flashlights and audio players.
- Animals and musical instruments.
Behaviour Inside
- Do not touch exhibits or display cases.
- No smoking anywhere in the museum.
- Keep phones on silent.
- Dress appropriately and keep your shoes on; do not lie on seats or floors.
- Sketching is allowed in pencil only.
- Children must stay with an adult at all times.
For clothing tips, read what to wear in Egypt.
The Grand Egyptian Museum and the Pyramids
The Grand Egyptian Museum near Giza has its own ticketing and timed entry; see our Grand Egyptian Museum tickets guide. For the Pyramids plateau and the separate ticket to go inside the Great Pyramid, read Inside the Great Pyramid of Giza.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Go early in the morning — before the heat and the tour groups.
- Carry your passport or a copy; student tickets require a valid student card.
- Bring small water bottles and a hat for open-air sites.
- Plan for Ramadan hours if you travel during the holy month — see Ramadan in Egypt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take photos in Egyptian museums?
Yes. At the Egyptian Museum, photos with a mobile phone are free; flash is not allowed and you should not photograph other visitors or staff.
How much is the Egyptian Museum ticket?
EGP 550 for foreign adults and EGP 275 for foreign students, according to the Ministry’s official site at the time of writing. Children under 6 enter free.
What are the opening hours?
Daily from 09:00 to 17:00 (last ticket 16:00), and 09:00 to 16:00 during Ramadan.
Can I bring a backpack?
Not a large one — bags over 40 × 40 cm are not allowed inside and must be left at the entrance.
Sources
- Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities — The Egyptian Museum (hours, tickets, rules): egymonuments.gov.eg/museums/egyptian-museum
- Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities — official portal: egymonuments.gov.eg
