There are some places in the world that are more than just destinations—they are experiences that awaken your sense of wonder and transport you to another time. The Marriott Mena House in Giza, Egypt, offers precisely this: a front-row seat to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramid of Giza. For our family, it is a great luxury-meets-history adventure.

Traveling with our two teenage daughters, we are searching for a place that balances comfort and getting a cultural impression of Egypt. The Marriott Mena House delivers all that and more. From the moment we arrive, we feel transported—not just by the hotel’s lush surroundings but by the palpable sense of history embedded in its walls.

The hotel is nestled on a sprawling 40-acre estate of manicured gardens, towering palm trees, and serene fountains, creating an oasis of tranquility just beyond the bustle of Giza. And the highlight? The pyramids are practically at your doorstep. It takes just a 10-minute walk from the hotel grounds to the entrance of the Giza Plateau.

Every morning begins with breakfast at the 139 Restaurant, where one can sit on the outdoor terrace and gaze at the Great Pyramid rising majestically in the distance. Dining on warm pastries, freshly brewed coffee, and mezze while soaking in this surreal view is pure magic. And to be honest, watching the pyramid in a golden hue of the morning is worth every second of lost morning sleep. The Marriott Mena House is not just a luxurious retreat; it is a piece of history. Originally built as a royal hunting lodge for Egyptian nobility in the mid-19th century, the estate was converted into a hotel in 1886. Since then, it has hosted an impressive roster of dignitaries and cultural icons, including Winston Churchill, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Agatha Christie, and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

Walking through the hallways, adorned with black-and-white photographs of the hotel’s storied past, feels like stepping back in time. It is fascinating to learn that world leaders once roamed these very halls. You can even peek into the Churchill Suite, named after the British Prime Minister himself. Every corner of the hotel whispers stories of the past, seamlessly blending its rich heritage with modern luxury.

If you have a family (and the money), you might choose for the two Deluxe Partial Pyramid View rooms, which offer glimpses of the Great Pyramid’s peak from the private balconies. While not the full panoramic view (something we’d recommend upgrading to for the ultimate experience), it is still a thrill to step outside and catch sight of one of the most iconic structures in the world. The rooms are elegant yet cozy, featuring dark wooden furniture, crisp white linens, and accents of traditional Egyptian design. You will find thoughtful details, from the jasmine-scented toiletries to the evening turn-down service. For young families, the Premium Pyramid View rooms might be worth considering, as waking up to a full view of the pyramids is something truly special.

That’s a room with a view!

While we don’t have the opportunity to sample every dining option during our stay, it’s clear that the Marriott Mena House takes pride in its culinary offerings. The hotel features several restaurants and lounges, catering to a variety of tastes.

The 139 Pavilion Restaurant is a standout, offering picturesque views of the pyramids and a menu that blends international and local dishes. Its breakfast buffet is often highlighted as a must-try, with a spread that includes everything from freshly baked pastries to traditional Egyptian specialties. For those seeking something a little different, the Moghul Room, the hotel’s Indian restaurant, is known for its refined ambiance and flavourful curries, while the Italian restaurant serves comforting wood-fired pizzas in a casual setting that’s perfect for families. Guests can also opt for in-room dining, enjoying dishes like mezze and freshly prepared local delicacies from the comfort of their balcony or room.

The Marriott Mena House isn’t just about history—it’s also a haven for relaxation. The Saray Spa is a highlight, offering treatments that range from traditional Swedish massages to regionally inspired rituals like the Arabic Coffee Awakener. After a day of exploring the pyramids, consider treating yourself to a massage, and its pure bliss. The therapist works magic on my tired muscles, leaving you feeling completely rejuvenated.

The pool is another family favourite. Set amidst the lush gardens with a view of the pyramids in the distance, it is the perfect spot to unwind. Children will spend hours swimming in the lapis-blue waters, while we as parents, lounge poolside with a book, soaking in the serene atmosphere.

Pool time!

No visit to Giza is complete without experiencing the pyramids themselves. Staying at the Marriott Mena House means one can skip the infamous Cairo traffic and arrive early, before the crowds and the heat of the day set in.

Walking up to the Great Pyramid with our daughters is an emotional moment. To stand before a structure that has stood for over 4,500 years is humbling, awe-inspiring, and deeply moving. Another must-visit is the Great Sphinx, an enigmatic sculpture that has guarded the pyramids for millennia. Standing before this colossal structure feels almost otherworldly, and it pairs perfectly with a tour of the pyramids.

The Great Sfinx in front of the Great Pyramid (credits Pixabay)

While exploring, we notice many opportunities for camel and horse rides around the site. Although these may seem like a fun adventure, we decide not to partake, as the treatment of the animals appears questionable. Instead, we explore the plateau on foot, fully appreciating the scale and grandeur of the pyramids at our own pace. Walking also allows us to capture some of our favourite photos, with the pyramids towering behind us.

Beyond the pyramids, there is so much more to discover in Giza and Cairo. Just a short drive from the hotel is the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), which is set to become one of the most impressive museums in the world. Though not fully open during our visit, we are lucky to join a limited tour showcasing artifacts from King Tutankhamun’s tomb and other ancient treasures. The museum’s modern design and thoughtful curation make it a fantastic educational experience for the whole family. For a deeper dive into history, we venture into Cairo to visit the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square. This older museum houses an incredible collection of artifacts, including royal mummies and statues. It’s fascinating to compare its traditional displays with the contemporary approach of the GEM.

The GEM closeby

Lastly, we explore Old Cairo, home to stunning churches, mosques, and synagogues. The Hanging Church and the Ben Ezra Synagogue offer a glimpse into Egypt’s diverse religious heritage, providing a lovely contrast to the ancient monuments of Giza.

The Marriott Mena House offers something truly special: the chance to immerse yourself in ancient history while enjoying the comforts of modern luxury. Whether we are strolling through jasmine-scented gardens, lounging on the balcony with a pyramid view, or exploring the nearby wonders of Giza and Cairo, every moment here feels like a perfect blend of indulgence and inspiration. For families, the hotel is an ideal choice. Its combination of space, a huge pool, and an unbeatable location makes it the perfect base for exploring one of the world’s most fascinating historical sites.

Would we stay here again? Absolutely. The Marriott Mena House is more than just a hotel—it’s a destination in itself. If Egypt is on your travel bucket list (and it absolutely should be), this is the hotel to stay. After all, how often do you get to wake up with the Great Pyramid as your neighbour?

WOW

# Breakfast or lunch with the Great Pyramid as your backdrop. Our youngest daughter had ‘the best mangosmoothy ever’ here.

# Watching the light illuminate this ancient wonder is a once-in-a-lifetime moment.

# A historic hotel with stories in every corner. The hotel has hosted with hallways adorned with vintage photos that bring its regal past to life. Staying here feels like stepping into a living museum.

# The closest luxury stay to the pyramids. Just a 10-minute walk from the Giza Plateau, this hotel offers unparalleled proximity to the pyramids. Skip the traffic, beat the crowds, and enjoy a peaceful retreat in lush gardens with stunning pyramid views.