Egypt · tool
How much does Cairo cost?
Daily budget breakdown across three tiers — so you can realistically plan your Cairo trip before you book anything.
Cairo, Egypt travel budget
Realistic daily cost per person across three spending tiers. All figures in USD.
Budget
Hostels, street food, public transit
Hostel dorm bed or a very basic guesthouse room.
Street food, local eateries (koshary, falafel), and simple cafes.
Public microbuses, metro, and occasional shared taxis.
Visiting local markets, exploring Islamic Cairo on foot, and some smaller museums.
Water, snacks, small tips (baksheesh), and souvenirs.
Mid-range
3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis
Comfortable 3-star hotel or a well-located Airbnb apartment.
Mix of casual restaurants, cafes, and some mid-range dining experiences.
Taxis (negotiate fare or use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Careem), and occasional private car hire for short trips.
Entry to major sites like the Egyptian Museum, Citadel, and some paid historical areas.
Souvenirs, tips, coffee, and other incidentals.
Luxury
4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers
4-5 star hotel with amenities, or a high-end serviced apartment.
Fine dining restaurants, hotel restaurants, and tasting menus.
Private car with driver, airport transfers, and comfortable taxis.
Private guided tours, Nile dinner cruises, hot air balloon rides over Luxor (if extending trip), and exclusive experiences.
High-quality souvenirs, spa treatments, and generous tipping.
Destination-specific money tips
- •Carry small denominations of EGP for tips (baksheesh) as it's expected for almost any service, from hotel staff to restroom attendants.
- •While ATMs are common, some may charge high withdrawal fees. It's wise to withdraw larger sums less frequently if possible.
- •Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem are generally reliable and help avoid fare haggling with taxis.
- •Negotiate prices firmly but politely at markets like Khan el-Khalili before agreeing to a purchase; prices are often inflated for tourists.
- •Major hotels and tourist-oriented shops will accept credit cards, but always have cash for smaller establishments and local transport.
Plan the rest of your Cairo trip
Trip budgets elsewhere