Prices in Egypt: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers
Egypt is known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and affordable cost of living, making it an attractive destination for tourists. Whether you're planning a short visit or an extended stay, understanding the prices in Egypt can help you budget effectively and make the most of your trip. From food and transportation to accommodation and sightseeing, here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to spend while in Egypt.
1. Accommodation Costs ?
Egypt offers a range of accommodations to suit all budgets, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts.
Hotels & Resorts
- Budget Hotels/Hostels: $10 – $30 per night
- Mid-Range Hotels: $40 – $80 per night
- Luxury Hotels & Resorts: $100 – $500+ per night
⭐ Tip: Prices tend to be higher in popular tourist areas like Cairo, Sharm El-Sheikh, and Hurghada, especially during peak seasons. Booking in advance can help secure better rates.
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2. Food & Dining Costs ?️
Egypt is famous for its delicious and affordable cuisine. Whether you choose to eat at local street vendors or dine in fine restaurants, you’ll find plenty of options that fit your budget.
Street Food & Local Restaurants
- Koshary (traditional Egyptian dish): $1 – $3
- Falafel sandwich: $0.50 – $2
- Shawarma wrap: $2 – $5
- Grilled chicken with rice and salad: $4 – $8
Mid-Range Restaurants
- Meal for one (local restaurant): $5 – $10
- Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant): $20 – $40
Fine Dining & International Cuisine
- High-end restaurant meal for two: $50 – $150
- Imported alcohol (cocktails, wine, beer): $5 – $20 per drink
⭐ Tip: Local food is much cheaper than international cuisine. Also, tipping (around 10-15%) is expected in restaurants.
3. Transportation Costs ?
Getting around Egypt is affordable and convenient, with various transportation options to fit different budgets.
Public Transportation
- Metro ride in Cairo: $0.10 – $0.50
- Local bus fare: $0.20 – $0.50
- Microbus (shared minivans): $0.50 – $1
Taxis & Ride-Sharing
- Taxi starting fare: $0.50 – $1
- Uber/Bolt (short ride in Cairo or Alexandria): $2 – $5
- Taxi from Cairo Airport to downtown: $10 – $20
Long-Distance Travel
- Bus from Cairo to Luxor/Hurghada: $10 – $20
- Train from Cairo to Aswan (first class): $15 – $30
- Domestic flights (Cairo to Luxor/Sharm El-Sheikh): $50 – $150
⭐ Tip: Always negotiate taxi fares before getting in or use Uber/Bolt for fair pricing.
4. Tourist Attractions & Entrance Fees ?️
Egypt is home to some of the world’s most famous attractions, and entrance fees vary depending on the site.
Cairo & Giza
- Pyramids of Giza & Sphinx: $6 – $20 (extra for entry inside the pyramids)
- Egyptian Museum: $6 – $12
- Citadel of Saladin: $5 – $10
Luxor & Aswan
- Valley of the Kings: $10 – $15
- Karnak Temple: $5 – $10
- Abu Simbel Temples: $10 – $15
Red Sea & Sinai
- Snorkeling trip (Hurghada/Sharm El-Sheikh): $20 – $50
- Diving course (3-5 days): $250 – $400
- Desert Safari & Quad Biking: $30 – $80
⭐ Tip: Student discounts are available with an international student card at many sites.
5. Shopping & Souvenirs ?️
Egypt is a great place for shopping, especially in local markets (souks) where you can find unique souvenirs at bargain prices.
- Papyrus paintings: $5 – $50
- Handmade carpets & rugs: $50 – $500
- Perfumes & essential oils: $5 – $30
- Egyptian cotton scarves & clothing: $10 – $40
- Spices & herbs: $2 – $10 per bag
⭐ Tip: Bargaining is expected in local markets, so don’t be afraid to negotiate for a better price!
6. Miscellaneous Expenses ?
Here are some additional costs to keep in mind:
- SIM card with data (Vodafone, Orange, Etisalat): $5 – $20
- Bottled water: $0.20 – $1
- Cup of coffee (local café vs. Starbucks): $0.50 – $5
- Cinema ticket: $3 – $7
7. Daily Budget Estimates ?
To help you plan your trip, here’s an estimate of daily expenses based on different travel styles:
? Budget Traveler (Hostels, street food, public transport) → $20 – $40 per day
? Mid-Range Traveler (3-star hotels, casual dining, taxis) → $50 – $100 per day
? Luxury Traveler (5-star resorts, fine dining, private tours) → $150 – $500+ per day
Final Thoughts
Egypt is one of the most affordable travel destinations, offering a mix of rich history, stunning landscapes, and budget-friendly experiences. Whether you’re a backpacker or a luxury traveler, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your budget.
By planning ahead and being mindful of costs, you can enjoy everything Egypt has to offer without breaking the bank! ?✨
