Looking for the best hostels in Cairo? Cairo is a city of bewildering madness, chaos, beauty, and liveliness.
As a backpacker in Egypt, your first thought might be how epic it will be to tour the Pyramids on a camel’s back, run through busy bazaars or partake in its vibrant cosmopolitan life.
While you should definitely do all these things (and more), the first thing you should do is book a well-located Hostel in Cairo – because the city is enormous. We have you covered for recommendations, including cheap hostels in Cairo, as the city is incredibly affordable for backpackers.
Here are the best hostels in Cairo for backpackers of all types.
Our favorite hostels in Cairo are:
- Madina Hostel - best for Couples
- Tahrir Square Hostel - best for solo female travelers
- Holy sheet Hostel - best for Backpackers
Money-saving tip: Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com. They compare prices from Hostelworld, Booking.com and others with 1 click.
1. Madina Hostel
2. Tahrir Square Hostel
3. Holy sheet Hostel
Egypt is a land rich in history and culture, and Cairo is no exception to this statement. While you might want to jump on the first tour or activity you come across; we recommend ‘shopping around’ before settling on an option. You’ll find many small kiosks on the streets offering different (or the same) tours, all charging distinct rates.
So make sure to assess the prices and deals before you settle on one. Also, keep in mind that in Cairo, cheaper doesn’t always mean worst.
Planning to visit other parts of Egypt? We have upcoming guides about the hostels in New Cairo and the best hostels in Nasr city. Don’t miss it!
This guide is perfect for YOU, when you…
- are tired of crappy hostels!
- want a social Hostel to actually meet people
- are happy to spend $1 to $2 more for a much better experience
What we cover in this article:
You can find all 5-Star Hostels here with Hostelgeeks and all guides to “Best Hostels In” here.
Quick Introduction to Cairo
Average price for a bed: Hostels in Cairo Egypt costs $4 – $25 per night for a bed in a dorm. Private rooms start at $25. This is a rough average, just to give you an idea.
Prices always depend on season and holidays. Please always check exact rates on Hostelz.com or Hostelworld Egypt.
Check-In and Check-Out: The average check-in time is from 15:00 (3pm), while the Check-Out time is before 11:00 (11am). Hostels usually offer luggage storage in case you arrive earlier or leave later. Make sure you check if luggage storage is free or if there is an extra cost.
How to get around: Cairo has a good metro and train system. Alternatively, you could use taxis, but the city is renowned for its heavy traffic.
Things to do in Cairo: Although most people visit Cairo for its Pyramids, the city has almost 600 listed monuments within its walls, so while you should definitely gaze in awe at the Pyramids of Giza, reserve some awe for the rest of Cairo.
Budget Tip: Bargaining in Cairo is as much part of the culture as Foul, Falafel, and the pyramids. Egyptians expect you to bargain, and this expectation isn’t just limited to travelers, as you’ll find locals engaging in the practice between them as well. Don’t be shy, and always try to ask for a lower price when possible.
Cash Vs. Card: In Egypt, cash is still very much preferred over cards. While most luxurious or high-end facilities will always accept cards, the majority of bazaars, cafes, and restaurants you come across will either not have the option or prefer cash. Always make sure you have some on hand.
So much Food: If the thought of middle eastern cuisine is enough to awaken your saliva ducts, you’ll be happy to note that Cairo is home to the world’s largest food court: The Oasis Restaurants and Entertainment area. This space hosts 25 restaurants and cafes, each serving delicious local, international, and fusion delicacies that will satisfy your appetite (until your next meal).
You’ll also be happy to note that all the Cairo Hostels on our list have a free breakfast option!
Weather in Cairo: Cairo has two seasons, with eight months of summer and around four months of winter. Winter is from December through February and is very popular thanks to its pleasantly warm temperatures. However, this doesn’t mean that you should forget to pack warm clothing: this is a desert country, and winter evenings can get very cold.
Something to Keep in Mind: Regardless of your gender, chances are you’ll get stared at in Cairo, as that’s just part of the culture. While you can get away with wearing clothing of your choice, if you’re a woman, you might want to consider adapting to the Egyptian standard of clothing. This doesn’t mean that you should veil yourself: it just means showcasing a bit less skin.
We don’t think this is necessary, but we’re giving the tip to first-time female solo travelers, as it will save you from extra unwanted attention and will probably make you feel more comfortable.
🎁 New to Hostels? Read our guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. We especially recommend reading:
- How to book hostels? (and websites to save $)
- 23 clever items: the hostel packing list to download
- How does the Hostelworld App work exactly? Our Advanced Guide
The 3 Best Hostels in Cairo are …
Let’s jump right into the coolest hostels in Cairo.
- Madina Hostel – best for Couples
- Tahrir Square Hostel – best for solo female travelers
- Holy sheet Hostel – best for Backpackers
These are our favorite hostels in Cairo. We want to make your life even easier, so we put all accommodations on a map for you. We even added our own tips for favorite restaurants, things to see, and more.
1. Madina Hostel
2. Tahrir Square Hostel
3. Holy sheet Hostel
Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type
| 🦸 Solo Traveler: | Tahrir Square Hostel |
| 🙎♀️ Female Solo Traveler: | Tahrir Square Hostel |
| 👩❤️👨 Couple Hostel: | Madina Hostel |
| 👨👩👦 Family Hostel: | Madina Hostel |
| 🎒 for Backpacker | Holy sheet Hostel |
| 🧘 Cozy Hostel: | Madina Hostel |
1. Madina Hostel
Madina translates to ‘City’ in Arabic, a name reflecting the very central location of this Cairo hostel. Here, the main element you’ll come across is that of familiarity, from the social spaces to the family-run management.
What we like the most about this hostel in Cairo is its contemporary design, which incorporates classic modern features and interior architecture without washing away the vibrancy of the city’s atmosphere.
Madina Hostel‘s facilities constitute a fully equipped kitchen, a terrace, and three common areas that provide plenty of space to socialize, plan your trip or have a (free) cup of coffee. We really like their common spaces, and you’ll find good free wifi throughout the property.
This is one of the best Cairo Hotels to meet travelers from all walks of life. As such, you’ll encounter both young and older adults looking for a safe, enjoyable, and friendly environment. Although it’s very popular with couples, you’ll find your fair share of solo travelers and adventurous families or groups as well.
We recommend checking out the tours offered at the reception desk as they are very reasonably priced.
Location: Hostel in downtown Cairo, next to a sea of cafés, bars, and restaurants. Nearby points of interest include the Egyptian Museum, the Nile, and Tahrir Square. The surrounding area is very popular for cycling, and you’ll find the main bus station and subway a short walk away.
This is the best hostel in Cairo for:
- Couples
- Groups
- Digital nomads
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
2. Tahrir Square Hostel
If you’re looking for safe accommodation that offers both privacy and an opportunity to socialize with other guests, consider staying at Tahrir Square Hostel – one of the best hostels in Cairo.
Here, beds feel more like a private, comfortable capsule thanks to their lamps, plugs, stands, and privacy curtains.
There’s a 24-hour front desk, which will come in handy if you’re traveling alone and face an issue you want to solve promptly.
The staff is also incredibly friendly and provides different activities like daily tours throughout Cairo and nearby cities, as well as laundry and airport services.
As you can tell from the hostel’s name, it is located right in the center of Tahrir Square, but although this is quite an energetic area, most travelers shouldn’t be too bothered by the surrounding noise since the hostel is relatively well-soundproofed.
On-site, you’ll find a shared kitchen, some rooms with balconies and communal spaces. Also, this hostel offers a hearty Egyptian breakfast.
Location: Hostel in Downtown Cairo, a short walk away from Tahrir Square and Cairo Tower. The hostel’s building provides a unique view of the overall city, and nearby points of interest include The Egyptian Museum, the Nile, and Abdeen Palace Museum. There are lots of cafes, restaurants, and bar options around the area.
This is the best hostel in Cairo for:
- Female Solo Travelers
- Solo Traveler
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
3. Holy sheet Hostel
This is one of the best hostels in Cairo, not just thanks to an ingenious name (Holy sheet indeed), but in greater part thanks to a staff whose service is one of the best you’ll ever experience.
The receptionists and owners seem to know Cairo and the rest of Egypt like the back of their hands. They will go the extra mile in all directions to ensure you have an excellent trip, whether by putting together an entire itinerary or making sure you feel safe and comfortable.
Apart from Holy sheet Hostel‘s superb human dimension (Just read their reviews!), the facilities act as pleasant spaces for rest and friendly socializing after a busy day. You’ll get to share experiences with fellow travelers over a Netflix movie or a PlayStation 4 game or perhaps cook a common meal in their fully equipped communal kitchen (that operates 24/7).
This Cairo Hostel is perfect for all types of backpackers as it has a wide range of rooms, from mixed to female-only dorms all the way to private rooms (with shared or private bathrooms).
If you opt to stay here, make sure to wake up early enough to sample their delicious free breakfast.
Location: Hostel in downtown Cairo, a one minute walk away from Tahrir Square. Nearby points of interest include Talat Harb square and The Egyptian Museum. The hostel is surrounded by many restaurants, coffee shops, and markets and is well-connected to various public transportation options (bus, train stations, subway)
This is the best hostel in Cairo for:
- Backpackers
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Best Hostels in Cairo for Solo Travelers?
If you’re traveling alone, you’re probably looking for a safe hostel in Cairo that will provide a cozy space to interact with fellow travelers and staff that is available to solve any issues you might come across. Thanks to its small size, central location, and 24/7 reception (with super friendly staff), Tahrir Square Hostel is the best hostel in Cairo for solo travelers.
Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com
More Hostels worth a mention
Looking for more options?
No worries, we’ve got you covered. There are many hostels in Egypt, Cairo, like the Miami Cairo Hostel and the Minerva Downtown Hostel. We’ve gone through the whole list to pick ones that we think are worth looking at before you make that tough decision.
- Cairo Hub Hostel
- Cairo International Hostel
- Heritage Hostel Cairo
- Australian Hostel Cairo
- Meramees Hostel Cairo
- Freedom Hostel Cairo
- Dahab Hostel Cairo
- Egyptian Night Cairo
Cairo Hub Hostel
Cairo Hub Hostel is a vibrant and exciting hostel in the heart of Cairo, Egypt. It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for an authentic and unique travel experience. Located in the lively Downtown area, the hostel is within walking distance of some of the city’s top attractions, including the Egyptian Museum, the Great Pyramids, and Tahrir Square.
At Cairo Hub Hostel, you can experience the culture of Cairo in a unique and modern way. From the bar, you can soak up the views of the city and enjoy a variety of international dishes and drinks. There’s also a fully equipped kitchen where you can prepare your own meals.
Socialize with other travellers in the hostel’s communal lounge. There’s something for everyone at Cairo Hub Hostel!
When you’re ready to explore the city, take advantage of the hostel’s tours. Plus, the friendly staff can provide you with insider tips and advice, so you can make the most out of your stay.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelz.com
Cairo International Hostel
A Cairo hostel with mostly private rooms that still offers dorm options! Cairo International Hostel is housed in a historic building in a very popular part of downtown. The interiors are typically Egyptian with classic vintage touches.
We really like their balconies (most of their rooms have them), as they overlook the busy Adly street, which has an interesting variety of architecture and is perfect for people-watching.
Location: Located in Downtown Cairo near the Attaba subway station. Nearby popular points of interest include the Talaat Harb Square.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Heritage Hostel Cairo
This is where you should stay in Cairo if you’re a big fan of history as Heritage Hostel Cairo is right in front of the Egyptian Museum. The staff is very welcoming and helpful, and they serve one of the best breakfasts you can have in Cairo. We also think this is a good option for private places for couples in Cairo (note that Arab couples are not allowed if they don’t hold an official registered marriage certificate as per the law in Egypt).
Visitors enjoy spending their downtime gazing at the city from their terrace, where you can also have a nice cup of coffee.
Location: Heritage hostel is Located in Downtown Cairo a short walk away from Tahrir Square. The property faces The Egyptian Museum and is next to the Sadat Metro Station. You’ll find many shops, restaurants, and cafes nearby.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Australian Hostel Cairo
Most of the rooms in Australian Hostel Cairo are private, but they have one dorm, and the overall facilities are designed for a communal feel. As such, they have a well-equipped kitchen that travelers can use as well as an oriental-style communal living room that promotes a familiar and social setting.
Location: In the heart of downtown, a short 10-minute walk from the Egyptian Museum and the railway and bus stations. The hostel is on the same street as many popular bars, restaurants, and shops.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Meramees Hostel Cairo
At Meramees Hostel Cairo, the atmosphere is relaxed and laid-back, with very friendly staff and well-maintained facilities. The overall interiors are very typical of Cairo, Egypt, with high ceilings, large windows, French doors, and wooden floorboards. Various room options should fit most budgets, from private rooms with shared bathrooms to dorms.
You’ll also find a common area where travelers have breakfast together or relax after a day of exploring the city.
Location: Centrally located between Cairo Station and the Nile river. Nearby points of interest include the Khan Al-Khalil market and Cairo’s Egyptian Museum.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Freedom Hostel Cairo
Freedom Hostel provides guests with the opportunity to sleep in dorms, but note that the beds are normal ones and not bunk beds, so they don’t really provide any privacy. We’re still mentioning it because it’s a very cheap hostel in Cairo.
We think it might also be a good option if you’re considering becoming an Egypt digital nomad as it has good internet speed and even provides travelers with an ‘internet corner’ with WI-FI and international phone access.
The staff is great and super friendly, and accommodation and there are even laundry facilities on-site.
Location: Centrally located with metro access. You’ll find many restaurants, malls, cafes, and cinemas nearby.
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Dahab Hostel Cairo
Dahab Hostel is one of the hostels in downtown Cairo. At Dahab Hostel, you can expect to find everything you need for a comfortable stay.
From spacious and comfortable dorms to private double rooms, and even a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the old city, Dahab Hostel has it all! Plus, the hostel is close to all the must–see attractions, like the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
But Dahab Hostel isn‘t just a place to sleep – it‘s also a great place to hangout and has fun! The hostel has a lively atmosphere, with lots of social events like movie nights, pool tournaments, and live music nights. There‘s also a great bar and restaurant, where you can enjoy a variety of delicious food and drinks.
For those looking for some adventure, Dahab Hostel also offers organized trips to nearby attractions and activities, like camel rides and jeep tours.
Compare prices at: Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
Egyptian Night Hostel
Experience a Nile-view stay in the culturally rich city of Cairo at Egyptian Night Hostel!
Located a short walk away from Sadat Metro Station, the hostel is just a 2-minute stroll to the majestic River Nile and a 5-minute walk to the vibrant shopping mall.
It is also a 10-minute drive to New Minerva Hotel Cairo and 7-minute walk to Travel Joy Hostel Cairo.
Admire the stunning views of the city from the balcony of your simply-furnished room or explore the nearby attractions.
Get advice on excursions from the hostel’s tour desk and enjoy 24-hour front desk service.
Go on a culinary adventure with a variety of Egyptian and Western restaurants right at your doorstep!
Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld | Hostelz.com
What about the cheapest hostels in Cairo?
Of course, there are always cheap hostels. But how do you actually find them? When you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you want to save every dollar, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Cairo.
- Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in Cairo
- add your dates
- Order the listings by price
Simple as that.
Hostelz.com is a price comparison site for hostels. They list every single one in the world and tells you exactly which website is cheaper to use.
Another smart Tip: Check what is actually included, and what is excluded. Take a closer look at the location, too. A further location might mean more costs in transport.
Any Discounts?
You can find all our hostel discounts worldwide here. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the freshest hostel discounts directly in your inbox. We even have special discount codes we only share in the newsletter.
It is completely free to join!
How to book?
The most popular booking platforms are Booking.com and Hostelworld.com. On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.
We included some handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.
Read: Step-by-Step guide on how to book with Hostelworld
We recommend booking your hostel as early as possible! All of Cairo best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish and good hostels, secure your room/bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.
The coolest Hostel App you need comes as well from Hostelworld. It gives you super cool features like you can contact your hostel mates beforehand, ask questions, and make plans together. Find more details in our review of the app.
Scan the QR Code with your Smartphone to download the Hostelworld App from the App Store - like a real Hostel Geek!
Need an eSIM Card for Cairo?
Get your eSIM Card with Airalo.com instantly online. It is easy to set up and cheap! Read our review of Airalo here.
No more searching for mobile stores. Get your eSIM Card for now and enjoy it instantly after landing in your new destination.
Our Favorite Hostels in Cairo put on a map + sights
We love to plan our trips with a map with all sights and potential hostels on it. We thought this map would also help you start planning your trip.
As you can see, the best hostels in Cairo we’re mentioning are all very centrally located.
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FAQs
Here we share with you the most asked question:
Are hostels in Cairo safe?
Not all hostels in Cairo are necessarily safe, especially the one that offers the cheapest price in sketchy areas. It might be an illegal hostel, without the proper license to run and safety measures.
So in all fairness, it is best to check out Hostelgeeks.com because we feature safe hostels in Cairo. You can find backpacker hostel with top ratings! Keep a close eye on the overall ratings on booking platforms!
If you are not secure, you can also email us and ask us!
What are the best hostels in Cairo?
The best hostels in Cairo are:
- Madina Hostel – top pick for Couples
- Tahrir Square Hostel – great for female solo travelers
- Holy sheet Hostel – perfect for backpackers
How much are hostels in Cairo?
Hostels in Cairo cost 4$ – 25$ per night for a bed in a dorm. A private room starts at 32$ per night. This is a rough average, just to give you an idea.
Which hostel in Cairo is good for families?
The best hostel in Cairo for families is: Madina Hostel
What is the difference between Cairo and New Cairo?
Cairo is the largest city in Egypt, while New Cairo is a newly developed city located in the east of Cairo. It was created to divert some of Cairo's high-density population.
Where can I find a youth hostel in Cairo?
There are no dedicated youth hostels in Cairo, but most hostels are very affordable and should fit within most budgets.
Is there a direct train from Cairo to Alexandria?
Yes, it will take approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete the journey. The train service from Cairo to Alexandria runs every hour and operates daily.
Flights to Cairo?
Cairo international airport is close to the city but always factor-in the probability of traffic as it tends to get a bit crazy in Egypt.
We use Skyscanner and Omio.com to find cheap flights and good connections all over the globe.
Skyscanner has a bunch of cool features like Multi-City Trip. Instead of doing this research step-by-step, Skyscanner offers this flight planning tool.
More handmade Guides for you
We did the leg work for you and bring you more hostel guides to destinations:
- Best Hostels in Tel Aviv, Israel
- Best Hostels in Jerusalem, Israel
- Best Hostels in Amman
- Best Hostels in Morocco
- Best Hostels in Cyprus
Over to you
Do you have any questions left, maybe doubts? Then please leave it in the comment below. We are very keen to help you - and actually you would even do us a favor!
Your question will help us to improve this Cairo guide.
Last note: Our commitment
This is a genuine article to help you travel a bit smarter, and find the best place on a budget! We will never recommend you any place we haven’t evaluated or are not convinced by. We are constantly updating all our guides to keep them as fresh and accurate as possible.
Safe travels,
The Hostelgeeks
