The 10 Best Hostels in Cairo

Cairo, the capital city of Egypt, is a bustling metropolis known for its rich history and vibrant culture. Home to some of the world's most famous landmarks, such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, Cairo is a dream destination for history buffs and travellers seeking a taste of ancient civilizations. The city's lively markets, delicious cuisine, and welcoming locals make it an unforgettable experience. For budget-conscious travellers, finding the best hostels in Cairo is essential for a comfortable and affordable stay.

Tourists flock to Cairo to explore its myriad of attractions. The Egyptian Museum is a must-visit, housing thousands of artefacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. The historic Islamic Cairo district offers a glimpse into the past with its ancient mosques, bustling bazaars, and the iconic Citadel. The Khan el-Khalili market is perfect for those looking to experience traditional Egyptian shopping, while a felucca ride on the Nile River provides a serene escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

When it comes to accommodation, Cairo has a variety of options to suit all budgets. Hostels in Cairo are popular among backpackers and solo travellers for their affordability and social atmosphere. These hostels provide a unique opportunity to meet fellow travellers, share experiences, and even join group tours. Many hostels are centrally located, making it easy to explore the city's attractions on foot or via public transportation.

Quick Introduction to Hostels in Cairo

Hostels in Cairo are a popular choice for travellers looking to experience the city's vibrant culture without breaking the bank. They offer a welcoming environment where guests can meet fellow adventurers and share stories. These hostels are perfect for solo travellers, backpackers, and anyone who values both affordability and a sense of community.

Here are some of the things you should consider before booking a hostel in Cairo:

Price - The price of staying in a hostel in Cairo is quite reasonable, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers. On average, a bed in a dormitory costs around €8 to €18 per night. Private rooms are also available, typically ranging from €30 to €60 per night, depending on the hostel's location and amenities. These prices make it possible to enjoy a comfortable stay without spending too much on accommodation.

Location - Most hostels in Cairo are strategically located in areas that are convenient for tourists. You'll find many hostels in downtown Cairo, close to major attractions like the Egyptian Museum, Tahrir Square, and the Khan el-Khalili market. Some are situated in the historic Islamic Cairo district, offering a unique cultural experience. Being in central locations makes it easy for guests to explore the city on foot or by using public transportation.

Amenities/Services - Cairo hostels typically offer a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Common facilities include free Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, and cosy common areas where guests can relax and socialize. Many hostels also provide complimentary breakfast, laundry services, and luggage storage. Some even have rooftop terraces with stunning views of the city, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

Staff - The staff at hostels in Cairo are known for their friendliness and helpfulness. They are usually well-versed in multiple languages and eager to assist guests with any queries or needs. Whether it's recommending local attractions, arranging tours, or providing directions, the hostel staff play a crucial role in ensuring guests have a pleasant and memorable stay. Their local knowledge and hospitality often leave a lasting impression on travellers.

The Best Hostels in Cairo

Here’s my comprehensive guide to the 10 best hostels in Cairo:

1. Madina Hostel

Madina Hostel is situated in the heart of downtown Cairo, providing easy access to the city's main attractions like the Egyptian Museum and Tahrir Square. The hostel is known for its vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular choice among backpackers and solo travellers.

The decor features a mix of modern and traditional Egyptian styles, creating a cosy and aesthetically pleasing environment. Unique features like its rooftop terrace offer stunning city views, making it a perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring.

The rooms at Madina Hostel are clean and comfortable, with options ranging from private rooms to shared dormitories. Each room is equipped with essential amenities, ensuring a restful stay for all guests.

Madina Hostel offers a variety of services and amenities, including free Wi-Fi, a complimentary breakfast, and a communal kitchen. The friendly staff are always ready to assist with travel plans and local recommendations.

A quick overview of Madina Hostel

• Rooftop terrace with panoramic city views: Ideal for relaxing and socializing with fellow travellers.
• Central location in downtown Cairo: Close to major attractions and public transportation.
• Complimentary breakfast every morning: Provides a great start to the day.
• Communal kitchen for guest use: Allows for budget-friendly meal preparation.
• Friendly and knowledgeable staff: Always available to help with travel tips and recommendations.

Dorm beds from €9, Private rooms from €30
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

2. Cheers Hostel Cairo

Cheers Hostel Cairo is ideally located in downtown Cairo, close to iconic landmarks such as the Egyptian Museum and the bustling Khan el-Khalili market. The hostel is well-loved for its lively and social atmosphere, making it a favourite among young travellers and backpackers.

The decor is a blend of contemporary design and traditional Egyptian elements, creating a warm and inviting environment. Unique features like the communal lounge and rooftop terrace provide perfect spots for guests to mingle and relax.

The rooms at Cheers Hostel Cairo are comfortable and well-maintained, with options including private rooms and dormitories. Each room is equipped with basic amenities to ensure a pleasant stay.

Cheers Hostel Cairo offers a variety of services and amenities, including free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and a shared kitchen. The hostel staff are friendly and always ready to provide local tips and assistance.

A quick overview of Cheers Hostel Cairo

• Rooftop terrace with scenic views: Perfect for relaxing and socializing.
• Prime location in downtown Cairo: Close to major tourist attractions and transport links.
• Complimentary breakfast each morning: Ensures a great start to the day.
• Shared kitchen for guest use: Allows for convenient and cost-effective meal preparation.
• Friendly and helpful staff: Available to assist with travel advice and local recommendations.

Dorm beds from €12, Private rooms from €27
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

3. Miami Cairo Hostel

Miami Cairo Hostel is located in the heart of downtown Cairo, offering easy access to popular attractions like the Egyptian Museum and Tahrir Square. Known for its friendly and relaxed vibe, this hostel attracts a diverse mix of travellers.

The decor is simple yet cosy, featuring warm colours and comfortable furnishings that create a welcoming atmosphere. Unique features such as a communal lounge and a terrace provide great spaces for guests to unwind and socialize.

The rooms at Miami Cairo Hostel are clean and comfortable, with options including private rooms and shared dormitories. Each room comes with essential amenities to ensure a pleasant stay.

Miami Cairo Hostel offers various services and amenities, including free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and a shared kitchen. The staff are known for their helpfulness and local knowledge, ensuring guests have a memorable stay.

A quick overview of Miami Cairo Hostel

• Central location in downtown Cairo: Convenient for visiting major attractions and accessing public transportation.
• Complimentary breakfast each morning: Provides a great start to the day.
• Shared kitchen for guest use: Ideal for preparing meals and saving on dining costs.
• Communal lounge area: Perfect for relaxing and meeting fellow travellers.
• Helpful and friendly staff: Always ready to assist with travel advice and local recommendations.

Dorm beds from €9, Private rooms from €23
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

4. Meramees Hostel

Meramees Hostel is located in the vibrant downtown area of Cairo, close to major attractions like the Egyptian Museum and Tahrir Square. Known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, the hostel attracts a diverse group of travellers.

The decor is a mix of traditional Egyptian elements and modern comforts, creating a homely and inviting environment. Unique features like a cosy lounge area and a rooftop terrace with city views make it a great place to relax and meet new people.

The rooms at Meramees Hostel are clean and comfortable, offering both private rooms and shared dormitories. Each room is equipped with basic amenities to ensure a pleasant stay for all guests.

Meramees Hostel provides a range of services and amenities, including free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and a shared kitchen. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to help with travel tips and recommendations.

A quick overview of Meramees Hostel

• Rooftop terrace with city views: A great spot to unwind and enjoy the scenery.
• Central location in downtown Cairo: Close to major tourist sites and transportation.
• Complimentary breakfast every morning: A great start to the day.
• Shared kitchen for guest use: Ideal for preparing your own meals.
• Friendly and helpful staff: Ready to assist with local advice and travel arrangements.

Dorm beds from €9, Private rooms from €15
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

5. Pyramids Planet Hotel

Pyramids Planet Hotel is conveniently located near the Giza Plateau, offering easy access to the iconic Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. The hotel boasts a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for travellers looking to explore Cairo's historic landmarks.

The decor combines modern comforts with traditional Egyptian touches, creating an inviting and unique environment. One of its standout features is the rooftop terrace, which offers breathtaking views of the pyramids, making it a favourite spot for guests.

The rooms at Pyramids Planet Hotel are spacious and well-appointed, with options including both private rooms and family suites. Each room is equipped with essential amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.

Pyramids Planet Hotel offers a variety of services and amenities, including free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and a restaurant serving local cuisine. The staff are friendly and always ready to assist with tour arrangements and local recommendations.

A quick overview of Pyramids Planet Hotel

• Rooftop terrace with views of the pyramids: Perfect for relaxing and enjoying the iconic sights.
• Proximity to the Giza Plateau: Easy access to the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.
• Complimentary breakfast each morning: Ensures a great start to the day.
• On-site restaurant serving local cuisine: Offers convenient dining options.
• Helpful and knowledgeable staff: Available to assist with travel plans and recommendations.

Dorm beds from €16, Private rooms from €37
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

6. The Australian Hostel

The Australian Hostel is centrally located in downtown Cairo, providing convenient access to the city's main attractions such as the Egyptian Museum and Tahrir Square. The hostel exudes a lively and friendly vibe, making it a popular choice for solo travellers and backpackers.

The decor blends modern and traditional Egyptian styles, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Unique features like the communal lounge and rooftop terrace offer perfect spaces for guests to relax and socialize.

The private rooms at The Australian Hostel are clean and comfortable. Each room comes with essential amenities to ensure a pleasant stay.

The Australian Hostel offers a variety of services and amenities, including free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and a communal kitchen. The staff are known for their hospitality and helpfulness, providing valuable local tips and assistance.

A quick overview of The Australian Hostel

• Rooftop terrace with panoramic city views: Perfect for relaxing and socializing.
• Central location in downtown Cairo: Close to major attractions and transport links.
• Complimentary breakfast each morning: Ensures a great start to the day.
• Communal kitchen for guest use: Allows for convenient and cost-effective meal preparation.
• Friendly and knowledgeable staff: Always available to help with travel advice and local recommendations.

Private rooms from €14
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

7. Dahab Hostel

Dahab Hostel is situated in the heart of downtown Cairo, offering easy access to significant attractions like the Egyptian Museum and Tahrir Square. This hostel is well-known for its laid-back, friendly vibe, making it a favourite among backpackers and solo travellers.

The decor features a blend of bohemian and traditional Egyptian elements, creating a unique and cosy atmosphere. One of its standout features is the rooftop garden, which provides a serene escape with stunning city views.

The rooms at Dahab Hostel are clean and simple, with options for both private rooms and shared dormitories. Each room is equipped with basic amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.

Dahab Hostel offers a range of services and amenities, including free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and a communal kitchen. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to assist with travel plans and local advice.

A quick overview of Dahab Hostel

• Rooftop garden with panoramic city views: A tranquil spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
• Central location in downtown Cairo: Close to major attractions and public transportation.
• Complimentary breakfast every morning: Provides a great start to the day.
• Communal kitchen for guest use: Ideal for budget-friendly meal preparation.
• Friendly and multilingual staff: Ready to help with travel tips and recommendations

Dorm beds from €9, Private rooms from €17
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

8. Freedom Hostel

Freedom Hostel is centrally located in downtown Cairo, providing easy access to popular attractions such as the Egyptian Museum and Tahrir Square. The hostel is known for its lively and sociable atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for solo travellers and backpackers.

The decor is modern and vibrant, featuring colourful murals and comfortable furnishings that create a welcoming environment. Unique features like the cosy common area and rooftop terrace offer great places for guests to relax and socialize.

The rooms at Freedom Hostel are clean and comfortable, with options for private rooms and shared dormitories. Each room comes with basic amenities to ensure a pleasant stay.

Freedom Hostel offers a variety of services and amenities, including free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and a shared kitchen. The friendly staff are always available to provide local tips and assist with travel plans.

A quick overview of Freedom Hostel

• Rooftop terrace with city views: Ideal for unwinding and enjoying the scenery.
• Central location in downtown Cairo: Close to major attractions and transport links.
• Complimentary breakfast each morning: A great way to start the day.
• Shared kitchen for guest use: Perfect for preparing meals.

Dorm beds from €10, Private rooms from €19
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

9. Holy Sheet Hostel

Holy Sheet Hostel is situated in the lively district of downtown Cairo, offering easy access to landmarks like the Egyptian Museum and Tahrir Square. Known for its playful name and equally fun atmosphere, this hostel is popular among young travellers and backpackers.

The decor is trendy and eclectic, featuring bright colours and unique artwork that give the hostel a quirky, modern feel. The relaxed vibe and friendly community make it an ideal place for socializing and meeting new people.

The rooms at Holy Sheet Hostel are clean and comfortable, with options for private rooms and shared dormitories. Each room is designed with guests' comfort in mind, featuring essential amenities.

Holy Sheet Hostel provides a variety of services and amenities, including free Wi-Fi, a complimentary breakfast, and a communal kitchen. The staff are known for their warmth and helpfulness, always ready to assist with travel tips and recommendations.

A quick overview of Holy Sheet Hostel

• Trendy and eclectic decor: Creates a vibrant and unique atmosphere.
• Central location in downtown Cairo: Close to major attractions and transport links.
• Complimentary breakfast each morning: A great start to the day.
• Communal kitchen for guest use: Ideal for budget-friendly meal preparation.
• Friendly and helpful staff: Ready to assist with local advice and travel arrangements.

Dorm beds from €11, Private rooms from €41
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

10. Wake UP! Cairo Hostel

Wake UP! Cairo Hostel is located in the bustling heart of downtown Cairo, providing easy access to key attractions such as the Egyptian Museum and Tahrir Square. The hostel is renowned for its lively and welcoming atmosphere, making it a favourite among backpackers and solo travellers.

The decor is contemporary and vibrant, featuring modern furnishings and colourful accents that create a dynamic and engaging environment. Unique features like the rooftop lounge offer stunning views of the city, making it a great place to unwind.

The rooms at Wake UP! Cairo Hostel is clean and comfortable, with options for private rooms and shared dormitories. Each room is equipped with basic amenities to ensure a pleasant stay.

Wake UP! Cairo Hostel offers a range of services and amenities, including free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and a communal kitchen. The staff are known for their friendliness and are always ready to help with travel plans and local recommendations.

A quick overview of Wake UP! Cairo Hostel

• Rooftop lounge with city views: Perfect for relaxing and socializing.
• Central location in downtown Cairo: Close to major attractions and public transport.
• Complimentary breakfast each morning: Ensures a great start to the day.
• Communal kitchen for guest use: Ideal for preparing meals.
• Friendly and helpful staff: Always available to provide travel advice and recommendations.

Dorm beds from €10, Private rooms from €17
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

Final Thoughts on the Best Hostels in Cairo

Cairo is a city that effortlessly blends the ancient with the modern, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and vibrant city life. From the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza and the mysterious Sphinx to the vast collection of artefacts in the Egyptian Museum, there's something to captivate every traveller. For those on a budget, finding the best hostels in Cairo ensures a comfortable and affordable stay, allowing more resources to be spent on exploring the city's treasures.

The city's main attractions are a draw for millions of visitors each year. Islamic Cairo, with its winding streets and historic mosques like the Al-Azhar Mosque and the Citadel, provides a deep dive into the city's past. The Khan el-Khalili bazaar offers an authentic shopping experience, where one can find traditional crafts, jewellery, and spices. Meanwhile, a relaxing felucca ride on the Nile River presents a different perspective of the bustling cityscape. These experiences are what make Cairo a must-visit destination for travellers worldwide.

Hostels in Cairo offer more than just a place to rest your head. They serve as social hubs where travellers can meet, share experiences, and even plan adventures together. Many hostels go the extra mile by offering activities such as guided tours, cultural classes, and social events. This not only enhances the travel experience but also provides a deeper understanding of Egyptian culture and history. The affordability of these hostels ensures that travellers can enjoy all that Cairo has to offer without worrying about high accommodation costs.

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