29 July 2025·4 min read
Cairo Daily Budget: How Much Does Cairo Cost Per Day? (2025)
Cairo costs $25–40/day on a budget, $70–110 mid-range. With Egypt's recent currency changes, it's one of the best-value destinations for USD/EUR holders in 2025.
Cairo is outstanding value for USD and EUR holders following the Egyptian pound's significant devaluation. Entrance to the Giza pyramids costs EGP 450 (~$9); a full meal at a local restaurant runs EGP 80–200 (~$1.60–4); and an air-conditioned Metro ride costs EGP 7–10 ($0.14–0.20). Mid-range comfort is achievable for $70/day.
Cairo Daily Budget Breakdown (2025)
Budget ($25–40/day)Guesthouse $10–18, fuul/ta'ameya street food $1–3, Metro EGP 7–10
Mid-range ($70–110/day)3-star hotel $35–65, restaurant meals EGP 400–1,000 ($8–20), Uber/Careem for transport
Luxury ($250+/day)Nile view 5-star $120–250+, fine dining $30–60pp, private guide pyramid tours
Essential Cairo Costs (2025)
- •**Giza Plateau (pyramids)**: EGP 450 (~$9) general entry; Great Pyramid interior: EGP 700 extra (~$14); book online at egy.gov.eg
- •**Egyptian Museum (Tahrir)**: EGP 400 (~$8) — Tutankhamun mask, Royal Mummies Room EGP 300 extra (~$6)
- •**Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)**: EGP 900 (~$18) — brand new, world-class, less crowded than old museum
- •**Bakshish (tips)**: Budget $10–15/day for small tips to guards, restroom attendants, parking helpers — it's endemic and expected
- •**Khan el-Khalili bazaar**: No entry fee; budget for bargained purchases; start at 30% of the opening price
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Cairo's Cairo Metro is one of Africa's best — just EGP 7–10 (~$0.14–0.20) per trip with air conditioning. Lines 1, 2, and 3 cover Tahrir Square, Old Cairo (Coptic churches), and connect to major transit hubs. Far faster than a taxi in Cairo's legendary traffic, and genuinely safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cairo safe for tourists in 2025?
The tourist areas of Cairo (Giza, Islamic Cairo, Coptic Cairo, Downtown, Khan el-Khalili) are generally safe with normal awareness. Tourist police are visible at all major sites. The main risks are persistent but non-violent hustle (guides, camel rides, souvenir sellers) and petty theft in very crowded areas. Use Uber or Careem rather than street taxis.
What currency should I use in Cairo?
Egyptian pounds (EGP) for all local transactions. USD is widely understood at tourist sites. ATMs dispense EGP at fair rates. Credit cards accepted at hotels and upmarket restaurants. Carry EGP cash for bazaars, street food, and small tips.
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Go prepared — know the fair price before you land
Check real taxi fares and local tipping customs for Cairo — so you never overpay on your first ride or leave an awkward tip.