Where to stay in Egypt: Areas & booking tips

Where to stay in Egypt depends on your route and your priorities. The country is long and stretched along the Nile, so choosing the right base for each leg of your trip makes a difference. Whether you're planning to explore ancient tombs, relax on the Red Sea coast, or dive into Cairo’s urban sprawl, accommodations in Egypt range from practical to luxurious, often within the same city.

In Cairo, you’ll find everything from well-known hotel chains in downtown and Zamalek to newer boutique stays near the Citadel or tucked into quieter neighborhoods. Luxor and Aswan offer guesthouses and riverfront hotels that are close to major archaeological sites – good for early starts and sunset views. In the Sinai or along the Red Sea, it’s beach resorts and dive lodges; in the Western Desert, basic eco-camps near oases. Each region has its own rhythm, and where you stay in Egypt can either help you sync with it – or leave you stuck in long transfers.

Where to stay in Egypt: From budget to luxury

Egypt is one of the more affordable destinations in North Africa, and it offers good value across the board, whether you're staying in a simple guesthouse or a full-service resort. Across the country, accommodation tends to come with warm hospitality, strong tea, and views that make it worth the stay.

Budget stays in Egypt are widespread, especially in backpacker-friendly areas like downtown Cairo, Luxor’s east bank, or Dahab on the Sinai coast. Expect to pay around $15-35 (€14-32) per night. Rooms are usually basic – sometimes dated – but often clean and in central locations. Facilities can be hit or miss, but you’ll often find helpful staff, flexible check-ins, and rooftop terraces where travelers swap tips over mint tea.

Mid-range accommodation in Egypt includes a broad mix: boutique hotels in Cairo’s Zamalek or Garden City neighborhoods, family-run guesthouses in Aswan, and beach hotels along the Red Sea. Prices typically fall between $50-100 (€47-93) a night. You’ll usually get en suite bathrooms, decent Wi-Fi, and breakfast with fresh bread, ful (fava beans), and strong local coffee or tea. Many places offer help arranging tours or transport, which is useful if you’re traveling independently.

Luxury stays in Egypt often come with a strong sense of place – whether it’s a historic hotel on the Nile, a desert ecolodge near Siwa, or a high-end resort in Hurghada or Sharm el-Sheikh. Prices start around $130 (€120) and can go much higher for international chains or heritage properties. Perks might include Nile-view balconies, private pools, spa treatments, or even access to private guides and curated experiences. If you’re looking to combine comfort with culture, Egypt delivers.

Best accommodation types in Egypt

Egypt’s accommodation scene is diverse, affordable, and often comes with a story. You might stay in a century-old hotel overlooking the Nile, a minimalist desert lodge near an oasis, or a modern apartment in central Cairo. Wherever you go, expect warm hospitality, strong tea, and someone happy to give directions – or walk you there themselves.

Here’s what to expect from the main types of places to stay in Egypt:

Guesthouses in historic towns

From $20-50 (€19-47)

Especially common in Luxor, Aswan, and Siwa, guesthouses are Egypt’s strongest budget-to-midrange option. Often family-run, they offer private rooms (sometimes en suite), a home-cooked breakfast, and local advice that’s actually useful. West Bank Luxor has the highest concentration, often with Nile or farmland views.

Classic budget hotels

From $25-45 (€23-42)

These show up in Cairo, Alexandria, and provincial cities. Rooms are basic, often dated, but usually have AC and private bathrooms. Many are geared toward domestic tourists and may not be listed on international platforms. Service can be spotty, but locations are central.

Boutique stays and renovated heritage properties

From $60-120 (€56-112)

Cairo’s Zamalek, Garden City, and parts of downtown now host a wave of design-forward small hotels and restored buildings with character. In Luxor and Aswan, a few guesthouses and small hotels lean into historic charm or Nubian style, especially around Elephantine Island or in Gharb Sohail.

Nile cruise boats (3-5 nights)

From $90-250 (€84-233) per night (all inclusive)

One of the most distinct ways to stay in Egypt. These cruise ships operate between Luxor and Aswan, combining lodging, meals, and site visits. Older boats can feel dated but clean; high-end ones have pools, spas, and onboard Egyptologists.

Red Sea resorts and dive lodges

From $50-300 (€47-280)

In Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh, and Dahab, beach resorts dominate. Options range from budget-friendly all-inclusives with buffet lines to ultra-luxury brands with private beaches and coral access. Dahab is more relaxed, with dive camps and cafés on the waterfront.

Desert ecolodges and oases stays

From $40-100 (€37-93)

In Siwa, Bahariya, or the White Desert, accommodation is often made from local mudbrick (kershef), with spring water pools and palm-shaded courtyards. Some are rustic, others eco-luxe. Electricity and Wi-Fi may be limited, but the setting is the draw.

Rentals and short-term apartments

From $50-90 (€47-84)

Most common in Cairo, Alexandria, and coastal resort towns. These are useful for longer stays or for those traveling in Egypt with kids. Expect varied quality – many are informal or listed via local contacts, not global platforms. In tourist towns like Luxor, some guesthouses also offer studio apartments.

Average prices per night

Egypt is generally affordable by regional standards, and with smart planning, you can find solid value across all budgets. On average, expect to pay $25-45 (€23-42) for a basic private room, $60-100 (€56-93) for a mid-range hotel or guesthouse with decent amenities, and $130+ (€120+) for luxury stays – especially at heritage hotels, Red Sea resorts, or upscale Nile cruises. Dorm beds (mainly in Cairo and Dahab) start around $10-20 (€9-19), while boutique guesthouses and eco-lodges in places like Siwa or West Bank Luxor may range between $70-120 (€65-112), depending on location and comfort level.

• Prices rise during peak travel seasons – especially October to April, when the weather is mild and ideal for sightseeing in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Christmas and Easter holidays are particularly busy, with inflated prices and limited availability at top-rated places. If you're cruising the Nile or visiting Red Sea resorts during this period, book well ahead.
• Summer (June-August) sees fewer tourists due to the heat, and prices – especially in cities and Upper Egypt – tend to drop. That said, Red Sea destinations remain busy with local and European holidaymakers, so coastal prices may hold steady.
• Winter (December-February) is high season for Nile cruises and desert travel, but some desert eco-lodges and camps may reduce operations if temperatures dip too low.

Most mid-range and upscale stays include breakfast, typically a buffet with flatbread, ful medames, boiled eggs, cheese, olives, and tea or Turkish-style coffee. Budget stays may include a small meal or none at all. Wi-Fi is often included, but in rural or desert areas, expect variable speeds. Be sure to check for extra charges like air conditioning in summer, space heaters in winter, or airport/train station pickups.

Where to stay in Egypt: Best areas by region

Egypt is big, and distances between regions can be long, but where you stay within each place still makes a big difference. Whether you're here for ancient temples, coral reefs, or city chaos, your base affects everything from early starts to how much time you’ll spend in traffic.

Cairo

Egypt’s capital is huge, intense, and impossible to ignore. It’s part chaos, part charm – where honking minibuses pass medieval mosques and leafy neighborhoods hide jazz bars and bookshops. The variety of places to stay in Cairo reflects the city’s contrasts: buzzing downtown hotels, tranquil island guesthouses, and upscale residential escapes. Where you base yourself affects how much of that you’ll enjoy – or avoid.

• Downtown (Wust el-Balad) is the old heart of the city. Historic buildings, walkable streets, and easy access to Tahrir Square and the Egyptian Museum. Great for atmosphere and budget stays, but noisy and gritty.
• Zamalek is an island on the Nile known for embassies, art galleries, and cafés. It’s quieter, greener, and home to many boutique hotels. Prices are higher, but the vibe is calm and central.
• Garden City and Maadi are more residential. Garden City is near downtown with leafy streets and old mansions, while Maadi (further south) is ideal for longer stays and expat-friendly cafés.
• Giza (near the Pyramids) offers views and proximity to the main site, but it’s not great for exploring the rest of the city. Better for short stays or early-morning Pyramid access.

Luxor

Luxor is compact but divided by the Nile, and that division matters. One side is more developed; the other feels closer to the countryside.

• East Bank is the city center. It’s where you’ll find most large hotels, restaurants, the train station, and sites like Karnak Temple. Good for convenience, especially if you’re short on time.
• The West Bank is quieter and more rural. It’s closer to the Valley of the Kings and offers guesthouses and small lodges with farmland views. Ideal if you want peace and don’t mind using local ferries or drivers to get around.

Aswan

Aswan is slower, sunnier, and less crowded than Luxor. Where you stay shapes how close you are to temples – or how much Nile breeze you catch.

• City center and Corniche areas offer easy access to markets, transport, and restaurants. Hotels here range from budget to historic.
• Elephantine Island is a peaceful spot in the middle of the Nile, with Nubian guesthouses and a slower pace. You’ll need a boat to get across, but the views are worth it.
• Gharb Aswan (Nubian village) has colorful houses, guesthouses, and a more local feel. It's a great base for learning about Nubian culture, though farther from town amenities.

Red Sea: Hurghada, El Gouna and Marsa Alam

Egypt’s eastern coast is where you go for diving, sun, and the best beaches in Egypt. It’s built for relaxation, with varying levels of buzz.

• Hurghada is the main hub. The city is busy and built up, with a huge range of resorts, dive centers, and nightlife. Downtown is loud; the marina area is more polished.
• El Gouna is a gated resort town north of Hurghada, known for upscale hotels, golf courses, and lagoons. Quiet, clean, and planned – but a bit removed from “real” Egypt.
• Marsa Alam is much farther south – less crowded, great for diving, and big on nature. Fewer facilities, but incredible reef access.

Sinai: Dahab and Sharm el-Sheikh

Sinai has a different feel – more laid-back, with a mix of hippie history and dive tourism. Where you stay depends on how much structure you want.

• Dahab is relaxed and low-rise, with waterfront guesthouses, budget hostels, and dive lodges. It’s walkable and social, with a big backpacker scene.
• Sharm el-Sheikh is resort-focused, with international hotels, beaches, and organized diving. Nabq and Shark’s Bay are quieter than Naama Bay (the party zone).

Booking tips and travel advice

Booking accommodation in Egypt isn’t just about star ratings or Nile views. It’s about knowing the timing, choosing the right neighborhood, and understanding how things actually work on the ground. A bit of planning can mean the difference between a rooftop breakfast overlooking the river or being stuck in a noisy backstreet with no AC and thin walls.

Here are some essential Egypt travel tips to help you make smart choices when booking:

• Book ahead from October to April. This is Egypt’s high season, especially from late October to early April, when the weather is mild and ideal for sightseeing. Popular spots like Luxor, Aswan, and Cairo’s Zamalek district fill up quickly. Nile cruises, in particular, sell out weeks in advance, and boutique guesthouses in Luxor or Aswan can go fast too.
• Summer means discounts – and serious heat. From June to August, prices drop, especially in Upper Egypt (Luxor and Aswan), but the heat is intense. Early mornings and evenings are manageable; midday is for naps or AC. Red Sea resorts stay busy with local and European travelers, so plan accordingly.
• Check what’s actually included. Many places to stay in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan offer free breakfast – usually ful (fava beans), eggs, flatbread, and tea or instant coffee. Budget places may charge extra or provide little more than bread and jam. AC isn’t always included in cheap stays, and heating in desert towns like Siwa or Bahariya can be limited in winter. Ask about these before you confirm.
• Don’t rely only on booking platforms. Large hotels are easy to find online, but many family-run guesthouses – especially on Luxor’s West Bank, in Siwa, or along the Nile – are better contacted directly. Facebook pages and WhatsApp are common booking tools. Some hosts offer better prices or packages if you skip the booking sites and message them directly.
• Location matters more than the price tag. In Cairo, a cheap place far from a metro stop or buried in traffic can eat up hours of your day. In Luxor, staying on the wrong bank might mean long rides back and forth. In Aswan, not all “Nile views” are created equal – check a map before you book.
• Read recent reviews, not just star ratings. Many places in Egypt are family-run, and quality can change quickly. A glowing review from three years ago doesn’t help if ownership has changed. Look for recent mentions of cleanliness, Wi-Fi reliability, hot water, and how helpful the staff are with transport or tours.
• Don’t count on walk-ins, especially for unique stays. While it’s sometimes possible to find a room last-minute, the best-run guesthouses and cruises fill early in high season. Desert ecolodges and places in Siwa or the White Desert often have limited capacity and may require advance arrangements. If your travel schedule is tight, lock in your stay ahead of time.