Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius
Traveler rating
4.6/5
Based on 11 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius worth booking?
Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius is a 8-hour experience in Hurghada, Egypt, from $103 per person. It scores 59 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.6/5 rating across 11 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 59 / 100
- Rating
- 4.6/5 (11)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $103 per person
The Outty verdict
It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Hurghada, with an Outty Ranking of 59. At $103 it sits above the typical similar option ($12), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and travelers who want a full-day outing.
Prices and availability checked
About 240 km north of Hurghada lie some of Egypt’s oldest Christian monasteries, among the holiest places for Egyptian Orthodox Copts. The Monastery of St. Anthony is the oldest Christian monastery in the world. Founded in the 4th century by followers of St. Anthony, the father of monasticism, it still houses more than 100 monks. Its ancient church holds his tomb, with medieval wall paintings and a library of rare manuscripts. Each monastery has a spring of unknown source; the water has flowed for centuries and still supplies the gardens. Above St. Anthony’s, a church and his cave sit on the mountain — 1,420 steps, if you are fit for it. Opposite, about 30 km and a 40-minute drive away, is St. Paul’s Monastery, built over the cave where St. Paul, a 4th-century hermit, lived in prayer. Tradition says ravens brought him bread, and that lions dug his grave after he died at 105. The monastery still shows the monks’ medieval dining table, preserved for centuries.
What you get
About this experience
About 240 km north of Hurghada lie some of Egypt’s oldest Christian monasteries, among the holiest places for Egyptian Orthodox Copts. The Monastery of St. Anthony is the oldest Christian monastery in the world. Founded in the 4th century by followers of St. Anthony, the father of monasticism, it still houses more than 100 monks. Its ancient church holds his tomb, with medieval wall paintings and a library of rare manuscripts. Each monastery has a spring of unknown source; the water has flowed for centuries and still supplies the gardens. Above St. Anthony’s, a church and his cave sit on the mountain — 1,420 steps, if you are fit for it. Opposite, about 30 km and a 40-minute drive away, is St. Paul’s Monastery, built over the cave where St. Paul, a 4th-century hermit, lived in prayer. Tradition says ravens brought him bread, and that lions dug his grave after he died at 105. The monastery still shows the monks’ medieval dining table, preserved for centuries.
What's included
Included
- anding and/or facility fees
- In-vehicle air conditioning
Not included
- Lunch
- Pickup from Makadi hotels 5 euros per person surcharge and 10 Euro from Safaga
What you'll see and do
First we take you to St. Paul's Monastery. It was built over the cave of Saint Paul, a Christian hermit who lived in the 4th Century AD. He preferred an ascetic life in the desert to the comfort of a city and devoted his life to worshiping God. According to legend, God himself sent bread from ravens to his faithful servant to save him from starvation, and his grave is said to have been dug by lions after Paul's death at the age of 105. Crypt under the tomb Visit the beautiful crypt located deep under the tomb. Level of the monastery, decorated with many colorful frescoes. In addition to sacred objects, you will also find everyday items such as an old chain block and an olive press. You will also be surprised to find a freshwater well in the middle of the desert.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Monastery of Saint Anthony the Great
On the other side of the hill from St Paul monastery there is a cave where the hermit Antonius lived more than 1600 years ago. The cave is 680 meters above sea level; A staircase with around 1,000 steps leads to this hollow. As you climb up to the cell of the saint, you can see scriptures and drawings - and when you look outside, you have a fantastic view of the mountains and the desert. Immediately after the death of the ascetic in 356 AD, Christian monks founded the monastery of St. Antonius at the foot of Antonius Mountain. This monastery is considered the beginning of Christian monasticism because it served as a model for believers throughout the Christian world. Nowadays it houses more than 100 monks. It covers a huge area of 6 hectares, which is surrounded by a wall that is around 1,200 meters long and 12 meters high. Here you will find an old Coptic church where the holy man is buried and well-preserved medieval paintings. His library contains valuable ancient manuscripts.
120 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Egypt travel guide
Know before you go
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 11 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Value for money
4 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Organization
4 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Good for families
3 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
11 verified traveler reviews for Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
St. Paul and St. Antonius - a must have to see
We booked the Tour to the oldest monasteries, St. Antony and St. Paul as a Family. Our Tourguide Pick US Up from the Hotel right on time, and in the way to St. Paul we learned a lot of interest fact about the history If they monasteries. We visited St. Paul First and were welcomed by a very friendly and smart monk, who told us about the history of the monastery and the Life from the Monks themselves. After having lunch together, we traveled to St. Anthony. There , too, we were welcomed by a very friendly and wisdom younger monk, we learned a great Deal about tge monastery's fascinating History and admired the painted frescoes and Pictures on the wall. Afterward, we were driven safety back to our Hotel. All in all, this excursion is highly interest and recommended, there was plenty to discover and admired. Many thanks to our tourguide and the driver, for this special experience and safety Tour. We highly recommend this Trip. See you again.
via Tripadvisor
St. Paul and St. Anthony - worth a visit
As a family, we booked an excursion to the oldest monasteries in the world, St. Paul and St. Anthony. Our tour guide picked us up promptly early in the morning at the hotel, and on the way, we already learned some interesting facts about the history of the monasteries. First, we visited St. Paul and were welcomed by a very nice monk who told us everything about the history of the monks and the monastery. On the way to St. Anthony, we had lunch together, which was very delicious. In St. Anthony, we were also greeted by a very friendly monk. There, we learned a lot about the interesting history of the monastery and marveled at the painted frescoes and buildings of the monastery. Afterward, we drove back to the hotel. All in all, this excursion is very interesting and recommended; there was a lot to discover and marvel at. Many thanks to our tour guide and the driver for the smooth execution and safe drive. We would be happy to book an excursion again.
via Tripadvisor (translated)
A part of Egypt not to miss
An amazing private trip to St Anthony and St. Paul monastery, the climb to St Anthony cave in morning was stunning, and the cave alone was worth the trip, with the help of other visitors we went to see the place where he rested his head. At St Anthony monastery we were received by Fr Agathon Elantony who guided us personally and shared his wisdom on eternal joy (he wrote a short book which you can also find in the gift shop) , the St Paul monastery also gave us a warm and personal welcome. The Coptic art is beautiful. Our driver Herard was superb. Very helpful, friendly and a very safe driver.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience! We’re truly delighted to hear that your private trip to St. Anthony and St. Paul Monasteries was so meaningful and memorable. The climb to St. Anthony’s cave is indeed a special moment, and we’re glad you enjoyed the spiritual and historical atmosphere of both monasteries. It’s great to hear that Fr. Agathon’s warm welcome and guidance left such an impression, and we’ll be sure to pass your kind words to our driver Herard — he’ll be so happy to know he helped make your day perfect. We hope to see you again soon for another inspiring journey in Egypt!
via Tripadvisor
Privite Trips to St Paul &St Antony monostery
Exelent, Evritink Ten plus very good driver very holy place very good monks very very beautiful holy placesThanks Good for Evritink
Response from the operator: Hallo Suleru, thank you very much, It is our concern to offer you Excellence Service because you are important customers for us
via Tripadvisor
The Monadtety of St Anthony is a gem and beautiful place to visit
I had a very good experience and enjoyed the trip. All was very good. I can recommend this excursion.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your kind review! We’re thrilled to hear you had a great experience and enjoyed the trip. Your recommendation means a lot to us. We hope to welcome you again on another exciting excursion in the future!
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 4
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Why this scores 59
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Hurghada.
How does Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius compare to similar tours in Hurghada?
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It ranks #7 of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Hurghada, with an Outty Ranking of 59. At $103 it sits above the typical similar option ($12), so book it for what is included rather than price. Best for families and travelers who want a full-day outing.
Who is Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius best for?
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It suits families and travelers who want a full-day outing best, based on its 8-hour length, all-ages access and free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Is Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius good value?
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It is a premium pick. It starts at $103, above the $12 typical for similar experiences in Hurghada.
How much does Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius cost?
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Prices start at $103 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Hurghada usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius take?
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Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Hurghada is not rushed.
Is Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 59 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.6/5 across 11 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Hurghada, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius?
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Around 4 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Hurghada can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Hurghada and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Hurghada within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Hurghada?
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On Outty we rank every Hurghada experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Hurghada Diving Adventure one Day with two Dives Boat Trip, Hurghada to Cairo: Pyramids & Museum for First-Time Visitors, Hurghada Scuba Diving Full Day Boat Trip With Lunch & Transfer. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Hurghada?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Hurghada?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius?
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Included: anding and/or facility fees; and In-vehicle air conditioning. Not included: Lunch; and Pickup from Makadi hotels 5 euros per person surcharge and 10 Euro from Safaga. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 150 listed pickup locations in and around Hurghada. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius?
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Across 11 reviews averaging 4.6 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, value for money, organization. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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