Private Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 16 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery worth booking?
Private Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery is a 4.5-hour experience in Giza, Egypt, from $33 per person. It scores 69 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 16 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 69 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (16)
- Duration
- 4.5 hours
- From
- $33 per person
Step back in time and explore the spiritual heart of Cairo on this unforgettable Half-Day Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery. Travel with your private expert guide in a private modern vehicle with everything included and no need to lift a finger to Coptic Cairo, home to some of the oldest Christian churches in Egypt. Visit the iconic Hanging Church, suspended above a Roman fortress gate, and the sacred Abu Serga Church, believed to have sheltered the Holy Family. Admire the rich history and stunning architecture of the Ben Ezra Synagogue, a treasure of Jewish heritage. Then, venture to Mokattam Mountain to discover the extraordinary St. Simon the Tanner Monastery, carved into the rock with breathtaking biblical carvings and home to one of Cairo’s largest churches. Along the way, immerse yourself in fascinating stories, cultural insights, and hidden gems that most tourists never see. This is more than sightseeing—it’s a journey through faith, history, and local life.
What you get
About this experience
Step back in time and explore the spiritual heart of Cairo on this unforgettable Half-Day Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery. Travel with your private expert guide in a private modern vehicle with everything included and no need to lift a finger to Coptic Cairo, home to some of the oldest Christian churches in Egypt. Visit the iconic Hanging Church, suspended above a Roman fortress gate, and the sacred Abu Serga Church, believed to have sheltered the Holy Family. Admire the rich history and stunning architecture of the Ben Ezra Synagogue, a treasure of Jewish heritage. Then, venture to Mokattam Mountain to discover the extraordinary St. Simon the Tanner Monastery, carved into the rock with breathtaking biblical carvings and home to one of Cairo’s largest churches. Along the way, immerse yourself in fascinating stories, cultural insights, and hidden gems that most tourists never see. This is more than sightseeing—it’s a journey through faith, history, and local life.
What's included
Included
- Entry/Admission-St. Sergius and Bacchus
- Entry/ admission of St. Simon Monastery
- Entry/Admission- Cave Church
- Entry/Admission- Hanging Church
- Pre-booked timed-entry tickets to minimize on-site ticket lines
- Entry/Admission- Ben Ezra Synagogue
- Bottled Water & snacks
- Hotel Pickup & drop-off
- Egyptologist guide
Not included
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
St Simon the Tanner Monastery
Embark on a unique journey to the St. Simon Monastery, a hidden gem in Cairo’s Mokattam Hills. Your drive takes you through Garbage City, a bustling, labyrinthine community where the Zabbaleen, Cairo’s informal garbage collectors, live and work. The streets are lined with stacks of recycled materials, vividly showcasing their remarkable recycling system. Though unconventional, the scene is one of resilience, ingenuity, and industry, offering a glimpse into a way of life unlike any other. As the road ascends the Mokattam cliffs,the transformation is striking. Upon reaching the Monastery of St. Simon the Tanner, you’ll be greeted by its awe-inspiring amphitheater, carved into the mountain, capable of hosting over 20,000 worshippers. The monastery is adorned with intricate carvings of biblical scenes etched into the rock, and its serene ambiance contrasts sharply with the lively chaos of Garbage City below. This tour offers a profound blend of human perseverance and spiritual tranquility.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Coptic Cairo
Your guide will take you to the Church of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, known as Abu Serga, one of the oldest and most revered churches in Egypt. Located in the heart of Coptic Cairo, this sacred site dates back to the 4th century and is famously believed to have sheltered the Holy Family—Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus—during their flight into Egypt. Step inside to admire its simple yet beautiful basilica design, wooden ceiling, marble columns, and ancient icons. Descend into the crypt, where tradition says the Holy Family rested, and feel the spiritual atmosphere that draws pilgrims from around the world. Your guide will share captivating stories about the church’s history, its role in early Christianity, and the Coptic heritage of Egypt. This visit offers a rare opportunity to walk in the footsteps of history in one of Cairo’s most peaceful and meaningful landmarks.
30 minutes here · Admission included
The Hanging Church
Your guide will take you on an unforgettable journey to The Hanging Church (El Muallaqa), one of the most famous and oldest Coptic Christian churches in Cairo. Built above the southern gate of the Roman Babylon Fortress, this iconic landmark seems to “hang” over the passage below, giving it its unique name. Admire the stunning wooden ceiling shaped like Noah’s Ark, beautiful icons, intricate carvings, and ancient marble pulpit. Learn about its rich history dating back to the 3rd century AD and its significance as the seat of the Coptic Patriarch for centuries. Your guide will share fascinating stories of saints, miracles, and religious traditions that shaped Egypt’s Christian heritage. Explore the church’s peaceful atmosphere, discover hidden details in its artwork, and capture stunning photos of this spiritual treasure in the heart of Old Cairo. This visit offers culture, history, and inspiration all in one.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Synagogue Ben Ezra
Your guide will lead you to the historic Ben Ezra Synagogue, a remarkable landmark nestled in the heart of Old Cairo. Steeped in legend and dating back to the 9th century, it is believed to be built on the spot where baby Moses was found in the Nile reeds. Admire its beautiful architecture featuring wooden carvings, marble columns, and intricate geometric designs. Inside, discover the site where the famous Geniza documents—ancient Jewish manuscripts—were uncovered, offering a priceless glimpse into centuries of Middle Eastern Jewish life. Your guide will share captivating stories of the Jewish community’s presence in Egypt and the synagogue’s role in religious harmony through the ages. Stroll the surrounding narrow lanes of Coptic Cairo, absorbing the blend of cultures and history that make this destination a must-visit for travelers seeking deeper insight into Egypt’s diverse heritage.
20 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
Private Half-Day Tour to Old Cairo Churches & St. Simon Monastery
English language only Pickup included
French, Spanish, Italian…etc
Languages Besides English Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- de, en, it, fr, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Egypt Paradise Tours
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Accessible restroom facilities are available at all sites visited during the tour. Planned restroom breaks will be provided throughout the experience, and your guide can direct you to the nearest facilities whenever needed.
- Religious Sites Dress Code When visiting monasteries, churches, and mosques, guests are kindly requested to dress modestly out of respect for local customs and religious traditions. Recommended attire: • Clothing that covers the shoulders and knees • Loose and comfortable clothing • Comfortable walking shoes Please avoid: • Sleeveless tops • Very short shorts or skirts • Revealing or transparent clothing Women may be required to cover their hair when entering certain religious sites. Your guide will provide any necessary instructions during the tour. Thank you for helping preserve the respectful atmosphere of these sacred places.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 17 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
17 verified traveler reviews for Private Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great tour with Tarek
Tarek and a driver came to our hotel to pick us up, they were about 15 minutes early but did not rush us. We appreciate them being early. The car was very comfortable. Tarek was very conversational and pointed out the sights as we drove to the first stop. We felt completely safe. During our walking visits to various sites, Tarek was a fountain of knowledge - provided us with a lot of interesting info. It was a great tour.
via Tripadvisor
Morning Tour Cairo Coptic Churches
A great morning tour of 5 Coptic Churches & 1 Synagogue. Hosny our guude was very knowledgeable and went at our pace.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your kind review! We’re really happy to hear that you enjoyed your morning exploring Old Cairo and that the tour was relaxed and at a comfortable pace. It was a pleasure having you with us, and we hope to see you again in Egypt someday for another great experience! Warm regards, The Egypt Paradise Tours Team
via Tripadvisor
The Beautiful Churches of Old Cairo
Amazing Old Cairo Churches Tour! We had a wonderful experience exploring the churches of Old Cairo. Our guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about the history and culture of the area. We visited beautiful historic churches, learned fascinating stories, and had plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the atmosphere. The tour was well organized, comfortable, and informative from start to finish. I highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Cairo who wants to discover its rich Christian heritage and hidden gems. Thank you for such a memorable experience!
Response from the operator: Thank you, Mariona, for your wonderful review and recommendation. Egypt Paradise Tours is delighted to hear that you enjoyed exploring the historic churches of Old Cairo and the remarkable St. Simon Monastery. These sites offer a unique opportunity to discover Egypt’s rich Christian heritage, fascinating history, and beautiful religious architecture. The team is especially pleased that the tour’s organization, comfortable transportation, and knowledgeable guiding helped make your experience both enjoyable and memorable. Creating authentic and personalized experiences is always a top priority. Thank you for choosing Egypt Paradise Tours. The team looks forward to welcoming you back to Egypt for more unforgettable experiences and cultural discoveries.
via Tripadvisor
A must!!!
My tour guide, Hosny, was incredibly knowledgeable and shared fascinating insights throughout the tour. He truly went above and beyond to make the day special and memorable. Not only was he an excellent guide, but he was also a fantastic photographer who captured amazing photos that I’ll cherish forever. The churches were absolutely beautiful, rich in history, and unlike anything I’ve seen before. I highly recommend including them in your Egypt itinerary…they are definitely worth visiting!!! Thank you, Hosny, for making this such a wonderful experience in Egypt⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Response from the operator: Dear Ashley, Hosny sincerely thanks you for taking the time to share such an exceptional review of your Private Half-Day Tour to the Old Cairo Churches & St. Simon Monastery. He is truly delighted to know that you enjoyed discovering the highlights of Coptic Cairo, including the Hanging Church, the Church of Abu Serga, and the remarkable Cave Church of St. Simon. These sacred landmarks are among the most significant historical and spiritual sites in Egypt, and he is pleased they left such a meaningful impression on your journey. Hosny is especially grateful for your kind words regarding his guiding and photography. He places great importance on creating a private tour experience that goes beyond sightseeing—offering guests deep historical context, smooth organization, personal attention, and lasting memories captured along the way. Feedback like yours not only motivates him personally but also helps future travelers confidently choose a private guided tour in Cairo and experience Egypt’s heritage in an authentic, comfortable, and well-curated way. He would be honored to welcome you again in the future for more exclusive experiences across Cairo and beyond with Egypt Paradise Tours. Warm regards, Egypt Paradise Tours Team
via Tripadvisor
100% Worth it.
100% recommended. Very interesting visit all in one site. Amazing to learn how three cultures have shared history in Cairo. Hosny explanations will be unforgettable.
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your wonderful review and recommendation! We’re delighted that you enjoyed your Private Half-Day Tour to Old Cairo, including the historic churches, Ben Ezra Synagogue, and St. Simon Monastery. Coptic Cairo is one of the most important cultural and religious areas in Egypt, offering a unique experience that brings together centuries of Christian, Jewish, and Islamic history. We’re especially happy to know that the guide’s explanations helped you understand and enjoy the story behind each site. At Egypt Paradise Tours, we specialize in private Cairo tours designed to provide deep historical insight, comfort, and a personalized experience. Thank you again for choosing Egypt Paradise Tours. We look forward to welcoming you on more unforgettable tours in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and throughout Egypt. Warm regards,
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 4.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $33 to $160
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 6
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 69
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Giza.
How much does Private Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery cost?
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Prices start at $33 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Giza usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Private Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery take?
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Plan for about 4.5 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 Giza is not rushed.
Is Private Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 69 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 16 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Giza, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Private Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery?
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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 Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery?
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Around 6 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 Giza 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 Giza and add a light layer if any part of the 4.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery 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 Giza 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 Giza?
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On Outty we rank every Giza experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, Camel, ATV Bike, Shopping & Dinner Cruise, ViP Private Tour Giza Pyramids,camel ride , inside 3rd Pyramid, Giza Pyramids VIP Private Tour ATV Camel Inside Pyramid & Lunch. 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 Giza?
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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 Giza?
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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 Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery?
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Included: Entry/Admission-St. Sergius and Bacchus; Entry/ admission of St. Simon Monastery; Entry/Admission- Cave Church; Entry/Admission- Hanging Church; and Pre-booked timed-entry tickets to minimize on-site ticket lines. Not included: Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Private Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 1297 listed pickup locations in and around Giza. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Private Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery offered in?
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It is offered in German, English, Italian, French and Spanish. 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 Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery?
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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 Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Accessible restroom facilities are available at all sites visited during the tour. Planned. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Private Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Giza. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Private Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery?
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Across 16 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide, photo opportunities. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
What booking options are available for Private Tour to Old Cairo Churches and St. Simon Monastery?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including Private Half-Day Tour to Old Cairo Churches & St. Simon Monastery, French, Spanish, Italian…etc. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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