3 Best Hotels in The East Bank, Aswan and Lake Nasser

Occupying a promontory above Aswan, the Basma has an artsy vibe and is accented with murals, stained glass, and sculptures, many made by local artists.

The Obelisk sits in the center of it all—smack-dab on the waterfront and a quick walk to many restaurants and shops. Garden-view rooms have a terrace and are set among shrubs and flower beds. Nile-side rooms give up the terrace for water-level views.

The high-ceilinged reception area, complete with olive and maroon columns and carvings of Abu Simbel and Philae, makes the Tolip look like a neo-pharaonic temple on the northern reaches of the Corniche. The rooms don't quite live up to the lobby's lofty promise, but this hotel is a great place for families looking for an entertaining alternative to the temples: try on-site tennis, bowling, billiards, and more.