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Cairo has a growing number of five-star hotels (as rated by the Egyptian Hotel Association) scattered across the city, but many of Cairo's big business hotels disappoint. This may be because they are too characterless and modern (distinctive Egyptian atmosphere is lacking in almost all cases) or because they simply fail to measure up to international standards, most often in terms of service. There are certainly exceptions, and the general quality of the top hotels is on the rise at this writing. Regardless, the top-end hotels will offer all the facilities and modern conveniences you need to recuperate after a long day of sightseeing and shopping. Outside the five-star range, Cairo's options quickly grow limited, though there are still a few more budget-oriented hotels that fit the bill.
Cairo's top hotels are all quite affordable by international standards, but few have any sense of Old World charm. Expect to pay a substantial premium for a Nile or Pyramids view. While government authorities rate all hotels on a five-star scale, only a few really earn their stars. August and September are crowded with Gulf Arab arrivals, December and January and Easter are peaks for Europeans, and the major Islamic holidays see a lot of local and regional guests.
Revered for its proximity to the pyramids, this hotel, which was built in the 19th-century as a khedivial hunting lodge, has hosted many politicians, royals, and celebrities. Although there are antiques, Islamic-style art and architecture, and ornate carpeting throughout, the older section is far more atmospheric than the newer garden wing. The buffet breakfast in the open-air restaurant, with the pyramids towering in the background, is a must.
Between two towering office blocks overlooking the Nile, this luxury hotel appeals to both business and leisure travelers, with an interior design that looks to the early 20th century for its inspiration. To balance the yin and yang, rooms have contrasting color schemes—rich black and gold juxtaposed with cool ivories and natural tones.
The spacious suites at this colorful gem, hidden amid greenery in the heart of Tunis Village, have private balconies and terraces. It makes a good base for exploring the town, and it can arrange a variety of activities, including horseback outings, pottery-making classes, bird-watching experiences, felucca trips, and desert excursions.
Amid pristine waterways and endless sand dunes, this eco-lodge's luxurious glamping sites let you spend a night out under the desert stars without foregoing creature comforts. Its modern, tent-like structures are all well-equipped and spacious, offering just the right amount of privacy. There's also an on-site restaurant, a bonfire area, and a slew of activities.
With the resplendent palace built by Khedive Ism’ail in 1869 right in the middle of its grounds, this sizable hotel is considered a prime destination in the bustling Zamalek neighborhood. The hotel’s twin towers offer luxurious accommodations, some with views of the Nile and/or the palace gardens. On site are several local and international dining spots, as well as the famous Omar Khayyam Casino.
Known for its sleek, contemporary, Thai-influenced decor and its world-class service, the Dusit Thani is tropical oasis right in the middle of New Cairo. Rooms are spacious, and the views are divine. Although it's far from Cairo’s city center, the excellent service and relaxing atmosphere make a stay here worthwhile.
The attention to detail is evident everywhere, from the proliferation of marble in the vast lobby to the gourmet ingredients used in the restaurants. The overall design draws on several eras, but it all still seems to come together. Rooms are luxurious but conservative, and the dining experiences are the talk of the town.
As you'd expect from the luxury brand, this hotel is superb, with a serene setting, white-glove service, and beautifully appointed guest rooms with marble baths. The best rooms face west (be sure to request a balcony), with lush greenery just below and the haunting forms of the Pyramids hovering in the distance.
The family-friendly Flamenco, set amid some of Zamalek's best shopping and dining streets, has spacious rooms that are far more affordable than those at other hotels in this pricey neighborhood. Not only are rooms at the back quieter, but they also have Nile views.
The conveniently located hotel guarantees a relaxed stay with high-end services and all the amenities you expect from a Hilton. It's only a 10-minute drive from the airport, and the Baron Empain Palace is just 3 km (2 miles) away. On-site offerings include a fitness center, two outdoor swimming pools and a third pool just for children, and numerous restaurants.
Quiet rooms and a convenient location—where you can enjoy nice walks—are among the hallmarks of this well-established hotel. Some rooms overlook the Nile and/or the swimming pool, which is just one amenity on a long list that also includes several restaurants and a lounge.
Amenities here include a health club, a spa that offers customized treatments, indoor and outdoor pools, and restaurants that range from Italian to Japanese. Although it’s directly connected to Citystars Mall, one of the area's busiest, the hotel is still very private.
With on-site amenities like a golf course, a fitness center, and a saltwater "beach" pool complete with sun beds, it's no surprise that this hotel has received raves. A spacious and comfortable executive lounge and an excellent selection of restaurants offering cuisines from around the world are also among the offerings.
Comfortable rooms, lots of amenities, and excellent dining experiences—the breakfast buffet at the Italian eatery is particularly good—make it easy to unplug at this luxury hotel on the edge of Garden City. Head to the chocolate lounge, to the popular jazz bar for cocktails and live music, or to the rooftop bar to eat, drink, and smoke a shisha (water pipe) while the Nile views.
Interiors at this intimate hotel are influenced by the great Islamic art and architecture of the surrounding historical streets. Suites are very well equipped, including a laptop for use during your stay. The rooftop restaurant has a great view of the buzzing streets below.
Great location meets luxury at this hotel, which is a three-minute stroll from the Egyptian Museum and has scenic views of the Nile on one side and of Tahrir Square on the other. As you would expect from Ritz-Carlton, it has many modern amenities and creature comforts.
The Renaissance is situated around a massive swimming pool, so all of its spacious, well-equipped, and nicely appointed rooms—featuring dark woods and pops of jewel-tone color—have lovely views. You won't go hungry here, either, thanks to a good mix of restaurants, lounges, and bars, one of them poolside.
It's hard not to be taken in by the palatial grandeur of the exterior, the sleek styling of the interior, and the abundance of amenities and creature comforts throughout. The food in all eight of the hotel's restaurants is excellent, the service is impeccable, and a treatment in the spa is exactly what you need after a day of sightseeing.
Rooms at this modern high-rise are spacious, with full-length windows and private balconies that make the most of the city views. The hotel caters to business people, with crisp service and many modern amenities.
The circular tower of this hotel—on the southern tip of Gezira Island and surrounded by parks and residential districts—has been part the Cairo skyline for well over three decades. Contemporary and luxurious yet understated public areas have Nile views, as do the guest rooms.
You can't beat the views of the Nile or the city from this stylish new hotel, which is a mere five-minute ride from the Egyptian Museum and Tahrir Square and which offers valet parking, an airport shuttle, and butler services. Amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, two bars, a steakhouse, and several international restaurants.
Directly opposite the new Grand Egyptian Museum and providing once-in-a-lifetime pyramid views from some of its rooms, this hotel is a solid and relatively affordable choice for visits to Giza. Guest rooms are refined, and the list of amenities includes a pool. Dining in the rooftop restaurant, with its delicious Egyptian grilled meat, is highly recommended.
The efficient staff is eager to please at this hotel, which sits on a corner across from the Egyptian Museum. Street noise in this busy location is an issue, but it's a small price to pay in exchange for the great location, service, and overall value for money.
Wellness feels like a mission at this golf resort and spa, a hidden gem that's a fantastic getaway from the loud, busy streets of central Cairo.
