Cairo’s big city buzz complements the austerity of its pyramids and sand-covered tombs that mark it as the oldest civilisation in the world. A fast paced city, it holds together a 20 million-strong population, honking traffic, squawking street sellers, blankets of smog, and a general frenzy of activity. It is a city in transition that has all the sorts of quirks and hassles that make it so captivating. The best places to stay in Cairo are those that offer green spaces, roof top terraces with sea or Nile views and essences of Egypt! These might be charming boutique hotels, a budget place with balconies or a Five Stars hotel that has flair as well as good facilities.
Cairo is a bit East meets West. Islamic Cairo and Coptic Cairo form a rhizome of minarets - medieval schools, mosques, monasteries and ancient churches of the native Egyptian Christians. Wander through the streets to soak it all up and then visit the Egyptian Museum which houses the glittering artefacts of this melting pot.
For shopping Cairo offers a wealth of spice markets, antique bazaars, papyrus makers and bookbinders, funky jewellery sellers, plus purveyors of Egyptian cotton and silk kaftans. There truly is a treasure trove of things that you can bring home.
Taxi or metro are the easiest ways to get around Cairo, or take a felucca down the Nile, scenic and efficient! At least four days in the city is a must in order to really get a sense of this place. It is intense, take it slowly so as to not burn out in the first two days of arrival.
Our pick of the best places to stay in Cairo include a few boutique hotels and the obvious Five Star luxury destinations. Use our guide and start to plan your trip.
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Cairo (Giza)
A cute hotel with simple rooms close to the Giza pyramids. Charming balconies and terraces, a good traditional restaurant and roof top pool. Excellent value, ideally suited to those on a budget.
Cairo
A lovely little boutique with bargain prices. Colourful simple rooms have lots of space and characterful decoration. Walking distance to excellent restaurants. Perfect for visiting Cairo on a shoe string without staying in a hostel.
Cairo
A romantic Five Star hotel close to the Pyramids. Elegant traditional suites have four poster beds, killim rugs, and Egyptian antiques. Excellent Italian, Indian and traditional restaurants. A top of the range spa, enormous pool, and stunning grounds. A grade.
Cairo
A glitzy luxury hotel in the West of the city. Contemporary rooms and suites have chrome and red colour schemes and all the mod cons. Salt restaurant serves award-winning fusion cuisine. A lively bar and rooftop terrace. A great choice for young and energetic foodies.
Cairo (Garden City)
A hotel in an unrivalled location on the river's edge. Five Star luxury includes a state of the art spa, a wonderful Italian restaurant, chocolaterie, and a lively roof top bar and nightclub. Contemporary classic rooms and suites are palatial with all the mod cons. For the luxury traveller.
Cairo (Maadi)
The best boutique hotel in Cairo. A country house with colonial verandas, a luscious garden, swimming pool, and an excellent traditional restaurant. Characterful rooms have antique furniture, delicate fabrics, and private balconies. Romantic, family friendly, a chic home from home.
Cairo
A grand Five Star hotel with a boutique feel to it. Centrally located with views over the Nile. Gorgeous rooms and suites with tasteful decoration, balconies, and all the mod cons. A choice of Italian, Thai and Lebanese restaurants. State of the art spa, pool and tennis courts. Very luxurious.
Cairo (Garden City)
A Five Star hotel in a fantastic riverside location. Luxurious rooms and suites with creamy furnishings, all the mod cons and balconies. A choice of Italian, Chinese or traditional restaurants. Two huge pools, terraces, excellent spa, and unrivalled views. For the luxury traveller.
