Cairo, the bustling capital city of Egypt, is an enchanting destination for travelers worldwide. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and ancient landmarks, Cairo is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the wonders of the Middle East. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, finding suitable accommodation can make all the difference in your stay.
Fortunately, Cairo has a wide range of hotels with unique charm and character. From luxurious five-star resorts to cozy budget hotels, there’s something for everyone in Cairo. In this blog post, we’ll look closely at some of the best hotels in Cairo, including their location, amenities, and what to expect during your stay.
Whether you want to stay in the city’s heart or prefer a quieter neighborhood, Cairo has many options. You can enjoy stunning views of the Nile River while staying at the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza or indulge in a luxurious spa treatment at the Ritz-Carlton Cairo. Alternatively, you can opt for a budget-friendly stay at Hostels in the bustling downtown area or near the pyramids.
We’ll also explore some of Cairo’s cultural experiences and activities, from visiting the iconic Pyramids of Giza to strolling through the historic Khan el-Khalili market. So please sit back, relax, and explore some of the best hotels in Cairo together.
Check This article for the best areas and hotels to stay in Cairo. If you have not yet planned your visit to the Egyptian capital, do not miss our complete guide to visiting Cairo. And if it’s your first time in Egypt, read our comprehensive guide to traveling to Egypt.
Best Hotels in Cairo – Top Areas and Recommended Hotels
1- Recommended area: (Cairo & near pyramids at Giza) – Best Hotels in Cairo
Although Cairo has so many things to see, we first think of the Pyramids, museums, pharaohs, and ruins, all of which can be seen when staying in Giza.
Giza is located about 25 km southwest of the center. Of course, the focus of this area is the Pyramids of Giza next to the Great Sphinx, and today, they are a global icon and one of the most visited monuments in the world.
Many hotels in this area offer an environment inspired by ancient Egyptian culture. Al-Giza has many accommodations, from small backpacker hostels to large luxury resorts.
Getting around Giza is possible thanks to the walks and tours some agencies offer, through the Mwasalat Misr, the bus that leaves from the center of Cairo to the pyramids, or by taxi.
Other areas to see in the Giza district are Agouza, Mohadesin, and Dokki.
Agouza is a small neighborhood of Giza full of commerce and shops, where Egyptian customs, gastronomy, and shopping are mixed. Mohadisen is an upper-middle-class neighborhood that offers restaurants, shops, and nightlife.
On the other hand, the Dokki neighborhood includes Amman Square, Cairo University, the Giza Zoological Garden, and the Orman Botanical Garden.
Giza is one of the best areas to stay in Cairo, for it is the city’s tourist area and hosts some of the essential attractions in Egypt.
Recommended best hotels near the pyramids of Giza
The Marriott Mena House
The Mena House started as a place for the Khedive Ismail and his guests to stay when they returned from hunting in the desert or visiting the Pyramids and wanted to rest.
1869 it was sold to a British couple, and in 1887, it became a hotel. It also has a lot of modern history. It was where President Sadat, President Carter, and Prime Minister Begin met to discuss peace. The outside is carefully landscaped with stately palm trees, and the views of the pyramids make for a quieter vacation than you’d have in downtown Cairo.
The Marriot’s Mena House is at the foot of the Great Pyramids in Giza, a half-hour drive southwest of the center of Cairo. This high-end Hotel near Cairo has rooms and suites with dark wood floors, rich fabrics, marble bathrooms, balconies, and a swimming pool. Most rooms have views of the pyramids, not the beautiful gardens or pool area.
Four restaurants serve food from around the world, and one serves Indian food. The Hotel is located in an ancient archaeological site, 0.7 km from the Giza Pyramids, 1.3 km from the Great Sphinx, and 7.2 km from the Dream Park theme park. It is also close to tourist spots and is considered one of the best hotels on Cairo’s Haram Street.
Why is this a recommended area to stay in Cairo:
- The best place for tourists
- Camel rides and tours
- Near the pyramids
- Connected by metro and train
- Near the Sphinx
- Variety of accommodation
2- Zamalek (Gezira Island)
Zamalek is located north of Giza, on the island of Gezira. This area is connected to the rest of cairo through three large bridges, including the Qasr al-Nil Bridge and the 6th of October Bridge.
This neighborhood is near the Cairo Museum and home to most embassies and government buildings, as well as a diverse community of Westerners and Egyptians. This area boasts luxury hotels, art deco-style buildings, clothing stores, bookstores, and restaurants where you can enjoy local and foreign flavors.
Being an exclusive area, it is considered one of the safest neighborhoods in Cairo, with permanent surveillance at every corner. One of the main places to see in the Zamalek neighborhood is The Cairo Tower, a 43-meter viewpoint (higher than the Great Pyramid) from where you can get views of Cairo and the Nile River. Zamalek is a recommended area in Cairo; this quiet and luxurious neighborhood offers a pinch of Egypt and the West: history, luxury, gastronomy, and culture.
Recommended Hotels in Zamalek
Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah
Sofitel’s five-star El Gezirah Hotel is in a cylinder-shaped building on the southern tip of Gezira island. All 433 rooms and suites have balconies with views of the Nile.
They mixed modern versions of French and Asian styles of design. You can see a show at the Cairo Opera House or walk 15 minutes to see the 187m (614ft) Cairo Tower. The Sofitel El Gezirah is a 5-star luxury hotel on the River Nile, and guests can enjoy walks along the Hotel’s private promenade with great river views.
In addition to different places to have fun, the Sofitel El Gezirah has more than seven restaurants that serve Egyptian, Moroccan, Indian, and Italian food. The trendy Window on the Nile is one of the bars at the Hotel. There are king rooms for two people and large suites for a family.
You’ll still be close to all the best sights and attractions, making it easy to go around Cairo and high-end Egypt tours. The International Airport is 20 km from the Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah.
Why Zamalek is a recommended area to stay in Cairo:
- Views of the Nile
- Luxury hotels
- Cairo Tower
3- Garden City – Best Hotels area in Cairo
It is south of Tahrir Square, between the Nile River and downtown Cairo. Its strong Egyptian art nouveau style and narrow streets make it a great place to walk around and find its charms. In this area of Cairo, there are some of the most important hotels and embassies, like the British and American ones.
It is not a very interesting neighborhood. But it is one of the best places to stay in Cairo because it is quiet. It is stable and safe, so travelers can stay there without worrying and enjoy the views from their hotels. In the 1930s, it was where Cairo’s wealthy people lived, so the style of its houses and buildings shows that it still has a high-class feel.
Microbuses and taxis are the only ways to get around in this area. The Egyptian Parliament and the Ethnological Museum are two interesting places in Garden City, and both are close to the American University of Cairo. On Qasr el-Ayn Street, there are places to eat and drink. If not, you can always get a drink at the bar of a five-star hotel. Garden City is an excellent place to stay in Cairo because it is a luxury area away from the hustle and bustle. The hotels and services in this area are unique and special.
Recommended Hotels in Garden City
Kempinski Nile Hotel
The Kempinski Hotel is on the Nile River in Egypt’s beautiful capital, Cairo. It is a 5-star boutique hotel that gives its guests a great time. Being in the center of the Garden City district of the capital makes it easy for guests to get to local attractions, shopping areas, and the famous Pyramids of Giza. The Kempinski Nile lives up to all expectations. It has 137 rooms and 54 exclusive suites with private balconies, 4-star restaurants and lounges, a luxury spa, and a fitness center.
One of Cairo’s best hotels, Kempinski’s Hotel has rooms and suites on the banks of Africa’s longest river, all with private balconies. This is the most luxurious place to stay if you want to explore central Cairo.
This small Hotel in the Garden City District has details from Egypt in the lobby, but the rooms have a more European feel. The Kempinski Nile Hotel is a great place to stay because it has a luxury spa, a fitness center, a rooftop pool with views of the Nile River, and a great location only a short drive from Cairo’s main attractions. It has a front desk to receive all your questions and inquiries.
The Egyptian Museum and the Cairo Center are minutes from the Kempinski Nile Hotel. The Cairo International Airport is 25 km away, and it takes 20 minutes to drive to the Giza Pyramids and the Cairo Citadel.
Four Seasons Hotel
The Four Seasons Hotel is an actual luxury hotel. It is in the First Palace Complex on the West Bank of the Nile. The Hotel has some of the best places to eat in the city. It also has a spa with various relaxing treatments and beautiful river and pyramid views. The Four Seasons in Cairo is the pinnacle of modern luxury and elegance, and it will please even the pickiest traveler.
The Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza treats its guests like stars. This 5-star Hotel is charming and has a great view of the Nile River. The rooms are air-conditioned and have marble bathrooms and flat-screen satellite TVs. Each morning, they offer a rich breakfast buffet, a beautifully landscaped outdoor pool area, a salon, a gym, an indoor pool, a car rental, and a luxury spa. This ensures their luxury treatment lives up to what their guests expect.
There is room service, car rental, and an airport limousine shuttle service at Four Seasons Cairo At The First Residence.
Why Garden City is a recommended area to stay in Cairo:
- Cairo Diplomatic Zone
- Exclusive Neighborhood
- Shopping Areas
4- Downtown Cairo
Since it was planned and built in the 19th century, Downtown Cairo (also called the Center of Cairo) has been the heart of the Egyptian capital. It is on the east side of the Nile and was built by famous French architects to house shops, government buildings, and homes for the Egyptian upper classes.
This neighborhood has wide, straight streets and a very European style. After years of being ignored, though, the belle epoque buildings in the area have taken on a shabby look, making for an interesting contrast in style. This neighborhood is built around Tahrir Square, also called “Liberation Square.” This critical public square in Cairo has been the center of political protests.
The fantastic Egyptian Museum is right next to Tahrir Square. It has the most extensive collection of Ancient Egyptian artifacts and has more than 136,000 objects from different times in Egyptian history that have been put into categories. During the day, it is safe to walk around downtown Cairo. But it would be best if you were careful when it gets dark.
Recommended Hotels in Garden City
Steigenberger El Tahri
Steigenberger El Tahrir has a great location in Cairo’s Tahrir Square. It looks out over the Egyptian Museum, is only a few minutes from the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, and is close to Egypt’s most famous sights. The Hotel has 295 rooms and suites that are well-equipped and decorated in a high-end style. This renowned Hotel is excellent for business trips and social events because it has a lot of different places to eat, a pool, a gym, and rooms for banquets.
The Nile Ritz-Carlton
This high-end Hotel is in the middle of Cairo, between the Nile River and Tahrir Square. It is the definition of elegance and luxury. Frank Sinatra and even Elizabeth Taylor have said nice things about this luxury hotel in Cairo. Its spa treatments, private pool, and fitness studio will make you feel like a movie star. The hotel staff also ensures that every room and suite has every possible amenity and a breathtaking view of the Nile or the museum.
The famous Nile Ritz-Carlton is right in the middle of Cairo, between Tahrir Square and the Nile River, next to the Egyptian Museum. The rooms are nice and big, with a working desk, a TV, and a coffee machine. Each room has a private bathroom, a walk-in shower, and a luxurious bath. Slippers, bathrobes, and hairdryers are also provided for the comfort and ease of guests. The Nile Ritz Carlton also has a casino, many fun things to do at night, and nine of the best restaurants and bars in the world.
Why Downtown Cairo is a recommended area to stay in Cairo:
- Heart of the city
- Budget Hotels
- Tahrir Square
5- New Cairo
New Cairo is a district located near Heliopolis, northwest of Cairo. One of the main reasons to stay in New Cairo is its proximity to the International Airport. In addition to being a good connection point with other city areas, New Cairo is a quiet area. It does not have significant attractions other than some museums, galleries, and, of course, restaurants and cafes.
Hotels in this area are varied, with several luxury hotels. Accessing the main attractions of Cairo from New Cairo is possible through taxis and buses. New Cairo is another of the best areas to stay in Cairo; its location allows you to connect with other cities in Egypt and has comfortable hotels to stay in for a couple of days.
Recommended Hotels in New Cairo, Egypt
Dusit Thani Lakeview Cairo
Dusit Thani Lakeview Cairo is the obvious choice if you want to spend your vacation surrounded by lakes and greenery despite being in a desert. This high-end Hotel is based on traditional Thai design, so it feels like Bangkok in the middle of New Cairo. This Hotel is only 20 minutes from Cairo International Airport and has three pools, a jacuzzi, a fitness studio, and options for fine dining. Dusit Thani Lakeview Cairo is a popular place for romantic getaways, but it’s also an excellent place for families, groups of friends, and solo travelers who want to be pampered.
Why New Cairo is a recommended area to stay in Cairo:
- All kinds of hotels
- Quiet zone
- Near the airport
6- Nasr City
Nasr City is an area close to New Cairo and is also close to Cairo International Airport. It was built to be another large area within Cairo housing government buildings and offices.
Nowadays, Nasr City is a diverse area, full of foreigners who mix their culture with the Egyptians, shopping malls, and many shops.
Nasr City retains luxury hotels in Cairo and various trendy restaurants and shops.
Being a city known for its aromas and flavors, this neighborhood has shops and small places where it is easy to buy perfumes with intoxicating scents and try coffee and tea in the different cafeterias.
Accessing other Cairo neighborhoods from Nasr City is accessible by bus, although if you plan your stay and transportation on the tours offered by some agencies in the city, traveling and getting around will not be a significant problem.
Nasr City is another excellent area to stay in Cairo. This neighborhood is ideal for those passing through Cairo and has a few days to visit exciting points.
Recommended Hotels in Nasr City
Nasr City is a bustling neighborhood in Cairo that offers a variety of hotels for visitors to choose from. Here are some recommended hotels to consider for your stay in Nasr City:
- Baron Hotel Heliopolis: This 4-star Hotel is located in Heliopolis, a neighboring district of Nasr City. It offers spacious rooms with classic décor and modern amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and satellite TV. The Hotel has an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and several restaurants.
- Novotel Cairo Airport: This 4-star Hotel is located near Cairo International Airport and offers a convenient location for travelers. The rooms are modern and spacious, with amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. The Hotel also has a restaurant, a bar, and an outdoor pool.
- InterContinental Cairo Citystars: This 5-star Hotel is in the Citystars complex, one of Cairo’s most extensive shopping and entertainment centers. The Hotel offers luxurious rooms with stunning city views and amenities like air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a spa. The Hotel has several restaurants, a bar, and an outdoor pool.
- Holiday Inn Citystars: This 5-star Hotel in the Citystars complex offers modern and spacious rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. The Hotel has a fitness center, restaurants, and an outdoor pool.
- Triumph Luxury Hotel: This 4-star Hotel is in the heart of Nasr City and offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. The Hotel also has a restaurant, a bar, and a rooftop pool with stunning city views.
These are just a few of the many hotels available in Nasr City, but they offer a range of options for different budgets and preferences. Consider your needs and preferences when choosing the best Hotel for your stay in Nasr City.
Why Nasr City is a recommended area to stay in Cairo:
- Near Cairo airport
- Good site for business travelers
- Luxury hotels
7- Hotels In Nile Corniche
The Nile Corniche is a beautiful stretch of road along the Nile River in Cairo, Egypt, and several excellent hotels offer breathtaking views of the river and the city skyline. Here are some of the best hotels in Nile Corniche:
- Fairmont Nile: Fairmont Nile City is full of exciting differences. The Hotel has the most modern design and technology to meet the needs of the most discerning travelers. It is also in tune with its surroundings. Cairo’s natural beauty and ancient history are always in view, thanks to expansive views of the Nile River and distant views of the Pyramids. In addition to all these things, the Hotel has unique features like culinary adventures at the best restaurants in the city and a fantastic pool where you can relax in the sun or under the stars.
- Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza: This luxurious Hotel offers stunning views of the Nile River and the city. It has spacious rooms and suites, excellent restaurants, a spa, and a rooftop pool.
- Kempinski Nile Hotel Cairo: Located in the heart of Cairo, this Hotel offers panoramic views of the Nile River and the city. It has elegant rooms and suites, excellent restaurants, a spa, and a rooftop pool.
- Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah: This Hotel is located on the southern tip of Gezirah Island, with stunning views of the Nile River and the city. It has spacious rooms and suites, several restaurants and bars, a spa, and a rooftop pool.
- InterContinental Cairo Semiramis: This iconic Hotel is located in the heart of Cairo, with breathtaking views of the Nile River and the city. It has spacious rooms and suites, several restaurants and bars, a spa, and a rooftop pool.
8- Hotels In Maadi Area
These hotels offer exceptional service, luxurious amenities, and breathtaking views of the Nile River and Cairo, making them the best hotels in Nile Corniche.
Here are some hotels located in the Maadi area:
- Helnan Landmark Hotel: This 4-star Hotel is in the heart of Maadi and offers modern rooms, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.
- Holiday Inn Cairo Maadi: This 4-star Hotel is located in the heart of Maadi and offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.
- Maadi Hotel: This 3-star Hotel in the Maadi area offers affordable rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop terrace.
- Triumph Hotel & Conference Center: This 4-star Hotel is located in the New Maadi area and offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, a fitness center, and conference facilities.
- Royal Maadi Hotel: This 3-star Hotel in the Maadi area offers affordable rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop terrace.
9- Hotels In Nile Heliopolis
Here are some hotels located in Heliopolis:
Baron Hotel Heliopolis: This 4-star Hotel is located in the heart of Heliopolis and offers elegant rooms, multiple dining options, a fitness center, and a rooftop pool.
Le Meridien Heliopolis: This 5-star Hotel is located in the heart of Heliopolis and offers luxurious rooms, multiple restaurants and bars, a spa, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
Sonesta Hotel, Tower & Casino – Cairo: This 5-star Hotel is located in Nasr City, near Heliopolis, and offers spacious rooms, multiple dining options, a casino, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
Novotel Cairo Airport: This 4-star Hotel is located near Cairo International Airport in Heliopolis and offers comfortable rooms, multiple dining options, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
Tulip El Narges Hotel & Spa: This 5-star Hotel is located in New Cairo, near Heliopolis, and offers modern rooms, a spa, multiple dining options, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
Plan your trip to Cairo.
Planning a trip to Cairo can be an exciting and rewarding experience. With its rich history, culture, and ancient landmarks, this bustling city has no shortage of things to see and do. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to plan your trip to Cairo:
- Determine the best time to visit: The best time to visit Cairo is between November and March, when the weather is more relaxed and more comfortable for outdoor activities. The summer can be sweltering, so plan accordingly if you visit.
- Book Your Flight and Accommodation: Once you’ve decided on your travel dates, it’s time to book them. Cairo has many hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts. Consider the location, amenities, and budget when choosing where to stay.
- Obtain your travel documents: Ensure you have a valid passport and any necessary visas or travel documents before your trip. Check the entry requirements for Egypt and plan accordingly.
- Plan your itinerary: Cairo has many things to see and do, so plan to make the most of your time. Some popular attractions include the Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum, the Citadel of Cairo, and the Khan el-Khalili market.
- Consider a tour: If you’re short on time or want to make the most of your trip, consider booking a guided tour. There are many options available, from private tours to group tours.
- Pack accordingly: Cairo can be dusty and hot, so pack comfortable and breathable clothing. Also, bring appropriate attire for visiting religious sites, such as mosques and churches.
- Stay safe: Cairo is generally safe for tourists, but taking precautions is always a good idea. Avoid walking alone at night, and be aware of your surroundings.
With these tips in mind, you’re ready to plan your trip to Cairo and explore all the wonders this beautiful city offers. Enjoy your trip!
FAQs for travelers looking for where to stay in Cairo 2023
Did you think our tips were over here? No, we will answer below some of the most frequently asked questions of those looking for where to stay in Cairo:
What is the best area to stay in Cairo?
The best area to stay in Cairo depends on your preferences and travel plans. If you want to be close to the significant historical landmarks, such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum, consider staying in the downtown area. If you prefer a more upscale and modern atmosphere, Zamalek or Heliopolis may be a better fit.
What is the average cost of a hotel night in Cairo?
The average cost of a hotel night in Cairo can range from $20 for budget hotels to $200 or more for luxury hotels. The price varies based on location, amenities, and time of year.
What amenities should I look for in a Cairo hotel?
Amenities to consider when looking for a Cairo hotel include air conditioning (especially in the hot summer), free Wi-Fi, breakfast included, and a central location easily accessible to public transportation or popular attractions.
Is it safe to stay in Cairo hotels?
Cairo hotels are generally safe for tourists. However, it’s always a good idea to take precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night and being aware of your surroundings. Ensure also to follow the Hotel’s safety protocols and secure valuables.
What are some popular hotels in Cairo?
Some popular hotels in Cairo include:
- Marriott Mena House
- Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza
- Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah
- InterContinental Cairo Semiramis.
Should I book my Cairo hotel in advance?
It’s a good idea to book your Cairo hotel in advance, especially during peak tourist season (November-March) or if you have specific preferences or requirements for your accommodation. This will ensure availability and give you time to compare prices and amenities.
How many days do you stay in Cairo?
The ideal is 4 days; some only book 3, but everything gets very busy. Within 4 days, you will be able to appreciate everything more calmly. However, if you want to delve deeper into Egyptian history, book at least 5 days.
What not to miss in Cairo and its surroundings?
- Pyramids of Giza
- Egyptian Museum
- library of Alexandria
- Khan El Khalili Market
- Cairo Tower
- Boat ride on the Nile River
- Coptic cairo
- Tahrir square
- Alabaster Mosque
- See belly dancing
- Saqqara
Conclusion about Best Hotels in Cairo
In conclusion, Cairo has a lot to offer travelers, whether you are interested in history, culture, or modern amenities. The city has many hotels catering to different budgets and preferences, from budget-friendly options to luxury five-star accommodations.
If you want a central and convenient location to explore the city, downtown Cairo is a great option. Zamalek and Heliopolis offer many choices for a more upscale and modern atmosphere. And Nasr City is a good choice if you seek a quieter and more residential area.
Some of the best hotels in Cairo include the Marriott Mena House, Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza, Sofitel Cairo Nile El Gezirah, and the InterContinental Cairo Semiramis. These hotels offer excellent amenities, including air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, breakfast included, and a central location.
Book your Hotel and research the area to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay if you plan a trip to Cairo. With so many great hotels, you will indeed find the perfect accommodation.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Cairo adventure today and book your Hotel to experience the best of this vibrant city!
