The Best Hotels in Cairo

Cairo Hotels

The ancient city where Pharaohs ruled and legends were born has become a thriving urban centre in its own right. Cairo is a busy and buzzing city, with skyscrapers being built alongside the ancient buildings, and it's an important global financial centre. The main attractions for tourists revolve around ancient Egyptian times, with many preserved stone buildings, and museums stuffed full of golden artifacts and intricate paintings.

Things to see

The Pyramids of Giza are perhaps the most iconic sights of Cairo. Built from millions of tonnes of limestone, thousands of years ago, they are a breathtaking sight to behold and one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World. The Great Pyramid stands the tallest, and parts of the structure can be explored with a guide, through a network of tall and narrow tunnels, where you can get a unique perspective on how the pyramids were built, and the myths surrounding death from the days of Pharaohs. Within the complex, the mysterious Great Sphinx of Giza also stands, attracting amateur photographers and allowing visitors to speculate on its origins. Many of the treasures found in the tombs and at archeological sites have been moved to the Egyptian Museum, and as you walk around the grand and peaceful museum you'll see ancient statues, tapestries, wall paintings, and the remains of well-preserved mummies.

Hotels in Cairo

The city is known as an upmarket destination, and there are many luxury hotels in Cairo with 5 stars and exceptional levels of service. Within these contemporary, high-rise complexes you'll find a selection of restaurants, bars, and lounges, with many places offering nightly entertainment. You can also enjoy features such as business centres, event spaces, and ballrooms for large weddings. Most hotels offer a wide range of guestrooms, from stylish standard doubles, to large suites with separate sitting areas. You'll also enjoy amenities such as LCD televisions, WiFi, air conditioning, and balconies where you can enjoy the sweeping views.

Where to stay

Downtown Cairo was designed as a playground for the wealthy in the late 19th century, and its intricate buildings still hold much of their former glory. It has since become a popular shopping destination, with several traditional Egyptian department stores full of exotic goods, and some malls with modern stores and western fast food favorites. Old Cairo has the look that first time visitors will recognize from the movies, with mosques, museums, and a sky full of minarets. Down the ancient streets you'll see stone clad buildings painted with colourful murals, and can take a break in one of the busy and fragrant shisha cafés full of chattering locals.

How to get to Cairo

Cairo International Airport has regular flights arriving from across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, with many major airlines servicing this busy hub. The city centre is about a half hour drive away, and there are private shuttles or licensed taxis available from the terminal to take you to your hotel. The modern white and yellow taxis use meters to work out your fare, but if you find an older black and white cab then you will need to ask the price in advance and barter with them for the best rate. Ramses Railway Station is also a popular arrival point, with its high glass ceilings and soft lighting, and trains arrive from major cities across Egypt.