A captivating blend of ancient wonders, vibrant street life, rich culture, and iconic landmarks creates an unforgettable experience for visitors. We’ve handpicked the best hotels in Cairo based on expert recommendations and thousands of genuine guest reviews. All of our recommended hotels have a review rating of at least 4 out of 5 stars.
Best budget hotel in Cairo: Jimmy Pyramids View Inn
Best boutique hotel in Cairo: Steigenberger El Tahrir
Best luxury hotel in Cairo: Four Seasons Nile Plaza
Best hostel in Cairo: Holy Sheet Hostel
Sort list by price, rating or by value for money.
The St. Regis Cairo, a magnificent 5-star hotel, occupies a prime position on the River Nile's banks, casting a commanding presence over the city's waterfront. Nestled at the junction of the Nile Corniche, this exceptional hotel is ideally situated for guests to discover downtown Cairo's well-known attractions.
Telegraph + 1 more” One of the most delayed openings in hotel history is now one of the most luxurious properties in Africa and the Middle East, with destination dining and a buzzing social scene.”
The Steigenberger El Tahrir is one of the best-located eco-friendly hotels in Cairo. Its central location at Tahrir Square provides guests easy and quick access to the Egyptian Museum, El Khalili Bazaar, various restaurants, and shopping centers. The strategic location makes it one of the ideal spots to host large travel groups for maximum efficiency.
Lonely Planet + 1 more“This sophisticated customer has been shaking up the Downtown hotel scene since it opened in early 2017. From the vast, modern minimalist lobby with casual bar to the spacious, contemporary styled rooms, the Steigenberger is a soothing oasis right in the heart of the city.”
The Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza stands as a striking 30-story landmark on the Nile Corniche in the prestigious Garden City district. Opened in 2004, this high-rise reflects the modern, neoliberal architectural wave that transformed Cairo’s historic riverfront skyline.
Forbes + 3 more“The moment you set foot in Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza, you’ll be captivated by its lush surroundings and elegant vibes. The fusion of modern-age luxury and panoramic Nile views of the ancient city is a once-in-a-lifetime ambiance worth waking up to.”
Situated at the bank of the River Nile, in Cairo's upscale Garden City district, the Kempinski Nile Hotel presents a remarkable experience for guests with breathtaking river views. The luxury five-star boutique hotel provides an ultimate urban retreat with aesthetically pleasing rooms and top-tier amenities. Its prime location on the Nile's east bank allows guests to relax at the rooftop pool while savoring magnificent river scenes.
Lonely Planet + 1 more“You enter this Nileside tower through a rather cramped, bland lobby, but things definitely get better in the rooms, which are bright and modern, with nice art hung on the walls and skinny balconies. Compared to its rivals, though, service can be a little off, and the swimming pool is a bit small.”
On El-Muizz Street in the historic heart of Old Cairo, Le Riad Hotel de Charme is a boutique gem that fully embraces its medieval surroundings. Opened in 2013, the hotel’s architecture and design were heavily inspired by the stunning Ottoman-style house, Beit El Sehemy, located right across the street, blending seamlessly with the area's rich Fatimid history.
Fodors“The interior design is influenced by the great Islamic art and architecture in the surrounding historical streets and makes a wonderful homey oasis in which to envelope yourself after a dusty day’s sightseeing. Suites are very well equipped, including a laptop for your use during your stay.”
At the foot of the Giza Plateau, the Marriott Mena House offers what is arguably the most breathtaking front-row seat to the Great Pyramids of Giza. It’s so close that you can easily walk to the ancient wonder in about ten minutes, or simply admire the massive stone structures while eating breakfast on the outdoor terrace.
Lonely Planet + 2 more“Built in 1869 as Khedive Ismail’s hunting lodge, Mena House dazzles with intricate gold decoration and air that perpetually smells of jasmine. The grandest palace-wing rooms are borderline-kitschy Arabian Nights style, but the view of the Great Pyramid filling your window is a treat.”
Standing proudly on the banks of the iconic Nile River, The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo is a legendary piece of Egypt's modern history. Originally opened in 1959 as the famous Nile Hilton, this landmark hotel was designed by the acclaimed American architect Welton Becket alongside local firm Riad Architecture. For decades, it served as Cairo's ultimate political and cultural crossroads, hosting visiting presidents, royalty, and international diplomats.
Forbes“An elegant blend of classic-meets-contemporary, The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo gives you an Egyptian experience in the land of the pharaohs. The lobby’s modern décor with a traditional twist — from ancient Egyptian touches to Islamic arabesque details — sets the stage for an authentic, luxurious stay.”
Hovering right over the edge of the world's longest river, the Fairmont Nile City is a luxury escape built into Cairo's striking Nile City Towers complex. Designed by the famous global architecture firm Hirsch Bedner Associates, the hotel seamlessly blends sleek, modern structural lines with timeless, elegant Art Deco interior accents.
Fodors + 1 more“Standing between two towering office blocks overlooking the Nile, this luxury hotel will appeal to both business and leisure travelers. The interior design looks to the early 20th century for its inspiration; to balance the yin and yang, there are two different color schemes for the rooms—a rich black and gold, contrasting with cool ivories and natural tones.”
Situated in the heart of Cairo, the Osiris Hotel is a short stroll from the renowned Egyptian Museum. Public areas of the hotel provide complimentary Wi-Fi, and a rooftop terrace presents stunning views of the city's downtown area. The hotel's rooms are brightly lit and air-conditioned, furnished in a simple yet comfortable style.
Lonely Planet“On the top floor of a commercial building, the Osiris enjoys great city views. In the spotless rooms, colourful appliqué bedspreads and palm-frond shelves add dashes of traditional flavour, though the single rooms are cramped for the price. Bag a double with balcony if you can. Breakfast involves fresh juice, crêpes and omelettes.”
Rising 27 stories above the southern tip of Gezirah Island, the Sofitel Nile El Gezirah is a striking modernist skyscraper that has anchored Cairo’s skyline since 1984. Originally opened as the El Gezira Sheraton, this iconic cylinder underwent a major transformation in 2007 to blend Parisian art de vivre with classic Egyptian elegance.
Fodors + 1 more“The circular tower has been gracing the Cairo skyline for well over two decades, but the interiors here have been brought up to date, and the hotel has reemerged as a must-visit place among expats and visitors for its bars and restaurants. Contemporary luxury and understated style are the watchwords for the public areas. Rooms are decorated with cool neutral shades and pale pastels.”
Recommended by:
Telegraph, Fodors
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Fodors
Recommended by:
Forbes, Frommers, Lonely Planet, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Fodors
Recommended by:
Fodors
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet, Frommers, Fodors
Recommended by:
Forbes
Recommended by:
Fodors, Forbes
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
Fodors, Lonely Planet
The best areas to stay in Cairo are: Downtown, Giza, Zamalek, New Cairo or El Gamaleya. Please read our extensive guide about where to stay in Cairo. It offers a great overview about each area, including the museums, attractions and other things, as well as the best place to stay in each area.
If you are on the hunt for an affordable hotel, then you should consider reserving Jimmy Pyramids View Inn. It is a great option for those on a budget, as it provides good value for your money. Additionally, the hotel is in a great location, and professional travelers have given it their approval. Guests who have stayed at the hotel have also shared positive reviews. Need more tips? Check our shortlist of the best budget hotels in Cairo.
If you fancy a bit of extravagance but prefer to stay away from the well-known chain hotels, then the Steigenberger El Tahrir in Cairo is an excellent option for you. This hotel has been very well-reviewed by travelers and experts alike. For more information on other cool hotels, take a look at our list of the best boutique hotels in Cairo.
If cost is not an issue, Four Seasons Nile Plaza is a great option for those seeking a luxurious hotel in Cairo. This establishment offers magnificent customer service, is situated in an ideal location, and has garnered high reviews from customers and travel experts alike. To discover more 5-star hotels, take a look at our selection of the top luxury hotels in Cairo.
If you're searching for a well-priced private room or comfy dorm in Cairo, Holy Sheet Hostel is worth a look. The hostel has been highly praised by backpackers. Additionally, we have compiled a shortlist of the finest hostels in Cairo based on thousands of reviews from backpackers.
For 3-star hotels, the average rate is around $70 per night. If you're looking for a 4-star hotel, then the rates are around $130 per night. The average rate for a 5-star hotel in Cairo is around $300 per night.
Try Pyramids Planet Hotel if you’re looking for a delicious breakfast at a hotel in Cairo. It has excellent guest review ratings for its breakfast.
When it comes to planning a romantic getaway, there is nothing more important than choosing a cozy hotel. We recommend Kemet Boutique Hotel if you want to make your stay in Cairo truly memorable.
There are a lot of things to do in Cairo and the surrounding areas, including day trips, attractions, museums, sightseeing tours and many other activities. Here’s our list of 3 things you should definitely do when you’re in Cairo:
Dinner Cruise on the Nile River with Entertainment
Enjoy a relaxing night out as you cruise down the Nile River while savoring an open buffet dinner. Watch belly dancers as they perform to classic Arabic songs along with a Tanoura show. Price: $30. More info.
Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, Saqqara & Memphis Tour
Discover some of Egypt's greatest antiquities on a private or shared tour of Giza Pyramids and Sphinx from Cairo. Explore the less-visited pyramids of Saqqara and Memphis with an Egyptologist guide. Price: $53. More info.
From Cairo: Full-Day Historical Alexandria Tour
Journey through Alexandria city and walk along the Egyptian pathways. Make your way to the Roman theater of Kom El-Deka, the catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, the Roman triclinium, and the Pompey's Pillar with this full-day tour from Cairo. Price: $73. More info.
More things to do in Cairo
Cairo, the pulsating heart of Egypt, is a city where time does not just pass; it layers. Officially founded in 969 CE by the Fatimid dynasty, the city was named Al-Qahira, which translates to “The Victorious.” Long before its official founding, however, the surrounding banks of the Nile River cradled ancient Memphis, the historic stronghold of the Pharaohs. Over the millennia, Cairo evolved into a sprawling nexus of empires, absorbing Roman fortresses, Islamic caliphates, and Ottoman architecture into its distinctive DNA. It earned the moniker “The City of a Thousand Minarets” due to the endless sea of historic mosques dominating its skyline.
Today, Cairo stands as a colossal, hyper-energetic megacity. Home to a metropolitan population of over twenty-three million people, it is the largest urban center in both Africa and the Arab world. It functions as the cultural, political, and media powerhouse of the region. Modern Cairo is a place of stark and beautiful contrasts, where sleek skyscrapers on Gezira Island overlook traditional wooden feluccas sailing the Nile, and where bustling, centuries-old markets like Khan el-Khalili hum alongside a rapidly expanding network of modern tech hubs and new urban developments.
Beyond the famous Giza pyramids on its western fringe, Cairo harbors fascinating secrets. For instance, the striking Cairo Tower was constructed using American foreign aid money given to President Nasser, who defiantly used the funds to build a massive tower instead of using it for its intended political purpose. Furthermore, a community of over sixty thousand residents known as the Zabbaleen lives in an eastern district called Garbage City. They have created one of the most efficient recycling systems in the world, sorting and recycling nearly ninety percent of the massive metropolis’s daily waste.
Get to know the city even better by reading our guide about the best areas stay in Cairo, covering the best areas for visitors, cool things to do, and much more.
If you like our list of the best hotels and accommodations in Cairo, then you should also check out our selection of recommended accommodations in Fes or the best hotels in Cape Town.