Cairo is an exciting city where old history and the modern world meet, making it one of the most famous cities globally.
It sits along the Nile River, blending ancient treasures and stories with modern luxury hotels and unique restaurants.
Home to over 16 million people, Cairo spreads far and wide, offering numerous great spots to stay, depending on your interests.
The city has lovely parks and fascinating museums to suit everyone, from history enthusiasts to families on vacation.
Whether you’re drawn to the luxury along the river or the historic Giza area, this article will guide you on where to stay in Cairo.
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Cairo city center
Cairo’s city center, designed by French architects in the late 19th century for Khedive Isma’il Pasha, boasts wide boulevards and plenty of budget-friendly shops and eateries.
It’s the city’s core, home to many key cultural spots.
In Cairo’s buzz, you can explore the Museum of Islamic Art in Bab El Khalk Square, showcasing exquisite Islamic art from the city’s mosques and palaces.
Downtown also features Tahrir Square, surrounded by government buildings, the Abdeen Palace Museum, and the American University in Cairo.
This area offers more budget-friendly hotels, making it a vibrant and attractive place to stay.
Best accommodation in the city center
Ritz-Carlton The Nile . Address: 1113 Corniche El Nil, 12344 Cairo, Egypt.
Cheaper alternative:
Valencia AP Cairo . Address: 1 Seket El Fadl, Talaat Harb Street, Downtown Cairo, Downtown Cairo, 11613 Cairo, Egypt.
Giza Governorate / Pyramids
The Great Pyramids of Giza, a famous UNESCO World Heritage site, are among the most iconic attractions in Cairo. Located in the Giza district, close to Cairo, they draw countless visitors to their ancient grandeur.
The site is known for the Pyramid of Cheops, or the Great Pyramid, the oldest and largest of Egypt’s pyramids. It is the last remaining wonder of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, showcasing incredible architectural features.
Visitors are also drawn to the Great Sphinx of Giza, a massive statue carved from a single sandstone block. Despite losing its nose in the 15th century, the Sphinx fascinates those who see it.
The Egyptian Museum was moved from the city center to the Giza Plateau near the Great Pyramids.
Given its fame and significance, the area around the pyramids is filled with accommodations, from hotels to excellent dining options and rooftop bars offering stunning views of the pyramids.
Best place to stay in Giza
Marriott Mena House . Address: Street of the Pyramids, Giza, Cairo, Egypt.
Cheaper alternative:
Horus Guest House. Address: 21 Gamal Abd El Nasir Street From Abou Al Hool Al Seiahi Street, Giza, 99999 Cairo
Zamalek
Zamalek District is a wealthy neighborhood on Gezira Island in the middle of the Nile. This area is a hub of modernity and luxury with exceptional boutique shopping centers ,trendy cocktail bars, and cafes.
Located at the northern end of the island, the Zamalek district offers a lot of things to see and do. This is home to the Cairo Opera House, which hosts spectacular cultural performances every evening, both indoors and outdoors in the theater.
The Cairo Tower is also located in Zamalek and towers over the city of Cairo with a height of 187 meters. The tower is open until midnight every day and offers unparalleled views over the city and across the Nile to the pyramids.
One of Zamalek’s main attractions is the influence of modern art, with many great modern art galleries such as the Gezira Art Center and the Picasso Gallery, which are among the most popular art galleries in the area.
The Zamalek area is a great and safe place to stay in Cairo. There are many 5-star luxury hotels here, but also smaller, budget hotels.
Best accommodation in Zamalek
Sofitel Nile El Gezirah . Address: 3 El Thawra Council St Zamalek, 11518 Kairo, Egypt.
El Gamaleya
Located near Islamic Cairo, the El Gamaleya neighborhood is home to some of the city’s most authentic wonders.
Here you can immerse yourself in the soul of the city, stroll through picturesque winding streets, and visit lively markets selling spices and authentic treasures.
Those looking for historical culture can visit the impressive Bab El Fetouh Gate, one of the three remaining gates that were once part of Old Cairo’s city walls.
Also located in the El Gamaleya district, Khan el-Khalili Bazaar is the oldest market in the Middle East, offering a wonderful selection of silver and brass goods and gold jewelry.
The stunning Al-Azhar Park is also worth a visit, especially as it is named one of the sixty largest public spaces in the world by the Project for Public Spaces.
This sprawling park combines traditional Islamic landscape traditions with water fountains and canals that reflect Persian and Timurid influences.
The hotels and accommodations in this area reflect the traditional culture and customs of Islamic Cairo and are more affordable than in the city’s more affluent areas.
El Gamaleya is a beautiful place in Cairo to experience the city’s historic architecture, with many ornate mosques and ancient buildings that add to the area’s unique charm.
Best place to stay in El Gamaleya
Le Riad Hotel De Charme . Adresse: 114 Muizz Li Din Allah, 99999 Cairo, Egypt.
New Cairo
New Cairo, situated on the city’s eastern edge, is part of a strategic initiative to reduce congestion in the central areas. This modern development is bustling, making it a fascinating destination for those who’ve already visited Cairo’s main attractions.
This upscale region is a magnet for business professionals, with numerous companies setting up their bases here. It’s also a shopper’s paradise, boasting vast malls that house cinemas, a variety of dining options, and extensive retail stores.
New Cairo is synonymous with luxury, home to the city’s affluent residents in expansive properties within secure communities. Its location away from the city’s hustle results in a slightly cooler climate and cleaner air.
For those seeking relaxation, New Cairo offers numerous high-end golf courses and wellness centers.
Despite its luxury vibes, the area provides a range of accommodation options, from high-quality hotels to more budget-friendly choices, alongside an impressive selection of eateries and nightlife spots.
Best place to stay in New Cairo
Maran-Residence. Address: 255 North 90th Street – Service Lane Villa 255, Choueifat, 90th Street, New Cairo, 11865 Cairo
Where to stay in Cairo for all budget options
Cheap
Since its opening at the beginning of 2017, this hotel has been shaking up the hotel scene in the city center. From the large, modern, minimalist lobby with casual bar to the spacious, contemporary rooms, the Steigenberger is a soothing oasis right in the heart of the city.
Address: Kasr El Nile, Cairo, Egypt.
Moderate
The hotel’s location in the middle of the Nile City Towers Mall makes shopping and entertainment options easy to reach – catch a movie at the Renaissance Cinema. But since Fairmont Nile City sits on the banks of the Nile, your eyes will likely be on the world’s longest river
Address: Corniche El Nile, Ramlet Beaulac, Cairo, Egypt.
luxury
It can hardly be more central and stylish than the modern Four Seasons Plaza. From the state-of-the-art collection of Egyptian art lining the walls to the beautifully designed pool, and dining rooms, you can be sure you won’t find a nicer place to stay tonight.
Address: 1089 Corniche El Nil – Garden City, Garden City, 11519 Cairo, Egypt.
FAQ: Cairo Hotel tips
Looking for the best budget, boutique, or luxury hotel in Cairo? Or maybe you’re a backpacker looking for a great hostel? Would you like to know which hotel serves a good breakfast? Here you will find the answers to all these and other questions about where to stay in Cairo.
How much does it cost to stay in a hotel in Cairo?
For 3-star hotels, the average price is €80 per night. If you are looking for a 4-star hotel then prices are around €150 per night. The average rate for a 5-star hotel in Cairo is around €350 per night.
What is the best cheap hotel in Cairo?
If you’re looking for an affordable hotel, consider the Jimmy Pyramids View Inn . It’s a great option for travelers on a budget as it offers good value for your money. In addition, the hotel has an excellent location and is praised by professional travelers. Guests who have stayed at this hotel have also left positive reviews. Also, check out our list of the best cheap hotels in Cairo .
What is the best boutique hotel in Cairo?
If you fancy a bit of extravagance but would rather stay away from the big-name hotel chains, then the Steigenberger El Tahrir in Cairo is an excellent choice. This hotel has received fantastic reviews from both travelers and experts. Also, check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Cairo .
What is the best luxury hotel in Cairo?
If price is not an issue, the Four Seasons Nile Plaza is a good choice for those looking for a luxurious hotel in Cairo. This hotel offers excellent customer service, is in an ideal location, and has received high reviews from both customers and travel experts. Also, check out our list of the best luxury hotels in Cairo.
Which is the best hostel in Cairo?
If you’re looking for a cheap private room or a cozy dorm in Cairo, Holy Sheet Hostel is worth a look. The hostel is highly praised by backpackers.
What is the most romantic hotel in Cairo?
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 unforgettable.
Which hotel in Cairo offers a good breakfast?
Try Pyramids Planet Hotel if you’re looking for a tasty breakfast at a hotel in Cairo. It has excellent guest reviews for its breakfast.
Best time to visit Cairo
The ideal time to visit Cairo is the winter, from November to February. The weather is cooler and more comfortable for being outside.
In these months, temperatures usually range from 15°C to 20°C, perfect for visiting Cairo’s famous sites like the Giza Pyramids, the Egyptian Museum, and the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar without the intense heat. The cooler weather also makes walking around Cairo’s bustling streets more manageable.
Winter also means fewer tourists, so you might find cheaper places to stay and shorter lines at popular spots.
You can catch special events too, like the Cairo International Film Festival and the Coptic Christmas Festival.
For those on a budget, summer (June to August) might be worth considering. It’s hotter but less crowded, offering deals on hotels and flights.
Just remember to drink plenty of water and stay indoors during peak heat.
Best things to do in Cairo
There is a lot to do in Cairo and surrounding areas including day trips, attractions, museums, sightseeing tours, and many other activities. Here is our list of the 3 best things you should do during your stay in Cairo:
Dinner cruise on the Nile with entertainment
Enjoy a relaxing evening with a Nile cruise and an open buffet dinner. Watch belly dancers perform classical Arabic songs as well as a tanoura show. Price: €36. More info.
Pyramid of Giza, Ghost, Saqqara & Memphis Tour
Discover some of Egypt’s greatest antiquities on a private or shared tour of the Giza Pyramids and Sphinx from Cairo. Explore the less-visited pyramids of Saqqara and Memphis with an Egyptologist guide. Price: €55. More info
From Cairo: Full-Day Historical Alexandria Tour
Travel through Alexandria and walk the Egyptian trails. Visit the Roman Theater of Kom El-Deka, the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, the Roman Triclinium, and the Column of Pompey on this full-day tour from Cairo. Price: €68. More info
Deciding on accommodation in Cairo
Let’s summarize what we just learned in this article. We’ve covered the best areas of Cairo above. Now you can decide where you want to stay during your visit!
The 5 Best Neighborhoods in Cairo
- Giza
- City center
- New Cairo
- El Gamaleya
- Zamalek
As you’ve seen in this guide, there’s a lot to explore, and deciding where to stay in Cairo is important. Whether you stay in the city center, New Cairo, El Gamaleya, Zamalek, or Giza, all of these neighborhoods are well located.
The vibse of the area, whether you are traveling for leisure or business, whether you are traveling with family or friends and the proximity to the attractions you want to visit should be the deciding factors.
