Where to Stay in Egypt: Best Areas and Cities for an Unforgettable Trip

Jun 01, 2025 0

Egypt, a land of pharaohs, pyramids, and the majestic Nile, offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. From ancient Islamic civilizations to crystal blue waters, Egypt's dramatic landscapes and rich history make it a top tourist destination. Whether you're a sun seeker, a romantic, or a culture enthusiast, there's something for everyone. But one thing I found difficult during my trip was deciding where to stay in Egypt. With so many incredible places, I found having to research and decide where to stay was a bit of a headache.

Many of the best places to stay in Egypt are luxury boutiques on the banks of the Nile. In addition there are lots of excellent Five Star resorts, some low key diving spots for sports enthusiasts, and some beautiful sailing boats along the Nile. To help you plan your ultimate Egypt tour, here is a comprehensive guide on the best places to stay, categorized by interest and budget.

Here is my ULTIMATE guide on the best places to stay in Egypt. I’ve categorised each by interest or budget to make things super easy for you!

The country can be divided into five main areas, each offering different charms and activities. Egypt offers a diverse landscape so it would be wise to plan a week in each area rather than rush through them all at once. For sightseeing the best time of year to visit is in the cooler months between October and April.

Tourism is the driving force behind Egypt’s economy, but since the Revolution in 2011 it has dropped its position in Top Destination rankings.

Read also: Where to Stay: Aswan, Egypt

A trip to Egypt isn't complete without a trip to the Pyramids of Giza, the last surviving of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Abu Simbel is truly jaw dropping. Orginally King Ramses II's great temple, you'll be in awe of its megalithic proportions and stunning statues. Visit St Catherine's Monastery, situated at the bottom of the biblically renowned Mount Sinai where Moses allegedly received the Ten Commandments. Abydos Temple features wonderful hieroglyphics and intricate paintings on the chunky stone walls and columns. The Egyptian Museum in Cairo houses a wide variety of antiquities, (with over 120,000 items), detailing the country's rich history.

The Hotel Guru’s selection of the best places to stay in Egypt consist mainly of luxury boutiques, Five Star resorts on the coast, and a few suggestions for a desert escape. Boutiques are few and far between but they stand out from the mass of cheap package holiday destinations and are far more private than the best Five star resorts.

Here’s a quick overview of the best places to stay in Egypt:

Cairo - The Overall Best Place to Stay in Egypt
Hurghada - Best Place to Stay in Egypt for Families
El Gouna - Where to Stay in Egypt for Couples
Aswan - Where to Stay in Egypt on a Budget
Luxor - One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in Egypt
Marsa Alam - Where to Stay in Egypt for Adventure
Abydos - Where To Stay in Egypt For Archeology Nerds

1. Cairo, 2. Abydos, 3. Luxor, 4. Aswan, 5. Marsa Alam, 6. Hurghada, 7. El Gouna (Locations in no particular order)

Cairo: Best for Ancient Egyptian Landmarks

Cairo, the country’s capital, is Egypt’s nerve center. As the country’s capital city, Cairo is Egypt’s nerve center. The metro area population of the city is around 20 million, so you can imagine what it feels like. Except no, you can’t.

We’re talking cities within cities, bubbles within bubbles. Cairo is chaotic, it’s messy, but it’s also fun and beautiful. It is set right on the famous Nile River, which winds through the sprawling city.

If you're heading to Egypt solely to see the ancient landmarks, then Cairo is the best place to stay. Home to the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Great Sphinx, and many museums, Cairo cannot be missed. A lot of people stay to mainly see the site of the Great Pyramids, but there is actually a lot more in store for you.

Make sure you visit the old Egyptian Museum near Downtown (there’s a new one in Giza) to see Tutankhamun’s most precious remaining. Head over to the Civilization Museum for a 5000 year history lesson - and to see some of the best-kept mummies you’ll ever lay your eyes on.Make sure to spend some time exploring the Khan el-Khalili bazaar too, and pick up all your favorite souvenirs, from lamps to jewellery to belly dancer outfits.

Cairo is a city where ancient history meets modern-day hustle, and choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference in your travel experience. From the towering Pyramids of Giza to the bustling markets of Islamic Cairo or Old Cairo, each neighborhood in this vibrant city has its unique charm and energy. You’ll discover the cultural hotspots, luxurious stays, budget-friendly options, and local gems that will make your visit unforgettable.

Since Cairo covers so much ground, it’s better to stay close to the city center to easily explore the best that Cairo has to offer. I recommend staying Downtown or Zamalek, which is much more beautiful in my opinion. If you’re here for a longer term, then my pick would definitely be Maadi, a little further from the chaos.

Read also: Chad Johnson: Current Activities

Cairo Travel Guide: 18 BEST Things to do in Cairo, Egypt

Where to Stay in Cairo

Here are some of the best places to stay in Cairo, catering to different budgets and preferences:

Pyramisa Suites Hotel Cairo

While there are certain hotels in that will make you feel like royalty as you soon you step foot through the door and Pyramisa Suites Hotel is one of those hotels. This hotel is affordable luxury with spacious suites, large swimming pools and four delicious restaurants, it’s hard to go back to dorm life after staying here.

You’re in a great location close to the centre with The Egyptian Museum being a five minute drive from the hotel and the Giza Pyramids are 30 minutes by car away.

Dahab Hostel

A beautiful rooftop hostel located in the heart of the city. The dorms are pretty good and they’ve got a bunch of private rooms (not so great imo). The spot itself is class. Only around a 10min walk to spots like Tahrir Square and the National Museum.

Cozy Room in City Center

This Airbnb rental is for a beautiful room in an apartment sitting in the city center. The room has a view of the Nile below, which is certainly an incredible thing to wake up and see each morning! This stylish apartment has been lovingly decorated with a bevvy of handmade, Egyptian art pieces.

Cairo Neighborhoods

When planning your Cairo stay, choosing the right neighborhood is essential. Here’s a guide to some of the best areas:

Downtown Cairo: Known for its authentic Egyptian street food and lively atmosphere.
Garden City: A quiet, upscale neighborhood with tree-lined streets and classic architecture.
Giza: Home to the Giza Necropolis and the Sphinx.
Heliopolis: Offers a blend of beautiful architecture and plenty of amenities.
Maadi: A breath of fresh air in Cairo, offering leafy streets and a peaceful atmosphere.
New Cairo: A contemporary suburb with shopping malls, restaurants, and parks.
Islamic Cairo: Packed with stunning architectural treasures and bustling souks.

Aswan: Best Hotels on the Nile River

Located on the banks of the Nile River, Aswan is one of the best places to stay in Egypt. Aswan sits in the south of Egypt, right along the curves of the Nile River. Aswan is renowned for incredible archaeological sites, like the Philae Temple complex (which houses the incredible ruins of the Temple of Isis). The town is sprinkled on the peaceful islands dotting the majestic Nile River.

There is also Elephantine Island to visit on which the glorious Temple of Khnum sits. It’s the largest island in the Aswan area and is known for brightly painted houses and for having two traditional Nubian villages to visit- Koti and Siou.

Definitely visit the Spice Market for some of the best shopping in all of Aswan. Lastly, you’re going to want to spend some time meandering through the Botanical Gardens on Kitchener Island.

Here are some recommended accommodations in Aswan:

Sofitel Legend Old Cataract: Located in the Nubian Desert on the banks of the Nile, guests can expect elegant rooms and suites while staying here. Not only are the luxurious decor and amenities enough reason to stay at this hotel, but there is also another one if you love literature.
Tolip Hotel Aswan: Want to have uninterrupted views of the River Nile without breaking the bank? It is a great base for those wanting to explore the best things to do in Aswan. Every morning, guests can enjoy an à la carte or buffet breakfast.
The Mango Guest House: A newly added option on this list of places to stay is the Mango Guest House. Many people have enjoyed their stay here which is evident when reading through their 1,400 superb reviews. Water taxis can be arranged for transport to and from Aswan mainland.

Staying along the bank of the Nile is a real treat here in Aswan.Nestled on its own private island in the Nile, this five star retreat offers stunning river views, lush gardens, and the kind of peace and quiet that’s give you time to rest.The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and so luxurious you’ll question ever staying in a dorm again. As for keeping busy, you won’t have a problem, enjoy two outdoor pools, unwinding at the spa and indulging in a different cuisine every night. It was my favorite place I stayed in the entire trip. It is set on the Nile (with swimming access), it has super chill common areas and attracts some pretty interesting humans. The restaurant/bar is a little subpar, but everything else is pretty spot on. Decent falafel spot and a massive supermarket only a short walk away. Can’t go wrong.

If you’re after a snazzy apartmenrt with sea views and eveything you need to feel at home, this palce has you covered.There’s a fully equipped kitchen ideal for cooking up a storm (or just make and a cosy living area perfect for unwinding. The bedroom is spacious and comfy, plus, its central location means you’re never far from the action. A solid pick for travellers who wants the luxury without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re working remotely, solo travelling, or justhere to relax this apartment is ideal for keeping costs low and enjoying the city.

For an authentic cultural experience, consider staying in one of the colorful Nubian Villages on the west bank.

Luxor: Hotels on the East & West Banks of the Nile

Located on the banks of the Nile River, Luxor offers a glimpse back in time to one of the world's most incredible cultures. Luxor dwells on the east bank of the magnificent Nile River in the south of Egypt. Luxor is the site of the ancient city of Thebes. Not ringing a bell? That was the pharaoh’s capital city during the 16th through 11th centuries BC. Take that for unique!

Luxor definitely is one of the top places to stay in Egypt given its incredible history and surviving monuments. The Karnak Temple Complex is a fortified village that contains an impressive amount of temples, pylons, and chapels.

The other most famous ancient site in Luxor is the Royal Tombs of the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens. These tombs are true wonders of the ancient world.

Most of the famous sites and the best restaurants, cafes, and markets can be found on the West Bank side of the river. Stay on the West Bank to get the most out of your trip to Luxor!

Recommended accommodations in Luxor include:

Steigenberger Nile Palace: This 5-star luxury resort is beautifully decorated and is located on the East Bank of Luxor. The rooms are comfortable and the large windows bring lots of natural light. Furthermore, the restaurants on site cater to Lebanese and international cuisine. I opted for the Thai during my stay and it didn't disappoint.
Al Moudira Hotel: An outdoor pool, a spacious terrace, and the Great Room Restaurant can be enjoyed on-site making it the perfect place to kick back and relax.
Sweet Hostel Luxor: The hostel has an air-conditioned dorm and private rooms. An exceptional free breakfast is served each morning.

Hurghada: Best for a Luxury Beach Vacation

Spanning nearly 40 km along the Red Sea Coast, Hurghada is definitely where you want to be for a beach vacation. Famed for its scuba diving and snorkeling spots, you'll be blown away by the turquoise waters and abundant marine life! Hurghada spans across nearly 40 kilometers of Egypt’s Red Sea Coast. This beach resort town is definitely where to stay in Egypt when traveling with your family.

Offering travelers more than just the beach and the Red Sea, there are a few fun water parks in Hurghada that the kids are sure to love. You can also do more unique things like taking a hot air balloon ride or visiting the outdoor Sand City museum, where you can witness awesome sand sculptures! The Hurghada Grand Aquarium is also a wonderful place to spend a few hours with the kiddos.

Here are some top accommodations in Hurghada:

Pickalbatros Citadel: This all-inclusive resort is located right on the Red Sea and each suite has breathtaking views over the private beachfront.
KaiSol Romance: Are you looking for a child-free resort offering its own private beach and luxury spa experiences? This is a perfect option for those parents looking to unwind and relax without being interrupted by children. Its private suites offer large baths and private balcony hot tubs with views over the outdoor swimming pool.
Iberotel Makadi Beach: Guests can dive into activities like windsurfing, diving, snorkeling, and even horse riding along the beach.

Dahab: A Laidback Red Sea Beach Town

Dahab, what used to be a sleepy fishing village is now a laidback beach town known for being a free diver's paradise. Dahab, what used to be a sleepy fishing village is now a laidback beach town known for being a free diver's paradise.

Here are some recommended stays in Dahab:

Swiss Inn Dahab Resort: Boasting outdoor swimming pools, a diving center, a fitness center, and four restaurants. The bright rooms and suites at the resort feature modern amenities, such as a private balcony and a spacious seating area.
Jaz Dahabeya: Set in a picturesque garden with palm trees, this resort features a lagoon-style pool, massage treatments, elegant rooms, and a well-equipped gym. The resort also has a range of water-based activities available, including windsurfing, diving, and snorkeling. The marine life in Dahab is some of the best in the world and I urge anyone who visits to check it out for themselves. After a day of adrenaline-filled activities, guests can dine at the Le Palmier Restaurant or Sea Pearl Restaurant. Tip: The nearby Blue Hole is great for free diving! However, it's best to try this with someone qualified.
My Hostel in Dahab: Located 1.2 km from Dahab Beach, My Hostel in Dahab features accommodation with dorm and private rooms. I stayed in the dorm room on my visit and found the rooms to be great value for money with comfortable beds and lockers for storage. The best part about this hostel? They offer awesome dive tours in the Red Sea, known for its coral reefs and abundant marine life. Each morning, guests can enjoy a continental or à la carte breakfast.

Sharm el-Sheikh: Perfect For Scuba Diving

If you're planning a holiday solely based around scuba diving, Sharm el-Sheikh is one of the best places to visit in Egypt, offering amazing luxury hotels & dive shops.

Here are some top hotel choices in Sharm el-Sheikh:

Rixos Sharm El Sheikh: Want to add a little luxury to your diving holiday? The resort boasts everything one would need for an unforgettable holiday! From 7 different swimming pools, spa facilities, gym and a private beach. A unique feature about staying here is the free access to the sister hotel Rixos Premium Seagate which has its very own waterpark for those looking to activate their inner child.
Camel Dive Club & Hotel: Each air-conditioned room has a satellite TV, a safety deposit box, and a private bathroom.
Xperience St. George Homestay: Newly added to this list of the best hotels in Sharm el Sheikh for its low cost and closeness to some of the best things to do in Sharm el Sheikh is the Xperience St. All rooms at the resort are air-conditioned and have a private bathroom.

Other Notable Areas

Here are a few other areas worth considering for your stay in Egypt:

El Gouna: Where to Stay in Egypt for Couples.
Marsa Alam: Where to Stay in Egypt for Adventure.
Abydos: Where To Stay in Egypt For Archeology Nerds.
Alexandria: Founded by Alexander the Great, the Mediterranean city of Alexandria marks a break from temples and tombs.
Marsa Matruh: On Egypt’s quieter Mediterranean coast, the town of Marsa Matruh boasts one of Africa’s best beaches.
White Desert: In the far west of Egypt, the White Desert gets its name from the colour of the rocks that scatter its surface.

Tips for Choosing Your Accommodation

When planning your Cairo stay, choosing the right neighborhood is essential.

Consider Your Interests and Priorities: Think about what you want most out of your trip. If you’re a history buff, you might love Islamic Cairo for its ancient mosques and lively markets.

Think About Accommodation Type and Amenities: Are you after luxury with a view or a cozy boutique hotel that’s quieter? Cairo has everything from luxury hotels with pools to charming guesthouses.

Research Neighborhood Safety and Reputation: Safety is important, especially in a big city. Some neighborhoods, like Garden City, offer a quieter, residential vibe with added security around embassies, while Downtown is more energetic and bustling.

Book Your Accommodation in Advance: Cairo is a popular destination, so it’s wise to secure your accommodations early, especially if you’re visiting during peak seasons.

Plan Your Itinerary by Neighborhood: Cairo’s size and traffic can make commuting a bit of a challenge. If you’re staying in Giza, consider spending most of your time exploring the pyramids and nearby attractions to minimize travel time.

Look into Transportation Options: Cairo’s traffic can be intense, so research your transportation options in advance. Apps like Uber are widely used, but Cairo also has public transit options.

Hotel Standards in Egypt

Egypt has a wide range of hotels from simple 2/3 star properties up to beautiful upscale boutique hotels. Whilst these top end properties are gorgeous and atmospheric, it would be fair to say that in general Egyptian hotels are fairly functional. Mid range hotels are comfortable with pleasant rooms and usually a large pool but they don’t ooze charm in the way that you can find in other countries.

Tourism is not new to Egypt and over the years there have been a large number of relatively soulless hotels built to accommodate the hordes that have arrived.

The crowds may not be there at the moment, but this hasn’t changed the hotels. So, unless you are going top of the range, it is best to view your hotel as a convenient place to spend the night and be content with a comfortable bed and a good pool.