Cairo

The most sophisticated address in the city, this Four Seasons is the top place to see and be seen. — Fodor's

This lovely little bed-and-breakfast-style hotel is on the upper floors of a medium-sized tower block, offering a quiet refuge from the city. — Fodor's

Luxe digs on the banks of the Nile, with Art Deco–style interiors, eight restaurants and bars, and a sublime spa. — Jetsetter

Glass tower with Egyptian and Neoclassical design influences, overlooking the Pyramids, Botanical Gardens and the Nile. — Travel + Leisure

This cylindrical tower, in the upscale Zamalek business district on El Gezirah Island, was built to ensure that all rooms have Nile views. — Condé Nast Traveler

The Conrad is one of the city’s most luxurious hotels – it has five executive levels, a health club, a casino and a helipad. — DK Eyewitness

The former palace has undergone a great deal of change but it still boasts some glorious public spaces and the nicest garden in town. — DK Eyewitness

The elegant foyer at the Semiramis InterContinental is a popular Cairo meeting place, and its 1st-floor restaurants are among the best in the city. — Lonely Planet

Well-situated boutique hotel with some five-star facilities (a/c, satellite TV, minibar, safe) but no pool or fitness centre. — Rough Guide

In the heart of Heliopolis (the city's diplomatic neighborhood), this sleek hotel has a glass lobby curved in the shape of the eye of the Pharaonic god Horus. — Star Service

Just over Tahrir Bridge in Gezira, this hotel is rather ugly on the outside but cool and stylish inside, with modern cream and beige rooms, plus deluxe accessories such as a/c and plasma TV. — Rough Guide

Hidden away above the Gattegno department store, this small, shoestring-budget pension is adored by students and backpackers. — Fodor's

This rather grand monumental belle époque hotel, located in the trendy Borsa area, has certainly seen better days, but is still quite stately in a modest way. — Rough Guide

This quiet hotel in an attractive 1930s residential block has a nice breakfast terrace, free Wi-Fi and a kitchen. Not all rooms have air conditioning. — DK Eyewitness

Sprawling family-friendly resort between the city center and the airport, with three pools, tennis courts and 18 dining options. — Jetsetter

Spacious and well designed – all soothing neutral tones and elegant furnishings – they come with big, comfy beds and wide balconies; some have exceptional cityscapes. — Lonely Planet