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

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

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

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