Where to stay in Egypt: areas and hotels

If you're visiting Egypt for the first time and your itinerary includes the pyramids, the best base is Cairo, ideally a hotel near the city centre or in the Giza area, for easy access to museums and the pyramid plateau. If your trip is cultural and you want to see the great archaeological sites, Luxor and Aswan offer accommodation by the Nile, with hotels overlooking the river. Couples seeking relaxation, sun, and diving in the Red Sea will find the most comprehensive resorts in Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh, with large swimming pools and private beaches. Families with children will do well in both these resorts, where most hotels operate on an all-inclusive basis and have organised facilities for children.

Alexandria is a quieter option, with a Mediterranean character, a coastal road, and less mass tourism, suitable for those who want to combine a visit to Cairo with a short seaside escape. Travellers on a limited budget can find decent hotels in central Cairo or smaller accommodations in Aswan and Luxor, while those seeking luxury have many five-star hotel options across all regions of the country.

The most common travel pattern combines a few days in Cairo, a cruise or transfer to Luxor and Aswan, and an extension to a coastal resort for relaxation before returning home. If your time is limited, you can choose just one region, but if you have more than ten days, it's worth seeing at least Cairo along with a seaside resort.

Practical information for Egypt

Egypt is served by several international airports, with Cairo Airport being the main gateway for those wanting to see the pyramids and museums. Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh have their own airports that receive direct charter flights from Greece and other European countries, mainly during the winter season when the demand for sun is high. Luxor and Aswan also have smaller airports, useful if you want to avoid long road journeys.

Distances within the country are significant: from Cairo to Luxor is approximately seven hours by road or one hour by plane, while from Luxor to Aswan it's about three hours by car. Many visitors prefer to do this journey by Nile cruise, which usually lasts three to four days and includes stops at temples such as Edfu and Kom Ombo. Travel within Cairo is by taxi, ride-hailing apps like Uber, and the metro, which is cheap but covers limited routes for tourists.

The best period to visit Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan is from October to April, when temperatures are milder and visits to archaeological sites can be made without the scorching summer sun, which in Upper Egypt can exceed 40 degrees. The Red Sea coastal resorts of Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh have a milder climate due to the sea and operate well all year round, with warm winters but cooler water, mainly suitable for wetsuit diving.

Egypt has its own currency, the Egyptian Pound, and most payments at hotels, restaurants, and organised excursions can also be made in Euros or US Dollars. Most visitors from Greece require a visa on arrival or an electronic visa, which is worth arranging before your trip to avoid delays at the airport. Security in tourist areas is generally good, with increased police presence around museums and archaeological sites.

Cairo and Giza: the base for the pyramids

Cairo is the natural starting point for any trip to Egypt, with the Egyptian Museum, the old Islamic city, and the Giza plateau a stone's throw away. If you want to see the pyramids from your room, choose a hotel in Giza, while if you prefer a central location with easy access to museums and restaurants, central Cairo, around Tahrir Square, is a better option.

1. Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir Cairo

Located in the centre of Cairo, next to Tahrir Square and close to the Egyptian Museum, within easy walking distance. It combines modern comfort with direct access to the city's most famous attractions.

• Average cost: 90 to 150 € per night
• Ideal for: first-time visitors to the city and museum visits

2. Pyramisa Hotel Cairo

Located in the Dokki neighbourhood, with Nile views and easy access to both Giza and the city centre. It features a swimming pool and several dining options within the building.

• Average cost: 70 to 120 € per night
• Ideal for: couples and families seeking comfort

Luxor: temples and the banks of the Nile

Luxor is built on the ruins of ancient Thebes, with Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings situated on either side of the river. Most hotels on the East Bank offer Nile views and are close to shops and markets, while the West Bank provides quieter accommodation near the archaeological sites.

3. Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa

Sprawling next to Karnak Temple, with large gardens and views of the Nile. Its spa and multiple pools make it a good choice for those wanting to combine sightseeing with relaxation.

• Average cost: 100 to 170 € per night
• Ideal for: couples and families

4. Sonesta St. George Hotel

Located on the East Bank, facing the Nile with direct access to feluccas for river excursions. The sunset views from its communal terraces are among the most photographed in the city.

• Average cost: 90 to 150 € per night
• Ideal for: couples who want Nile views

5. Steigenberger Nile Palace Luxor

A modern hotel on the East Bank, with a large swimming pool and gardens extending to the Nile. A good option for those who want to be close to the market and Luxor Temple without sacrificing the comfort of a large hotel complex.

• Average cost: 85 to 140 € per night
• Ideal for: families and couples

Aswan: the most tranquil city on the Nile

Aswan has a more relaxed pace than Luxor, with the Nubian market, the High Dam, and the temples of Philae all nearby. Many hotels here are boat-accessible, being located on islands or opposite the river islands.

6. Pyramisa Island Hotel Aswan

Located on a private island in the Nile, with access via the hotel's boat. Its isolation from the city's hustle and bustle makes it ideal for those seeking tranquility after their excursions.

• Average cost: 80 to 130 € per night
• Ideal for: couples seeking peace and quiet

7. Basma Hotel Aswan

Perched high above the city, next to the Nubian Museum, with views across Aswan and the Nile. Its large swimming pool and spacious communal areas make it a practical choice for families.

• Average cost: 60 to 100 € per night
• Ideal for: families and groups

Hurghada: beaches and diving in the Red Sea

Hurghada is Egypt's largest coastal resort, with dozens of all-inclusive hotels along the coast and easy access to diving and snorkelling spots. It is one of the most popular winter destinations for travellers seeking sun without a high cost.

8. Pickalbatros White Beach Resort

An all-inclusive hotel with a private beach and a gentle reef suitable for snorkelling directly from the shore. Its many pools and children's programmes make it popular with families.

• Average cost: 70 to 130 € per night
• Ideal for: families and snorkelling enthusiasts

9. Steigenberger Aldau Beach Hotel

Sprawling over a large area with a marina, multiple pools, and a private beach. It offers a wide range of restaurants, making it convenient for large groups and families with diverse tastes.

• Average cost: 90 to 160 € per night
• Ideal for: families and couples seeking luxury

10. Hurghada Long Beach Resort

Located in the Sahl Hasheesh area, with a long sandy beach and a peaceful environment away from the city centre. A good choice for those seeking relaxation without too much activity around them.

• Average cost: 60 to 110 € per night
• Ideal for: couples seeking tranquility

Sharm el Sheikh: coral reefs and luxury resorts

Sharm el Sheikh, at the tip of the Sinai Peninsula, is famous for its coral reefs and organised resorts, mainly around Naama Bay and Nabq Bay. It's a popular diving destination, with many diving centres operating directly from within the hotels.

11. Steigenberger Alcazar

Located in Nabq Bay, with a private beach and easy access to diving spots. Its design, inspired by Middle Eastern palaces, makes it stand out among the resorts in the area.

• Average cost: 100 to 170 € per night
• Ideal for: couples and diving enthusiasts

12. Park Regency Sharm El Sheikh Resort

A large resort with gardens, bridges over pools, and a private beach with a reef suitable for snorkelling. Its many dining options and activities make it a good choice for families.

• Average cost: 85 to 150 € per night
• Ideal for: families

Alexandria: Mediterranean character by the sea

Alexandria has a milder, Mediterranean climate compared to the rest of Egypt, with a long coastal road, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina library, and the Qaitbay Citadel. It's a good choice for a short escape from Cairo, especially in summer when inland temperatures can be uncomfortably hot.

13. Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria At San Stefano

Located directly on San Stefano beach, with a private sandy area and views of the Mediterranean. It is the city's most luxurious hotel, with large rooms and several restaurants.

• Average cost: 150 to 250 € per night
• Ideal for: couples seeking luxury

14. Hilton Alexandria Corniche Hotel

Located on the coastal road, with sea views and easy access to the city centre and attractions. A good balance of price and location for those who want to explore the city on foot.

• Average cost: 80 to 140 € per night
• Ideal for: couples and families

Area comparison table

If you're planning to combine Egypt with other destinations, you might be interested in our guides on where to stay in Israel, in Turkey or in Georgia, three destinations often included in the same travel itinerary as North Africa and the Middle East.

Alternatively, if you want a more detailed guide just for the capital, see our separate guide on where to stay in Cairo, as well as the complete travel guide to Egypt, which covers attractions and excursions beyond accommodation.

For those seeking alternative seaside escapes in larger resorts with many all-inclusive options, a useful comparison is offered by our guides to all-inclusive hotels in Crete, in Rhodes and in Kos, where you'll find similar coastal choices closer to Greece.

Families looking for similar family-friendly options can also check out our guide to hotels for families in Rhodes.

Frequently asked questions

How many days do you need to see Egypt?

For a first introduction to Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, you need at least seven to eight days. If you want to add a coastal resort in Hurghada or Sharm el Sheikh, it's best for the trip to exceed ten days.

Which area is best for a first visit?

Cairo is the most logical base for a first visit, as it concentrates the Giza pyramids, the Egyptian Museum, and the old city within a small radius.

Do I need a visa for Egypt?

Most visitors from Greece require a visa, which can be issued either electronically before travel or upon arrival at the airport, depending on how they prefer to organise their trip.

What is the best time of year to visit?

From October to April, temperatures in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan are milder and suitable for visiting archaeological sites, while Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh have good weather almost all year round.

Is a Nile cruise worthwhile or is road travel better?

A Nile cruise between Luxor and Aswan is a more comfortable solution, as it combines travel with accommodation and visits to temples along the route, without the fatigue of long road transfers.

Is Egypt safe for tourists?

The tourist areas of Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and the coastal resorts have increased police presence and are considered safe for visitors, provided you follow the usual precautions applicable in any major tourist destination.

Which resorts are best for families with children?

Hurghada and Sharm el Sheikh offer the most all-inclusive hotels with children's pools and organised programmes, making them a more practical choice for families compared to the inland cities.