Information for: Cairo
Egypt’s capital and Africa’s largest city. Visiting here can be an overwhelming experience. More than 16 million people call it home. It is chaotic, exotic, smelly, dusty, and also very beautiful. Cairo has long been the centre of the region’s cultural and artistic life. It has the oldest and largest film and music industries in the Arab World, earning it the name of the ‘Hollywood of the East’.
If visitors would like to respect their hosts there are certain constraints that should be observed. Islam teaches that displaying the human body is not acceptable. Tight clothing, shorts, strappy tops and miniskirts would not be suitable, particularly when visiting mosques. Long, loose clothing that covers the arms and legs will be cooler, keep the sun from burning and gain respect from the Muslim population.
Hotels located in: Cairo
Talisman Hotel De Charme
Hotel de Charme’ isthe perfectnamefor this new boutique hotel located in downtown Cairo.With an Arabic / French / Oriental layout – this place is one-of-a-kind.Itpresentsa smaller alternative to some of the grand offerings from the big chains.
39 Talaat Harb StreetTel No: +20 2 393 9431
The Hotel Longchamps
Hotel Longchamps is a very highly rated 3-star but do not let that put you off! Offering a good location in upscale Zamalek this is a quiet hotel in a quiet area. It is a favourite with Western visitors to the city. There are no facilties here but then this is a hotel you would [...]
21 Ismail Mohamed StreetZamalek
Tel No: +20 2 2735 2311
Grand Hyatt Cairo
As you would expect from the Hyatt this is a luxury landmark hotel situated on Roda Island and linked to the city centre by a private bridge.Housed in an impressive tower building with truly world class facilities the Hyatt offers outstanding dining and entertainment with12 restaurants and Cairo’s only revolving restaurant. This is agenuine 5-star [...]
Corniche El NileGarden City
Roda IslandTel No: +20 2 2365 1234
Sheraton Heliopolis Hotel Towers
If you are looking for an upmarket alternative to some of the big chain offeringsdowntown then head straight to the recently renovated luxury Sheraton.Located away from the city centre giving a bit more space and tranquility. The Sheraton’s in-house restaurants and lounges are impressive and include an English-style pub.
Uruba StreetHorreya
Tel No: +20 2 336 9700
Mena House Oberoi
This palatial 5-star hotel in the shadow of the Great Pyramids in Cairo has enchanted guests since 1869. Located in40 acres of jasmine scented gardens Mena House Oberoi has played host to kings and emperors Heads of State and celebrities. Its royal history is reflected in luxurious interiors that are embellished with exquisite antiques handcrafted [...]
Pyramids' RoadGiza
Tel No: +20 2 3377 3222
The Four Seasons Hotel Cairo
The very well heeled Four Seasonscomescompletewith great Nile views top facilities in-house dining in-room technology and trendy decor.Provespopular with Arab royalty and visiting Western celebrities. This is definitely the place to be seen!
1089 Corniche el NilGarden City
Tel No: +20 2 2791 7000
Arcotel Velvet
This hotelhas aunique atmosphere. Modern and vibrant with its Andy Warhol inspired decor thisis probably the trendiest hotel in town.One highlight of your stay here is guaranteedwiththe gastronomical experiencein the Lutter & Wegner Restaurant.
Oranienburger Strasse 52Berlin
Tel No: +49 30 278 7530
Culture & Entertainment Located in: Cairo
Harmonie Des Vins
Harmonie Des Vins is the bar for wine buffs. It is devoted to all fruits of the vines serving a huge selection by the glass. This venue also serves great food.
9 Rue NeuveLyon
Tel No: +334 72 988559
Le Casse Museau
This 2 storey bar with restaurant has a lovelyrustic and picturesque setting. The laid back atmosphere is helped further bytheir wine selection. Hereyou can discover great but little known vintages and appreciate some extraordinary wines from the Lyons region. Far from expensive. Very smalland very charming.
2 rue ChavannesLyon
Tel No: +334 72 002052
Heaven Lounge
Heaven Lounge is anelegant modern bar situated just behind the Grand Hotel Kempinski. With an interesting combination of English owners and Italian dishes on the menuthe sleek bar area makes a great place to kick-start your evening. And to be honest this place generates the kind of buzz that can sometimes be lacking in Geneva.
Rue Philippe Plantamour 25Geneva
Tel No: +41 22 732 1022
Arthur’s Rive Gauche
Arthur’s Rive Gauche is a Left Bank institution perfect for an early-evening aperitif. The drinks selection is excellent including many premier brands and you’ll find apost-work crowdin here duringthe week a young more arty group at weekends. And because of its perfect location on the Rue du Rhone you’re in the right placeto hit the [...]
Odeon Palace Bar
The Odeon Palace Hotel is home to therooftop Odeon Palace Bar.A popular haunt with a very mixed clientele.The views are stunning the atmoshpere is chilledand the bar is open 24hrs making this a relaxing stop any time of the day or night.
Odeon Palace Hotel6 Abdel Hamid St
Tel No: +20 2 2577 6637
Pub 28
Pub 28 is an old favourite that attracts regulars from all over the city. Itis probably as close as you’ll get to a neighbourhood bar in Cairo. The crowd is diverse and the chictwo-room restaurant offers an alternative to the dimly-lit bar.
28 Shagarat El Dorr StreetTel No: +20 2 735 9200
Harry’s Pub
Located in the Cairo Marriott Harry’s Pub is one of Cairo’s most popular night spots.The clientele and the decor resemble London’s East End and as such itis very popular with the ex-pats.
Cairo Marriott HotelSaray El Gezira Street
Tel No: +20 2 735 8888
Absolute
Absolute is the first stop of the evening for Cairo’s young and beautiful people.This highly-acclaimed nightspothas a small but busy dance floor which doesn’t seem to put the crowds off. Definitely dress to impress here as this is a very exclusive place. Be prepared to queue until you are spotted.
8 Amman SquareCornish El Nil
Tel No: +20 2 349 7326
Deals
Deals is a very popular bar in the salubrious Zamalek area of Cairo. Aregular haunt of western ex-pats and rich Cairene. The venue is small but is a really fun place to go fordrinks and the food is great.
5 El-Sayed el-BakriTel No: +20 2 736 0502
The Pyramid Bar
The Pyramid is the aptly named and popular open-air bar at the Nile Hilton.This is a great place to view the pyramids at sunset and take in theatmosphere of the city perfect for a quiet scenic drink before the sun goes down.Pyramid gets pretty busy early evening then quietens down later especially during the week.
Nile Hilton Hotel1113 Corniche El Nil
Tel No: +20 2 2578 0444
Restaurants Located in: Cairo
La Nef des Fous
La Nef des Fous serves fantastic local French cuisine. It really isa gem of creative cuisine in a city known for having the best food in France. It’s also not the most expensive restaurant in town despite being so highly-rated. Go try it out.
5 Rue BoeufLyon
Tel No: +33 4 78 42 73 67
Kandahar
If you are looking for traditional Indian cuisine delicately spiced and expertly prepared then Cairo’s premier Indian restaurant – for boththe food and the service – Kandahar is the place for you.A trulyelegant option operated by the upmarket Oberoi chain. Although Mohandiseenis all-gothis place certainly turns on atranquil vibe.
3 Shar'a Gameat al-Dowal al-ArabiyaMohandiseen
Tel No: +20 2 3303 0615
Cortigiano
Cortigiano is a warm inviting and highly rated Italian restaurant that is a favourite among locals.Recently renovated and serving traditional Italian cuisine accompanied by a lovely selection of wines. This is the place to be for relaxed and intimate dining.
44 Michel Bakhoum StTel No: +20 2 336 0620
Revolving Restaurant
Revolving 42 storeys up – this is definitely Cairo’s loftiest eatery.Offering genuine luxury and high end French drinking and dining. The Revolving Restaurant is a popular haunt of the city’s elite. Book in advance and dress to impress!
Grand Hyatt Cairo HotelCorniche El Nile
Roda IslandTel No: +20 2 2365 1234
Le Boeuf Rouge
Le Boeuf Rougeprovides traditional Lyonnais fare served brasserie-style. And you can enjoya variety of fresh soups pastas and delicious salads in this smart and traditional restaurant. Business dressy attire is required and reservations recommended. This place may not have the amazing reputation that it had in its 1980′s heyday however it’s still a great place [...]
17 rue Alfred-Vincent GenevaTel No: +41 22 732 7537
Caviar House & Prunier
A Russian delicacy haven this quaint restaurant even includes an exclusive gourmet store.The cuisine is upscale Russian and showcases a variety of caviar-laden entrées.Business dress attire is required in this very upmarket venue and reservations are highly-recommended. But don’t let the formality put you off – this is a fascinating restaurant.
Place Fusterie GenevaTel No: +41 22 781 0237
Brasserie de l’H
Brasserie de l’Hôtel de Villerestaurant serves classic regional cuisine.Favorites include seasonal game entrées filet of perch fondues and Wiener Schnitzel. You’ll find an upmarket clientele in here includingart and antique dealers and the like.Reservations are strongly recommended for this popular place.
19 Grand rue GenevaTel No: +41 22 311 7030
Abou El Sid
Abou El Sid is an upscale traditional Egyptian restaurant located in Zamalek. It is well established as something of a ‘must see’ city institution. It’s a bit like stepping back in time when you enter as this is authentic Egypt. Very popular with locals and visitors alike so best to book in advance to avoid [...]
157 26th of July StZamalek
Tel No: +20 2 735 9640
Chili’s
If you are looking for some mid-week tex mex cuisine then try Chili’s. This is one of four Cairo branches of the American chain. All the Mexican and American favourites are here. It’s a great place to catch up before a night on the town.
Saray El Gezierah StZamalek
CairoTel No: +20 2 735 3072
La Bodega
La Bodega is a trendy city restaurant that is definitely ‘In’ at the moment. The upmarket French / European / International cuisine is devine so no wonder this is a popular haunt of Cairo’s affluent and an expat crowd.
Balmoral Hotel157 26th of July St
ZamalekTel No: +20 2 2735 0543
Sporting/Leisure/Beauty Located in: Cairo
First Mall
With over 61 upscale boutiques and4 gourmet dining outlets First Mall is Egypt’s premium shopping and dining destination.There’s also a nice cafe in the central atrium. Open daily from 10am til 10pm.
Giza StreetCairo
Nile Felucca Adventure
A felucca is a sea-craft made to a traditional design with broad canvas sails. Essentially the craft is reliant on wind-power with no motor and are dependent upon the wind factor to propel forth. The craft carries between 5-10 passengers comfortably and the deck is strewn with colourful cushions and rugs and equipped with a [...]
From El Tahreer StDokkiTel No: +20 2 0560 3297
Dream Park
Dream Park is a 150 acre theme parkand one of the largest recreational facilities in the Middle East. A multitude of rides and attractions are here if you’re unleashing your inner child. There are 22 different restaurants on-site for later when all of that fun has left you feeling peckish. Designed by the firm that [...]
Oasis RoadTel No: +20 2 855 3191
Gold’s Gym
For breath-taking scenery while you are working out it’s hard to beat this floating gym which is built on a riverboat moored in the Nile. All exercise machines have Nile views. Open daily from 7am til 11pm. One Day Memberships are available.
121 El Nile StreetGiza
Tel No: +20 2 2748 0003
Katameya Heights Golf & Tennis Resort
Katameya Heights is Egypt’s first championship course opened in 1997.Offers good golf facilities including 27 holes and a practice area.The resortis located in an attractive setting between Maadi and Heliopolis.Not a golfer?Don’t worry as Heights offers plenty quality non-golf options too including tennis courts a spa andfitness club.
New Cairo CityRing Road West Heliopolis
Tel No: +20 2 758 0512
Khan el-Khalili
This is not just any market but one of the most historic markets in the world. A maze of alleyways and workshops where artisans make wooden boxes inlaid with mother-of-pearl pound out brass and copper trays and pots and create stylish jewellery.When you’re ready for a break stop off at a teahouse such as Fishawy’s [...]
Al-Azhar StreetCairo
Entertainment located in: Cairo
Cairo Opera House
Designed by a team of Japanese and Egyptian architects this is an architectural masterpiece of Islamic design. It is equipped with the most sophisticated audio-visual system. The Opera House complex itself houses several galleries including the Museum of Modern Art as well as restaurants and concert halls.
El DokkyCairo
Tel No: +20 2 341 7314
Atelier du Caire
One of the oldest and most established galleries in downtown Cairo Atelier du Caire is both a gallery and a meeting place for artists. It has four showrooms one presents a new exhibit every other week.Open Saturday to Thursday from 10am til 1pm and again from 5pm til 10pm Friday from 5pm til 10pm.
2 Karim al-DawlaCairo
Tel No: +20 2 574 6730
Townhouse Gallery of Contemporary Art
Sponsors shows and speciality art festivals. Perhaps as interesting as the gallery itself is the architecture in the neighbourhood especially the El-Nasria style of architecture rarely found elsewhere in Cairo. Open Saturday through to Wednesday from 10am til 2pm and again from 6pm til 9pm Friday 6pm til 9pm. Closed on Thursday.
10 Nabrawy StreetCairo
Tel No: +20 2 2576 8086
Nuuksio National Park
Located 25 kilometres from the centre of Helsinki visitors to the National Park which has the feel of a wilderness may come across owls capercaillies or even an elk. Even the King of the Nordic Forests -the bear -regularly visits the area.
EspooFinland
Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids of Giza
A dazzling light show against the backdrop of the Sphinx and the Pyramids.Shows run3 times a nightwith commentary in3 different languages.This is a great wayto see the Pyramids. Make sure youwrap up warm as the desert gets pretty chilly at night!
Giza Pyramids PlateauCairo Antiquities Museum
The Egyptian Museum – which was first built in Boulak in 1891 – has 107 halls and includes a photography section. At ground floor level there are huge statues on display whilst the upper floor houses small statues jewels Tutankhamon treasures and mummies.
Tahrir SquareCairo
Tel No: +20 2 579 6974