Talisman Hotel

We loved this meticulously restored to its 1800s splendor--think Haussmann Parisian high ceilings and large French windows--with exquisite Egyptian antiques yet all modern conveniences (en suite bathrooms, air conditioning etc). Atmosphere is completed by being met each morning by elderly woman maitre d' in flawless French. High on 5th floor down a pedestrianized side street, no Cairo traffic noise to disturb you. Walkable to Egyptian Museum and old Cairo but in an Egyptian medium/high shopping neighborhood so no hassle and lots of good local (ie not tourist) food options. As others have said, dont be put off by rather run down ground floor covered courtyard from which you get lift to 5th floor. This hotel is the antidote to bland, impersonal, 5 star hotels and grotty noisy backpacker hotels. Plus, instead of trying to sell you tours or overpriced transport, here they told us about Uber which was a fraction of the price, very reliable and had seatbelts, and local restaurants from which they got no commission! Character, cleanliness, convenience. You could not do better.

Totally unique for Cairo, a real sanctuary right in a downtown area full of wonderful 1930s French architecture. I visit Cairo a lot and usually stay in one of the 4 or 5 star chains. All so far are dull, large concrete buildings with no soul. The staff were wonderful and everything worked perfectly. We stayed 3 nights. It may not be everyone's ideal but for those who want to experience old Cairo, rather than an anonymous bunker, this is a real sanctuary. One review said breakfast was 'basic' but there was a good range of options, the fresh guavas were my highlight. Don't miss a visit to Cage Riche 5-10 mins walk away, another institution.

The hotel staff were so friendly and helpful and the public rooms were furnished with fab Egyptian historical pieces throughout. Breakfast lovely and particularly cool was the fact we were only in our room for about 1 minute when a knock on the door revealed the waiter with welcoming fresh fruit drinks. You will though need to arrive by taxi as not easy at all to find. In small sidestreet with no obvious signage.