Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza

The Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza is a high-end landmark in one of Cairo's most exclusive neighborhoods. The large 30-story property has interiors that are designed to match the stylish surrounding -- while it's a fairly drab concrete building from the outside, common areas sparkle and glimmer with a blend of Art Deco style and typically luxe Egyptian touches. The lobby is opulent and striking -- expect to see plenty of polished gold and brass alongside light marble. There are strings of glass beads cascading down from the ceiling, colorful floral arrangements, and a black grand piano reflecting on the spotless floor. It's an almost vintage look, completed by embossed oak paneling in the hallways leading to the guest rooms. Eye-catching abstract and figural modern art is hung tastefully throughout the hotel. A range of well-heeled guests flock to the Four Seasons and the hotel is accommodating for everyone from corporate guests to those traveling with young children. 

The hotel is located directly on the magnificent Nile River and has a prime location in central Cairo, in the Garden City area. The neighborhood, home to many embassies, is between Giza and downtown Cairo, making it super convenient for business travelers and tourists alike. It's a relatively quiet area renowned for its elegant Art Deco villas. Many of the top cultural and tourist attractions are close by, though keep in mind that Cairo is mad for cars and walking isn't the most popular option for getting around; traffic can be notoriously bad. The shops and restaurants around Tahrir Square in downtown Cairo are around a 20-minute walk or five-minute drive from the hotel, as is the popular Egyptian Museum Of Antiquity. The pyramids and the Great Sphinx of Giza are 35-minutes away by car. Cairo International Airport is an hour's drive from the hotel.

There are 365 guest rooms at the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza, including 100 spacious Suites. Rooms embody the traditional luxuries that guests would expect from a Four Seasons hotel, though the look isn't the freshest that we've ever seen. Soft colors dominate the rooms, with sage greens next to light oak furniture, though dated elements like striped bed skirts and heavy drapes diminish the elegant effect. Most rooms have fantastic views of the Nile, the island of Zamalek, and a 12th-century citadel. All rooms have triple-glazed windows, so they are peaceful, and most of them also have a private terrace. Aside from upgrades in the quality of furniture and space, decor is the same across all room categories. All guest rooms provide free Wi-Fi, minibars, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, DVD players, coffeemakers, air-conditioning, free mineral water, and safes. The luxurious marble bathrooms have deep soaking bath tubs, double basin sinks with spacious vanities, a separate shower, and bathrobe and slippers. High-end toiletries are also provided.

Matching its universally recognized luxury credentials, the Cairo outpost of the Four Seasons doesn't disappoint when it comes to features. The hotel boasts one of the largest spas in Cairo. It has an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, cold plunge pool, hot tub, and 14 treatment rooms. Alongside a menu that includes treatments named for ancient Egyptian royalty are floor-to-ceiling windows with amazing Nile views and plenty of light marble. In addition to this, there’s a large fitness center and two outdoor pools, including a separate children's pool, and a hot tub. The hotel has a beauty salon as well.

There are plenty of dining options available on-site too. The five restaurants include a seafood and a steak restaurant -- the seafood buffet gets particularly good reviews from guests. Most of them also have a separate children’s menu. An impressive breakfast buffet is available at the Zitouni Restaurant, where guests can sample a range of exotic fruits and local gourmet cheeses as well as the standard international fare. Unfortunately, breakfast isn't included in room rates. The hotel also has three bars, including one that's poolside. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property -- a rarity among five-pearl hotels in Cairo -- and transport to and from the train station is also free. Airport transfers are available for an additional fee. On-site parking is subject to fees as well. Business guests can make use of the 12 meeting rooms and the business center, and private car services and chauffeurs can also be arranged.