Best hotels in Egypt

Cairo, with its blend of flashy, modern Egypt, age-worn monuments, and the picturesque and powerful Nile, is a world of discovery. In the centre of it all - and claiming quite possibly one of the most exclusive addresses in the city - is the Kempinski. Sitting in the historical quarter of Garden City, all 11-storeys rub shoulders with palaces and parks, whilst inside, there are a plethora of special features including a Chocolate Lounge and a rooftop pool. One of the finest residences in the city, hands-down.

With a mix of fine Moorish arches and intricate carvings, Al Moudira looks like it has been standing in the desert for hundreds of years. Astonishingly, it was built just over a decade ago, creatively conceptualised by the owners who drew design inspiration out of their travels from Lebanon to Tuscany. Occupying a secluded spot on Luxor's west bank, the great tombs of the Valley of the Kings beckon from across the sands and the ancient desert begs to be explored on camelback. Every space at Al Moudira has a bygone feel, from the courtyards filled with vast urns of feathery florals, to the Turkish baths waiting for you after a day of exploring.

Famous for its Atlantis-esque collapse into the Mediterranean Sea and gorgeous Riviera atmosphere, Alexandria is a city as loveable as they come. Occupying the iconic San Stefano towers, the Four Seasons is a glossy and gleaming fixture along the city's Corniche. Take in the picturesque, sun-dappled views from the seawater infinity pool - it's right on the beach! - or the balcony of your refined suite. There are a boatload of dining spots too, from fresh-as-anything seafood tagines, to homemade ice creams after a day spent perusing ancient papyrus texts. What a welcome home.

In 48 acres of palm-studded gardens, the Oberoi Sahl Hasheesh is a palatial resort and the picture of seaside bliss. With their striped walls, the suites are scattered across the grounds, each with uninterrupted views of the Red Sea. Speaking of which, these waters hold an incredible collection of marine life and you'll have the chance to see it in full technicolour while diving along the reefs. It may be tempting to never leave your lounger nestled on the private beach, but there is a desert to explore on horseback and islands to discover on an idyllic cruise across the bay.

Where the pharaohs of old built some of Egypt's most astonishing, impressive and long-standing monuments, Luxor is a city with abundant history. Sitting on the East Bank of the Nile - with excellent views of the Valley of the Kings - the Hilton puts you in the thick of it all. This is a hotel with poise and style, sumptuous interiors that will make you gasp, and a smorgasbord of eateries, including private dinners at the river's edge. Typical days include languid felucca rides past the Tombs of the Nobles, discovering King Tutankhamun's resting place, or perhaps even soaring overhead in a hot air balloon.

An idyllic and very quick boat ride from central Aswan, Mövenpick sits on Elephantine Island with delightful vistas of the Nile and Smartie-coloured Nubian Houses. After the bustling energy of Cairo, Aswan is a laidback locale where the scent of fresh roses welcomes you each day and at the hotel, you'll enjoy tranquil river views over a bowl of homemade ice cream. Boasting the best view in Aswan, the Panorama is the highest restaurant in the city, and it's from here that you can eye out your next stop. Will it be the floral paradise on Kitchener's Island, the famous Philae Temple (or Temple of Love), or even an authentic felucca ride down the Nile?

A luxe and shiny landmark along the River Nile, the Four Seasons lives up to its reputation of high-quality service, fine-as-silk suites, and one of the best locations in the city. Reaching high above the chic Cairo neighbourhood of Garden City, the hotel boasts panoramic views of all the city's highlights. Top of the list are the famous Pyramids of Giza and, after lifting your jaw off the ground, you'll also spot plenty of museums, tombs and temples to add to your sightseeing list. Back at the hotel, put your feet up at the spa and watch the city erupt with light from the swanky Upper Deck Lounge.

What better way to see the long-told-of sights and scenery along the Nile than by riverboat? No, we can't think of one! Across its three storeys, the Sanctuary provides well-appointed sun decks to do your ogling whilst catching some rays, or enjoying an afternoon tea on the way to your next historic stop. Once you leave the comfort of the air-conditioned cabins, you'll be led from ancient temples to larger-than-life statues by the in-house Egyptologist. Choose between the four-night cruise from Luxor to Aswan (or vice versa) or the eight-night round trip. Blending modern Egypt with millenia of tradition, the decor is plush and stylish.

Standing like a gleaming mirage between twin Nile City towers, this Art Deco stunner rises 25 floors above Cairo's delightful mayhem. It's all about the views here – whether you're gazing at feluccas drifting past from your rainfall shower or watching the Pyramids shimmer in the distance from the legendary Sky Pool. Seven restaurants keep the culinary adventure rolling, from Asian fusion at Saigon to proper Italian comfort at L'Uliveto. The Willow Stream Spa channels desert vibes for serious pampering, whilst the Fairmont Gold floors offer butler service for those who prefer their luxury with a side of complete spoiling.

Ancient and modern Egyptians could likely agree that gliding along the River Nile by boat is the best way to experience the magic of it. Of course, your luxury river cruiser will look quite different to their handmade felucca (but don't worry, you'll also have the chance to sail one round Elephantine Island). Sun Boat IV, an A&K Sanctuary has three storeys and it's here you'll enjoy the creations of award-winning chefs, listen to spirited folkloric songs, and take in the sights from the comfort of your sun lounger. Travelling from Aswan to Luxor (or vice versa), there will be plenty of opportunity to go exploring with your own expert Egyptologist.

The New Sonesta Sun Goddess Nile Cruise Ship sails on the Nile River for three-, four- and seven-night cruises between Aswan and Luxor. Sun Goddess docks in Luxor in front of Luxor Temple and docks in Aswan at Nile Dream Dock (in front of Aswan Sporting Club). The ship has 30 spacious suites, each with a private balcony.

All Suites at the cruise ship, the Sonesta Sun Goddess features 30 suites, giving it a touch of elegance and sophistication.