Kempinski Nile Hotel Garden City Cairo

From the moment you enter the lobby, with its ancient Egyptian motifs and thick marble columns, you'll feel at peace. Go one step further in the spa and enjoy seasonal treatments made with herbs, florals and a few secret ingredients - and then there's the pool, surrounded by plenty of cushioned loungers and accompanied by stunning city views. At dinner time, head to The Osmanly for tasty Turkish cuisine and the signature dish, Hünkar Beğendi, or opt for The Blue Restaurant for more casual Italian fare. With magenta stools and low-slung armchairs, the Jazz Bar is the perfect spot for a last glass.

In comparison to Cairo's other big-name hotels, Kempinski is smaller and more intimate. The rooms and suites are decorated in shades of sage, cream, and blush with bold art works throughout. Each room has a private balcony and 24-hour butler service and bathrooms are generous and come complete with a deep tub, shower, and marble finishings. The suites have added space with a separate lounge and, in the Presidential Suite, an ornate foyer, dining area and kitchenette.

Get stuck into Egypt's long and fascinating history at one of the city's many museums (from Islamic Art to Ancient Egyptian artefacts), and its most revered mosques, including the Mosque of Ibn Tulun, one of the oldest in Africa. Then, stroll the lanes of Khan Al Khalili Bazaar, a medieval-style 'mall' that sells just about everything before journeying into the desert to see the Pyramids of Giza, standing gob-smacked in their shadow.