Egypt, Kingdom of the Sun
Gourmet Spirit
Iconic Destination
Finding the best things to do in Egypt is no mean feat. Trust the luxury travel experts at Kempinski to give you a running start with this list of places to visit and wondrous sights to see.
The Kempinski Guide to Egypt
What could be lovelier than the light of the setting sun in Egypt, where it highlights the traces of one thousand four hundred years of history. Cairo’s monuments, spanning the centuries from the Pharaohs to the Mamluks, stand out against a glowing sky until the sun god Ra makes way for goddess of the night Nut and her retinue of stars.
BEACONS OF LIGHT: THE GREAT PYRAMID OF GIZA
On the Giza plateau near Cairo stands one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the 4,500-year-old Great Pyramid of Giza (also known as the Pyramid of Khufu or Pyramid of Cheops). It remains a mystery how this 147-metre pyramid was built, and its interior is still largely unknown. It was sheathed in carefully dressed and polished white limestone blocks. These have long been stripped away, but their smooth surface would have reflected the light of the setting sun, making it look like a hill of light.
A STROLL THROUGH THE STREETS
Al-Muizz Al-Deen Street, named after Egypt’s first Fatimid caliph, is lined with palaces, mosques and historic buildings. In the last rays of the setting sun, the desert stone takes on a golden hue, exalting the architectural finesse of this fascinating concentration of historic Islamic buildings.
TRANQUILLITY BY THE NILE
The Nile, flowing through Cairo from south to north, lends the town a grandeur that suits it well. It gives a sense of strength and gentleness – like the people, whose lineage stretches back to the days of the pharaohs.
Take a walk along the banks of the world’s second-longest river; enjoy a drink on the rooftop of Kempinski Nile Hotel as the last rays of the setting sun pick out the feluccas (traditional sailing boats) gliding soundlessly through the water. An unequalled sense of peace and calm overcomes you.
The rooftop pool offers cool respite from the buzzing city.
THE AZURE EGYPTIAN PALACE
New Cairo is different. It’s a 21st-century city, with broad thoroughfares cutting across the desert. It’s here, east of the historic capital, that the Cairo of tomorrow is taking shape, made up of golf courses, shady palm trees and the elegant outlines of residences, palaces and shops. As the sun goes down, the magic begins. In the blue hour, lights appear one after another and then Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski, the jewel in New Cairo’s crown, stands out like something from a fairy tale.
Thanks to poolside temperature-controlling technology, guests can feel refreshed even without dipping a toe into the water.
BEYOND THE CITY AND INTO THE SEA
When it’s time to escape the city, the stunning coastlines and coral reefs are waiting to tempt you. Just a short distance from Hurghada, Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay is a haven for fans of snorkelling and scuba diving, showcasing yet another side of this captivating country.
The colourful underwater world of Soma Bay is best explored with the help of the hotel's boat.
The inviting pools and wealth of activities make Soma Bay the perfect choice for families.
Sailing is yet another way to experience the beauty of the Res Sea.
With 400 metres of private sandy beach and endless outdoor pools, guests at Kempinski Hotel Soma Bay are spoilt for choice.
Dining in Cairo, with Kempinski
Cairo is a giant city. You will find all types of culinary specialties and styles to satisfy all your desires! Whether you like oriental cuisine, international flavours, excellent Italian or European dishes, here is our guide to help you find your way around and three addresses that will offer you a high-quality experience in their own unique way.
Madinaty Golf Club – For an exquisite culinary experience, visit the prestigious Madinaty Golf Club in the heart of Madinaty, offfering a broad spectrum of exquisite cuisine from around the world. Whether you're a fan of Italian food or Japanese gastronomy, experience TWO Restaurant. This hidden gem features a wide range of tasty Italian dishes and exquisite Japanese fare. The Golf Terrace is the ideal spot to relax and take in the breathtaking views of the lake and golf course. You can also head over to the RTJ Lounge, which provides a tranquil setting for enjoying drinks and snacks. The Royal Lobby offers a luxurious atmosphere, complete with palatial seating for an intimate chat or a business gathering.
Romanov – Taking its name from the great family of Russian rulers, the elegant design of this steakhouse at Royal Maxim Palace Kempinski welcomes diners in a serene atmosphere with candlelit tables overlooking the majestic courtyard. Romanov invites you to experience European grill at its finest, with a range of premium meat cuts and seafood selections.
Osmanly – Embark on a journey to the past and discover the flavours of the Ottoman Empire at Osmanly Restaurant in Kempinski Nile Hotel. Osmanly is renowned for its meat dishes and tasty Ottoman style stews. An exquisite and varied menu is offered seven days a week for both lunch and dinner, including the signature dish, Hünkar Beğendi.
