The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Summertime doesn’t simply end by bidding August farewell; and while many Cairenes enjoyed Sahel’s eventful nightlife and entertainment, many others shied away from the North Coast’s weekend rush. Whether stuck in the city for work, or find Sahel’s weekend road trips hassling, Cairo 360 compiled some encouraging and refreshing weekend pool getaways, for those who like to go lavish and for those on a budget as well.   

Dusit Thani

While being the most expensive pool day-use among our list; some people yet find a pool getaway with a breathtaking view, overlooking palm trees and greenery worth every penny. Dusit Thani offers a two category pool day-use; for 1,400LE, you get a ground floor room with a direct access to the pool and lake with an exquisite view for both, and for 999LE, you get a high floor day-use room.     

Fairmont Heliopolis

Located few minutes away from Cairo International Airport, the luxurious Fairmont Heliopolis offers a 750LE day-use on a double room basis, where you can take a swim in their cozy pool, while also taking advantage of several facilities including sauna and gym. An additional 200LE per room for a third person applies.  

Fairmont Nile City

With a sky pool at the hotel’s top floor overlooking the whole city, a day-use at Nile City’s Fairmont hotel seems quite exceptional. Enjoy a pool day-use at Fairmont Nile City for 400LE with an access to the sauna and the steam room.    

Sofitel Gezirah

While being quite small, Sofitel Gezirah’s pool has a panoramic view of the Nile, perfect for those yearning to watch exceptional sunsets on the Nile banks. Also on our list of costly pool getaways, Sofitel offers a 1,570LE double room day-use, 2,060LE per triple room and a total of 600LE if you feel like swimming without having to use a room.

Conrad

Enjoy Conrad’s outdoorsy pool overlooking the Nile and a scenic view of Cairo’s downtown area for 624LE per double room, 708LE for a triple room and 300LE without room, with only an access to the hotel’s sauna, gym and lockers.

Mena House

A beautiful circular and spacious pool providing plenty of room for swimmers—not to mention a mystical view of the great Pyramids of Giza, a day-use at the Mena House hotel promises a great view, as well as a good value for money; with a 350LE for a day-use per person (without a room) and 700LE for a double room basis. Both day-use offered at the Mina House hotel include a meal.        

Sakkara Country Club                                               

If you’re looking for a quite reasonable escape by the pool, then Sakkara Country Club is definitely your destination. While its rooms are only offered for its members, the club offers its spacious pool for 200LE per person, including a hot meal.     

Royal Club Mohamed Aly

Known to be one of the most popular clubs situated on the Nile shore and one of the go-to venues for wedding and engagement parties, Royal Club Mohamed Aly is also famous for its spacious pool overlooking an exquisite Islamic architecture lodge. Enjoy a pool day use from 10:00 am through 6:00 pm at Royal Club Mohamed Aly, for 150LE per person including one non-alcoholic drink.     

Holiday Inn

Previously known as Sofitel Cairo Maadi Towers, Holiday Inn hotel—which launched in November 2014, still preserves its great location on Maadi’s Nile corniche, while offering an exquisite pool and a tranquil view of the Giza Pyramids from the distance. Holiday Inn has budget-friendly day-use offers; including 150LE for an only pool access and 700LE for a double room day-use rental.  

JW Mariott

Famous for its insanely fun pool simulating waves—but also known for being quite steep as far as room rates go— you can enjoy a pool day use at the JW Mariott for 1,270LE on weekdays, while being granted access to several facilities including the gym, lockers and the steam room. During the weekends, JW Mariott’s pools are, however, only granted for overnight stays, which, on a standard double room basis, cost 1,070LE.  

Villa La Belle Époque

Recommended for those aspiring to have a romantic getaway in Cairo, away from the city’s hustle and bustle, Villa La Belle Époque, with its beautiful old European style, promises a soothing unique weekend getaway. Enjoy a day-use at Villa La Belle Époque for a 500LE for a double room and a total of 650LE for a triple one.