Downtown Cairo is a bustling place. Lovely to find a quiet hotel in the middle of it to return to in the evening. Everyone's right about the entrance, but once you're inside it's perfectly fine. Lovingly decorated, a far cry from all the bland hotel rooms you normally get. Friendly staff, gave us good tips on restaurants etc. And most... More

We had booked this hotel several times over the past few years, only to have to cancel due to the unstable political situation. This time we were wary, but went ahead with our plans--and were glad that we did! The highlight of our stay at the Talisman Hotel besides the lovely decor, soundproof rooms with balcony, and personalized service, was... More

Stayed here 2 nights. Pros: The location is fantastic for sightseeing in Downtown, Islamic Cairo and Coptic Cairo. Hotel is clean, beautifully decorated and well soundproofed. Staff are very friendly. Free internet. Breakfast was fine 50% of the time (see Cons). Cons: Breakfast is supposedly served until 11am. When we arrived at 9am on our second morning there was virtually... More

The talisman was a nice find if you are searching for a cozy hotel in the heart of Cairo. The staff was very helpful and friendly. A short walk to the Nile, but be careful not to get run over crossing the street...

I booked my two night's stay at The Talisman through I-escape and everything I read on beforehand turned out to be true; an unwelcoming facade and entrance area, an elevator fitting perfectly into a Agatha Christie novel before entering and old fashionable fifth floor where Talisman rules. It's furnished with antiques, beautiful tapestries and colourful fabrics and my room was... More

When I go to Cairo I usually stay in one of the five star chain hotels in zamalek. I grew tired of some of their overpriced bad service and wanted to try something original. I was always afraid of trying small hotels in Cairo but this time I gave it a try, following the recommendation of a friend that I... More

If you’ve read my reviews, you’ll know that I choose lodging based on the kind of experience I hope to have. The Talisman was my 4th and final stop on a solo, 2-week tour of Egypt. Located in the heart of Cairo, the location couldn’t have been better. From the hotel, I walked to the Egyptian Museum, Khan el-Khalili and... More

This hotel really does need to pay attention to the dirt and filth around them. Itself is a lovely place and very like a Marrakesh riad but getting to it might put you off. If the elevator isn't working, or held, this could be a huge drawback. We stayed in one of the back rooms which was a blessing. Breakfast... More

My room was nice, clean, and as a matter of fact, the one pictured above (blue rimmed headboard, sienna walls). It's clean, quiet, conveniently located and all that. The building the hotel is in (it occupies the entire 5th floor) is a dump. Don't let that bother you. Things work in the room - the AC, the TV, the bathroom... More