Talisman Hotel

Talisman Hotel is a small boutique hotel at 39 Talaat Harb Street in Downtown Cairo, Egypt. Talaat Harb Street is one of the main commercial avenues of the historic centre, lined with early twentieth-century buildings, cafes, bookshops and shops, and it runs between Tahrir Square and Talaat Harb Square. The Egyptian Museum and Tahrir Square are within walking distance, and Sadat and Naguib Metro stations are close by for trips to Old Cairo, Giza and other districts. The Pyramids of Giza are about 15 kilometres to the south-west, and Cairo International Airport lies to the east. The hotel occupies an older Downtown building and offers individually decorated rooms with a boutique character rather than the uniform style of a chain. Rooms are offered as Standard Rooms and suites, with prices of about EGP 2,080 to 4,680 (roughly $40 to $90) per night, which is moderate for a Downtown boutique. Amenities include Wi-Fi, air conditioning and breakfast, covering the basics for a comfortable stay. Breakfast is typically a simple meal served at the hotel, and Downtown's many cafes, restaurants and street-food spots are within a short walk, including long-established coffeehouses and Egyptian eateries. The hotel has no pool or spa, so its appeal lies in its location and character. Service is personal and small-scale, with the front desk able to help with taxis, tours and advice on Downtown. The street is busy and noisy during the day and into the evening, so light sleepers should ask about quieter rooms. The hotel suits travellers who want to walk to Downtown sights and prefer a distinctive small hotel to a large tower.