Houseboat65

Houseboat65

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About

#1 of 4 special inns in Cairo
Location
4.8
Rooms
4.8
Value
4.6
Cleanliness
4.7
Service
4.8
Sleep Quality
4.5
Houseboat65 is a stationary floating house situated on Zamalek island and close to Cairo’s must-see attractions. The place is built entirely out of wood with an architectural style from the 1920s and it is suited for both business and leisure travelers. Houseboat65 offers four fully independent apartments. Each with their unique style and characteristics offer an authentic experience. Our goal is to offer you with an experience not only as a place to stay but make you travel through time and disconnect from reality by experiencing Life on the Nile.
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Property amenities
Free public parking nearby
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Breakfast in the room
Boating
Canoeing
Airport transportation
Mosquito net
Sun terrace
Street parking
Wifi
Complimentary tea
Patio
First aid kit
Express check-in / check-out
Private check-in / check-out
Self-serve laundry
Washing machine
Room features
Bathrobes
Air conditioning
Desk
Private balcony
Coffee / tea maker
iPod docking station
Sofa bed
Bidet
Room service
Safe
Seating area
Separate dining area
Separate living room
Sofa
Telephone
Wardrobe / closet
Bottled water
Clothes rack
Iron
Private bathrooms
Kitchenette
Microwave
Oven
Refrigerator
Stovetop
Electric kettle
Kitchenware
Bath / shower
Hair dryer
Room types
City view
Landmark view
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Trendy
Romantic
Languages Spoken
English, French, Arabic

Location

5 Al Gabalaya Street Zamalek, Cairo 11568 Egypt
Name/address in local language
4.9
4.9 of 5 bubbles71 reviews
Reviews summary
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
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Houseboat65 emerges as a cherished retreat on Zamalek Island, with guests frequently lauding its attentive service and quaint charm that contribute to a memorable stay. The spacious, well-equipped rooms offer serene views, though some may pick up city noise. Reviewers repeatedly commend the cozy, vintage atmosphere and spotless cleanliness, adding to the houseboat's appeal. Its prime location is popular for easy access to attractions and scenic vistas, with the overall experience considered a great value for the quality of service and amenities provided.
Location
Central
Atmosphere
Charming
Rooms
Comfortable
Value
Reasonable
Cleanliness
Spotless
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Well-appointed

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Detailed Reviews
Faustine J wrote a review Oct 2023
Property's Favorite Review
5.0 of 5 bubbles
From the very beginning of our stay, Paola and Jerome made sure we could get to their houseboat without any struggle. The checkin was smooth and super organised as Mahmoud was there to help our taxi driver find the place and even carry our luggages.
Special mention to him who helped us out ordering food as well he is amazing!
Talking about the place. It's very simple, it's the best we stayed at in Egypt, it's unique, the interior design is just above everything we've seen and the attention to details is just way beyond the egyptian standards. If you want a true, amazing experience you have to try it. We loved staying there and wish we could have stayed longer.
Plus everything is provided and the hosts are always reachable on whatsapp making it feel easy to always find a solution.
Tam so glad we ended our trip with this wonder on the Nile, it was truly special.
Thank you so much for having put so much efforts and thoughts in keeping this place so perfect and genuine!
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pierre wrote a review Aug 2023
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
We’ve been to 100+ Airbnb’s, and this is one of the best ever. A very unique apartment on a houseboat, with great views of the Nile. Jerome an Paola were fantastic hosts very proactive always checking in to see if we were comfortable yet. Provided very good recommendations for dining, helped us booking our tours, and sent fresh fruit to us and helped us to order delivery to our apartment. There was even a guard and a cleaning lady provided to assist us with her luggage and tidy up our room whenever we requested. Location-wise, Zamalek Island is one of the better neighbourhoods to stay in, and being able to say you lived on the Nile was a memorable part of the experience. Without a doubt, this was the highlight of your trip! Finally we ended up rebooking the Houseboat on our way back through their website (Houseboat65.com) which provided a good discount.
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Date of stay: June 2023Trip type: Traveled with friends
Room Tip: Very good location for visiting other touristic spots in Cairo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
A lot to digest? Read an AI-generated summary of recent traveler reviews.
Mital P wrote a review Feb 2025
London, United Kingdom
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Houseboat65 in Cairo offers an unparalleled experience that seamlessly blends vintage charm with modern comfort. Nestled on the Nile, this historic houseboat provides breathtaking river views and a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

The beautifully preserved wooden interiors, reminiscent of the 1940s and 1950s, which exude a nostalgic and authentic ambiance. The accommodations are thoughtfully designed, featuring comfortable furnishings and well-equipped kitchenettes. One of the highlight is the exceptional hospitality of the hosts, who go above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay. The on-site team is attentive and offers personalized service.

The houseboat’s prime location offers easy access to Cairo’s major attractions, making it an ideal base for exploration. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely breakfast with panoramic Nile views or unwinding in the cozy living spaces, Houseboat65 promises a unique and delightful stay in the heart of Cairo.


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Date of stay: February 2025Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marie-Adele G wrote a review Sep 2024
Johannesburg, South Africa
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Houseboat65 in Cairo was an absolute gem! From the moment I arrived, the experience was seamless—checking in was incredibly easy, and check-out was even easier. The host was outstanding, going above and beyond to make my stay comfortable. She answered all my questions and provided helpful tips, making me feel right at home. The rooms themselves are cute and cozy, though on the smaller side, they are fully furnished and very comfortable. Waking up on a houseboat with views of the Nile was such a unique experience. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a charming, well-managed stay!
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Date of stay: September 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
4.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
These reviews are machine translated from their original language. Show machine translations?
daniel wrote a review Jul 2024
Frankfurt, Germany
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Cairo very different! The houseboat is in a prime location on Zamalek Island to set off on its own. The rooms are very large and well equipped, in the evening it occasionally gets noisy due to the passing excursion boats. The team is great and always available for a tip or a trip. The care is excellent!!!!!! We really enjoyed it!!
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Automatically translated
Date of stay: July 2024Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Liz S wrote a review Dec 2024
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Such a lovely and unique place! Marie gave us fantastic advise and we booked a great tour with her. Very roomy with a large bathroom and useful kitchen stocked with great coffee + sugar and a small milk in the fridge to get you going. Plenty of great restaurants in the area that also deliver. Groceries and alcohol can also be delivered at a very good price.
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Date of stay: November 2024
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
4.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip: It can get loud with the party boats going by and Cairo traffic but earplugs are provided. Uber...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Oliver Paar wrote a review Apr 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
A wonderfully relaxing place in the center of Cairo. Sitting on the terrace in the morning and drinking coffee while watching the morning rowers. Or waving to the party boats as they chug past in the evening. The houseboat welcomes its guests and you immediately relax. An original and friendly place where you can easily spend a few days.
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Google
Date of stay: April 2024Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christine P wrote a review Mar 9
5.0 of 5 bubbles
The houseboat was a wonderful place for spending a few days in Kairo. Thank you Nada, Marie, and friendly colleagues or making us feel very welcome. We stayed in the Nile suite and the accommodation was extremely pleasant and spacious, and the balcony with its view of river and city was like an oasis in the middle of a very busy metropolis. We enjoyed just sitting there and letting the river and distant traffic flow past and listening to the call of the Muezzins.
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Date of stay: February 2025
4.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
4.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Denise M. wrote a review Sep 2023
New Smyrna Beach, Florida
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I spent a week on this houseboat, and I will always remember how welcoming it was. The staff were readily available and accommodating, yet it was extremely private. The location in Zamalek was close to both the pyramids and downtown Cairo, making the trip seamless. When I find myself in Cairo again, this will be my spot to stay, for sure!
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Date of stay: February 2023Trip type: Traveled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gratiane G wrote a review Oct 2024
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Charming floating house on the Nile in the Zamalek district.
Very well equipped accommodation with kitchen, terrace and hammock!
Breakfast extra, very hearty, brought into the room.
Marie and all the employees are lovely and very helpful.
A guard is on site 24 hours a day.
We recommend this experience despite some outdoor noise due to the bustle of the city but the Quies balls are provided!
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Automatically translated
Date of stay: October 2024
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
4.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Katzoff wrote a tip Mar 17
Saint Louis, Missouri27 contributions14 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"The entrance is under an overpass, but don’t worry it’s safe."
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km1234 wrote a tip Mar 15
London, United Kingdom83 contributions10 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"It can be a little hard to find, it's behind the ramp down from the upper road that goes over the river. Follow the fencing on the footpath."
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Michaël S wrote a tip Jan 2025
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Walking in Cairo is a challenge. Uber is convenient."
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Liz S wrote a tip Dec 2024
43 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"It can get loud with the party boats going by and Cairo traffic but earplugs are provided. Uber gets you everywhere at a great price."
Read full review
rae a wrote a tip Nov 2024
3 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Book more than 3 nights as you probably won’t want to leave your room and go for your tours. "
Read full review
Not the right property for you?
There are more places to choose from in the Cairo area.
LOCATION
EgyptCairo GovernorateCairo
NUMBER OF ROOMS
4
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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HOUSEBOAT65 - Updated 2025

Frequently Asked Questions about Houseboat65
Which popular attractions are close to Houseboat65?
Nearby attractions include Zamalek (0.5 miles), Cairo Tower (0.3 miles), and Cairo Opera House (0.4 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at Houseboat65?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, airport transportation, and room service.
Which room amenities are available at Houseboat65?
Top room amenities include a kitchenette, air conditioning, and a refrigerator.
What food & drink options are available at Houseboat65?
Guests can enjoy complimentary tea during their stay.
Is parking available at Houseboat65?
Yes, free public parking nearby and street parking are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Houseboat65?
Conveniently located restaurants include Giannini’s New York Italian Restaurant, Sapporo Japanese Restaurant, and L'Asiatique - Le Pacha 1901.
Does Houseboat65 have airport transportation?
Yes, Houseboat65 offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Are any cleaning services offered at Houseboat65?
Yes, self serve laundry and a washing machine are offered to guests.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Houseboat65?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, French, and Arabic.
Are there any historical sites close to Houseboat65?
Many travelers enjoy visiting Mosque of Ibn Tulun (2.2 miles), Mosque and Madrasa of Sultan Hassan (2.4 miles), and Mosque of Muhammad Ali (2.7 miles).
Does Houseboat65 have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the city view available here.
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