Damietta, Egypt Travel Guide

Discover Damietta, Egypt's serene city by the Nile, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and exquisite seafood cuisine.

Damietta is a charming city in Egypt, nestled on the eastern branch of the Nile Delta. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. The city has been an important port and trade center for centuries, contributing to its unique blend of influences from different civilizations. One of the highlights of Damietta is its beautiful waterfront along the Nile. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing stroll by the river, take a boat ride, or simply sit and watch the sunset over the water. The city's markets are also a must-visit, offering everything from fresh seafood to traditional crafts. The local artisans are famous for their skill in furniture making, especially the finely crafted pieces made from local wood. Damietta boasts impressive historical sites, including ancient mosques and churches that reflect its diverse heritage. The city is also known for its delicious cuisine, featuring a variety of seafood dishes prepared with local spices and flavors. Whether you are a history buff, a food lover, or someone looking to experience authentic Egyptian culture, Damietta has something to offer everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Damietta.

Visit the local markets early in the morning to get the freshest seafood and best deals.
Take a boat ride on the Nile to fully appreciate the city's scenic beauty.
Explore the historic mosques and churches to learn about Damietta's diverse heritage.
Sample the local seafood dishes at a traditional restaurant for an authentic culinary experience.
If you are interested in crafts, visit the local workshops to see skilled artisans at work.

Explore Damietta: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Damietta

Top-rated picks

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Lesan Area

Experience the captivating beauty of Lesan Area, where the Nile River meets the Mediterranean Sea, and indulge in the rich culture and delicious cuisine of Egypt.

4.5

Port Said Military Museum

Discover Port Said's Military History at the Port Said Military Museum - A Journey Through Time and Conflict.

4.3

Ras El Bar Lighthouse

Experience breathtaking views and rich history at Ras El Bar Lighthouse, where the Mediterranean meets the Nile River.

4.6

Bent El-Shatee Park

Explore the beauty of Bent El-Shatee Park, a serene green oasis in Damietta Governorate, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature's splendor.

3.9

Best landmarks in Damietta

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Lesan Area

Discover the breathtaking confluence of the Nile and Mediterranean at Lesan Area, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and cultural explorers.

4.5

Al-Bahr Mosque in Damietta

Discover Al-Bahr Mosque in Damietta: A stunning Ottoman-era mosque with Andalusian architecture, rich Islamic art, and a serene Nile-side setting.

4.8

Steigenberger Hotel El Lessan

Experience luxury at the Steigenberger Hotel El Lessan in Ras El Bar, where the Nile meets the Mediterranean. Book your unforgettable stay today!

4.8

ميدان سرور

Experience the vibrant heart of Damietta at Midan Sarour, a bustling town square where local culture and traditions come to life.

Best restaurants in Damietta

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Al Kelany Restaurant

Experience authentic barbecue delights in Damietta Desert at Al Kelany Restaurant – where flavor meets tradition.

4.0

McDonald's Damietta Branch

Enjoy delicious fast food at McDonald's Damietta Branch while taking in scenic views of the Nile River in Egypt's charming coastal city.

4.1

Estacoza

Discover exquisite seafood at Estacoza in Damietta Desert, where fresh ingredients meet rich culinary traditions for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.2

BabElhara

Experience authentic Middle Eastern flavors at BabElhara in Damietta - where every dish tells a story.

4.2

Best bars in Damietta

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XYZ RESTAURANT

Discover the rich flavors of Egyptian cuisine at XYZ Restaurant, where tradition meets modern dining along the scenic Nile Corniche.

4.2

ROYAL CLUB

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious fast food offerings at Royal Club, the perfect dining spot in Damietta.

4.4

مطعم الحطاب

Discover the unique flavors and vibrant atmosphere of مطعم الحطاب, a must-visit bar in Damietta celebrated for its local cuisine and welcoming ambiance.

3.0

BaBa

Discover the cozy charm of BaBa, a top lounge in Damietta El-Gadeeda, where local culture meets relaxation in a stylish setting.

5.0

Best nightclubs in Damietta

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الحريف . PlayStation

Discover the electrifying nightlife at الحريف . PlayStation, Damietta's premier night club and recreation center, offering unforgettable entertainment and vibrant atmosphere.

4.3

قاعة جولي

Discover the nightlife of Ras El-Bar at قاعة جولي, where music, dance, and vibrant energy come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.2

ملاهي مكة بارك

Discover the lively nightlife and vibrant atmosphere at ملاهي مكة بارك in Ras El Bar, where music and dance come alive under the stars.

4.0

قاعة جى ماريوت

Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Ras El Bar at Qaa J Marriott, where music, dance, and fun await every visitor.

5.0

Best shops in Damietta

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Emoji Store

Explore the Emoji Store in Damietta for trendy men's clothing that combines style and comfort in a vibrant shopping environment.

4.0

Barcelona

Explore Barcelona in Damietta for top-notch sportswear and equipment, perfect for athletes of all levels and styles.

4.3

Abbas Elsayed

Discover authentic Egyptian fashion at Abbas Elsayed, a clothing store in Damietta offering unique styles and quality craftsmanship.

5.0

Flower&Cadeau

Explore Flower&Cadeau in Damietta: A treasure trove of unique gifts and local crafts that capture the essence of Egyptian culture.

5.0

Explore Damietta on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Damietta, mapped for you.

Damietta Essentials

Damietta is located in the Nile Delta region of Egypt. The nearest international airport is Cairo International Airport, approximately 200 kilometers away. From Cairo, you can take a bus or hire a private taxi to Damietta. The journey by road typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. Alternatively, there are trains available from Cairo to Mansoura, from where you can take a bus or taxi for the remaining 60 kilometers to Damietta.
Damietta has a range of transportation options. Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. There are also public buses that connect different parts of the city. For a more local experience, you can use microbuses, which are a popular mode of transport among locals. Renting a car is another option, but be prepared for traffic and local driving habits.
The official currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are widely available in Damietta, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to more remote areas.
Damietta is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 122 for police assistance and 123 for medical emergencies. Damietta has local police stations and medical facilities. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Damietta like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh seafood and traditional Egyptian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city’s history and culture. Don't miss visiting the old mosques and the beautiful Corniche along the Nile. For a unique experience, take a boat trip on the Nile to see the city from a different perspective.

When is the best time to visit Damietta?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Damietta

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Damietta. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
- Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
- Yesنعم
  [na'am]
- Noلا
  [la]
- Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlak]
- Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
- Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  ['udhran]
- How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa halak?]
- Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa'ant?]
- Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'iinjilia?]
- I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [uridu an ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
- I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
- Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtik]
- I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [uridu an adfa', min fadlik]
- Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
- Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
- Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [iatisil bialshurta!]
- Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [iatisil bialtabib!]
- I'm lostأنا ضائع
  [ana da'ie]
- I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]
- I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [uridu an ashtari...]
- I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atafarraq]
- How much is it?بكم هذا؟
  [bikam hatha?]
- That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
- Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuka khafdh alsu'r?]
- What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'ah?]
- It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaa'ah alwahidah]
- Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al'ashirah walnusf]
- Morningصباح
  [sabah]
- Afternoonبعد الظهر
  [ba'd althuhr]
- Eveningمساء
  [masa']
- Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
- Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
- Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
- 1واحد
  [wahid]
- 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
- 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
- 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
- 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
- 6ستة
  [sittah]
- 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
- 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
- 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
- 10عشرة
  [asharah]
- Where's a/the...?أين هو/هي...؟
  [ayn hu/hy...?]
- What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al'ainwan?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuka an tureeni (ala alkhareetah)?]
- When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata ya'ti alhafilat altaliyah?]
- A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tadhkirah (ila ....)]

History of Damietta

Damietta, known as Tamiat in ancient Egyptian times, has a rich history that dates back to ancient Egypt. It was a significant city during the Pharaonic times, serving as a key port for trade and commerce along the Nile River. Archaeological findings in the area suggest that Damietta was an essential hub for the exchange of goods and culture between Egypt and other civilizations.
The city of Damietta played a pivotal role during the early Islamic period. In 642 AD, it was captured by the Muslim Arab forces under the leadership of Amr ibn al-As. The city's strategic location and its bustling port made it a valuable asset for the Islamic Caliphate, facilitating trade and military expeditions.
Damietta's strategic importance was highlighted during the Crusades. In 1218, during the Fifth Crusade, Crusader forces aimed to capture Damietta to use it as a base for further operations into Egypt. The city was besieged and eventually fell to the Crusaders in 1219. However, it was recaptured by the Ayyubid Sultan Al-Kamil in 1221, marking a significant victory for the Muslim forces.
Under Ottoman rule from the early 16th century, Damietta continued to flourish as a vital trade center. The Ottomans recognized the city's strategic importance and maintained its status as a key port. Damietta was known for its production of textiles, especially Damask fabric, which was highly prized throughout the Ottoman Empire and beyond.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, Damietta underwent significant modernization efforts under Muhammad Ali Pasha and his successors. The construction of infrastructure, including roads and canals, helped to enhance the city's connectivity and economic potential. Damietta's port facilities were expanded, solidifying its position as a crucial node in Egypt's maritime trade network.
Damietta is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, blending ancient traditions with modern influences. The city is famous for its handcrafted furniture, particularly the intricate inlay work that reflects the skilled craftsmanship of local artisans. Additionally, Damietta's local cuisine, characterized by fresh seafood and traditional Egyptian dishes, offers a culinary experience that reflects the city's coastal identity.