Mediterranean Coast, Egypt Travel Guide

Discover the magic of Egypt's Mediterranean Coast, where ancient history meets pristine beaches and vibrant culture, offering an unforgettable travel experience.

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Mediterranean Coast

The Mediterranean Coast of Egypt is a stunning stretch of coastline that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and vibrant culture. This region is known for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and warm climate, making it a perfect destination for sun-seekers and beach lovers. Cities like Alexandria and Marsa Matrouh are popular spots along the coast, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. Alexandria, often referred to as the 'Pearl of the Mediterranean,' is a city rich in history and culture. Founded by Alexander the Great, it boasts ancient ruins, such as the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa and the Roman Amphitheatre. The city's modern attractions include the stunning Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the beautiful Montaza Palace Gardens. Visitors can also enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many seaside restaurants while taking in the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Marsa Matrouh, another gem along the Mediterranean Coast, is famous for its pristine beaches and clear blue waters. It's an ideal spot for water sports enthusiasts, offering activities such as snorkeling, diving, and windsurfing. The town also has a relaxed atmosphere, making it a great place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty. Don't miss Cleopatra's Beach, known for its unique rock formations and historical significance. Whether you're interested in exploring ancient history, relaxing on beautiful beaches, or experiencing local culture, the Mediterranean Coast of Egypt has something for everyone. The region's warm hospitality and stunning landscapes make it a must-visit destination for any traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit Alexandria in the spring or fall to avoid the summer heat and enjoy pleasant weather.
Try local seafood dishes at the seaside restaurants for a taste of the region's fresh cuisine.
Carry cash as some smaller shops and eateries may not accept credit cards.
Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong Mediterranean sun.
Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.

Top City Travel Guides in Mediterranean Coast

The cities of Mediterranean Coast, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Luxor

Asyut

Minya

Beni Suef

Sohag

Destinations in Mediterranean Coast

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Wadi El Rayan National Park

White Desert National Park

Explore Mediterranean Coast: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

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

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Mediterranean Coast

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Karnak

Experience the grandeur of Karnak, the largest ancient temple complex in Egypt, where history and spirituality intertwine in breathtaking beauty.

4.8

Best landmarks in Mediterranean Coast

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Karnak

Explore Karnak, the magnificent temple complex in Luxor, Egypt, where ancient history and stunning architecture come together to create a mesmerizing experience.

4.8

Abu Simbel Temples

Explore the majestic Abu Simbel temples, a testament to ancient Egyptian power and architectural prowess, relocated to preserve history.

4.8

Giza Necropolis

Explore the Giza Necropolis: Witness the majestic pyramids, the enigmatic Sphinx, and ancient Egyptian wonders on the Giza Plateau.

4.6

Great Sphinx of Giza

Visit the iconic Great Sphinx of Giza, a colossal monument steeped in ancient Egyptian history and mystery, standing guard over the Giza Plateau.

4.7

Best restaurants in Mediterranean Coast

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Starfish Seafood Restaurant

Experience fresh seafood delights at Starfish Seafood Restaurant in Hurghada, where every dish celebrates the flavors of the Red Sea.

4.4

Sky restaurant

Experience fine dining at Sky Restaurant in Hurghada with stunning views of the Red Sea and exquisite gourmet dishes.

4.9

Crimson Bar & Grill, Cairo, Egypt.

Experience fine dining at Crimson Bar & Grill in Zamalek—where exquisite cuisine meets stunning views of the Nile River.

4.4

Moby Dick Restaurant

Discover family-friendly dining at Moby Dick Restaurant in Hurghada - where delicious Western cuisine meets warm hospitality.

4.7

Best bars in Mediterranean Coast

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Crimson Bar & Grill, Cairo, Egypt.

Experience the essence of Cairo at Crimson Bar & Grill, where exquisite flavors and elegant ambiance create unforgettable dining moments.

4.4

The Tap East

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delectable grilled dishes at The Tap East, a premier dining destination in New Cairo.

4.2

Pub 28

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Zamalek at Pub 28, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and great company await.

4.0

Paradise Roof

Discover the vibrant flavors of Cairo at Paradise Roof, a rooftop grill and tapas bar offering a unique dining experience under the stars.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Mediterranean Coast

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Cairo Jazz Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cairo at the Cairo Jazz Club, a premier destination for live music and energetic gatherings in Giza.

3.8

Cairo Jazz Club 610

Discover the electric atmosphere of Cairo Jazz Club 610, where live music and vibrant nightlife blend in the heart of Giza.

4.0

Night life

Discover the thrilling nightlife of Al Giza, where vibrant clubs and rhythmic beats create unforgettable late-night adventures.

4.0

Papas Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Papas Club, Hurghada's premier destination for music, dancing, and unforgettable evenings.

4.0

Best shops in Mediterranean Coast

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Senzo Mall

Explore Senzo Mall in Hurghada for a dynamic shopping experience with diverse brands, delightful dining, and family-friendly entertainment.

4.4

Cleopatra Bazar Bostan Branch

Discover the charm of shopping at Cleopatra Bazar Bostan Branch, Hurghada's vibrant marketplace blending culture, shopping, and leisure.

4.2

3 Pyramids Shopping Center( free Wi-Fi) Free round trip transfer

Discover a vibrant shopping paradise at 3 Pyramids Shopping Center in Hurghada, featuring souvenirs, fashion, and local delights for every traveler.

4.4

Fair Trade Egypt

Discover unique handcrafted treasures and support local artisans at Fair Trade Egypt, a must-visit craft store in Zamalek, Cairo.

4.6

Explore Mediterranean Coast on the Map

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

Mediterranean Coast Essentials

The Mediterranean Coast of Egypt is accessible via several international airports, the most convenient being Borg El Arab Airport in Alexandria and Cairo International Airport in Cairo. From these airports, you can take domestic flights, buses, or trains to coastal cities such as Alexandria, Marsa Matruh, and Port Said. The train journey from Cairo to Alexandria is a popular and scenic option, taking approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
Public transportation options along the Mediterranean Coast include buses, trains, and taxis. Alexandria has a robust tram system that is both affordable and convenient. For longer distances, trains operated by Egyptian National Railways connect major coastal cities. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are widely available and are a convenient option for shorter trips. Renting a car is also an option, although driving in busy cities can be challenging for those unfamiliar with local traffic rules.
The official currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, large restaurants, and shops in tourist areas. However, it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available in major cities along the coast. Currency exchange services are also available at airports, banks, and hotels.
The Mediterranean Coast of Egypt is generally safe for tourists, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. Areas such as Alexandria and Marsa Matruh are safe, but avoid isolated areas, especially at night. Be cautious in crowded places to avoid pickpocketing. Areas with higher crime rates targeting tourists include some parts of Alexandria's downtown and the Corniche. Always keep your belongings secure and stay aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 122 for police, 123 for medical emergencies, and 180 for fire services. Major hospitals and clinics in cities like Alexandria and Port Said offer medical assistance. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues and medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in religious and rural areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and religious practices. Remove shoes and cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful to fellow passengers. Avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A simple 'Salam' (peace) is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience the Mediterranean Coast like a local, visit traditional markets (souks) and try street food such as koshary and falafel. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share tips and stories. Take a walk along the Corniche in Alexandria for stunning sea views, and visit historical sites like the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa. For a unique experience, take a boat ride in the harbor of Alexandria or explore the beaches of Marsa Matruh.

When is the best time to visit Mediterranean Coast?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Mediterranean Coast

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 Mediterranean Coast. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloأهلاً
  [Ahlan]
- Goodbyeمع السلامة
  [Ma'a as-salama]
- Yesنعم
  [Na'am]
- Noلا
  [La]
- Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [Min fadlik]
- Thank youشكراً
  [Shukran]
- Excuse me/Sorryعفواً
  [Afwan]
- How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [Kayfa halak?]
- Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [Bikhayr. Wa anta?]
- Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [Hal tatahaddath al-ingliziyya?]
- I don't understandلا أفهم
  [La afham]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأود رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [Awad ru'yat al-qa'ima, min fadlik]
- I don't eat meatلا أأكل اللحم
  [La akul al-lahm]
- Cheers!في صحتك!
  [Fi sihtak!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseأود الدفع، من فضلك
  [Awad al-daf', min fadlik]
- Help!نجدة!
  [Najda!]
- Go away!اذهب بعيداً!
  [Idhhab ba'eedan!]
- Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [Ittasil bil-shurta!]
- Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [Ittasil bil-tabeeb!]
- I'm lostأنا ضائع
  [Ana da'i']
- I'm illأنا مريض
  [Ana marid]
- I'd like to buy...أود شراء...
  [Awad shira'a...]
- I'm just lookingأنا فقط أنظر
  [Ana faqat anzur]
- How much is it?كم ثمنه؟
  [Kam thamanuh?]
- That's too expensiveهذا مكلف جداً
  [Hatha mukallaf jidan]
- Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [Hal yumkinuka takhfid al-si'r?]
- What time is it?ما هو الوقت؟
  [Ma huwa al-waqt?]
- It's one o'clockالساعة واحدة
  [Al-sa'a wahida]
- Half past (10)نصف (10)
  [Nisf (10)]
- Morningصباحاً
  [Sabahan]
- Afternoonظهراً
  [Zuhran]
- Eveningمساءً
  [Masa'an]
- Yesterdayأمس
  [Ams]
- Todayاليوم
  [Al-yawm]
- Tomorrowغداً
  [Ghadan]
- 1واحد
  [Wahid]
- 2اثنان
  [Ithnan]
- 3ثلاثة
  [Thalatha]
- 4أربعة
  [Arba'a]
- 5خمسة
  [Khamsa]
- 6ستة
  [Sitta]
- 7سبعة
  [Sab'a]
- 8ثمانية
  [Thamaniya]
- 9تسعة
  [Tis'a]
- 10عشرة
  [Ashara]
- Where's a/the...?أين...؟
  [Ayn...?]
- What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [Ma huwa al-unwan?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [Hal yumkinuka an turini (ala al-kharita)?]
- When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي (الحافلة) التالية؟
  [Mata yati (al-hafila) al-taliya?]
- A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى....)
  [Tadhkira (ila....)]

History of Mediterranean Coast

Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BCE, Alexandria quickly became one of the most significant cultural and intellectual centers of the ancient world. The city was designed by the famous architect Dinocrates and became home to the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the Great Library of Alexandria, which was the largest library of its time.
During the Hellenistic Period, Alexandria thrived under the Ptolemaic Dynasty, which lasted from 305 to 30 BCE. The city became a melting pot of Greek, Egyptian, and other cultures, fostering advancements in science, literature, and philosophy. The famous mathematician Euclid and astronomer Ptolemy were among the notable scholars who lived and worked in Alexandria.
In 30 BCE, Egypt became a province of the Roman Empire after the defeat of Cleopatra VII and Mark Antony by Octavian (later Augustus). Alexandria remained an important center of commerce and learning under Roman rule. The city continued to flourish during the Byzantine period, becoming a vital center for early Christianity and the site of significant theological debates, such as the Council of Alexandria in 362 CE.
In 641 CE, the Arab general Amr ibn al-As successfully conquered Alexandria, bringing an end to Byzantine rule. This marked the beginning of Islamic Egypt, and Alexandria continued to be a significant port and cultural hub. The city saw the construction of mosques and other Islamic architecture, blending with its Hellenistic and Roman past.
During the Crusades in the 12th and 13th centuries, the Mediterranean Coast of Egypt, including Alexandria, became a contested region. The city was fortified by the Ayyubid Dynasty under Salah ad-Din (Saladin) to protect against Crusader attacks. Alexandria remained an essential port for trade and military operations during this turbulent period.
From the 13th to the early 16th centuries, Egypt was ruled by the Mamluks, who maintained Alexandria as a key Mediterranean port. In 1517, the Ottoman Empire took control of Egypt, and Alexandria continued to be a vital center for trade between Europe and the East. The city saw a revival of economic activity and growth during the Ottoman period, with the construction of new mosques, markets, and public buildings.
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Alexandria underwent significant modernization under the rule of Muhammad Ali Pasha and his successors. The city attracted European settlers and investors, leading to the construction of European-style buildings, boulevards, and cultural institutions. Alexandria became a cosmopolitan city, blending Egyptian, Greek, Italian, French, and British influences.
During World War II, the Mediterranean Coast of Egypt was a critical theater of operations. The Battle of El Alamein, fought in 1942, was a turning point in the North African campaign. Allied forces, led by British General Bernard Montgomery, defeated the Axis forces commanded by General Erwin Rommel. This victory halted the Axis advance into Egypt and safeguarded the Suez Canal, a vital strategic asset.