Things To Do
in Al ‘Alamayn
Al Alamayn, commonly known as El Alamein, is a coastal town on the Mediterranean in Egypt's Matrouh Governorate. It sits along a quiet stretch of shore backed by desert dunes and a main promenade that catches sea breezes. Famed for its World War II history, the town hosts museums, cemeteries, and memorials that tell a poignant story of the North Africa campaign.
Today it offers a calm base for history buffs, beach lovers, and curious travelers looking for a less-touristed Egyptian coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Al 'Alamayn International Airport and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, soaking in the fresh coastal air. Take some time to explore the nearby beach and anticipate the adventures ahead.
Visit the Local Museum of Al 'Alamayn to learn about the area's rich history and its significance in World War II. Engage with the exhibits and absorb the fascinating stories of the past. Later, unwind at one of the local cafes with a refreshing drink.
Dine at a seaside restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood while gazing at the stunning sunset over the Mediterranean. After your meal, take a quiet stroll along the beach, allowing the sound of waves to wash over you. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a nearby bar, reflecting on the day’s experiences.
Savor an early breakfast before heading out to visit the ruins of the ancient city of Al 'Alamayn. Marvel at the well-preserved mosaics and ancient structures that tell stories of a bygone era. Engage with a local guide who can provide deeper insights into the archaeological significance of the site.
Enjoy a packed lunch as you explore more of the historical sites in the area, including the Al 'Alamayn Cemetery, which honors soldiers from both sides of the war. Reflect on the area's poignant past as you walk through this solemn site, paying your respects. Afterwards, return to your hotel for a brief rest.
Head out for dinner at a local eatery that serves traditional Egyptian dishes. Engage with the locals, perhaps trying your hand at a few Arabic phrases, as you experience the warmth of Egyptian hospitality. Enjoy some live entertainment, like traditional music or dance, to top off your historical exploration.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short urban trip) | $2-6 |
| 🏨1 night in a budget hotel | $25-60 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $15-35 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich WWII history and memorial sites
- Calm beaches and fewer crowds than other Egyptian coast towns
- Proximity to Marsa Matruh and other coastal excursions
- Warm hospitality and local culture
- Limited nightlife and high-end dining options
- Relatively long transfer from Cairo or Alexandria
- Seasonal heat in summer and limited public transport outside hotel areas
- Desert travel requires planning and a guide
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كيف حالك؟" - How are you?
- "أين الحمّام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
- "هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟" - Do you speak English?
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?
- "أنا لا أتحدث العربية جيداً" - I don’t speak Arabic well
Places to Visit in Al ‘Alamayn
Visit one of these nice places.
A solemn, landscaped memorial with rows of white headstones and monuments set against the desert and sea.
Long promenade with blue horizons, fishing boats, and dramatic sunsets over the coastal water.
Open-air exhibits showing historical military equipment and vehicles with the sea as a backdrop.
Wind-shaped sand dunes with panoramic desert-to-sea views, ideal for wide-angle landscapes.
Food in Al ‘Alamayn
Al ‘Alamayn Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fish and rice prepared with onions, spices, and subtle caramelization; a staple in coastal Egypt.
Must-Try!
Fresh catch from the Mediterranean, usually served with rice or bread and a lemon-herb sauce.
Skewered spiced minced meat served with flatbread and salads.
A hearty tomato-based stew with mixed seafood varieties.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh seafood stalls, olives, herbs, and locally baked bread; great for a quick bite after a beach afternoon.
Markets selling olives, herbs, dates, and traditional Egyptian snacks; sample falafel and tahini sandwiches.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly Arabic hello (salam) or good day; use the right hand for handshakes and giving/receiving items.
Modest dress in town; avoid loud behavior in public; ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages or religious sites.
Respect prayer times; remove shoes when entering mosques where allowed; be mindful of local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Al ‘Alamayn
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary for good service; 10-15% at restaurants if service is not included; small tips for hotel staff and taxi drivers are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, cards are increasingly accepted in larger hotels and restaurants; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with refreshing sea breezes; expect peak beach crowds on weekends and holidays. Pack sun protection, hydrate, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Pleasant temperatures and calmer seas; excellent for outdoor exploring, photography, and beach walks.
Mild to cool daytime temperatures with cooler nights; rainfall is rare but possible. Suitable for sightseeing and desert strolls without extreme heat.
Comfortable warmth and blooming coastal vegetation; great for hiking, markets, and coastal drives.
Al ‘Alamayn at Night
Hiking in Al ‘Alamayn
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic loop along the coastal dunes with sea views and photo opportunities.
Short hikes to overlook the desert and coastline; suitable for day trips with a guide.
Airports
How to reach Al ‘Alamayn by plane.
Closest gateway to El Alamein; regular domestic flights connect to Cairo and other destinations, plus regional services in peak season.
Major hub serving Alexandria with connections to Cairo and international routes; a practical option for long-haul arrivals before a transfer to El Alamein.
Egypt’s largest airport; used for international arrivals with further domestic connections to the coast via road or rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Egyptian families and younger travelers from cities; seasonal workers in tourism-related businesses.
Domestic tourists from Cairo, Alexandria, and other parts of Egypt, plus international visitors during peak season.
Smaller communities in the surrounding desert areas with traditional customs and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Egypt and widely played by locals and visitors.
Played along the coast at some beaches and hotels.
Available where conditions permit along the Mediterranean coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Al ‘Alamayn.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy falafel, hummus, tahini, vegetable mezze, salads, and bread; communicate no meat or fish when ordering.