Things To Do
in Al ‘Arīsh
Al ‘Arīsh is a Mediterranean coastal city in Egypt’s Sinai region, offering a laid-back base for exploring the North Sinai coast and desert landscapes. It blends fishing heritage with palm-fringed shores and a growing seaside hospitality scene. Visitors can enjoy calm beaches, local markets, and gateway access to broader Sinai adventures.
The town provides a straightforward, authentic Egyptian coastal experience away from larger tourist hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Al 'Arīsh souk, where the bustling atmosphere will awaken your senses. Stroll through the market streets, browsing local crafts, spices, and fresh produce, while interacting with friendly vendors. Enjoy a traditional Egyptian breakfast at a nearby café, savoring dishes like ful medames and ta'ameya.
After lunch, head to the Al 'Arīsh Museum to explore the rich history of the Sinai Peninsula, featuring artifacts from ancient civilizations. Spend some time at the picturesque Al 'Arīsh Corniche, where you can relax and enjoy views of the Mediterranean Sea. As the afternoon sun sets, consider a leisurely walk along the beach, taking in the scenery and capturing beautiful photographs.
In the evening, indulge in a seafood dinner at a local restaurant, where you can taste the catch of the day prepared with local spices. After dinner, take a stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the sound of waves. Conclude your day with a visit to a local café for a cup of mint tea or Arabic coffee while mingling with locals.
Begin your day at the pristine beaches of Al 'Arīsh, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters. Spend the morning sunbathing or taking a refreshing swim in the Mediterranean Sea. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline from the water.
After a morning of sun and fun, enjoy a beachside lunch featuring fresh seafood and traditional Egyptian dishes at a charming beach shack. In the afternoon, join a snorkeling tour to discover the vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs just off the shore. Experience the thrill of the water while keeping an eye out for exotic fish and other sea creatures.
As the sun begins to set, relax on the beach while watching the sky transform into shades of orange and pink. Consider taking a sunset cruise along the coast, where you can enjoy the stunning views and gentle sea breeze. Wrap up your day with a beach bonfire, sharing stories with newfound friends under a starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🛒Groceries for a day | $5-15 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $25-50 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal views and relaxed pace
- Affordable local cuisine and lodging
- Gateway to Sinai desert landscapes
- Friendly, hospitable local communities
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Safety considerations in Sinai regions
- Distance from major international hubs
- English proficiency varies outside tourist-focused areas
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Al ‘Arīsh
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide Mediterranean views with palm-lined promenade and silhouettes of fishing boats during golden hour.
Narrow alleys, white-washed buildings, and local life provide texture and character for street photography.
Active harbor scenes, nets, boats, and early-morning activity offer candid coastal photography opportunities.
Food in Al ‘Arīsh
Al ‘Arīsh Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fragrant fish served over rice with caramelized onions and spices; widely found in seaside eateries.
Must-Try!
A green leaf soup served with rice or bread; commonly enjoyed with vegetables and a squeeze of lemon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh fish, produce, dates, spices, and everyday snacks; great for sampling street foods and observing daily life.
Grilled fish, calamari, and falafel stalls along the waterfront offering quick, tasty bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms; lightweight, modest clothing is appropriate for most public spaces and religious sites.
Use simple Arabic phrases like 'min fadlak' (please) and 'shukran' (thank you); greet with a smile.
Safety
Tipping in Al ‘Arīsh
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 10-15% in restaurants; small tips for hotel staff, drivers, and guides are common.
Cash (Egyptian pounds) is widely used; many places in hotels and larger shops accept cards; ATMs are common in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming palms make outdoor strolling and photo walks particularly pleasant.
Very hot days; sea breeze helps. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and hydrate well.
Warm days with cooler evenings; comfortable for markets, coastal walks, and photography.
Milder daytime temperatures with cooler nights; occasional light rain can occur; layers recommended.
Al ‘Arīsh at Night
Hiking in Al ‘Arīsh
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate walks with sea views, birdlife, and opportunities to observe local fishing communities.
Guided day trips into nearby desert landscapes offer panoramic overlooks, stargazing, and quiet stretches of nature.
Airports
How to reach Al ‘Arīsh by plane.
Closest airport serving Al-Arish with domestic flights and some regional connections.
Major international hub; suitable for international connections and long-haul flights.
Gateway for southern Sinai with international and regional flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The city is predominantly Egyptian Arab with presence from Bedouin communities in the broader Sinai region; hospitality and communal ties are strong.
Smaller groups in Sinai influence local customs and traditional crafts in some areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region’s most popular sport; local games and informal matches are common in neighborhoods and schools.
Coastal communities engage in fishing; water-based activities and casual sports on the beach are popular.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Al ‘Arīsh.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Build meals around legumes (lentils, chickpeas), vegetables, rice, bread, hummus, and baba ghanoush; ask for oil-free preparations or reduced dairy when needed.