Things To Do
in Maţrūḩ
Maţrūḩ is a sun-soaked Mediterranean city on Egypt's northern coast known for its turquoise waters and white-sand beaches. The town has a laid-back vibe, friendly locals, and a shoreline lined with cafes, markets, and a lively Corniche. Visitors come for easy beach access, seafood dining, and nearby WWII memorials and desert landscapes.
It serves as a relaxed gateway to both coastal scenery and Egypt's western deserts.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a visit to the iconic Qaitbay Citadel, enjoying the stunning Mediterranean views. Immerse yourself in the history of this 15th-century fortress, which offers a glimpse into the maritime defense strategies of ancient Egypt. Take a moment to explore the surrounding area and enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby café.
After lunch, head to the nearby Alexandria National Museum, which houses numerous artifacts and displays that tell the story of Egyptian history. Spend your time marveling at the vast collection while absorbing the cultural significance of the items on display. Don't forget to take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, soaking in the picturesque views.
As the sun sets, find a quaint seaside restaurant where you can indulge in fresh seafood dishes. Enjoy the gentle sea breeze and watch the sky transform into a palette of colors as the day comes to an end. Conclude your day with a relaxing walk along the beach, where you can reflect on the sights you've experienced.
Begin your day with a visit to a traditional market, known as a souk, where you can engage with local vendors and sample fresh produce. The vibrant colors and scents will awaken your senses, making it a perfect morning adventure. Embrace the opportunity to practice your Arabic while learning about local customs and traditions.
In the afternoon, participate in a cooking class where you can learn to prepare classic Egyptian dishes using locally sourced ingredients. This immersive experience not only enhances your culinary skills but also allows you to connect with local chefs and gain insights into the rich food culture. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you share a delicious meal with fellow participants.
As night falls, find a local café to sip on traditional Egyptian tea and taste authentic desserts like Basbousa and Kunafa. Engage in conversations with the friendly locals who often gather in these establishments for socializing and storytelling. Let the sounds of laughter and music fill the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚖One-way local transport | $0.75-2.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-70 |
| 🧭Taxi (short ride within town) | $2-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and beaches
- Strong seafood cuisine and fresh ingredients
- Relaxed, safe environment for families
- Reasonable costs compared with other Mediterranean hotspots
- Limited public transportation within the city
- Hot summers can be intense for outdoor activities
- Some areas rely on seasonality in services
- Less nightlife variety compared with larger cities
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "شكراً" - Thank you
- "هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟" - Do you speak English?
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Maţrūḩ
Visit one of these nice places.
One of Marsa Matruh’s iconic beaches with clear turquoise water and white sands—great for sunrise and sunset shots.
A dramatic cove famous for its turquoise water and striking rock formations; perfect for dramatic landscape photography.
Long waterfront promenade with boats, sea views, and golden hour lighting—ideal for al fresco photography and people-watching.
Coastal lighthouse with a backdrop of sea and sky; nice for night photography and silhouettes.
Food in Maţrūḩ
Maţrūḩ Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant fish and rice dish cooked with onions, spices, and lemon; best enjoyed at seafood restaurants along the coast.
Must-Try!
Fresh whole or filleted fish simply seasoned and grilled, often served with rice or salad at beachfront eateries.
A hearty mix of pasta, rice, lentils, and tomato sauce; widely available and a good vegetarian option.
A flaky Egyptian pastry that can be served sweet or savory; popular as a snack or breakfast item.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market near the harbor offering fresh seafood, herbs, breads, and everyday groceries. Great for sampling local snacks and buying small souvenirs.
Casual stalls along the water where you can choose grilled fish and seafood snacks to eat on the spot.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms, especially away from the beach area; lightweight, modest clothing is appreciated in markets and religious sites.
Greet with a smile and polite language; accepting offers of tea or drinks is common and appreciated.
Haggling is common in markets; do so with a friendly, respectful approach.
Safety
Tipping in Maţrūḩ
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary for good service: about 10-15% in restaurants; small tips for taxi drivers and hotel staff are appreciated.
Cash in Egyptian Pounds is widely used. Many hotels, larger restaurants, and some shops accept cards, but carry cash for smaller vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot days (often 30s-40s C) and strong sea winds. Peak beach crowds, bright sun, and excellent sea visibility for water activities. Stay hydrated and protect against sunburn.
Warm days with cooler evenings and pleasant sea conditions. A comfortable time for outdoor exploration and photography.
Milder daytime temperatures with cooler nights. Beach strolls still enjoyable, but water is chilly for swimming.
Moderate temperatures and blooming coastal flora. Great time for hikes, markets, and outdoor dining.
Maţrūḩ at Night
Hiking in Maţrūḩ
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Desert dunes to the east of Matruh offering sunrise views and a relatively easy to moderate hike.
Scenic coastal trails along eroded limestone cliffs with sweeping sea views and photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Maţrūḩ by plane.
Closest airport serving domestic routes and some international connections; convenient for quick trips to and from Matruh.
Major international hub in Egypt; provides extensive international and domestic connections; typically the gateway for long-haul travel.
A regional airport offering connections to several Egyptian cities; a practical option for regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of coastal families, fishing communities, and tourism workers; the population is predominantly Egyptian with a coastal character.
Domestic tourists from Cairo and Alexandria, plus some international visitors drawn to beaches and WWII sites.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played by locals; afternoons are common times for games and gatherings at public spaces.
Popular on windy days at Sidi Abdel Rahman and nearby beaches with steady sea breezes.
Long Mediterranean beaches encourage casual swimming and family-friendly water activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Maţrūḩ.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in most restaurants (koshari, falafel, hummus, salads). At seafood-focused spots, ask for grilled vegetables or mezze plates as a filling alternative.