Things To Do
in Port Said
Port Said is a vibrant port city located at the northern entrance of the Suez Canal in Egypt. It is known for its strategic importance and bustling maritime activities. The city features a unique blend of European and Middle Eastern architecture, reflecting its rich history as a cosmopolitan hub.
Visitors can explore the iconic Lighthouse of Port Said, enjoy fresh seafood at the local restaurants, and experience the lively waterfront promenade.
- "Ahlan wa sahlan" - Welcome
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "La shukran" - No, thank you
- "Min fadlak" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Port Said Lighthouse, a beautiful historical structure. Take some photos and enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Visit the Military Museum to learn about Egypt's military history and the significance of Port Said in various conflicts. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant.
Stroll along the Corniche and watch the sunset over the harbor. End your day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Egyptian dishes.
Head to the beach early to secure a good spot and enjoy the warm sun. Engage in beach activities such as swimming or building sandcastles.
Grab a bite at one of the beachside cafes for fresh seafood or local snacks. Continue relaxing on the sand or try out some water sports.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the shoreline. Cap off the day with a beachfront dinner, relishing the sound of waves and good company.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategic location near the Suez Canal, facilitating trade and commerce.
- Rich history and cultural significance, with various historical landmarks.
- Beautiful Mediterranean beaches and waterfront attractions.
- Diverse cuisine influenced by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors.
- Growing tourism sector, offering job opportunities for residents.
- Challenges with overcrowding and urban infrastructure.
- Vulnerability to economic fluctuations and political instability.
- Environmental issues, including pollution in coastal areas.
- Limited access to some modern amenities compared to larger cities.
- Potential safety concerns related to regional political tensions.
Best Activities in Port Said
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy fishing in the Mediterranean Sea or the Suez Canal.
Explore the iconic lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the sea.
Relax on the beaches of Port Said or engage in water sports such as swimming, snorkeling, and windsurfing.
Visit public parks like Al Murabbaa and Al Midan to enjoy green spaces and outdoor recreation.
Take leisurely walks along the city streets and waterfront, and explore the unique architecture and landmarks of Port Said.
Tours
Uncover the best of Port Said with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Port Said
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of the Suez Canal and the surrounding area, making it an ideal spot for photo opportunities.
Spectacular views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea from the rooftop of the museum provide excellent photo opportunities.
A peaceful park with views of the port and ships passing through the Suez Canal, creating a picturesque setting for photos.
Food in Port Said
Port Said Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Egyptian dish made of boiled and mashed fava beans, seasoned with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Best enjoyed at El Kebabgy, a popular local eatery known for its authentic flavors.
Must-Try!
A flavorful stew made with molokhia leaves (Jute mallow) and abundant fresh seafood. Sample this dish at Al Sayyad, a renowned seaside restaurant known for its excellent seafood preparations.
A beloved Egyptian street food dish consisting of macaroni, rice, lentils, chickpeas, and crispy fried onions, topped with a spicy tomato sauce. Try the best Kushari in town at Abu Ashraf, a local gem famous for its hearty portions and authentic recipe.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Port Said better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
For an authentic experience, visit the bustling Port Said Seafood Souq where local fishermen and vendors offer a variety of freshly caught seafood. Sample grilled fish, prawns, or calamari prepared right before your eyes.
Take a stroll along Midan El Nasr to discover an array of street food stalls offering delicacies such as falafel, shawarma, and kebabs. Don't miss trying 'Feteer meshaltet', a flaky Egyptian pastry stuffed with savory or sweet fillings, at one of the popular stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Port Said, it is important to show respect for elders by using proper titles and greetings, and by deferring to their wisdom and experience.
When meeting someone in Port Said, it is customary to exchange greetings with a handshake and maintain eye contact as a sign of respect.
It is important to dress modestly and conservatively, especially when visiting religious or traditional areas, as a sign of respect for the local culture and customs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Port Said with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Port Said
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Port Said, Egypt. It is customary to tip service staff in restaurants, hotels, and for other services. The tipping amount is usually around 10-15% of the total bill.
In Port Said, Egypt, cash is the most commonly used form of payment. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but it's always good to carry some cash for smaller vendors and local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Port Said.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Port Said, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. It's ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Summer in Port Said can be extremely hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C). Expect crowded beaches and a lively atmosphere during this popular tourist season.
Autumn offers pleasant temperatures and a relaxed atmosphere, making it an excellent time for visiting Port Said. The sea breeze provides relief from the summer heat.
Winters in Port Said are mild and comfortable, with occasional rainfall. It's a quieter time to visit, and the city's historical sites can be enjoyed without the summer crowds.
Port Said at Night
Hiking in Port Said
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large saline lake located just southeast of Port Said, offering trails along its shores and beautiful scenic views.
A mountain range located to the southwest of Port Said, ideal for more challenging hikes and outdoor activities.
Although a bit further away, it is a popular hiking destination known for its historical significance and breathtaking views.
A protected area with diverse ecosystems, located near Sharm El Sheikh, known for both hiking and water activities.
Offers walking and hiking paths along the canal with beautiful views and wildlife observation opportunities.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Port Said through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Port Said by plane.
The main international airport serving Cairo, located approximately 220 km from Port Said. It is the busiest airport in Egypt and offers a wide range of international flights.
Located about 270 km from Port Said, this airport serves Alexandria and the surrounding region. It offers both domestic and international flights.
This airport serves Sohag, located roughly 500 km from Port Said. It offers limited international flights and primarily focuses on domestic travel.
Situated around 625 km from Port Said, this airport caters to international tourists visiting Luxor and the surrounding historical sites.
Located about 700 km from Port Said, it serves the Red Sea resort town of Hurghada and offers numerous international flights to various destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Port Said, comprised of people of Arab descent, primarily speaking Arabic and sharing cultural practices common to Egypt.
A significant minority in Port Said, many of whom migrated during various conflicts and now maintain cultural traditions while integrating into Egyptian society.
A smaller group that settled in Port Said, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributing to local commerce and culture.
Historically, there was a notable Greek community in Port Said, although its size has diminished over the years due to migration.
Another small group that has settled in Port Said, involved in trade and commercial activities.
A diverse group that includes migrants and expatriates from various countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to the cultural fabric of the city.
The Soul of Port Said
Discover the essence of Port Said through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Port Said, with a rich history and passionate local teams such as Al-Masry SC.
Handball has a strong following in Port Said, with many local clubs and schools promoting the sport.
Volleyball is a popular sport among both men and women in Port Said, with various leagues and competitions.
Basketball has gained popularity in recent years, with several clubs and youth programs developing the sport.
Given Port Said's coastal location, swimming is a prominent recreational activity and sport among locals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Port Said.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Egyptian cuisine heavily features meat and dairy, many restaurants in Port Said offer vegetarian and vegan options such as 'Ful Medames', 'Mixed Vegetable Tagine', and various mezze dishes made from fresh vegetables, legumes, and grains.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can opt for dishes like 'Grilled Fish with Salad', 'Rice-stuffed Grape Leaves', and 'Hummus with Crudites' which are commonly available and naturally gluten-free.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Port Said with these cultural adventures.
