Things To Do
in Abū Qīr

Abū Qīr is a coastal town in Egypt, located northeast of Alexandria, known for its rich history and scenic Mediterranean views. The town is famous for its ancient archaeological sites, including remnants from ancient Alexandria and the nearby sunken city of Heracleion. Visitors are drawn to its beautiful beaches, vibrant local culture, and delicious seafood.

Abū Qīr serves as a gateway to explore the historical and cultural treasures of the Alexandria region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Ancient History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the ruins of the ancient city of Heracleion, where you can explore the submerged treasures and learn about its history.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the local museum to discover artifacts from the region's ancient past, followed by a leisurely walk along the beach.

evening
:

Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant and take a stroll along the waterfront to watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the Abū Qīr Fortress, a historical site with stunning views of the Mediterranean and a glimpse into the town's defensive history.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at a bustling local food market, sampling street food and buying fresh produce from local vendors.

evening
:

Conclude your visit with a night out at a traditional music venue, immersing yourself in local Egyptian music and dance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
Cup of Coffee$2
🚕Taxi Ride (within town)$3
🍕Pizza Slice$1
🛍️Souvenir Item$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and archaeological significance.
  • Beautiful coastal scenery with accessible beaches.
  • Delicious local cuisine, particularly seafood.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation options can be sparse.
  • Language barriers may arise for non-Arabic speakers.
  • "أهلا وسهلا" - Welcome
  • "شكرا" - Thank you
  • "من فضلك" - Please
  • "كم السعر؟" - How much does it cost?
  • "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Abū Qīr

Visit one of these nice places.

Abū Qīr Beach

A picturesque beach with golden sands and stunning sunset views, perfect for capturing the essence of coastal life.

The Fortress of Abū Qīr

Offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding landscape, ideal for landscape photography.

Local Markets

Vibrant scenes of daily life and colorful displays of fresh produce make for lively photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Abū Qīr

Abū Qīr offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect its coastal heritage and agricultural bounty.

Abū Qīr Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fattah

A traditional Egyptian dish made with rice, bread, and meat, often served with a tangy sauce.

Must-Try!

Seafood Platter

A selection of fresh fish and shellfish, grilled or fried, popular along the coast.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Abū Qīr Market

A lively market where locals shop for fresh produce, spices, and street food snacks.

Street Vendors

Various street stalls offering delicious fried snacks, including ta'amiya (falafel) and koshari.

Climate Guide

Weather

Abū Qīr experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can soar above 35°C (95°F), while winters are pleasant, averaging around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). Rainfall is minimal, primarily occurring in the winter months. Coastal breezes help moderate temperatures, making the seaside enjoyable year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Local Customs

Dress conservatively, especially in religious sites; modest attire is advisable.

Greetings

A handshake is common; it's polite to greet with 'Salam' (peace) upon meeting.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you do, and using your right hand for food is customary.

Safety Guide

Safety

Abū Qīr is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions are advised. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. It's wise to stay informed about local news and follow any travel advisories.

Tipping in Abū Qīr

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants and for guides; rounding up is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some places accept credit cards; ensure to carry enough local currency.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Hot weather can be intense, but the beaches are vibrant; stay hydrated and seek shade during midday.

Autumn

Comfortable temperatures return, perfect for exploring historical sites and enjoying local festivals.

Winter

Cooler temperatures may require light jackets, but the milder weather is great for cultural exploration.

Nightlife Guide

Abū Qīr at Night

Abū Qīr's nightlife is vibrant yet low-key compared to larger cities. Many local cafes and restaurants feature live music and traditional dances, especially on weekends. Beachfront establishments often host evening gatherings with music and socializing, providing a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the Mediterranean night.

Hiking in Abū Qīr

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Montazah Park Trails

Located in Alexandria, these trails offer scenic walks through beautiful gardens and coastal views.

Abū Qīr Coastal Path

A scenic route along the coastline, perfect for leisurely hikes with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

Airports

How to reach Abū Qīr by plane.

Borg El Arab Airport

Located approximately 30 km southwest of Abū Qīr, this airport serves domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for visitors.

Getting Around

Walkability

Abū Qīr is relatively walkable, especially in the town center and along the beachfront promenade. Many attractions, markets, and eateries are within walking distance, though some areas may require a short taxi ride. Sidewalks are common, but be cautious of uneven surfaces in certain parts.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Fishermen

A significant part of the community, many families rely on fishing as their primary source of income.

Tourists and Visitors

Abū Qīr attracts both local and international tourists, particularly those interested in historical sites and coastal activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a favorite pastime among locals, with many informal matches played on the beach and in parks.

Fishing

Given its coastal location, fishing is a popular sport, with many locals participating in both recreational and competitive fishing activities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Abū Qīr is generally light, especially compared to larger Egyptian cities. The main roads are well-maintained, but congestion can occur during peak hours. Public transportation primarily consists of microbuses and taxis, which are affordable and a common way to navigate the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Abū Qīr.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about meat stock in soups.

Halal Food

Most food in Abū Qīr is halal, but check in restaurants to ensure compliance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Abū Qīr are limited, with small clinics and hospitals available for basic needs. For more serious conditions, it is advisable to travel to Alexandria, where hospitals are better equipped. Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Egypt

Read more in our Egypt 2025 Travel Guide.

Egypt Travel Guide