Things To Do
in Port Said

Port Said is a bustling port city located at the northern entrance of the Suez Canal in Egypt. It serves as a vital trade hub and boasts a unique blend of cultures due to its historical significance as a gateway between Europe and the Middle East. The city's coastal location provides stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

With its rich history, vibrant markets, and delicious cuisine, Port Said offers a captivating experience for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Port and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Port Said National Museum, where you can learn about the city's history and its role in maritime trade.

afternoon
:

Head to the waterfront for a leisurely stroll along the Corniche, followed by lunch at a local seafood restaurant.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a sunset boat ride on the Mediterranean, enjoying the views of the city skyline.

day 2
Day 2: Markets and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the famous Port Said Fish Market early in the morning to experience the bustling atmosphere and fresh catches.

afternoon
:

Explore the local bazaars, shopping for souvenirs, spices, and traditional crafts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Egyptian restaurant and then relax at a local cafe with live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Mid-range Restaurant$10
🚌Local Bus Ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel Room (per night)$30
🥤Soft Drink$0.75
🍦Ice Cream Cone$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
  • Beautiful coastal scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Summer heat can be intense.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Arabic speakers.
  • "أهلا وسهلا (Ahlan wa sahlan)" - Welcome
  • "شكرا (Shukran)" - Thank you
  • "من فضلك (Min fadlak)" - Please
  • "كم السعر؟ (Kam as-si'r?)" - How much does it cost?
  • "أين الحمام؟ (Ayn al-hammam?)" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Port Said

Visit one of these nice places.

Suez Canal

Capture the impressive ships passing through the canal, especially at sunset for stunning shots.

Port Said Lighthouse

An iconic landmark that offers a picturesque view of the Mediterranean Sea, especially from the waterfront.

Corniche Promenade

A beautiful seaside walkway perfect for candid shots of locals, street vendors, and the vibrant atmosphere.

Culinary Guide

Food in Port Said

Port Said is a culinary delight, known for its fresh seafood and traditional Egyptian dishes that reflect its coastal heritage.

Port Said Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sayadeya

A flavorful fish and rice dish, often seasoned with spices and garnished with onions.

Must-Try!

Koshari

A popular Egyptian street food made with rice, lentils, pasta, and topped with a spicy tomato sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Port Said Fish Market

A vibrant market where you can find a variety of fresh seafood and enjoy cooked dishes on-site.

Al Masria Street Vendors

Street vendors offer a selection of local snacks, including falafel and shawarma.

Climate Guide

Weather

Port Said has a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer months (June to August) can reach temperatures of up to 35°C (95°F), while winter (December to February) sees temperatures averaging 15°C (59°F). Spring and autumn are comfortably warm, making these seasons ideal for travel.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, to show respect for local customs.

Greeting Customs

A handshake is a common greeting; however, avoid physical contact with the opposite gender unless initiated.

Respect Prayer Times

Be mindful of prayer times, as many shops may close briefly for prayers, particularly in the afternoon.

Safety Guide

Safety

Port Said is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to remain cautious, especially in crowded areas. Keep personal belongings secure, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid displaying valuables. It's also wise to respect local customs and avoid political discussions in public.

Tipping in Port Said

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping in Restaurants

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% of the bill in restaurants, though it's not mandatory.

Cash Payments

While credit cards are accepted in many places, cash is preferred, especially in smaller shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make this a great time to visit for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid weather can be expected; plan for early morning or late evening outings.

Autumn

Comfortable temperatures return, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor events.

Winter

Cooler temperatures are common, ideal for exploring without the summer heat, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Nightlife Guide

Port Said at Night

Port Said offers a lively nightlife scene with a mix of local cafes, restaurants, and bars. Many venues feature live music, especially traditional Egyptian music, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The Corniche is lined with cafes where locals gather in the evenings, and you can find clubs that play a mix of Western and Arabic music, catering to a variety of tastes.

Hiking in Port Said

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Sinai Trail

Located about 200 km from Port Said, this trail offers a challenging hike with stunning views from the summit.

Wadi Degla Protectorate

Approximately 150 km away, this area features various trails with beautiful natural scenery and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Airports

How to reach Port Said by plane.

Port Said Airport (PSD)

Located approximately 5 km from the city center, Port Said Airport offers domestic flights and is the closest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Port Said is quite walkable, especially along the Corniche and in the city center. Many attractions, markets, and dining options are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are generally available, though some areas may be crowded, especially in markets.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Egyptian Arabs

The majority of the population consists of Egyptian Arabs, with a rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted traditions.

Palestinian Community

A significant Palestinian community resides in Port Said, contributing to the city's cultural diversity and social fabric.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Port Said, with local teams often drawing large crowds for matches.

Sailing

Due to its coastal location, sailing is a favored pastime, with many locals and tourists taking to the sea.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Port Said can be busy, especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses and microbuses, which are affordable and widely used. Taxis are also available, but it is recommended to negotiate fares in advance or use ride-hailing apps if possible.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Port Said.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, such as stuffed grape leaves and various salads.

Halal Food

Most eateries serve Halal food, making it suitable for Muslim travelers.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Port Said range from public hospitals to private clinics. While emergency services are available, travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. If serious medical issues arise, larger cities like Cairo may offer more specialized care.

Discover Egypt

Read more in our Egypt 2025 Travel Guide.

Egypt Travel Guide